Key Verses: Luke 24:5-6, 24:47-48
Luke 2:7
7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.
Tonight and tomorrow many of us are spending time with family celebrating the birth of this baby, What has been cool about this journey has been that Going to church today we celebrated the birth of our savior, and then tonight I got to read the end of the story, you see sometimes for many of us Christmas is a great celebration but we for get to celebrate the end of the story, the why behind the birthday celebration. That is so much why I love doing Luke each December, but what I need to realize and guide my heart from is not forgetting to celebrate the entire story, specially the end and the reason why Jesus had to be sent to the earth, for my sin, for my desires to be selfish, and self centered. God love me to send his son to the Cross, but the good news is the end of the story, I will leave you with this verse
Luke 24:5-6 “Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but has risen.
Prayer: This is a Prayer I pray with Ayden each night before bed. Thanks you Jesus for dying on the Cross for my Sins. Amen
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Day 23 Luke 23
Key Verses: Luke 23: 39-43, 23:44-49
Sometimes it is hard for me to read this chapter, but then I think about it a little more and realize that this was all part of the plan, even though it is tough, and my sin is to blame for Jesus going to the Cross. I remember watching the Passion and it was really hard to watch watching the pain and suffering Jesus went through because of our sin. The crazy thing is that it is such an epic picture and gift of Love that God gave us, sending his son to the earth knowing what he must go through to save us, humans that at our core, desire sin, over a relationship with our eternal God. Knowing the only way that we could be in fellowship with Him was to send his son to the Cross.
Two verses really stand out today, and I will share breifly what I think about when I see these, and I will be relatively short in posting today. V. 43 " Truly I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise" The ulitmate picture of grace said to the Thief on the cross min. before each would experience death, One deserving one not, In his last moments the thief asking for the Savior to save, and Jesus does. Truly an act of great mercy and grace.
V.46 "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit" My study bible comments that even in his Death Jesus is still in control of things, and reading through Luke I have gained a new understanding to the depth of what Jesus did on the earth, and how much control and power He has over evil, but how much love and grace he has for those you place their faith in him. I know that in my own life I struggle, becasue the unknown scares me at times, but what I have to understand is that God is faithful, and will bring it all to a Good work.
Prayer; God as we get ready to celerbrate your birth, I want to also acknowledge your death for my sins to that I could have a rebirth into your family. So thank you for Jesus, and thank you for being faithful, and merciful in your pursance of my heart. Amen.
Sometimes it is hard for me to read this chapter, but then I think about it a little more and realize that this was all part of the plan, even though it is tough, and my sin is to blame for Jesus going to the Cross. I remember watching the Passion and it was really hard to watch watching the pain and suffering Jesus went through because of our sin. The crazy thing is that it is such an epic picture and gift of Love that God gave us, sending his son to the earth knowing what he must go through to save us, humans that at our core, desire sin, over a relationship with our eternal God. Knowing the only way that we could be in fellowship with Him was to send his son to the Cross.
Two verses really stand out today, and I will share breifly what I think about when I see these, and I will be relatively short in posting today. V. 43 " Truly I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise" The ulitmate picture of grace said to the Thief on the cross min. before each would experience death, One deserving one not, In his last moments the thief asking for the Savior to save, and Jesus does. Truly an act of great mercy and grace.
V.46 "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit" My study bible comments that even in his Death Jesus is still in control of things, and reading through Luke I have gained a new understanding to the depth of what Jesus did on the earth, and how much control and power He has over evil, but how much love and grace he has for those you place their faith in him. I know that in my own life I struggle, becasue the unknown scares me at times, but what I have to understand is that God is faithful, and will bring it all to a Good work.
Prayer; God as we get ready to celerbrate your birth, I want to also acknowledge your death for my sins to that I could have a rebirth into your family. So thank you for Jesus, and thank you for being faithful, and merciful in your pursance of my heart. Amen.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Day 22 Luke 22
Key Verses Luke 22:31-34, 22:54-62
Getting Close to the end, been really good for me to do this, like it is every year. Really thinking in January of selecting a book and continuing to do this through a blog, would really like who ever reads this blog to weigh in on which book you would like me to Read in January.
So on to tonight want to look at one aspect of the chapter, Peter and his denial. It starts in V. 31 "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers."
A really cool interaction, I can only imagine what is welling up inside of Peter at this moment, and we see soon after what Peter says, but how hard and humbling some of the words Jesus spoke to Peter. Couple of really cool things that i pulled out of here. One Satan's battle for our hearts is real, if he goes after Jesus disciples, his right hand men, how much more does he want to go after our hearts and have them turn away from Jesus. In my study bible it talks about the statement sifting you like wheat, as Satan wanting to shake us violently to cause us to fail.
What follows in another wonderful picture of God's love for us Jesus saying "but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail, and when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers" What is interesting it does not say I have prayed you will not fail, but that your faith will not fail, leading me to believe Jesus knew Peter going through this very hard experience was for his good. Also how humbling to know that the Son of God was praying for you, specially knowing what is coming, and in the end Peter's failure we will see was used for God's redemption, when after Jesus comes back he restores Peter to be the man that would Lead the early Church.
Prayer: Thank you God for being the God of redemption and Love, Loving us by sending your son to the Cross, for the redemption of our Sins. Thank you for your Son. Amen
Getting Close to the end, been really good for me to do this, like it is every year. Really thinking in January of selecting a book and continuing to do this through a blog, would really like who ever reads this blog to weigh in on which book you would like me to Read in January.
So on to tonight want to look at one aspect of the chapter, Peter and his denial. It starts in V. 31 "Simon, Simon, behold, Satan demanded to have you, that he might sift you like wheat, but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers."
A really cool interaction, I can only imagine what is welling up inside of Peter at this moment, and we see soon after what Peter says, but how hard and humbling some of the words Jesus spoke to Peter. Couple of really cool things that i pulled out of here. One Satan's battle for our hearts is real, if he goes after Jesus disciples, his right hand men, how much more does he want to go after our hearts and have them turn away from Jesus. In my study bible it talks about the statement sifting you like wheat, as Satan wanting to shake us violently to cause us to fail.
What follows in another wonderful picture of God's love for us Jesus saying "but I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail, and when you have turned again, strengthen your brothers" What is interesting it does not say I have prayed you will not fail, but that your faith will not fail, leading me to believe Jesus knew Peter going through this very hard experience was for his good. Also how humbling to know that the Son of God was praying for you, specially knowing what is coming, and in the end Peter's failure we will see was used for God's redemption, when after Jesus comes back he restores Peter to be the man that would Lead the early Church.
Prayer: Thank you God for being the God of redemption and Love, Loving us by sending your son to the Cross, for the redemption of our Sins. Thank you for your Son. Amen
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Day 21 Luke 21
Key Verses: Luke 21:4, 21:6, 21:8, 21:13, 21:15, 21:19, 21:27-28, 21:36.
I realized that I sometimes put out Key verses then never talk about them, what I am doing through this reading of Luke is underline verses that stand out to me, those are the verses that I underline in my bible. Anyways just thought about that as I looked and underlined quite a few, but won't talk about all of them.
Cool story, right out the bat and really challenges me in how I give and how I approach giving. This story is cool because this poor woman, gives all that she basically has to God, vs. the rich putting gifts in. Whats really gets me thinking is that Do I give out of duty or do I give with my heart, to me this story shows that obviously the woman is giving out of a love in her heart for the Lord. Where sometimes we just give out of duty, we should. I have really been challenged with this because I know God's call on my heart to give, but then look and see how much do I have to Give, as well as the feeling of do I love money more than God? I hope during this season we can really sit and ponder the why behind the giving that we give.
The rest of the chapter has the feel of a parent talking and preparing a child for their departure, or a parent releasing their child out in to the world. Which in a sense is what is happening. Jesus knowing that his time on earth is nearing the end, I think wants his followers to be prepared for what is to come when he leaves, and what is to come when he returns to finally redeem the earth. V.13-15 is this great preparation for the persecution that is to come to Christians and really comforting in the sense that we know that Jesus is our provider and protector. v.19 " By your endurance you will gain your lives" Endure, and be strong for God is our provider.
the last verse I want to comment on which I thought was really cool is V.28 " Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." When Jesus comes back there will be great signs wonders and things that may be frightening, and unnerving, but in the end if we believe in the promises of God, we know he speaks of his return and when we see these signs coming hold our head up high, and not be afraid, because redemption is near.
Prayer: Dear Lord give us confidence, in your strengthen our faith, and desire to give to your church and kingdom. Prepare us and give us confidence in you and your word so that when you glorious coming, comes that we can stand with confidence in that you are coming to redeem us. Amen.
I realized that I sometimes put out Key verses then never talk about them, what I am doing through this reading of Luke is underline verses that stand out to me, those are the verses that I underline in my bible. Anyways just thought about that as I looked and underlined quite a few, but won't talk about all of them.
Cool story, right out the bat and really challenges me in how I give and how I approach giving. This story is cool because this poor woman, gives all that she basically has to God, vs. the rich putting gifts in. Whats really gets me thinking is that Do I give out of duty or do I give with my heart, to me this story shows that obviously the woman is giving out of a love in her heart for the Lord. Where sometimes we just give out of duty, we should. I have really been challenged with this because I know God's call on my heart to give, but then look and see how much do I have to Give, as well as the feeling of do I love money more than God? I hope during this season we can really sit and ponder the why behind the giving that we give.
The rest of the chapter has the feel of a parent talking and preparing a child for their departure, or a parent releasing their child out in to the world. Which in a sense is what is happening. Jesus knowing that his time on earth is nearing the end, I think wants his followers to be prepared for what is to come when he leaves, and what is to come when he returns to finally redeem the earth. V.13-15 is this great preparation for the persecution that is to come to Christians and really comforting in the sense that we know that Jesus is our provider and protector. v.19 " By your endurance you will gain your lives" Endure, and be strong for God is our provider.
the last verse I want to comment on which I thought was really cool is V.28 " Now when these things begin to take place, straighten up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." When Jesus comes back there will be great signs wonders and things that may be frightening, and unnerving, but in the end if we believe in the promises of God, we know he speaks of his return and when we see these signs coming hold our head up high, and not be afraid, because redemption is near.
Prayer: Dear Lord give us confidence, in your strengthen our faith, and desire to give to your church and kingdom. Prepare us and give us confidence in you and your word so that when you glorious coming, comes that we can stand with confidence in that you are coming to redeem us. Amen.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Luke 20 Day 20
Key Verses Luke 20:17, 20:26, 20:36 20:46-47
Things are starting to pick up from the perspective that the powers that be are incresingly getting more frustrated with Jesus and his message of reptance of sin through Him. We see in the first section of this Chapter that they are starting to challenege his authority. Basically questioning him on why do you have the ability to forgive sins, who are you?
Alot of this chapter is speaking to the fact that those who were in charge really were refusing to sumbit to an authority that was much bigger than them. Really they had become these people that were the ones telling people how they should live, regulating the law. Then here comes this guy that was preaching something totaly different, basically saying the law is not what saves us, but it is Jesus who saves, who can forgive.
V.17 "The Stone that the builders rejected has become the Cornerstone?" What had happened is that the Law had become the stone in which the pharieses, religous leaders had put everything on. Jesus good news his Gospel was speaking to the fact that the law is the reason we need to repent. As we can see in this chapter this made these leaders very upset, causing them to plot and find anyway they could bring charges againist Jesus.
Jesus was well aware and would not let them charge him until the time was right as we see in V. 26 "and they were not able in the presence of the peple to catch him in what he asid, but marveling at his answer they became silent" Another great picture of his authority and putting them in thier place, something that furthered would anger these men.
Prayer: Humble me Lord so that through these next few days my heart is prepared for two things your birth, that we celerbrate on the 25, but also realizing the sacrfice you gave on the cross as we will read in the coming days. Amen
Things are starting to pick up from the perspective that the powers that be are incresingly getting more frustrated with Jesus and his message of reptance of sin through Him. We see in the first section of this Chapter that they are starting to challenege his authority. Basically questioning him on why do you have the ability to forgive sins, who are you?
Alot of this chapter is speaking to the fact that those who were in charge really were refusing to sumbit to an authority that was much bigger than them. Really they had become these people that were the ones telling people how they should live, regulating the law. Then here comes this guy that was preaching something totaly different, basically saying the law is not what saves us, but it is Jesus who saves, who can forgive.
V.17 "The Stone that the builders rejected has become the Cornerstone?" What had happened is that the Law had become the stone in which the pharieses, religous leaders had put everything on. Jesus good news his Gospel was speaking to the fact that the law is the reason we need to repent. As we can see in this chapter this made these leaders very upset, causing them to plot and find anyway they could bring charges againist Jesus.
Jesus was well aware and would not let them charge him until the time was right as we see in V. 26 "and they were not able in the presence of the peple to catch him in what he asid, but marveling at his answer they became silent" Another great picture of his authority and putting them in thier place, something that furthered would anger these men.
Prayer: Humble me Lord so that through these next few days my heart is prepared for two things your birth, that we celerbrate on the 25, but also realizing the sacrfice you gave on the cross as we will read in the coming days. Amen
Monday, December 19, 2011
Day 19 Luke 19
Key Verses: Luke 19:10, 19:30, 19:46, 19:48
Luke 19 we start to see Jesus preparing and journeying on the way to Jerusalem where he will fulfill, his mission for us sinners dying on the Cross so that we may have life in him.
However before that he continues to do what he has been doing his entire earthly ministry, calling sinners to repentance, and telling stories. In 19:10 after Jesus has his famous interaction with Zacchaeus up in the tree, the pharisees and leaders once again where questioning his actions and motives. Zacchaeus a tax collector and someone who had cheated people out of money his whole life, has this interaction with Jesus, and from then on vows to live a life of honor to God. with in V.10 Jesus explains why he inter acts with those like me, you and Zacchaeus. "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the Lost" Jesus seeks us out and wants to save us from our sin. Its a matter of whether or not are hearts are open to respond to God's calling us to his family.
The next piece I want to focus on is, Jesus is telling his disciples to go in and grab the colt " Go into the village in front of you where on entering you will find a colt tied" This marks the beginning of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The beginning of him fulfill his purpose of suffering for us.
The final verses I want to point out is kind of a coming full circle if you can remember way back in the beginning of the month where Jesus parents lost him as they were leaving Jerusalem, they find him in the temple, once again we find him in the temple, however this time instead of sitting and listening , Jesus needs to clear those in the temple who where there selling things inside of the temple. "For it is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of robbers" After Jesus gets His house back in order He began daily teaching in the Temple, similar to the beginning of his life. In response to that the scribes and chief priests where angry v. 48" but the did not find anything they could do, for all the people were hanging on his words."
The great thing for us is that we have all of Jesus Teachings in a Book, I know that when I hang on the words of Jesus I have much more understanding of what is in his word, as well as a better understanding of what is going on in my life. However it requires me to be in his word and desire reading and reflecting on it. Something that has become more and more evident for me as I have gone on this journey of reading through Luke this month.
Prayer: Lord as we read through your last days, may we hang on your every word, and in this season focus on the fact that this baby we celebrate would eventually give the ultimate sacrifice so that we may live free from Sin. Thank You for your sacrifice. Amen
Luke 19 we start to see Jesus preparing and journeying on the way to Jerusalem where he will fulfill, his mission for us sinners dying on the Cross so that we may have life in him.
However before that he continues to do what he has been doing his entire earthly ministry, calling sinners to repentance, and telling stories. In 19:10 after Jesus has his famous interaction with Zacchaeus up in the tree, the pharisees and leaders once again where questioning his actions and motives. Zacchaeus a tax collector and someone who had cheated people out of money his whole life, has this interaction with Jesus, and from then on vows to live a life of honor to God. with in V.10 Jesus explains why he inter acts with those like me, you and Zacchaeus. "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the Lost" Jesus seeks us out and wants to save us from our sin. Its a matter of whether or not are hearts are open to respond to God's calling us to his family.
The next piece I want to focus on is, Jesus is telling his disciples to go in and grab the colt " Go into the village in front of you where on entering you will find a colt tied" This marks the beginning of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem. The beginning of him fulfill his purpose of suffering for us.
The final verses I want to point out is kind of a coming full circle if you can remember way back in the beginning of the month where Jesus parents lost him as they were leaving Jerusalem, they find him in the temple, once again we find him in the temple, however this time instead of sitting and listening , Jesus needs to clear those in the temple who where there selling things inside of the temple. "For it is written, My house shall be a house of prayer, but you have made it a den of robbers" After Jesus gets His house back in order He began daily teaching in the Temple, similar to the beginning of his life. In response to that the scribes and chief priests where angry v. 48" but the did not find anything they could do, for all the people were hanging on his words."
The great thing for us is that we have all of Jesus Teachings in a Book, I know that when I hang on the words of Jesus I have much more understanding of what is in his word, as well as a better understanding of what is going on in my life. However it requires me to be in his word and desire reading and reflecting on it. Something that has become more and more evident for me as I have gone on this journey of reading through Luke this month.
Prayer: Lord as we read through your last days, may we hang on your every word, and in this season focus on the fact that this baby we celebrate would eventually give the ultimate sacrifice so that we may live free from Sin. Thank You for your sacrifice. Amen
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Day 18 Luke 18
Key Verses: Luke 18:7, 18:13-14, 18:17, 18:23, 18:27, 18:29
Lots of Good stuff in this chapter tonight, Gonna start talking about 18:7 "And will not God give justice to his elect who cry to him day and night?" Humbling verse to me in light of the parable told about an old women who would not stop pestering the Judge, who was not a believer, over a period of time he got fed up with her and granted her wish. What Jesus is telling us here that he answers those who believe and cry out to him. Now we must remember that what we want and what the answer is may not always be the same we must trust in God's plan. The reason that this is humbling to me is that How many things am I crying out to God for, to be honest my prayer life is suspect at best, i mean I pray every day but am I earnestly asking for things, earnestly crying out to God in my prayers. He listens, and answers, I just have to be willing to be vulnerable.
The next couple of verses I wanted to look at are 18:13-14, Couple of great verses coming right off the parable of the persistent widow, because you kind of get a picture in 13-14, of that crying out to Jesus, a man so aware of his sin and brokenness that the only thing that he can do is cry to God asking for mercy, he refuses to look to heaven he is in such despair. He truly knows what power sin has in his life and who can life that from him.
What would it look like for you to cry out to Jesus?
Prayer: lord I ask for forgiveness, because all to often I go through the motions of prayer, and not truly pouring my heart out to you. Have mercy on me a sinner. Amen
Lots of Good stuff in this chapter tonight, Gonna start talking about 18:7 "And will not God give justice to his elect who cry to him day and night?" Humbling verse to me in light of the parable told about an old women who would not stop pestering the Judge, who was not a believer, over a period of time he got fed up with her and granted her wish. What Jesus is telling us here that he answers those who believe and cry out to him. Now we must remember that what we want and what the answer is may not always be the same we must trust in God's plan. The reason that this is humbling to me is that How many things am I crying out to God for, to be honest my prayer life is suspect at best, i mean I pray every day but am I earnestly asking for things, earnestly crying out to God in my prayers. He listens, and answers, I just have to be willing to be vulnerable.
The next couple of verses I wanted to look at are 18:13-14, Couple of great verses coming right off the parable of the persistent widow, because you kind of get a picture in 13-14, of that crying out to Jesus, a man so aware of his sin and brokenness that the only thing that he can do is cry to God asking for mercy, he refuses to look to heaven he is in such despair. He truly knows what power sin has in his life and who can life that from him.
What would it look like for you to cry out to Jesus?
Prayer: lord I ask for forgiveness, because all to often I go through the motions of prayer, and not truly pouring my heart out to you. Have mercy on me a sinner. Amen
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Day 17 Luke 17
Key Verses: Luke: 17:19, 17:22, 17:25, 17:31-33
During this time of Advent we hear words like waiting, anticaption, yearning, and for the people of the old testament that was the case there were waiting for the King that the prophets and talked about all those years. However for us it is a little different, bescause unlike them, we know the end of the story. Our waiting and anticapting is for the return of Jesus to restore us to those who believe in what Jesus did upon the Cross that we may be taken up to heaven. I believe that waiting and anticapting is what Jesus is talking about in V. 22, but he is explaining to the discples as they were talking about the coming of the Kingdom of God.
Jesus is teaching and explaing to them as well as preparing them for their own journey of teaching and explaing to others about the kingdom of God. That brings us to 17:31-33 which is a theme over and over that pops up, which is as we become discples of Christ our desires for this world shall become less and less, that when the time comes to be taken up to heanven that there is no looking back. As we grow in a deeper relationship with Christ all other things seam to fade away. Our desires change, now that does not mean that God desiries us to leave this world, but that our focus and actions are directed to Christ and that controls everything we do.
I know for me this is something that is a daily struggle, to leave my old ways behind, to not worry about the things of this world, and have those desires and thoughts drive me, rather than the thoguhts and desires of Jesus and the Cross.
Prayer: Lord mold me, change me, so that my focus is heavenly, that I won't look back at my selfish desires and that my sole focus and direction in life is to follow you, and that will control my actions and deisres. Amen
During this time of Advent we hear words like waiting, anticaption, yearning, and for the people of the old testament that was the case there were waiting for the King that the prophets and talked about all those years. However for us it is a little different, bescause unlike them, we know the end of the story. Our waiting and anticapting is for the return of Jesus to restore us to those who believe in what Jesus did upon the Cross that we may be taken up to heaven. I believe that waiting and anticapting is what Jesus is talking about in V. 22, but he is explaining to the discples as they were talking about the coming of the Kingdom of God.
Jesus is teaching and explaing to them as well as preparing them for their own journey of teaching and explaing to others about the kingdom of God. That brings us to 17:31-33 which is a theme over and over that pops up, which is as we become discples of Christ our desires for this world shall become less and less, that when the time comes to be taken up to heanven that there is no looking back. As we grow in a deeper relationship with Christ all other things seam to fade away. Our desires change, now that does not mean that God desiries us to leave this world, but that our focus and actions are directed to Christ and that controls everything we do.
I know for me this is something that is a daily struggle, to leave my old ways behind, to not worry about the things of this world, and have those desires and thoughts drive me, rather than the thoguhts and desires of Jesus and the Cross.
Prayer: Lord mold me, change me, so that my focus is heavenly, that I won't look back at my selfish desires and that my sole focus and direction in life is to follow you, and that will control my actions and deisres. Amen
Friday, December 16, 2011
Day 16 Luke 16
Sorry this is so late tonight, I had every intention on getting this out earlier, but life got in the way, for that I am sorry, some days my focus can leave the things important to me. Anyways to some of the meat of this chapter.
Key Verses: 16:19-31
The story of the rich man and Lazarus, this is an interesting exchange after the Rich man has died. This was a man who while he was alive was wealthy, probably a position of power, and of importance. He had everything that he wanted while on this earth. We also see the opposite a man Lazarus who while on earth was in the Earth's eyes was bottom of the barrel, sores all over eat what the rich didn't. What happens here though that when they both die the roles are completely reversed, Lazarus is taken up in to heaven and sits next to Abraham and is carried up to the angels, while we see the rich man tormented in Hades asking for a drink of water from Lazarus. During the exchange the rich man ask's that his family be let know that heaven and Hell are for real. The verse that popped out to me was V. 31 "He said to hi, if they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead"
Plain and simple when we hear the word of God, when we hear the truth of the bible this is the only chance we get on earth, we have that chance already to witness the rising of the Dead in Jesus Christ. Another thing that I know for myself that I need to remember, is that the things of this world that I chase and value, only last for a period of time, However the importance of my focus on God and what he did through the Cross is of an importance of and entrenity.
Prayer: Lord I pray for focus on you, and not the things of this world that to often cause me to get distracted, and not focused on the main thing, the power of your Son Jesus dying on the Cross.
Key Verses: 16:19-31
The story of the rich man and Lazarus, this is an interesting exchange after the Rich man has died. This was a man who while he was alive was wealthy, probably a position of power, and of importance. He had everything that he wanted while on this earth. We also see the opposite a man Lazarus who while on earth was in the Earth's eyes was bottom of the barrel, sores all over eat what the rich didn't. What happens here though that when they both die the roles are completely reversed, Lazarus is taken up in to heaven and sits next to Abraham and is carried up to the angels, while we see the rich man tormented in Hades asking for a drink of water from Lazarus. During the exchange the rich man ask's that his family be let know that heaven and Hell are for real. The verse that popped out to me was V. 31 "He said to hi, if they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead"
Plain and simple when we hear the word of God, when we hear the truth of the bible this is the only chance we get on earth, we have that chance already to witness the rising of the Dead in Jesus Christ. Another thing that I know for myself that I need to remember, is that the things of this world that I chase and value, only last for a period of time, However the importance of my focus on God and what he did through the Cross is of an importance of and entrenity.
Prayer: Lord I pray for focus on you, and not the things of this world that to often cause me to get distracted, and not focused on the main thing, the power of your Son Jesus dying on the Cross.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Day 15 Luke 15
Key Verses: 15:7, 15:10, 15:24, 15:32
Some of my favorite stories in the bible, The parable of the Prodigal Son is one of some real personal significance as when I started to really commit my life to Jesus this was big in my life because I saw some real parallels to my life thru the story on the prodigal Son.
But what I really want to focus on is the theme that is threaded thru each of these stories that fact that God celebrates the lost coming home. Each of these stories are talking about those who are lost coming home or being Found. v.7 I love this verse " I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 righteous person who need no repentance." God loves the lost who come to him.
v.10 " Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents" The angels of God celebrate those who are lost that repent of their sins and Follow Jesus.
v. 24 " For this my son was dead and is alive again he was lost, and is found. And they began to celebrate"
V. 32 It was fitting, to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead and is Alive he was lost, and is found"
It brings great Joy to God when the lost are found, and those who are Christians should also seek the Lost and have great Joy when those who are lost, repent and put there faith in Jesus.
Prayer: Tonight Pray for someone who is lost, or ask God to reveal to you someone in your life that is lost.
Some of my favorite stories in the bible, The parable of the Prodigal Son is one of some real personal significance as when I started to really commit my life to Jesus this was big in my life because I saw some real parallels to my life thru the story on the prodigal Son.
But what I really want to focus on is the theme that is threaded thru each of these stories that fact that God celebrates the lost coming home. Each of these stories are talking about those who are lost coming home or being Found. v.7 I love this verse " I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over 99 righteous person who need no repentance." God loves the lost who come to him.
v.10 " Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents" The angels of God celebrate those who are lost that repent of their sins and Follow Jesus.
v. 24 " For this my son was dead and is alive again he was lost, and is found. And they began to celebrate"
V. 32 It was fitting, to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead and is Alive he was lost, and is found"
It brings great Joy to God when the lost are found, and those who are Christians should also seek the Lost and have great Joy when those who are lost, repent and put there faith in Jesus.
Prayer: Tonight Pray for someone who is lost, or ask God to reveal to you someone in your life that is lost.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Day 14, Luke 14
Key verses Luke 14:26-28
Gonna be quick today and only going to look at these couple of verses in a paragraph listed under Cost of discipleship. Looking at these verses on can look and probably there might be a feeling of discontent when in at least the ESV V.26 talks about having to Hate your family or our own life as a cost. At first glance that alone would be a huge stumbling block for many if not all. However I think that we need to look a little deeper into what it actually is saying with that word. Looking at a footnote in my bible the word hate is actually meaning to love less, also it says "Discipleship means loving the Master so much that all other loves are hatred by comparison" So it is not saying in order to be a disciple of Christ that you can not love your family, the life that Christ has given to you. No what it is saying is that your love for Christ should far exceed anything else in your life that by comparing those things it is not even close.
Something I know if I evaluated my life and my love for things in compared to Christ, I would not be proud, somewhat for me a convicting piece of Scripture.
Prayer: Lord God penetrate my heart with your love, I thank you for the grace you show me each day, and I am sorry that I often times fail to show you love like you have shown me. Thank you for being full of Love and Grace, I pray that as I look at your word and what you did for us on the cross that I will fall more and more in love with you. Amen
Gonna be quick today and only going to look at these couple of verses in a paragraph listed under Cost of discipleship. Looking at these verses on can look and probably there might be a feeling of discontent when in at least the ESV V.26 talks about having to Hate your family or our own life as a cost. At first glance that alone would be a huge stumbling block for many if not all. However I think that we need to look a little deeper into what it actually is saying with that word. Looking at a footnote in my bible the word hate is actually meaning to love less, also it says "Discipleship means loving the Master so much that all other loves are hatred by comparison" So it is not saying in order to be a disciple of Christ that you can not love your family, the life that Christ has given to you. No what it is saying is that your love for Christ should far exceed anything else in your life that by comparing those things it is not even close.
Something I know if I evaluated my life and my love for things in compared to Christ, I would not be proud, somewhat for me a convicting piece of Scripture.
Prayer: Lord God penetrate my heart with your love, I thank you for the grace you show me each day, and I am sorry that I often times fail to show you love like you have shown me. Thank you for being full of Love and Grace, I pray that as I look at your word and what you did for us on the cross that I will fall more and more in love with you. Amen
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Day 13 Luke 13
Key Verses: 13:5, 13:6-9, 13:24, 13:30
Some things that really go well with the last couple of chapters of Jesus talking to the people and explaining the importance of repenting of Sins. What is important about repenting is the fact that we are admitting that we are sinners, and that we need the help of a Savior.
The parable of the fig tree is very interesting after reading a commentary in my bible on that pieces of scripture, and it opened my eyes to an interesting take on it. Specially right after Jesus talking about two different people groups that experienced tragic events in which peopled died, his way of explaining that we never really know when today will be our last and while we have time we must repent. I am going to share with you what is written in my bible about the Parable of the barren fig tree. " A vineyard was fertile soil for a fig tree and "three years" points to an established tree. It was unlikely that it would ever bear fruit, but it was given one more chance. That God does not punish sinners immediately does not mean that he approves of their sin. Rather, his patience shows He is merciful and they should repent while there is time."
We often wonder why non-believers or those openly living in unrepent sin are not punished by God, We see it as not fair sometimes because of maybe our struggle to live out the Christian life. And what we fail to acknowledge is the mercy and Grace that God is showing that person, or even when we are entrapped by sin, we fail to see the mercy and Grace as well.
Last Verse i want to look at tonight is V.24 " Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many I tell you will seek to enter and will not able" An encouragement to not take the easy way out and follow that wide path that some many of us really struggle not to do, for the fact that the narrow door is difficult, but straight. The diff cult thing about the narrow door is we may be the only one of our friends that is choosing that path, that is narrow and difficult and we want someone to journey with us, and there are lots who are traveling along the wide path so we want community. Well just remember when you are striving and walking along the narrow path, you very much have community with the Father, one that last forever.
Prayer: Pray tonight for wisdom and guidance along the path, also pick a person you know trying to walk on that narrow path, who may be struggle or you know needs encouragement.
Some things that really go well with the last couple of chapters of Jesus talking to the people and explaining the importance of repenting of Sins. What is important about repenting is the fact that we are admitting that we are sinners, and that we need the help of a Savior.
The parable of the fig tree is very interesting after reading a commentary in my bible on that pieces of scripture, and it opened my eyes to an interesting take on it. Specially right after Jesus talking about two different people groups that experienced tragic events in which peopled died, his way of explaining that we never really know when today will be our last and while we have time we must repent. I am going to share with you what is written in my bible about the Parable of the barren fig tree. " A vineyard was fertile soil for a fig tree and "three years" points to an established tree. It was unlikely that it would ever bear fruit, but it was given one more chance. That God does not punish sinners immediately does not mean that he approves of their sin. Rather, his patience shows He is merciful and they should repent while there is time."
We often wonder why non-believers or those openly living in unrepent sin are not punished by God, We see it as not fair sometimes because of maybe our struggle to live out the Christian life. And what we fail to acknowledge is the mercy and Grace that God is showing that person, or even when we are entrapped by sin, we fail to see the mercy and Grace as well.
Last Verse i want to look at tonight is V.24 " Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many I tell you will seek to enter and will not able" An encouragement to not take the easy way out and follow that wide path that some many of us really struggle not to do, for the fact that the narrow door is difficult, but straight. The diff cult thing about the narrow door is we may be the only one of our friends that is choosing that path, that is narrow and difficult and we want someone to journey with us, and there are lots who are traveling along the wide path so we want community. Well just remember when you are striving and walking along the narrow path, you very much have community with the Father, one that last forever.
Prayer: Pray tonight for wisdom and guidance along the path, also pick a person you know trying to walk on that narrow path, who may be struggle or you know needs encouragement.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Day 12 Luke 12
Key Verses: 12:2-3, 12:9, 12:25, 12:34
Right off the bat in chapter 12 we see some verses that is a great warning and encouragement that confession is an important aspect of our lives. This section fits very well with the end of Chapter 11 as Jesus is speaking warnings to the Pharisees and his disciples of living a Christian walk.
The thing with this section of scripture is that it to me is very translatable in to the culture we live in, and if we are not careful and aware of Sin in our lives we can very much fall in to a live of trying to hide it from others and keep it in the dark. Jesus warns us here that no matter how hard we try eventually the sin in our lives that we keep hidden will be found out. This is especially tough and dangerous within the Christian community and in High School. We live under such expectations of how we are to live our lives, which as Christians there is truth to living a life that is holy and honoring to God, but part of that is confessing our sin to Jesus and others when we are in times of need. The more we hide those things in our lives the more we convince ourselves we are someone different that we really are. The more we drive ourselves away from the Cross.
The more we keep sin in the dark, the more we diminish what Christ did on the Cross in dying for our sins. When we confess those sins we are hiding we allow Christ through him dying on the cross to take them from us and give us forgiveness. By living our lives in the open we confess our sins to Jesus, and by that we say Jesus I can not do this alone, take my sin from me I am weak and need help, and when we do this I think you will see a change of heart and understanding of the cross, and through this process, you will see your life change because you are falling more and more in love with him and what was done through the Cross.
Pray: Lord, I am weak, sinful, and selfish, I confess that I am a sinner and cannot do this alone. Thank you for the Cross, thank you for your sacrifice, thank you for loving me and wanting me to be a child of God. Amen
Right off the bat in chapter 12 we see some verses that is a great warning and encouragement that confession is an important aspect of our lives. This section fits very well with the end of Chapter 11 as Jesus is speaking warnings to the Pharisees and his disciples of living a Christian walk.
The thing with this section of scripture is that it to me is very translatable in to the culture we live in, and if we are not careful and aware of Sin in our lives we can very much fall in to a live of trying to hide it from others and keep it in the dark. Jesus warns us here that no matter how hard we try eventually the sin in our lives that we keep hidden will be found out. This is especially tough and dangerous within the Christian community and in High School. We live under such expectations of how we are to live our lives, which as Christians there is truth to living a life that is holy and honoring to God, but part of that is confessing our sin to Jesus and others when we are in times of need. The more we hide those things in our lives the more we convince ourselves we are someone different that we really are. The more we drive ourselves away from the Cross.
The more we keep sin in the dark, the more we diminish what Christ did on the Cross in dying for our sins. When we confess those sins we are hiding we allow Christ through him dying on the cross to take them from us and give us forgiveness. By living our lives in the open we confess our sins to Jesus, and by that we say Jesus I can not do this alone, take my sin from me I am weak and need help, and when we do this I think you will see a change of heart and understanding of the cross, and through this process, you will see your life change because you are falling more and more in love with him and what was done through the Cross.
Pray: Lord, I am weak, sinful, and selfish, I confess that I am a sinner and cannot do this alone. Thank you for the Cross, thank you for your sacrifice, thank you for loving me and wanting me to be a child of God. Amen
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Day 11 Luke 11
Key Verses 11:2-13, 11:39
Good Evening, tonight we are going to look at chapter 11, first want to hit prayer, and we see in Chapter 11 Jesus teaching his disciples to pray. Something that is kind of sneaky and sometimes we don't notice it enough, but there are many times through the Gospels that we read about Jesus seperating himself from the crowds so that he could pray. Asking for the spirits Guidance and the Father's strength get through some tough moments. I am going to copy the ESV versision the Lords prayer and then comment on it.
2"Father, hallowed be your name,
Your Kingdom come.
3Give us each day our daily bread, 4and forgive us our sins,
for we ourselves forgive everyone,
who is indebted to us.
and lead us not into temptation.
Verse two this call of adoration or praise to the Father, and praying to the father which to me just gives this special connection to God our father in heaven. Asking for the Kingdom of God to be present in our lives, giving us what we need on a daily basis.
Verse 4 is a great live of us asking for forgivness and confessing at the same time that we are sinful, to often we don't look in the mirror enough to see our own sin. And then the next line asks us to forgive those who have sinned againist us, something I know for me can be hard, because most of the time I have been hurt by the actions of those who have sinned againist me. Then the last line asking for help to not be lead into temptation, all though there is many this is teaching and showing how we must ask for protection.
What is neat is the next section of this chapter is about asking and pursuing God through our prayers, and giving us this picture of having a relationship with the Father through the intimate dialoge of prayer, as we will see later Jesus having with the Father as well.
Prayer: Take a look at the Lords prayer and earnestly tonight sit down and say it. What an awesome gift God has given us through this prayer. Amen
Good Evening, tonight we are going to look at chapter 11, first want to hit prayer, and we see in Chapter 11 Jesus teaching his disciples to pray. Something that is kind of sneaky and sometimes we don't notice it enough, but there are many times through the Gospels that we read about Jesus seperating himself from the crowds so that he could pray. Asking for the spirits Guidance and the Father's strength get through some tough moments. I am going to copy the ESV versision the Lords prayer and then comment on it.
2"Father, hallowed be your name,
Your Kingdom come.
3Give us each day our daily bread, 4and forgive us our sins,
for we ourselves forgive everyone,
who is indebted to us.
and lead us not into temptation.
Verse two this call of adoration or praise to the Father, and praying to the father which to me just gives this special connection to God our father in heaven. Asking for the Kingdom of God to be present in our lives, giving us what we need on a daily basis.
Verse 4 is a great live of us asking for forgivness and confessing at the same time that we are sinful, to often we don't look in the mirror enough to see our own sin. And then the next line asks us to forgive those who have sinned againist us, something I know for me can be hard, because most of the time I have been hurt by the actions of those who have sinned againist me. Then the last line asking for help to not be lead into temptation, all though there is many this is teaching and showing how we must ask for protection.
What is neat is the next section of this chapter is about asking and pursuing God through our prayers, and giving us this picture of having a relationship with the Father through the intimate dialoge of prayer, as we will see later Jesus having with the Father as well.
Prayer: Take a look at the Lords prayer and earnestly tonight sit down and say it. What an awesome gift God has given us through this prayer. Amen
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Day 10 Luke 10
Key Verses 10:38-42
Gonna keep it real short tonight. Alot in this chapter but want to only look the last paragraph in the Chapter. What I want to point out about this chapter is How Jesus responds to Martha, the thing we notice is Martha is really busy serving Jesus, and we look at that as a good thing. Finding ways to serve Jesus is great and that should be a real important part of our Christian lives. However when serving becomes the main thing and the thing that is our focus that can be dangerous to our faith. This situation is a perfect example, Martha gets so busy she gets frustrated and Jesus actually rebukes her and basically tells her to slow down and rest in the presence of Jesus, like Mary is doing.V.42 "but one thing is necessary, Mary has chosen the good portion,which will not be taken away from her" Mary chose to sit in the presence of Jesus and focus on him. We need in our lives to make sure we are not cluttering our lives with business, even if it is service to God, because then we do not slow down and sit in the presence of the Lord.
Prayer: Quiet my heart so that I can rest in you. In times of frustration, in times of service, may I rest at the feet of you Jesus and may my focus be drawn to what you have done in my life.
Gonna keep it real short tonight. Alot in this chapter but want to only look the last paragraph in the Chapter. What I want to point out about this chapter is How Jesus responds to Martha, the thing we notice is Martha is really busy serving Jesus, and we look at that as a good thing. Finding ways to serve Jesus is great and that should be a real important part of our Christian lives. However when serving becomes the main thing and the thing that is our focus that can be dangerous to our faith. This situation is a perfect example, Martha gets so busy she gets frustrated and Jesus actually rebukes her and basically tells her to slow down and rest in the presence of Jesus, like Mary is doing.V.42 "but one thing is necessary, Mary has chosen the good portion,which will not be taken away from her" Mary chose to sit in the presence of Jesus and focus on him. We need in our lives to make sure we are not cluttering our lives with business, even if it is service to God, because then we do not slow down and sit in the presence of the Lord.
Prayer: Quiet my heart so that I can rest in you. In times of frustration, in times of service, may I rest at the feet of you Jesus and may my focus be drawn to what you have done in my life.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Day 9 Luke 9
Key Verses: Luke 9:3, 9:23-26, 9:35,9:57-61
End of the first full week of this reading thru Luke and as I told someone else the other day when asking me about it, sometimes i think about how many people are actually reading this, and is it worth it, but then as I have gone along doing Luke each day, I have realized this is much more for me than it is for anyone else so I don't really care if anyone else is reading it, if only to hear how God is speaking to you through Luke.
On to today's Chapter The first verse I have above I am not going to talk to much, but just point out that as Jesus sends out the 12 Apostles, He tells them to take nothing. For those guys to do this and obey Jesus took are real act of Faith. As I will talk a little later about, they really didn't know the end of the story, we have the luxury to know what happened that Jesus was who we actually said he was. These others guys didn't know what was to come, there whole lives changed, on the Faith of this Man.
Next part is something that really touched my heart, because I know alot of times this is a real struggle for me, it is the section of Luke where Jesus is talking to his Apostles, about what it takes to follow him, "Take up his cross daily and follow me" Jesus says in verse 23. Deny himself he also says which for me the way I lived my life for a long time is a daily struggle, for many years of my life the soul focus was myself. It's is something I deal with daily is to put others and to put Jesus ahead of myself, it's part of my daily cross that I have to bear. Often times I fail miserably, the only thing I can take heart in is what Jesus did upon the cross for me wiping my sin away.
V.25 is a great verse as well in this sequence of us learning what it takes to be a follower of Jesus. "for what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?" What do you gain by in order to get ahead in the world, you sacrifice your integrity, your character, you do whatever it takes to get to the top? But what you are actually doing is not denying yourself and pursuing the Cross of Jesus.
I am going to end with the next verse because to me this is a very chilling warning, and one that should strike a little fear into our hearts. I know for me this is a verse and concept that I have been wrestling and struggling with for a long time, and probably one since I committed my life to Christ that I have struggled with. v. 26 says " for whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of Father and of the holy angles" Maybe the biggest stumbling block for High School Jr. High Students, is this idea that it is not cool to stand up to the word of God. Often times myself included don't want to make anyone feel uncomfortable about it, or I become afraid of what others may think of me because of what I say or do. Well reread V.26 and let it sit for a little bit, and it is my prayer that both you and I start to ask God for courage to stand up for him and his word.
Prayer: Lord I pray today that you reveal to me those stumbling blocks in my life where I need to deny and take to your cross, those things that I would rather pursue than pursue a relationship with you and what you call us to do in the Bible. I pray that the spirit would bless me with courage and a desire to stand up for your Word and live a life unashamed for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Amen
End of the first full week of this reading thru Luke and as I told someone else the other day when asking me about it, sometimes i think about how many people are actually reading this, and is it worth it, but then as I have gone along doing Luke each day, I have realized this is much more for me than it is for anyone else so I don't really care if anyone else is reading it, if only to hear how God is speaking to you through Luke.
On to today's Chapter The first verse I have above I am not going to talk to much, but just point out that as Jesus sends out the 12 Apostles, He tells them to take nothing. For those guys to do this and obey Jesus took are real act of Faith. As I will talk a little later about, they really didn't know the end of the story, we have the luxury to know what happened that Jesus was who we actually said he was. These others guys didn't know what was to come, there whole lives changed, on the Faith of this Man.
Next part is something that really touched my heart, because I know alot of times this is a real struggle for me, it is the section of Luke where Jesus is talking to his Apostles, about what it takes to follow him, "Take up his cross daily and follow me" Jesus says in verse 23. Deny himself he also says which for me the way I lived my life for a long time is a daily struggle, for many years of my life the soul focus was myself. It's is something I deal with daily is to put others and to put Jesus ahead of myself, it's part of my daily cross that I have to bear. Often times I fail miserably, the only thing I can take heart in is what Jesus did upon the cross for me wiping my sin away.
V.25 is a great verse as well in this sequence of us learning what it takes to be a follower of Jesus. "for what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?" What do you gain by in order to get ahead in the world, you sacrifice your integrity, your character, you do whatever it takes to get to the top? But what you are actually doing is not denying yourself and pursuing the Cross of Jesus.
I am going to end with the next verse because to me this is a very chilling warning, and one that should strike a little fear into our hearts. I know for me this is a verse and concept that I have been wrestling and struggling with for a long time, and probably one since I committed my life to Christ that I have struggled with. v. 26 says " for whoever is ashamed of me and of my words, of him will the Son of Man be ashamed when he comes in his glory and the glory of Father and of the holy angles" Maybe the biggest stumbling block for High School Jr. High Students, is this idea that it is not cool to stand up to the word of God. Often times myself included don't want to make anyone feel uncomfortable about it, or I become afraid of what others may think of me because of what I say or do. Well reread V.26 and let it sit for a little bit, and it is my prayer that both you and I start to ask God for courage to stand up for him and his word.
Prayer: Lord I pray today that you reveal to me those stumbling blocks in my life where I need to deny and take to your cross, those things that I would rather pursue than pursue a relationship with you and what you call us to do in the Bible. I pray that the spirit would bless me with courage and a desire to stand up for your Word and live a life unashamed for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Amen
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Luke 8 Day 8
Key verses: Luke 8:4-15, 8:35, 8:43-44, 8:48, 8:54
Always good stuff to read each day, one porition that I am not going to really comment a whole lot about ,but is always fruitful for me to take a tempature check of my faith and how I am growing is the the sectition of Luke 8:4-15, I suggest you read it and take an honest look at your life and how you are applying the Word of God to your life.
That being said I want to take a look at the interactions that Jesus had with people today in the book. Partly because in this season I have been really aware of relationships and interactions with people and how critical they are to our daily lives, but also how critical they were to Jesus, I mean almost every single story we read about in Luke has to do with Jesus talking or healing someone. Only one I can think of that does not is Jesus Vs. the devil in the wilderness.
Story 1 is Jesus healing the demon possessed man, and for the descripition in the story this guy was crazy, the kind of crazy that in our world we would grab the kids a little tighter, and probably cross the street to stay away crazy. Once again we are exposed to Jesus's power over evil, and satan in our world and the demon is casted out. But what I really want to draw notice to is how this man was changed by the power of Jesus. V.35 "found him....Sitting at the feet of Jesus clothed and in his right mind" Jesus has the power to change lives completly, no matter what or who we have been controled by or have done. Jesus has power over all evil.
Story 2 is a one where Jesus on the way to help Jairus's daughter a women from the crowd toches just the fringe of Jesus garment. What a great story of faith this women has, she had spent the last 12 years spending everything she had, "all her living on physicians" and nothing could be done. She hears of Jesus and believes so strongly of his power to heal, that she only wants to touch the fringe, the fringe, and in v.44 we see "immediately her discharge of blood ceased" Humbling to me to read this, because in times of struggle and need do I have faith like that, faith in the fact that the God I claim, can heal, can provide for any need, with the simple act of the smallest amount of faith. V.48 is a great picture of our Savior when he replies to the woman as she was explaing "Daughter, your faith has made you well, go in peace"
Prayer: Dear God I ask forgiveness for the times I question, or don't believe in your healing power, I thank you for your word, for the stories of healing, for how you show grace on the sick, and your acts of power over evil. May these stories stir my heart, and stregthen my faith and prepare me for times of need. Thank you for your Cross. Amen
Always good stuff to read each day, one porition that I am not going to really comment a whole lot about ,but is always fruitful for me to take a tempature check of my faith and how I am growing is the the sectition of Luke 8:4-15, I suggest you read it and take an honest look at your life and how you are applying the Word of God to your life.
That being said I want to take a look at the interactions that Jesus had with people today in the book. Partly because in this season I have been really aware of relationships and interactions with people and how critical they are to our daily lives, but also how critical they were to Jesus, I mean almost every single story we read about in Luke has to do with Jesus talking or healing someone. Only one I can think of that does not is Jesus Vs. the devil in the wilderness.
Story 1 is Jesus healing the demon possessed man, and for the descripition in the story this guy was crazy, the kind of crazy that in our world we would grab the kids a little tighter, and probably cross the street to stay away crazy. Once again we are exposed to Jesus's power over evil, and satan in our world and the demon is casted out. But what I really want to draw notice to is how this man was changed by the power of Jesus. V.35 "found him....Sitting at the feet of Jesus clothed and in his right mind" Jesus has the power to change lives completly, no matter what or who we have been controled by or have done. Jesus has power over all evil.
Story 2 is a one where Jesus on the way to help Jairus's daughter a women from the crowd toches just the fringe of Jesus garment. What a great story of faith this women has, she had spent the last 12 years spending everything she had, "all her living on physicians" and nothing could be done. She hears of Jesus and believes so strongly of his power to heal, that she only wants to touch the fringe, the fringe, and in v.44 we see "immediately her discharge of blood ceased" Humbling to me to read this, because in times of struggle and need do I have faith like that, faith in the fact that the God I claim, can heal, can provide for any need, with the simple act of the smallest amount of faith. V.48 is a great picture of our Savior when he replies to the woman as she was explaing "Daughter, your faith has made you well, go in peace"
Prayer: Dear God I ask forgiveness for the times I question, or don't believe in your healing power, I thank you for your word, for the stories of healing, for how you show grace on the sick, and your acts of power over evil. May these stories stir my heart, and stregthen my faith and prepare me for times of need. Thank you for your Cross. Amen
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Day 7 Luke 7
Key Verses: 7:9, 7:14-15, 7:42,7:47, 7:49
Beginning to realize many of the themes that I am picking up this year are things that I struggle with in my own life, or things that God is reveling to me through his word, and I suppose that is the point. So I think that it would be great if you are reading this Blog to comment on some things that God is speaking to you through reading the scripture?
One thing that I noticed today with the stories that where told, is that each of the people that were healed or impacted where desperate for Jesus to help them, which I think happens quite a bit, people in there last ditch effort turn to Jesus because they have no where else to turn, however something I want to point out is the people that were witnessing these stories, the ones that things may not have been to the brink. These are the people I look at and think the stories where most intended for, now don't get me wrong Jesus blessed beyond belief those in dire need, but part of why He was doing this was to reveal his power and glory to those who were not desperate for him, so that they might see who he was and turn to him. V.16 is amazing when they say " Fear seized them all, and they glorified God Saying " a great prophet has arisen among us" "God has visited his people"
Jesus power, mercy, and acts of Kindness where sweeping the land. The final story of this chapter to me is one of the most eye opening to me because I find myself much like Simon often not always aware of the gift that is given to me through Jesus dying on the cross. this is the story of the sinful women that Jesus forgives while at at diner party with Pharisee and others around. You see Simon really was paying little attention to Jesus, while this women who knew of Jesus mercy did not stop giving him attention because she believed in his power of forgiveness. Then we are given "V. 47 Therefore I tell you her sins which are many are forgiven for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little loves little."
This verse cuts me at the core, because each and every day I must come to terms with my own sin, and there are days which I sometimes don't acknowledge thankfulness of my Savior dying on the cross for me and the sin I commit, because he has blessed me which much, and I fail to remember Jesus sacrifice. My hope for you is that through this season you and I both will learn to love more this sacrifice that Jesus gave to us through his Cross.
Prayer: Dear Jesus let us in this season remember the cost of the Cross, and like the sinful women be praising and thanking you for that sacrifice on the cross. I pray that I can love more, because I need to be forgiven daily for my sins. Amen
Beginning to realize many of the themes that I am picking up this year are things that I struggle with in my own life, or things that God is reveling to me through his word, and I suppose that is the point. So I think that it would be great if you are reading this Blog to comment on some things that God is speaking to you through reading the scripture?
One thing that I noticed today with the stories that where told, is that each of the people that were healed or impacted where desperate for Jesus to help them, which I think happens quite a bit, people in there last ditch effort turn to Jesus because they have no where else to turn, however something I want to point out is the people that were witnessing these stories, the ones that things may not have been to the brink. These are the people I look at and think the stories where most intended for, now don't get me wrong Jesus blessed beyond belief those in dire need, but part of why He was doing this was to reveal his power and glory to those who were not desperate for him, so that they might see who he was and turn to him. V.16 is amazing when they say " Fear seized them all, and they glorified God Saying " a great prophet has arisen among us" "God has visited his people"
Jesus power, mercy, and acts of Kindness where sweeping the land. The final story of this chapter to me is one of the most eye opening to me because I find myself much like Simon often not always aware of the gift that is given to me through Jesus dying on the cross. this is the story of the sinful women that Jesus forgives while at at diner party with Pharisee and others around. You see Simon really was paying little attention to Jesus, while this women who knew of Jesus mercy did not stop giving him attention because she believed in his power of forgiveness. Then we are given "V. 47 Therefore I tell you her sins which are many are forgiven for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little loves little."
This verse cuts me at the core, because each and every day I must come to terms with my own sin, and there are days which I sometimes don't acknowledge thankfulness of my Savior dying on the cross for me and the sin I commit, because he has blessed me which much, and I fail to remember Jesus sacrifice. My hope for you is that through this season you and I both will learn to love more this sacrifice that Jesus gave to us through his Cross.
Prayer: Dear Jesus let us in this season remember the cost of the Cross, and like the sinful women be praising and thanking you for that sacrifice on the cross. I pray that I can love more, because I need to be forgiven daily for my sins. Amen
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Day 6 Luke 6
Key Verses Luke 6:23,
Good evening to everyone tonight, hope all is well, I know here today seamed to be the first real bitter cold day, was not ready for it. Anyways back to Luke.
Lots of good stuff, but really wanted to focus on one thing that really stood out to me, in verse 23, "Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil on account of the Son of Man" Here is what I was thinking about as I was reading this, often times as Christians we struggle with fitting in to the World, but also living a lifestyle that is honoring to God, sometime lines get blurred, and we face the fact that we have to make a choice to fit in to the world, or to stand against the mainstream, and stand for Christ. What happens in that moment often can make us feel like we don't fit in, we are out of place in this world. That makes being a christian a struggle sometimes, or it makes it hard for us to see where we fit in to the world. The reality is, we are going to go through those times sometimes and I feel that God in this verse is telling us that the feeling of out of being out of place, and like we don't belong because of our choices for Christ, that in those times we will be blessed. I know it is a struggle in those times, and sometimes it is hard to make that choice for Christ, but let this verse be a promise to you that when we chose Christ, we will be blessed.
Decided to be short tonight, so that we can really look and meditate on this verse, specially in those times when choosing Christ can feel lonely, and feel like we are out of place. In the end because of those decisions to pursue Christ we will be blessed, and we can lean on the promises of Christ.
Prayer: Dear God please help me to pursue you in the time of Advent. I pray for confidence in those times I want to Chose you and it may feel like no one else is. I pray for comfort and courage when I feel all alone because of my desire to follow you Jesus. Thank you for the sacrifice you choose for me, and the loneliness you felt on the cross for my sins. Amen
Good evening to everyone tonight, hope all is well, I know here today seamed to be the first real bitter cold day, was not ready for it. Anyways back to Luke.
Lots of good stuff, but really wanted to focus on one thing that really stood out to me, in verse 23, "Blessed are you when people hate you and when they exclude you and revile you and spurn your name as evil on account of the Son of Man" Here is what I was thinking about as I was reading this, often times as Christians we struggle with fitting in to the World, but also living a lifestyle that is honoring to God, sometime lines get blurred, and we face the fact that we have to make a choice to fit in to the world, or to stand against the mainstream, and stand for Christ. What happens in that moment often can make us feel like we don't fit in, we are out of place in this world. That makes being a christian a struggle sometimes, or it makes it hard for us to see where we fit in to the world. The reality is, we are going to go through those times sometimes and I feel that God in this verse is telling us that the feeling of out of being out of place, and like we don't belong because of our choices for Christ, that in those times we will be blessed. I know it is a struggle in those times, and sometimes it is hard to make that choice for Christ, but let this verse be a promise to you that when we chose Christ, we will be blessed.
Decided to be short tonight, so that we can really look and meditate on this verse, specially in those times when choosing Christ can feel lonely, and feel like we are out of place. In the end because of those decisions to pursue Christ we will be blessed, and we can lean on the promises of Christ.
Prayer: Dear God please help me to pursue you in the time of Advent. I pray for confidence in those times I want to Chose you and it may feel like no one else is. I pray for comfort and courage when I feel all alone because of my desire to follow you Jesus. Thank you for the sacrifice you choose for me, and the loneliness you felt on the cross for my sins. Amen
Monday, December 5, 2011
Day 5 Luke 5
Key Verse Luke 5:11, 5:19-20, 5:28, 5:30-32
Hey all hope Monday finds you well, I know for me today has been a struggle, and it is amazing how God speaks to me through what I have been reading and what I read today. Lately for me it has been hard to find encouragement and energy, could be the season, could be the busyness that I surround myself with, or just not slowing down and taking time to see and hear God in my life. So a few of these stories from today really motivated me and allowed me to refocus, great stories for a Monday, when many of us are not motivated. So a theme I picked up throughout this chapter was that of "All In" and really for me personally that is some times a struggle, and it is at those points in my life that I feel the most disconnected of all.
"All In" So in verse 11 Jesus tells Simon,James,and John to follow him, "They left everything and followed him.", When the buddies of the paralytic new Jesus was in town they were "all in" to get there buddy face time with Jesus anyway they could, to the point of getting on the roof and lowering him in. Jesus calling the Tax collector Levi, Jesus says Follow me, and in verse 28 "leaving everything he rose and followed him" Levi was "all in"
Then finally in verses 30-32 when asked why Jesus was hanging around with sinners and Tax collectors we get a glimpse of Jesus being "all in" when he said "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." You see Jesus was "all in" to come and save those you were sick, who are caught up in sin, he wants us "all in" as well.
To me "all in" is the phrase need to hear when I am struggling, when I want to make things about me, and not about others. Jesus was all about others, saying I have come to save the sick.
Prayer: Jesus fill me up when I feel empty, when I am not "all in" Let me remember you came to save me, on the Cross, so that when I am in a pit or feel like the world is on top of me, I can choose Joy, I can chose you and say Jesus I am "all in" Thanks for your cross, thanks for what you did by dying, saving me, who is sick with sin, so that I can serve you and say I "all in" Amen
Hey all hope Monday finds you well, I know for me today has been a struggle, and it is amazing how God speaks to me through what I have been reading and what I read today. Lately for me it has been hard to find encouragement and energy, could be the season, could be the busyness that I surround myself with, or just not slowing down and taking time to see and hear God in my life. So a few of these stories from today really motivated me and allowed me to refocus, great stories for a Monday, when many of us are not motivated. So a theme I picked up throughout this chapter was that of "All In" and really for me personally that is some times a struggle, and it is at those points in my life that I feel the most disconnected of all.
"All In" So in verse 11 Jesus tells Simon,James,and John to follow him, "They left everything and followed him.", When the buddies of the paralytic new Jesus was in town they were "all in" to get there buddy face time with Jesus anyway they could, to the point of getting on the roof and lowering him in. Jesus calling the Tax collector Levi, Jesus says Follow me, and in verse 28 "leaving everything he rose and followed him" Levi was "all in"
Then finally in verses 30-32 when asked why Jesus was hanging around with sinners and Tax collectors we get a glimpse of Jesus being "all in" when he said "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." You see Jesus was "all in" to come and save those you were sick, who are caught up in sin, he wants us "all in" as well.
To me "all in" is the phrase need to hear when I am struggling, when I want to make things about me, and not about others. Jesus was all about others, saying I have come to save the sick.
Prayer: Jesus fill me up when I feel empty, when I am not "all in" Let me remember you came to save me, on the Cross, so that when I am in a pit or feel like the world is on top of me, I can choose Joy, I can chose you and say Jesus I am "all in" Thanks for your cross, thanks for what you did by dying, saving me, who is sick with sin, so that I can serve you and say I "all in" Amen
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Day 4 Luke 4
Key Verses 4:1, 4:6, 4:34, 4:36
Jesus is now starting his adult ministry and we see an interesting interaction between him and Satan. One key thing to take note is what is said in V.1" Jesus being full of the spirit" We see and know that Jesus although fully human on the earth did not walk alone as he lived on earth. The other interesting thing that I wanted to point out was in verse 6 what the devil was offering, he was offereing Jesus power and authority on this earth if he chose to worship the Devil. Thought is was very interesting that the Devil does have authority of earthly things and gives power to some of those who worship him. I see this too much in the world and i too can struggle with worldy things tempting me and enticing me. But never really thought of struggling with worldy things be something the Devil would have a hand in, I just always thought of it as a distraction to pursuing Christ. The encouraging thing about the Devil and his authority is that it is limited and we serve and God who has authority over earthly things and the evil one.
As we see in verse 4:34, and 4:36 as we see Jesus healing a man poesessed by an evil spirit. The spirit leaves, and the people are amazed in the power Jesus has over evil spirits. A cool picture of what and who Jesus is in our lives,
Prayer; Jesus over this time of Advent reveal to us your power, and let us experience the grace and power of who you are in our lives. As we read your gospel makes us more confident in who you are and what you can do in our lives. Amen
Jesus is now starting his adult ministry and we see an interesting interaction between him and Satan. One key thing to take note is what is said in V.1" Jesus being full of the spirit" We see and know that Jesus although fully human on the earth did not walk alone as he lived on earth. The other interesting thing that I wanted to point out was in verse 6 what the devil was offering, he was offereing Jesus power and authority on this earth if he chose to worship the Devil. Thought is was very interesting that the Devil does have authority of earthly things and gives power to some of those who worship him. I see this too much in the world and i too can struggle with worldy things tempting me and enticing me. But never really thought of struggling with worldy things be something the Devil would have a hand in, I just always thought of it as a distraction to pursuing Christ. The encouraging thing about the Devil and his authority is that it is limited and we serve and God who has authority over earthly things and the evil one.
As we see in verse 4:34, and 4:36 as we see Jesus healing a man poesessed by an evil spirit. The spirit leaves, and the people are amazed in the power Jesus has over evil spirits. A cool picture of what and who Jesus is in our lives,
Prayer; Jesus over this time of Advent reveal to us your power, and let us experience the grace and power of who you are in our lives. As we read your gospel makes us more confident in who you are and what you can do in our lives. Amen
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Day 3 Luke 3
Key Verses 3:5-6, 3:16
Never until now paid alot of attention to Advent and the season and really what it meant and was all about. However this advent for some reason it has come up much more often, so I decided that I needed to figure out just what it meant. So looking at different blogs, and videos, listening to a talk or two, I started to hear words like prepare, anticipation, quit, expectant. Maybe it is by season of Life or becoming more aware of things, but what an opportunity during Advent to prepare our hearts for a change, for a different reason to celebrate the Christmas Season.
I thought Chapter 3 was fitting to talk about Advent, because it was talking about John the Baptist preparing the way, we was preparing hearts for a change in life, for a new way of thinking. John comes and is preparing hearts for Jesus, the one Scriptures had talked about. Luke 3:5-6 " The crooked shall become straight, the rough places become level ways and flesh shall see the salvation" these two verses are also found among the old testament, prophesying the coming of Jesus Christ, what moments of anticipation we can having during this time of Advent. Just thinking about it gets me excited. Later in Luke 3:16 John says ' I baptize you with water, but He who is mightier than I is coming" Remember John is preparing hearts for a change and new way of thinking, of salvation. What an amazing thing we are preparing to read about, all the more reason for me/you/us this year to have a different perspective of Advent this year.
How are you preparing for Jesus this Advent Season?
Prayer: Ask Jesus to during this season of Advent to change your hear through the Gospel no matter where you are at in your faith. "Search me God and Know my Heart, Test me and know my anxious thoughts. , See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24.
Never until now paid alot of attention to Advent and the season and really what it meant and was all about. However this advent for some reason it has come up much more often, so I decided that I needed to figure out just what it meant. So looking at different blogs, and videos, listening to a talk or two, I started to hear words like prepare, anticipation, quit, expectant. Maybe it is by season of Life or becoming more aware of things, but what an opportunity during Advent to prepare our hearts for a change, for a different reason to celebrate the Christmas Season.
I thought Chapter 3 was fitting to talk about Advent, because it was talking about John the Baptist preparing the way, we was preparing hearts for a change in life, for a new way of thinking. John comes and is preparing hearts for Jesus, the one Scriptures had talked about. Luke 3:5-6 " The crooked shall become straight, the rough places become level ways and flesh shall see the salvation" these two verses are also found among the old testament, prophesying the coming of Jesus Christ, what moments of anticipation we can having during this time of Advent. Just thinking about it gets me excited. Later in Luke 3:16 John says ' I baptize you with water, but He who is mightier than I is coming" Remember John is preparing hearts for a change and new way of thinking, of salvation. What an amazing thing we are preparing to read about, all the more reason for me/you/us this year to have a different perspective of Advent this year.
How are you preparing for Jesus this Advent Season?
Prayer: Ask Jesus to during this season of Advent to change your hear through the Gospel no matter where you are at in your faith. "Search me God and Know my Heart, Test me and know my anxious thoughts. , See if there is any offensive way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23-24.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Day 2, Luke 2
Key Verses 2:29-32, 2:51
Chapter 2 is a glimpse of Jesus's growing up years, a couple of cool insights. First Simeon;s blessing, here is a man of God full of the Spirit, at the end of his life waiting on the promise of God that he would see the savior before he dies. He sees baby Jesus and says in Verse 3 "my eyes have seen your salvation" speaking to God. Just a cool moment in time for someone holding on to the promises that God had given him.
Second neat thing I picked up was in the story of Jesus at the Temple after Parents had been looking form him. Finding him in the Temple, in his fathers house, they were not happy with him because Jesus was suppose to be traveling home with them. Now Jesus knew what he was doing in the temple and that was a place he was suppose to be, however Joesph and Mary were his parents and there request was that he be with them traveling home. He does what he is suppose as we see in Verse 51 "He went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them." What is so cool about this is wether he agreed with his parents wish Jesus obeyed them and was obedient and submissive to his earthly parents doing the right thing.
How are you getting to know Jesus more in this season?
Prayer: Lord God I pray that the times I don't agree or understand my parents I can show them Jesus by submitting to them and be obedient.
Chapter 2 is a glimpse of Jesus's growing up years, a couple of cool insights. First Simeon;s blessing, here is a man of God full of the Spirit, at the end of his life waiting on the promise of God that he would see the savior before he dies. He sees baby Jesus and says in Verse 3 "my eyes have seen your salvation" speaking to God. Just a cool moment in time for someone holding on to the promises that God had given him.
Second neat thing I picked up was in the story of Jesus at the Temple after Parents had been looking form him. Finding him in the Temple, in his fathers house, they were not happy with him because Jesus was suppose to be traveling home with them. Now Jesus knew what he was doing in the temple and that was a place he was suppose to be, however Joesph and Mary were his parents and there request was that he be with them traveling home. He does what he is suppose as we see in Verse 51 "He went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them." What is so cool about this is wether he agreed with his parents wish Jesus obeyed them and was obedient and submissive to his earthly parents doing the right thing.
How are you getting to know Jesus more in this season?
Prayer: Lord God I pray that the times I don't agree or understand my parents I can show them Jesus by submitting to them and be obedient.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Day 1
Key Verse:
Luke 1:45 "Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord" ESV
Luke 1:4 "That you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught"
Faith is the theme of this first chapter to me, From Zechariah and Elizabeth having faith in the angel telling them they would be with Child, when Elizabeth was well beyond child bearing years, Mary having the faith to believe in what Gabriel was telling her, that she would bear this Child of God who was coming. Having faith in her God that she would be used by him as a servant. How often do we lack faith even in little situations, and how often do we look back and think why did I even doubt God? Faith is difficult sometimes because of the unknown, we are uncertain of what we can't see, that is the very reason the Book of Luke was written as we see in verse 4. This book was written for the skeptic, an eye witness account of the story and work of Jesus our savior, so that we would know exactly what happen.
Prayer: Lord I Pray that through this journey, my eyes are open to truth and the certainty of the Gospel of Jesus. Amen.
Luke 1:45 "Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord" ESV
Luke 1:4 "That you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught"
Faith is the theme of this first chapter to me, From Zechariah and Elizabeth having faith in the angel telling them they would be with Child, when Elizabeth was well beyond child bearing years, Mary having the faith to believe in what Gabriel was telling her, that she would bear this Child of God who was coming. Having faith in her God that she would be used by him as a servant. How often do we lack faith even in little situations, and how often do we look back and think why did I even doubt God? Faith is difficult sometimes because of the unknown, we are uncertain of what we can't see, that is the very reason the Book of Luke was written as we see in verse 4. This book was written for the skeptic, an eye witness account of the story and work of Jesus our savior, so that we would know exactly what happen.
Prayer: Lord I Pray that through this journey, my eyes are open to truth and the certainty of the Gospel of Jesus. Amen.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Preparation
Found this awesome video the other day, so i thought in order to get you ready for the 24 days of Luke you could watch this. Let me know what you think.
http://www.thevillagechurch.net/the-village-blog/advent-god-with-us/
http://www.thevillagechurch.net/the-village-blog/advent-god-with-us/
Monday, November 28, 2011
24 Days of Luke
Back from a Hiatus, even decided to create a new Blog to start Fresh, a Time to think, hope this is a blessing to you as much as I am sure I will learn from blogging more frequent. Here is what is going to happen On Thursday Dec. 1 I am going to start blogging everyday until christmas eve on my thoughts of reading a chapter of the Gospel of Luke each day. Been doing this for a couple of years now, posting stuff through Facebook but that is old, and figured I could us twitter and blogging more effectively. So what i will do is each day post my thoughts key verses I picked out, maybe a and application question, and something I am praying from the chapter I choose. What you can do is read my blog, comment, ask questions, basically let me know you care which ever. I pray this can be fruitful to you, I know it is to me each time I do this over Christmas/Advent season.
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