Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 7!

Good Morning!

Here is a beautiful little wild iris to brighten your day. I found it while walking in a woods in Northern California earlier this month, and it was too lovely not to take it's picture. It wasn't oooed and aawed over in a manicured flower bed. It was just blooming where God planted it--ready to bless whoever passed by. :)

Our Scripture reading for today is Luke, chapter 7. Join me and look for beautiful hidden things. Just waiting there for you to find...

Scripture:

Two men owed money to a certain money lender. One owed him five hundred denarii, the other fifty. Neither of them had the money to pay him back, so he canceled the debts of both. Now which of them will love him more? Luke 7:41,42

Observation:

Jesus was invited to a Pharisees house for dinner. While He was eating, a woman who had lived a sinful life in that town learned that Jesus was eating there. She came to the house, bringing with her an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume. Weeping, she began to wet His feet with her tears. Then she wiped His feet with her hair and poured the perfume over them.

As this was going on, Simon--the Pharisee whose house it was--thinks to himself that if Jesus was a REAL prophet, then He would know how sinful this woman was who was touching Him. Jesus--knowing what Simon is thinking--asks him the question abut the two men owing money and who would love the money lender more, him who owed a little and was forgiven or him who owed a lot and was forgiven. Then Jesus points out that that was what was happening right then. The sinful woman had been forgiven much--and she loved Jesus much. She demonstrated this love for Jesus far more than Simon did.

Application:

Ouch! How often are we like Simon in this story? Too often, I am afraid. We may not say words out loud, but are we judging people in our minds? If we see someone attend church and their clothes are not quite "good enough" in our opinion, do we think bad of them? What about if their children are noisy and disruptive? Do we think of ourselves as "better" than others?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for forgiving me much. May I be quick to help others, not to judge them.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 6!

Good Morning!

It's the start of a new week--let's start it out right by thinking about what Jesus taught. Our reading for today is Luke chapter 6. Lots of things going on in this chapter, but I am caught up in rocks and storms....

Scripture:

He is like a man (or woman!) building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete. Luke 6:48,49

Observation:

Jesus was talking with His disciples. The above verses were part of His illustration for what a person who hears Jesus' words and puts them into practice is like. Digging deep. Building strong. Standing firm.

Application:

So how does this translate into every day life in our day and age? Whoever follows Jesus won't have any problems, right? Unfortunately, while that last sentence sounds good to our ears, it is entirely false. If you will notice in Jesus' story, the flood came to both houses. But only the one built on Him stood firm.

So when the recent tornadoes ruined my friend Nancy's house, she praises God for His protection of her family, rolls up her sleeves, and sets to work packing up remaining belongings so the house can then be bulldozed and rebuilt. When my friend Ann has her four year old diagnosed with leukemia, she holds on to God to carry her family through the days ahead. And when my friend Janet loses to death her son with cerebral palsy, she turns into an advocate to help other handicapped children.

The storms still came. But these women had build on the Rock--and did not fall down.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Be with my friends who are facing these storms in their lives. Thank you for their examples to me. May I build every day, stronger and stronger, having my foundation laid only on You.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 5!

Good Morning Everyone!

Today our reading is Luke chapter 5. Grab your nearest Bible and read it with me. I promise you will be glad you did!

Scripture:

While Jesus was in one of the towns, a man came along who was covered with leprosy. When he saw Jesus, he fell with his face to the ground and begged him, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean. Jesus reached out his hand and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" And immediately the leprosy left him. Luke 5:12,13

Observation:

Here we go again. New chapter in the Bible, different day, different location, but Jesus is still doing the same thing. Touching people. Healing people. Changing people. In this story the man with leprosy begged Jesus to heal him. Can you understand his plea? Leprosy was incurable. It was fatal. But while the disease was doing it's evil attack on you, it took a long time before you finally rested in death. Your fingers would rot off. Perhaps your nose was gone now. Nobody could help you, for how does one heal a body part that is not there? But Jesus could.

Application:

What impossible things do we have in our lives today? Illness? Lack of job? Tornadoes? May we never forget that Jesus can touch us. And He can do the impossible.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for being the God of the impossible. For never ever leaving us without hope. I pray that You will heal my friend Ann's son. Restore his body to health and lead in that child's life. May Your power and glory be revealed in his life. But not our will, but Yours be done.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 4!

Good Morning Everyone!

Our reading for today is Luke, chapter 4. In this chapter, Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness--but Jesus did not give in. If He had, we would have no hope. Jesus was also rejected in his own home town of Nazareth--but he did not stop preaching. If he had, we would have no hope. He drove out evil spirits and healed many--giving people hope then, and hope for us now. Beautiful, beautiful Jesus. The hope of all.

Scripture:

When the sun was setting, the people brought to Jesus all who had various kinds of sickness, and laying his hands on each one, he healed them. Luke 4:40

Observation:

He laid His hands on each one. Jesus didn't have to do that. Can you imagine how dirty and smelly some of these people would have been? And what about those with leprosy? Just think of the germs!

Jesus could have simply spoken the word over the crowd of people and the sick would have been healed. Didn't He calm the storm on the sea by speaking to it? Couldn't He have done the same here instead of T-O-U-C-H-I-N-G everybody? But instead, He chose to touch each person who had come for healing. He took time. He leaned over. He looked into their eyes. And while He healed their bodies, He changed them forever.

Application:

How are we touching the people around us? It may be with an "I'm sorry this happened to you" hug. Or a "things will get better" hand on their arm. A wiping away of a child's tears. Or it may be touching someone without touching them at all--like a special note in the mail from a dear friend. Food donated to a food bank touches people you may never even see. Crowds of people surround us each day. How can you and I touch them?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Bring me to each situation that you want me to see. Help me to see through Your eyes. Show me how to touch them for You.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 3!

Good Morning!

Today our reading is Luke, chapter 3.

Scripture:

"What should we do then?" The crowd asked. John answered, "The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same." Luke 3:10,11

Observation:

John the Baptist was preaching and preparing the people for Jesus' ministry to begin. He preached for people to repent of their sins and to be baptized. He preached about God's forgiveness. And he also told them that it is not their having Abraham as their forefather that would save them--that if He wanted to, God could raise up for Himself children from stones! When the people heard these things, they asked John "What should we do then?" To which he replied, "The man with two tunics should share with him who has none, and the one who has food should do the same."

Application:

I don't think these words are only for the people living long ago. They are really a rule for all who call themselves "Christians" to live by. Did you eat breakfast this morning? I am eating breakfast right now, as I blog. What can I do to share food with those who do not have? Did you go to sleep inside a house last night? Then how can you or I help provide a shelter to those who lack? If you need ideas of how to get involved, one of my favorite organizations is ADRA (www.adra.org). To help specifically children, there is International Children's Care (www.forhiskids.org). But we do not even need to look outside the U.S. to find those who need help, especially with the recent tornadoes. My friend lost her house in the tornado near me. Can I take her family another meal? As busy as I am this week, can I do this as well? Isn't this more important than my other activities?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Open my eyes to those around me who need help. Show me what I can do today to help them.

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Blogging through the Gospels! Luke 2!

Good Morning!

Our Scripture reading for today is Luke, chapter 2. Lots of activity in this chapter. Jesus being born, shepherds and angels popping in everywhere, temple prophets recognizing the baby as the Son of God, and the boy Jesus teaching the teachers! Like I said--LOTS of activity! But the verse that spoke the most to me today is a quiet verse. A private one. A quiet thought.

Scripture:

But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19

Observation:

So many things had happened in Mary's young life. New events come quickly for most people in their teen years--growing up, leaving home, new jobs, marriage, etc. But Mary had a few "extras" thrown on top of her already changing life. Things like angel visits, a miracle baby, and worshiping shepherds. Yet at the same time she would have had other things happen that would make these new changes a burden. Neighbors gossiping behind your back. People who did not believe the miracle baby you had been entrusted with. Even Joseph did not believe her at first, and who could blame him?

But as things affirmed what God was asking her to do, Mary remembered. She took courage. She strengthened her resolve. She vowed to raise this child that God had sent in the best way she could. She knew she would teach Him about His heavenly Father.

Application:

What things has God asked us to do? Our children may not be the Savior of the world, but they are still miracles created by God. Are we raising them for Him? Do we have grandchildren we can help guide to their heavenly Father? Can we speak a word of encouragement to those we work with? Are we storing up in our hearts the promises God has made to us?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Help us to see clearly Your direction and promises for our lives. Help me to store these up--to remember them, to treasure them.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 1:39-80!

Good Morning!

Today in our Bible reading we finish the first chapter of Luke. I love the verse that stood out at me this morning--and one neat thing is that it is specifically referring to a female! Oh, I know it applies to gentlemen as well, but you know how it is. Given the society back in Bible times, women were not exactly viewed as having equal importance as men. So when a verse is specifically written about a female, sometimes that in itself will be enough to make it jump out at me! So grab your Bibles, and read along today and find the blessings God has stored there for you!

Scripture:

Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!" Luke 1:45

Observation:

The angel had already visited Mary, and told her that she would have a child who would be the Son of God. To add to the unbelievable things the angel had already told her, Gabriel goes on to tell Mary that her relative Elizabeth was already expecting and in her sixth month. If Elizabeth had been a young woman this wouldn't have been such startling news--but Elizabeth was elderly! Of course, Mary decides that Elizabeth is probably the only one she can confide in who will understand--so off she goes to visit her cousin. When she arrives, she is greeted by Elizabeth with these words--"Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"

Application:

Mary had some pretty amazing promises made to her--yet she chose to believe them and was blessed as a result. You and I may not be chosen as the mother of Jesus, but we still have been given some awesome promises. What about God telling us "I will never leave you?" Or "I will remember your sins no more?" Or "You will be washed whiter than snow?" Or "I have overcome death?" Or "Where I am, there you will be also?" Or "I will come again?"

Do we believe these promises? Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!

Prayer:

Dear Father--I do believe--help any unbelief! May I trust and rest each day in You. I love You!

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Blogging through the Gospels: Luke 1:1-38!

Good Morning!

And "Happy Monday" to everyone! Where did the month of May go to, anyway? I can't believe we are in our last week of this month already.

Today we start our Scripture reading in the book of Luke. Since the first chapter is rather a long one, the reading schedule has it divided into two parts and today we will only read through verse 38. Beautiful stories shared here. Can you only imagine if an angel gave YOU a birth announcement--or prebirth announcement anyway--to your own child? That is exactly what happened to one couple. And a wonderful announcement it was, too!

Scripture:

"He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord..." Luke 1:14,15

Observation:

These words were spoken to Zechariah the priest, but they were not spoken by just a regular person. No, these words were spoken by an angel, and not just ANY angel either, but by Gabriel who identifies himself and says "I stand in the presence of God, and I have been sent to speak to you and to tell you this good news." Pretty good source, wouldn't you say? So the God over the whole universe sent one of His angels to tell Zechariah that he and Elizabeth were going to have a child. This is not exactly an every-day occurrance! Oh, people have babies every day, but how many of them are announced by an angel?

So what was so special about THIS baby? Zechariah was told the baby would be a "joy and delight to you," but what I find so interesting is the reason why. The verse goes on to give the answer to this question--"for he will be great in the sight of the Lord."

Application:

That's IT! That is the key right there. If I as a parent want my children to be a "joy and delight" to me, it is only going to happen if the second part is fulfilled--they must be "great in the sight of the Lord." For if they chose to follow God in an upright way, then it really doesn't matter if they are a dishwasher, a bus driver, a preacher or a stay-at-home mom. It only matters that they are working wherever God has asked them to work. And they will be a joy and delight.

Prayer:

Dear Father--What an awesome job You have given me, to lead my "little ones" to You. Forgive me my sins, and make me like Zechariah and Elizabeth were--upright in Your sight, observing all of Your commandments and regulations blamelessly.

Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 16!

Good Morning!

Today's Scripture reading is Mark, chapter 16. The very last chapter in the book of Mark! Have you been reading with me? Have you found anything that impressed you differently than the stories recorded in the book of Matthew? Can you just close your eyes and imagine that you are one of the followers of Jesus back in those days--how it would have seemed when you saw him crucified on the cross! But fortunately, that wasn't the end of the story!

Scripture:

"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him."

Observation:

The women had just entered the tomb, intent on finishing the work of preparing Jesus' body for death. They had started this work on Friday, but had had to stop without finishing due to the Sabbath approaching. Now they have returned again, on the way there wondering who would roll the heavy stone away so they could do their work. But upon arriving, the stone is already rolled away! Curious--and wondering what is going on, they enter the tomb. But instead of their loved one's body, they find an empty burial platform and a very much alive young man dressed in white! Then the angel goes on to tell them that Jesus has risen!

Application:

I think this Bible verse--and a handful of others like it in the other gospels--are probably some of the most important verses in the Bible. As a Christian, I chose to believe this verse is true. Just as I chose to believe the verses in Genesis that tell me God created the world (and even me!). If I believe this verse, then I am following a risen Savior. If I do not, then I am following a man who led others astray and didn't fulfill promises. Is my God dead--or alive?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for loving us enough to send Your own Son to save us. Help me to use this life You have given me in just the way You want me to. Show me each day the path to take.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 15!

Happy Sabbath Everyone!

Today's reading is Mark chapter 15. Jesus loves us SO much.

Scripture:

And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, heard his cry and saw how he died, he said, "Surely this man was the Son of God!"

Observation:

When Jesus was brought before Pilate, there was still no justice for him. Pilate freely admitted that he could find no crime that Jesus had done. Yet the chief priests stirred up the crowd until they were shouting "Crucify him!" Even when given the choice of having Jesus released or Barabbas--a known murderer, the crowd chose Barabbas. But even in His death--Jesus was a witness to His Father's love for fallen mankind.

Application:

So many things to think about here. How much Jesus loves us. How wrong "the crowd" can be. What "peer pressure" caused Pilate to do--putting the Son of God to death. How careful we should be, to surround ourselves with God--so any "peer pressure" comes from Him! What a witness Jesus was to that centurion--a man with a front row seat, so to speak, to all this drama unfolding. I wonder--did it change his life? Did he live differently from that day on, because he had seen Jesus? Do you or I live different because we have been with Jesus?

Prayer:

Dear Father--Change my life--and help me to not let anyone else influence me more than You.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 14:43-72!

Good Morning!

Today in our reading we finish with Mark chapter 14. I admit that I do not like reading the parts in the Bible that tell of Jesus being arrested--I prefer the "happier" parts of the story instead! But I believe that it is good for us to contemplate how Jesus acted, and to realize that "we" would have treated Him no better than the people back then did... And there are still gem thoughts to be found, and it is a blessing to realize just a tiny bit, how much Jesus loves us!

Scripture:

Again the high priest asked him, "Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?" "I am," said Jesus. "And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven."

Observation:

Jesus was before the Sanhedrin. He had been dragged there, and many false witnesses had testified. Through all of this, Jesus remained silent--not trying to argue with them. He knew the witnesses were lying. He knew the Chief Priests simply wanted to kill Him. Jesus did not allow Himself to be drawn into a needless argument. Yet--when asked point blank--He confessed that He was the Christ and pointed to His Second Coming.

Application:

Truely, Jesus' life was His "arguement" in favor of His innocense, not any words He could have said. In this particular situation, the Chief Priests didn't care whether He was innocent or not--their minds were made up of what they wanted to do. But Jesus' life still was a testimony. And I wonder--what does my life say about me? Would there be any doubt? I heard a pastor ask in his sermon once, "Is there enough evidence in your life to convict you of being a Christian?"

Prayer:

Dear Father--May my life truely speak and tell others that I am following You.

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Homeschool Review: Scripture Adventures!

Hi Everyone!

Recently I have run across a new-to-me curriculum for homeschooling that I am SUPER excited about! You know how it is--sometimes you are visiting a blog, and they have linked to another blog, which is linked to another blog, etc. You can go down those bunny trails for quite some time and end up somewhere you have never been before!

This is what happened to me around a month ago. I finally stumbled across a blog that had a link for a company called "Scripture Adventures." (www.scriptureadventures.com) This caught my attention, so I checked out the web site and was quite simply amazed at what I found. It is filled with the most interesting, creative curriculum for helping you teach your child scripture memory or Bible stories--I couldn't help but ask myself "WHY HAVEN'T I KNOWN ABOUT THIS BEFORE NOW????" I don't mean to sound conceited when I say that, but I have been a professional teacher in a classroom as well as a home school Educational Consultant (where I ordered curriculum for many different home school families) and that is not even counting the fact that I have home schooled our first born for twelve years now--all this to say that I have seen a LOT of different curriculum in my day, and I have never seen nor heard of Scripture Adventures until I stumbled across it in my blog hopping that day.

I immediately made a note on my "shopping list" for next school year to look into using one of the Scripture Adventure products with our youngest. I spent time on the Scripture Adventure web site (www.scriptureadventures.com) . I read the descriptions of EVERY product they had and looked at ALL the sample pages that were posted--by the way, there are some nice freebies so go to their web site and take a look around! Let's just say that there is a reason my husband's nickname for me is "The Curriculum Queen." I LOVE curriculum--or at least, I should say I love a GOOD curriculum.

So, when I had an opportunity to try out one of the Scripture Adventure products in exchange for blogging about it, I jumped at the chance. And I do mean JUMPED. The company has produced a wide variety of products to suit different needs--from large complete curriculums that would take you a full school year to complete, to shorter items that you may spend just a few weeks around Easter or Christmas doing. They ALL look absolutely excellent not only in topic, but in ease of use by the parent, but what I was constantly drawn to is their full Bible curriculums. These include one on the Old Testament, one on the Life of Christ, one on the Acts of the Apostles, and one on Bible Notebooking.

Since I was given my choice of which one I wanted to sample, I chose the full curriculum "Scripture Adventures in the Old Testament." They really ALL looked great, but I think what really drew me to this one to start with was one of the project activities that I saw was included in this study--a salt dough map of Canaan! Doesn't that sound fun? This volume is filled with fun projects for your kids to do that will really make the Bible stories come alive. What about making ginger bread cookies and talking about how God made all people similar, yet different as well? Having only received my curriculum last night, I have only scratched the surface but there is a nice variety of projects such as creating your own creation poster, doing some creation research, memory verse copywork, and pretending Noah is your grandfather and writing a letter to your children describing what you learned from him. I love the variety of projects, but at the same time I feel that the projects are not overwhelming for the parent. They are simple and do-able.

The Scripture Adventure web site (www.scriptureadventures.com) lists the table of contents for this volume, so you can see more details there but in short there are 12 Units which start with creation and go through divided Israel. These are all sold as downloads, which makes them VERY inexpensive and you can buy it once and use it for all your family. You can keep them on your computer and simply print off the sheets that your child will write on such as a Bible crossword, but in my opinion once you see the beauty of these books I bet you will want to print them out for your children to have a paper copy. The "Scripture Adventures in the Old Testament" is HUGE--287 pages to be exact--but WELL worth printing out. I printed our copy out on fast draft, and will either put it into a binder or am considering taking it to a office store and having it comb bound. There is a nice mix of beautiful color pictures, some of them famous paintings which is nice for children to be exposed to.

O.K., before this post turns into a book I will draw it to a close. We will be starting this curriculum on Monday and will have fun with it through the summer. I am quite certain we will not finish it before summer's end, but will simply continue it into the school year. When exactly we will finish I am not sure, but I AM certain of one thing--as soon as we finish this volume we will move onto the one on the "Life of Christ." And after that the "Acts of the Apostles." And the "Bible Notebooking." And then we may look into some of the other smaller ones. Because, after all, helping our children read and memorize God's Word ranks right up there as one of the most important things we can spend our home school time on.

I'll keep you posted on how it's going--feel free to ask me any questions you may have. This is something I am TRUELY thrilled to use with my child.

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Disclaimer: Though I received a free download of "Scripture Adventures in the Old Testament" in exchange for posting a review of it on my blog, all thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are 100% mine.

Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 14:1-42!

Good Morning Everyone!

Today's Bible reading is the first half of the chapter of Mark 14. I love the story that is presented here, of the woman who gave her expensive gift to Jesus. She gave the very best she could--and the most important person of all appreciated it...

Scripture:

"Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me." Mark 14:6

Observation:

No one else understood this woman's actions. She--in her love and devotion to Jesus--had saved for a long time to be able to provide this special gift. Yet when she gave the gift, she was rebuked harshly by others. This perfume was more costly than a whole year's wages, and was the nicest gift she could somehow manage to come up with. And then she is critized for being "wasteful."

Application:

No one at that dinner party understood what was behind this woman's actions--no one, that is, except Jesus. And He was really the only one who really mattered. How often are there things in our lives that others are not able to understand? Why give offerings to the church? They will probably mismanage the money anyway...Why go be a missionary? You cannot make a real difference...Why stay home with your children? You could be earning a good salary...It doesn't matter what the paticulars of your life are--there will always be SOMETHING that God has called YOU to do that other people will not understand. We are not all called to do the same things--but we are all called. Remember--if Jesus has asked you to do something--He is really the only one who really matters.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Help us to remember that it is not for other's approval that we seek, but for Yours.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 13!

Good Morning!

Today's reading is Mark, chapter 13.

Scripture:

Therefore keep watch, because you do not know when the owner of the house will come back--whether in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or at dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping. What I say to you, I say to everyone: "Watch!" Mark 13:35-37

Observation:

Jesus spoke these words to His disciples when they came and asked Him what the signs of His second coming would be. Jesus told them that there would be wars and rumors of wars. There would be earthquakes and famines. They would be arrested and brought to trial, but that the Holy Spirit would give them what they were to say at that time.

More signs were told by Jesus--the sun darkened, moon not give it's light, and the stars would fall from the sky.

Application:

Many of these signs given by Jesus have already happened. A peek in the history books tells us about the dark day and when the stars fell. We don't even need to look at history to find wars, famines, and earthquakes--only to look around us! Yet as I read these words, I think of two things: 1) Do not be afraid, and 2) Keep watch.

If we are keeping our relationship open between Jesus and ourselves, then no matter what happens to us on this earth, Jesus will make things right when He comes. Even if we die before He comes, He has overcome death! We must be ready for Him each day. My sister's dear friend was killed very young when she was in a traffic accident. We do not know what will happen to us each day, but we do need to know Jesus--and all will be alright.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Help us to do what Jesus instructed us to do here--to watch, and be ready for His coming. Thank you for loving us so much, and wanting us in heaven with you.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 12!

Good Morning!

Today's reading is Mark, chapter 12, and the verse that I chose for today is from a story that so very easily could have slipped into the past--and we would have never known it happened. Except Jesus. Because of Him, this beautiful story is told over and over again....

Scripture:

Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything--all she had to live on." Mark12:43,44

Observation:

As Jesus and His disciples sat at the temple that day, there were many rich people putting into the offering large amounts of money. The widow Jesus commented on had put in an offering that wasn't worth even one penny. Yet Jesus judged her heart and saw that she had given all she had out of love for God. She didn't have lots of money left at home as the rich givers did. She gave the best she had, and the only thing she had.

Application:

When you were a child, did you ever pick a dandylion boquet and give it to a favorite teacher or your mom? You viewed it as a most beautiful flower, and out of your affection for that person you gathered as many as you could. There was no way you could give a dozen roses, yet you gave what you could because you loved so much you had to have a gift to give. Have you ever received a dandylion boquet? Did you find a container, put water in it, and set the flowers in the center of the table?

I love this Bible story, because it shows that you do not have to have much in order to give much. God is more concerned with our hearts than the amount we give from our wallets. He truthfully does not need money from us--He already owns everything in the world anyway. But what He does need is our love. And when we love Him, we will want to bring Him a gift. Because where our hearts are, our treasure will be also.

Prayer:

Dear Father--I want to keep my heart safely with You, not in the world. Take my heart--clean it and keep it. Take the scales from my eyes so I will see money the way You do, and realize that the treasures of this world are not what is important.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 11!

Good Morning!

Today's reading is Mark chapter 11. The verse that seemed to speak the most to me today was on prayer, and how that is the reason that we are to go to church...

Scripture:

My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations, but you have made it a den of robbers. Mark 11:17

Observation:

When Jesus went to Jerusalem, he went to the temple and found people buying and selling there. Money changers were there--willing to exchange your "sinful" money for some "holy" money--all for a price, of course. Animals were being sold for sacrifices. Merchandise was carried through the temple courts. It was not a situation condusive to comuning with God. When Jesus took all this in, He began driving out those who were buying and selling. He turned over the tables of the money changers. And He taught those who were there, that God's house is to be a house of prayer.

Application:

Have you taken any cattle to church with you lately? Me either. Not a lot of cattle available around where I live. What about a pair of doves? They would be easier to carry, thats for sure. No, I haven't brought any doves either. But I don't think that lets us off the hook. Are we coming to church to pray and to listen to what God has to say to us? Or do we go to talk with our friends? Not that there is anything wrong with good, wholesome, Christian friendships of course. Just that I think we need to have our priorities in the right direction. Because, remember--it is to be called a house of prayer. There needs to be people PRAYING for God's house to be called this.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for forgiving us when we get our priorities wrong. Help us to always keep our relationship with You the first thing in our lives.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 10!

Good Morning Everyone!

Yes, yes. Long time, no see. Sorry about that. First, Blogger was down which was very frustrating when one wants to write something. Then, life happened. You know how it is. Summer is here, schedules change, and it can be hard to carve out a new "normal" for a morning routine! But I'm working on it, and here I am again...

Today's reading is Mark chapter 10. Lots of neat stories in this chapter! Have you been reading along? I hope so! This chapter has the little children being brought to Jesus. The rich young man who could not bear to give up his riches in exchange for following Jesus. And James and John requesting to sit at Jesus' side. But my favorite story here, is definately that of Bartimaeus!

Scripture:

"What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus asked him. The blind man said, "Rabbi, I want to see." "Go," said Jesus, "Your faith has healed you." Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus along the road. Mark 10:51,52

Observation:

Bartimaeus was sitting by the roadside begging. Probably doing what he did every day of his life, for when you were blind, begging automatically became your occupation. But one day something different happened--because Bartimaeus heard that Jesus was there. He didn't just take this news passively, no, Bartimaeus started shouting! Can you hear him cry out in your mind? This wasn't just a small shout for Jesus to notice him. No, this was a heart-wrenching from-the-gut type of cry. Shouting with all his energy and all his breath, "Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!" And when he was finally brought to Jesus, he asked for his greatest need. "What do you want me to do for you?" Jesus asked him. "Rabbi, I want to see." And immediately Jesus healed him.

Application:

Bartimaeus would have never been healed had he not cried out to Jesus. And when Jesus asked him what he wanted, Bartimaeus didn't put on a "everything is fine" type of face. No, instead he bared his deepest desire to Jesus--that he wanted to see. And Jesus answered that heart cry of his.

Are we crying out to God? Are we asking Him for our deepest desires? Or are we still pretending that all is fine, we can do-it-ourselves-thank-you-very-much? We--with all our self-reliance--are much more blind than Bartimaeus was. Because he knew he needed help. So often, we still think we can handle things on our own.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Open our eyes to our need for You. And then open our mouths to cry out to You for help. May we learn that You are our only source of hope, and may we never let You go.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 6!

Good Morning!

Today our Bible reading is Mark 6. See what verse speaks to you. There are new treasures every time I read.

Scripture:

Mark 6:31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest."

Observation:

The people were coming to Jesus. He was their only hope, and they would not give it up. So crowds were constantly following Jesus and his disciples. And--of course--Jesus had compassion on the people and would not turn them away. Yet--at the same time--he recognized that his disciples needed a chance to rest. So he invited them to come away with him. To a quiet place--not for work, but for rest.

Application:

How much we need to accept this invitation, for it is also given to us. We can get so busy doing good things that we are not ourselves spending time with Jesus. It is a good thing to take care of our families. Cooking, cleaning, perhaps we are even homeschooling. All good, important even, things that expand like a sponge and fill all the possible available time. But we need to come away. To a quiet place. Just Jesus and us.

Do you have a quiet place to meet with Jesus each day? If not, pray about it and ask Him to show you where you can meet together. It may be a room. A porch. A basement. It could be a certain chair, or a walk-in closet. It doesn't matter the specifics--only that the two of you can meet. In quiet. For rest.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for wanting to spend time with me. Help me to meet with you every day in our special place. So I can be refreshed and ready to do what You want me to do.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 5!

Good Morning!

Today's Bible reading is Mark 5. Grab your Bible, and come read with me as we look for treasure....

Scripture:

Mark 5:18-20 As Jesus was getting into the boat, the man who had been demon-possessed begged to go with him. Jesus did not let him, but said, "Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you. So the man went away and began to tell in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him. And all the people were amazed.

Observation:

This man had been the terror of the area. Living in the tombs, it was impossible for anyone to restrain him. People had tried chaining him up, but he always tore the chains loose. Constantly he would cry out, day and night, and he cut himself with rocks. I am sure mothers kept their children far away from this man. But one day everything changed. Because Jesus came.

The demons in the man recognized Jesus as the Son of God, and begged to be sent into the nearby herd of pigs if Jesus made them leave the man. Jesus agreed, and the man was free while the now possessed pigs ran over the edge of the cliff.

Application:

This man was ready to follow Jesus. There was no thing holding him back--no job, no church responsibilities. Whatever house or parents or any other thing that he may have once been in charge of, were now under the direction of someone else. Yet when he wanted to follow Jesus, he was told to stay right there. To not leave his home area. To go home. And once there, to tell of how much Jesus had done for him. Was he disappointed? Probably. He had wanted to go. But Jesus needed him to stay. And he obeyed--and the people in the area were amazed at his testimony.

How often might we feel like there is something else more important that we could be doing. But perhaps Jesus is asking us to stay. And to tell others what He has done.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Where ever I may be, whether at home or overseas, may I always tell others what You have done for me.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 4!

Good Morning!

Today's Bible reading is Mark chapter 4. The verse that seemed to speak more to me today was one on measuring. We measure lots of things in life. Ingredients if you are cooking or baking. Fabric if you are quilting. We even measure ourselves to see what size clothing we need to take. But we do not often think about measuring what we give to other people...

Scripture:

Mark 4:24 "Consider carefully what you hear," he continuted. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you--and even more."

Observation:

Jesus spoke these words when He was giving the parable of the lamp on a stand. He told people that you do not bring a lamp and put it under a bowl or a bed, but rather upon a stand. As with all of Jesus' parables, there was more to the story than the surface things, because Jesus goes on to tell people that with whatever measure they used, the same measure would be used towards them.

Application:

So what things are going to be measured? Things like grace. Forgiveness. Love. All of the ways we know we should be treating our fellow man--whatever we are "measuring out" to them, will come our way as well. Jesus also went on to say further "Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him." Mark 4:25

Prayer:

Dear Father--Help me to measure out to my fellow humans unlimited love and grace and forgiveness. May I become more and more like You each day, until "I" disappear and only You can be seen.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 3!

Happy Mother's Day Everyone!

Mothers--and all family, are very special indeed. Usually they stick with you through thick and thin. They love you even when you are not very lovable....

Today's Bible reading is Mark chapter 3. And the verse that seemed to speak the most to me today is precisely on mothers and brothers and sisters--very appropriate for today being Mother's Day!

Scripture:

Mark 3:34&35 Then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said, "Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother."

Observation:

At the time when Jesus said this, his mother and brothers had gone to get him because they thought he must not be in his right mind. The Pharisees accused him of casting out demons in Satan's power and not in God's power. Jesus explained in a parable how a house divided against itself could not stand--therefore showing that he could not be using Satan's power to cast out demons from Satan! And when Jesus was told that his mother and brothers were there, He asks the question "Who are my mother and my brothers?"

Application:

I am. If I am doing God's will then Jesus is my brother. You know, the kind of brother who will protect you and not let others pick on you--but at the same time tells you the right things you need to do. The kind who will pick you up and carry you when you are too tired to go on. The kind who will never leave you, even when you do not deserve their help.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for the gift of Jesus. For adopting me into Your family. Help me to always do Your will.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 2!

Happy Sabbath!

Today's reading is Mark 2. There were several really neat things recorded here, and it was hard to choose just one thought to write about! I really liked when Jesus said that it was not the well who needed a doctor, but the sick. That reminds me that I do not need to be perfect before I can come to Jesus--He already KNOWS I am far from perfect. It's not the becoming "perfect" and coming to Jesus that is important--it's the coming to Jesus part. He takes care of the rest! The verse I chose for today is sort of related to this thought. People were crowding around Jesus. The sick were being healed, people's spiritual lives were being fed. But the crowds prevented some from coming to Jesus like they would have liked to come. They just physically could not get close enough to Him......

Scripture:

Mark 2:3&4 Some men came, bringing to him a paralytic, carried by four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus and, after digging through it, lowered the mat the paralyzed man was lying on.

Observation:

These men were prevented from bringing their paralyzed friend to Jesus. There were just too many people. The crowds were too large. Nobody was going to move out of the way and let them through. It was just too hard. They might as well forget the whole idea and go home. But they didn't. And their lives--and indeed all of history even--was changed as a result of it.

Application:

I love this story! I love that Jesus healed the man, and I love that the friends didn't give up in bringing him to Jesus. We do not know who it was that said to keep going--was the paralyzed man encouraging his friends to not give up, to find a way? Or it could have been the other way around--with the sick man being discouraged and his friends saying "Don't give up!" However it was, it is a beautiful story and has a beautiful ending. Jesus healed him. And Jesus will heal me. No matter how black my sin is, Jesus has promised to make it white as snow. But I have to come to Jesus. What are the "crowds" in my way, preventing me from reaching Him? Getting up too late in the morning to spend some quiet time with Him? Perhaps small children that are up before me, thus making it difficult to open my heart to God without constant interruptions? Whatever it is, I believe there is a way around that problem. And Jesus will help us find it if we don't give up. Even if that way is through the roof.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Help me to not give up, even when so many things crowd me away from You. Show me how to make a hole in the roof, so I may spend time with You.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Mark 1!

Good Morning Everyone!

Welcome to Mark! Today we begin our Gospel reading through the book of Mark, starting with chapter 1. Similar to Matthew, most day's reading will be just one chapter, though longer chapters may be divided into two days. Some of the very same stories will be told that were already recorded in Matthew--but from a different person's perspective. It will be interesting to see what different things may be highlighted, or what different thoughts seem to jump out at us. So come--grab your Bible, and read along with me!

Scripture:

Mark 1:17 "Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men."

Observation:

This is the invitation that Jesus gave to Simon and his brother Andrew. Jesus was walking beside the Sea of Galilee when he saw these men casting their nets into the water, for they were fishermen. As Jesus called these men to follow Him, the Bible has recorded in Mark 1:18 that "At once they left their nets and followed him."

Application:

Jesus is calling each one of us today to be His follower. In my day to day life, I am to do more than just make meals for my children--I am to feed them the Bread of Life. More than just clean the house--but to share how Jesus cleans our hearts. And when Jesus calls us to do something, are we responding to Him "at once" as these disciples did? Or am I clinging to my old ways....

Prayer:

Dear Father--I pray that You will use me to be a fisher of men, but especially to my children. Help me to draw them in closer and closer to Your presence. May I always obey Your calling to me at once, without hesitation or looking back. Thank you for loving us and wanting us.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Reflection!

Good Morning Everyone!

Today's Bible reading is actually not a reading at all--but we are asked to reflect on our reading through Matthew, and review in our mind the things God has impressed and spoken to us about.

So--to put you in the "thinking" mood, I thought I would include a little picture of our new kitten, Wiggles. Doesn't he look like he is deep in thought here? Yes, even kittens need to think sometimes. You know, about where they are going to run to next, how they are going to leap up your leg and try and climb you like a tree, and what papers/books they are going to chew the corners on. Ha--just teasing, though I do have to admit that Wiggles is a very get-into-trouble type of kitten. I tell my family it's a good thing I love him, because if I didn't he'd be out of here!

I think that's probably true also for God and us. It's a VERY good thing He loves us--and so much, as well. Because if He didn't--well, we wouldn't stand a chance. Because there is NO way we can ever be good enough, or sin-free, on our own. It's just not going to happen.

Reading the book of Matthew was a huge blessing to me, especially reading through slowly and looking for the message God had for me in each chapter. If you haven't tried it, I would highly recommend that you do. And tomorrow we start Mark. Similar stories being recorded, but it will be interesting to see what different slant there may be. Or if something new was recorded that wasn't recorded in Matthew. Life is still busy, so I may not be able to blog every day, but I'll catch you sometime soon over in Mark--Happy Bible Reading!

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Blogging through the Gospels: Matthew 28!

Good Morning Everyone!

Sorry I have missed a few days here with our Gospels devotionals. There has been so much going on, that some days I just have not been able to get time to sit down at the computer. But I'll keep posting as I can, and I hope something that I write will be an encouragement to you. :D

Today's reading is Matthew 28, which is the very last chapter in Matthew. So grab your Bible, and read it today--looking for some precious things that Jesus is saying to you.

Scripture:

Matthew 28:5,6 The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said."

Observation:

Jesus had just risen from the dead, and not quietly either! A violent earthquake shook the earth. The angel sent to roll the stone away looked like lightening, and his clothes were white as snow. The guards were terrified. But to the women who were looking for Jesus, the angel said "Do not be afraid."

Application:

I think the big difference here is what you are trying to do with Jesus. Are you trying to keep Him dead in the tomb, so others cannot reach Him? Or are you honestly seeking Him that you may worship and honor Him and share Him with others? If you are trying to hide Jesus, you will not be successful and will only end up terrified, like dead men. But if you are seeking Jesus, the angel tells you "Do not be afraid," and assures you that Jesus is not still dead in the grave. This is exactly why we need not be afraid. Because Jesus is risen. Matthew 28:8 says that as they left the tomb the women were filled with joy. And they met Jesus!

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you that we serve a risen Savior and do not need to be afraid! Help me to seek Him each day, that I may worship and honor and share Him with others.

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Blogging through the Gospels: Matthew 26:36-75

Good Morning!

Today we continue with Matthew chapter 26, finishing the reading with verses 36-75.

Scripture:

Matthew 26:39 Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."

Observation:

Jesus was in agony here. He needed the support and prayers of the disciples. He was dreading the separation from His Father. He was feeling weak and knew the task ahead of Him was going to be tremendous. Yet--He was willing to die. If there was any other way to save us that would have been great. But if there wasn't, He was holding firm to the task He came to do. "Not as I will, but as you will." He gave up Himself to completely and willingly do God's will.

Application:

Am I as willing to do God's will as Jesus was? Am I willing to give up my own desires or comfort or even life--if that's what needs to happen for God's plan? Jesus was totally willing to die to Hiself, that we might live. He followed God's will--not His own selfish desires (Jesus did not have any selfish desires of course, but we certainally do!). This is how I want to be. So wrapped up in God that I only care about His will, not mine.

Prayer:

Dear Father--Thank you for giving up Jesus to die for us. Guide me and strengthen me to only want Your will, not mine.

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