John 3:16
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
I love jelly beans. To me, they are the perfect candy — hard shell “self-wrapping” with a gooey center. They can be eaten quickly by chewing, or savored for a while as they dissolve to their flavorful jelly centers.
When I buy jelly beans, they are usually packaged in bags containing several flavors. My purchase gives me everything in the bag—I get all of them—not just the flavors I like.
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Monday, October 22, 2012
John 2:16 - Business Among Brothers
John 2:16
To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!”
There is a concept in the business world called “networking.” It is a great way to increase your market coverage, increase sales, and — ultimately — increase your profits. It works well because it is a way of making friends, and converting them into customers — and vice versa.
Rotary, Shiners, Kiwanis, Optimist, Sertoma and other organizations have a reputation of making the world better through their humanitarian efforts. But, if you polled their members, you would find a strong motivation for joining was the potential for networking. If you are a member of such an organization, or have been involved with them, it is not uncommon to see business deals conducted in social situations. — How many napkins have been used as note pads for large projects?
To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!”
There is a concept in the business world called “networking.” It is a great way to increase your market coverage, increase sales, and — ultimately — increase your profits. It works well because it is a way of making friends, and converting them into customers — and vice versa.
Rotary, Shiners, Kiwanis, Optimist, Sertoma and other organizations have a reputation of making the world better through their humanitarian efforts. But, if you polled their members, you would find a strong motivation for joining was the potential for networking. If you are a member of such an organization, or have been involved with them, it is not uncommon to see business deals conducted in social situations. — How many napkins have been used as note pads for large projects?
Monday, August 6, 2012
James 1:2-4: "Olympic" Faith
James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sister, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
The Olympic athletes can give us great insight on how faith works — faith that is active and vital.
As children, many of us have visions of ourselves as great Olympic superstars. Maybe we will be the next Bruce Jenner, Mark Spitz, or Michael Phelps. We have a belief in our own ability to be as great as one of the athletes the world watches in amazement.
But — not many of us work at it beyond our shallow belief in ourselves. Not many spend time practicing and struggling to improve our athletic skills and abilities. As a result, we stay the same as everyone else — far from our idea of being the next Olympic Gold Medalist.
Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sister, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
The Olympic athletes can give us great insight on how faith works — faith that is active and vital.
As children, many of us have visions of ourselves as great Olympic superstars. Maybe we will be the next Bruce Jenner, Mark Spitz, or Michael Phelps. We have a belief in our own ability to be as great as one of the athletes the world watches in amazement.
But — not many of us work at it beyond our shallow belief in ourselves. Not many spend time practicing and struggling to improve our athletic skills and abilities. As a result, we stay the same as everyone else — far from our idea of being the next Olympic Gold Medalist.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Luke 5:31-32 - Are You Healthy or Sick?
Luke 5:31-32 (NLT)
Jesus answered them, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent.”
When Jesus began choosing His disciples, among the first was Matthew, also known as Levi. His choice was a bit controversial because Matthew was a tax collector — not someone the public looked upon as worthy of great respect. In fact, they looked upon tax collectors as sort of “legal” bandits.
Matthew responded to Jesus’ call instantly and left everything behind and followed Him. And, like any of us who discover something of great worth, Matthew wanted to share it. So, he gathered his friends for a banquet in honor of Jesus to give them a chance to meet Him too. It was a great gathering of tax collectors and others sinners — and Jesus was right there in the middle of them, seeming to have a good time.
Jesus answered them, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent.”
When Jesus began choosing His disciples, among the first was Matthew, also known as Levi. His choice was a bit controversial because Matthew was a tax collector — not someone the public looked upon as worthy of great respect. In fact, they looked upon tax collectors as sort of “legal” bandits.
Matthew responded to Jesus’ call instantly and left everything behind and followed Him. And, like any of us who discover something of great worth, Matthew wanted to share it. So, he gathered his friends for a banquet in honor of Jesus to give them a chance to meet Him too. It was a great gathering of tax collectors and others sinners — and Jesus was right there in the middle of them, seeming to have a good time.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
John 15:3 - Have You Been Pruned?
John 15:3
“You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you.”
“You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you.”
Grapevines, especially when professionally tended, are amazing. Sometime after the harvest, and before new growth begins, vine growers will take time to trim off all the branches from the previous year, leaving just a few stronger branches, which they tie to a taut wire to hold them firm while they grow for the next harvest.
When the growing season gets under way, it is amazing how little time passes before the bare, clean branches explode with fresh, new green leaves. It seems like they pop out almost over night!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
John 14:15 - What Motivates You?
John 14:15
“If you love me, you will obey what I command..”
Parents hope their children will love them -- and not just love them -- but obey them, too.
Our parents knew that most of our problems with disobedience came from a lack of attention -- we would get distracted -- enticed -- tired.
When we got off the track, they would apply a remedy to remind us -- a gentle swat on the bottom -- a measure of time set off to ourselves -- an undesirable chore to do. You know what worked with you!
“If you love me, you will obey what I command..”
Parents hope their children will love them -- and not just love them -- but obey them, too.
Our parents knew that most of our problems with disobedience came from a lack of attention -- we would get distracted -- enticed -- tired.
When we got off the track, they would apply a remedy to remind us -- a gentle swat on the bottom -- a measure of time set off to ourselves -- an undesirable chore to do. You know what worked with you!
Saturday, April 7, 2012
John 13:34-35 - Love Sets Us Apart
John 13:34-35
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Did you know that corporations spend millions of dollars every year just to keep their names, images, and reputations from being confused with someone else?
Trademarks, copyrights and patents are all designed to help a company control and distinguish itself form others, and they are vigilantly guarded against infringement.
“Aspirin,” “Kerosene,” “Linoleum,” “Videotape” and “Zipper” were once trademarks, but because of a lack of diligence to protect these names from misuse, (or in the case of Aspirin, the spoils of World War I,) they have become generic terms for many similar products.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
Did you know that corporations spend millions of dollars every year just to keep their names, images, and reputations from being confused with someone else?
Trademarks, copyrights and patents are all designed to help a company control and distinguish itself form others, and they are vigilantly guarded against infringement.
“Aspirin,” “Kerosene,” “Linoleum,” “Videotape” and “Zipper” were once trademarks, but because of a lack of diligence to protect these names from misuse, (or in the case of Aspirin, the spoils of World War I,) they have become generic terms for many similar products.
John 13:6-10 - Wash My Feet?
John 13:6-10
He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”
Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
“No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”
Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”
“Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”
Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.”
Have you ever taken the trouble to get all dressed and ready to go to a special event -- like a wedding or a funeral -- only to have a tough time staying clean before the event starts?
It seems everything you come in contact with leaves something behind -- lint -- dust -- stains!
He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”
Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”
“No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.”
Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.”
“Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”
Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.”
Have you ever taken the trouble to get all dressed and ready to go to a special event -- like a wedding or a funeral -- only to have a tough time staying clean before the event starts?
It seems everything you come in contact with leaves something behind -- lint -- dust -- stains!
Thursday, March 22, 2012
John 9:25 - What Do I Need to Know?
John 9:25
He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!"
How many letters behind your name do you need to collect before you are useful to the Lord? Is there a minimum number of years you need to study, or a test that you take to allow you to serve the Lord?
Not according to a blind man -- no, make that a formerly blind man.
This man -- born blind -- had been directly benefitted by a miracle performed by Jesus. He had felt Christ spread mud over his eyes, and had followed His instructions to go and wash in the pool of Siloam. And because of Jesus -- he could now see!
He replied, "Whether he is a sinner or not, I don't know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!"
How many letters behind your name do you need to collect before you are useful to the Lord? Is there a minimum number of years you need to study, or a test that you take to allow you to serve the Lord?
Not according to a blind man -- no, make that a formerly blind man.
This man -- born blind -- had been directly benefitted by a miracle performed by Jesus. He had felt Christ spread mud over his eyes, and had followed His instructions to go and wash in the pool of Siloam. And because of Jesus -- he could now see!
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Exodus 40:16 - Worship God His Way
Exodus 40:16
Moses did everything just as the Lord commanded him.
Is there any question that God is concerned about how we worship Him?
The several chapters that precede this verse are filled with detailed instructions about the construction of the tabernacle, the choices of materials to be used -- even the names of the craftsmen who are to do the work!
Without a doubt, God had a definite purpose and design for how He wanted to be worshiped by Israel.
How He is worshiped is something that He is still concerned with today.
Somehow, though, many “religious” people today believe that the method and means for worshiping God is subject to their whim.
Moses did everything just as the Lord commanded him.
Is there any question that God is concerned about how we worship Him?
The several chapters that precede this verse are filled with detailed instructions about the construction of the tabernacle, the choices of materials to be used -- even the names of the craftsmen who are to do the work!
Without a doubt, God had a definite purpose and design for how He wanted to be worshiped by Israel.
How He is worshiped is something that He is still concerned with today.
Somehow, though, many “religious” people today believe that the method and means for worshiping God is subject to their whim.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Romans 12:2 - Think Outside the Box
Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Have you ever heard the phrase, “Think outside the box?”
This is Paul’s version.
Having a preconceived idea is sometimes the hardest part of thinking. It tends to have you thinking about the expected answer without looking at the situation clearly.
“If all you have is a hammer, everything you see looks like a nail.”
Paul is telling the Romans to be careful about being so closely conformed to the desires -- expectations -- values -- and traditions of this world. If they (or we) have the world in their (our) hearts, then it will be all too easy to rationalize -- justify -- excuse -- gloss over the times they (we) stray from God’s Will.
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Have you ever heard the phrase, “Think outside the box?”
This is Paul’s version.
Having a preconceived idea is sometimes the hardest part of thinking. It tends to have you thinking about the expected answer without looking at the situation clearly.
“If all you have is a hammer, everything you see looks like a nail.”
Paul is telling the Romans to be careful about being so closely conformed to the desires -- expectations -- values -- and traditions of this world. If they (or we) have the world in their (our) hearts, then it will be all too easy to rationalize -- justify -- excuse -- gloss over the times they (we) stray from God’s Will.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Matthew 27:21-22 - Barabbas? That's Me!
Matthew 27:21-22
"Which of the two do you want me to release to you?" asked the governor.
"Barabbas," they answered. “
"What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?" Pilate asked.
They all answered, "Crucify him!"
He had been a true zealot when it came to the nation of Israel -- Barabbas loved his nation!
He was irked by the very fact that Rome had placed a heavy yoke around the neck of the nation of Israel. But -- his desire to press hard for what he thought was right had gotten him to where he was: cold -- lonely -- hungry -- and waiting for the executioner to come for him.
Barabbas had a good start in life. His name suggests that his father had probably been a Rabbi, so he knew about the religious aristocracy -- and had a firm understanding of the tradition of the Law. But, like many -- even today -- his desire to be righteous had blended social concerns with spiritual concerns.
As a “Zealot,” the Roman Government had him in their cross-hairs -- making him a man on the run -- forcing him to do brutal things to survive -- causing him to become a hardened criminal, and not just a rebel against the government -- committing robbery, battery -- and eventually -- MURDER!
Can you imagine what was going through Barabbas’ mind when he finally heard the guard coming down the corridor to his cell? The anxiety he had when he heard the keys rattling as the jailer unlocked the door… The magnitude of his fear and dread when he heard the lead jailer say…
"Barabbas," they answered. “
"What shall I do, then, with Jesus who is called the Messiah?" Pilate asked.
They all answered, "Crucify him!"
He had been a true zealot when it came to the nation of Israel -- Barabbas loved his nation!
He was irked by the very fact that Rome had placed a heavy yoke around the neck of the nation of Israel. But -- his desire to press hard for what he thought was right had gotten him to where he was: cold -- lonely -- hungry -- and waiting for the executioner to come for him.
Barabbas had a good start in life. His name suggests that his father had probably been a Rabbi, so he knew about the religious aristocracy -- and had a firm understanding of the tradition of the Law. But, like many -- even today -- his desire to be righteous had blended social concerns with spiritual concerns.
As a “Zealot,” the Roman Government had him in their cross-hairs -- making him a man on the run -- forcing him to do brutal things to survive -- causing him to become a hardened criminal, and not just a rebel against the government -- committing robbery, battery -- and eventually -- MURDER!
Can you imagine what was going through Barabbas’ mind when he finally heard the guard coming down the corridor to his cell? The anxiety he had when he heard the keys rattling as the jailer unlocked the door… The magnitude of his fear and dread when he heard the lead jailer say…
Friday, March 2, 2012
Matthew 26:33-34 - Have You Heard the Rooster?
Peter replied, “Even if all fall away on account of you, I never will”
“Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.”
Has anyone known you so well that they knew you better than you knew yourself?
We can often lie to ourselves and let our pride convince us that we are someone we really aren’t.
For instance, you might try and tell yourself that you can play your favorite sport better than most -- think you are smarter than the average person -- believe that you are of “star quality.”
But, then -- when you ask someone who knows you well, and he is honest with you -- you learn otherwise.
It hurts when that happens!
We want so badly to be the people we think we are, but when we are faced with the undeniable truth -- we see we are not.
So? What was Peter thinking when he spoke to Jesus?
“Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.”
Has anyone known you so well that they knew you better than you knew yourself?
We can often lie to ourselves and let our pride convince us that we are someone we really aren’t.
For instance, you might try and tell yourself that you can play your favorite sport better than most -- think you are smarter than the average person -- believe that you are of “star quality.”
But, then -- when you ask someone who knows you well, and he is honest with you -- you learn otherwise.
It hurts when that happens!
We want so badly to be the people we think we are, but when we are faced with the undeniable truth -- we see we are not.
So? What was Peter thinking when he spoke to Jesus?
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Romans 2:6-8 - Keep Improving Your Aim
Romans 2:6-8
God “will repay each person according to what they have done.” To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.
In target shooting, the direction is important. In order to hit the target, the first thing you have to do is face the target. You might not hit the target, but if you are facing any other way, you have no chance of it.
Does God expect us to consistently hit the target? No. If He did, why would He have made provisions for our salvation?
God “will repay each person according to what they have done.” To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.
In target shooting, the direction is important. In order to hit the target, the first thing you have to do is face the target. You might not hit the target, but if you are facing any other way, you have no chance of it.
Does God expect us to consistently hit the target? No. If He did, why would He have made provisions for our salvation?
Acts 17:22-23 - What Kind of Athenian?
Acts 17:22-23
Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.”
Some say it is "Nature." Some call it the "Cosmos." Some refer to it as "The Great Spirit." Others just call it "The Force."
In some way, most of us recognize there is something greater than ourselves.
These ancient Athenians did also -- and were careful to not exclude whatever it was from their worship. They had built an altar to the "Unknown God."
They had no real idea of how to worship Him, but they recognized a need that was not being met by the other "gods" they worshiped.
Paul, when before them, took advantage of the existence of this altar to begin explaining who their "Unknown God" was.
He did not find it necessary to berate them or ridicule them for their ignorance, but instead, saw it as an opportunity to give them knowledge.
When we are faced with someone who does not know God, do we try to educate them? Or do we tend to think of them as someone beneath us?
Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Areopagus and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.”
Some say it is "Nature." Some call it the "Cosmos." Some refer to it as "The Great Spirit." Others just call it "The Force."
In some way, most of us recognize there is something greater than ourselves.
These ancient Athenians did also -- and were careful to not exclude whatever it was from their worship. They had built an altar to the "Unknown God."
They had no real idea of how to worship Him, but they recognized a need that was not being met by the other "gods" they worshiped.
Paul, when before them, took advantage of the existence of this altar to begin explaining who their "Unknown God" was.
He did not find it necessary to berate them or ridicule them for their ignorance, but instead, saw it as an opportunity to give them knowledge.
When we are faced with someone who does not know God, do we try to educate them? Or do we tend to think of them as someone beneath us?
Friday, February 24, 2012
Matthew 18:35 - It's the Mercy
Matthew 18:35:
“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”
Peter had listened to Jesus and heard a thorough “procedure list” for dealing with sinners -- and what to do when they fail to change.
But what about when they do change?
Peter wondered, would he have to keep forgiving them, or could he limit the times he forgave them to maybe -- seven times?
We are often sinned against by some who later ask us to forgive them. Then -- they go and do the same thing to us again! Each time they come back -- begging our understanding and forgiveness.
Sometimes it’s genuine -- and other times we just feel they are playing us for a patsy. It is hard to tell.
How much patience do we have to extend to those who keep doing it to us, over -- and over -- and over?
Jesus gave Peter, and those around him, a parable to chew on.
“This is how my heavenly Father will treat each of you unless you forgive your brother or sister from your heart.”
Peter had listened to Jesus and heard a thorough “procedure list” for dealing with sinners -- and what to do when they fail to change.
But what about when they do change?
Peter wondered, would he have to keep forgiving them, or could he limit the times he forgave them to maybe -- seven times?
We are often sinned against by some who later ask us to forgive them. Then -- they go and do the same thing to us again! Each time they come back -- begging our understanding and forgiveness.
Sometimes it’s genuine -- and other times we just feel they are playing us for a patsy. It is hard to tell.
How much patience do we have to extend to those who keep doing it to us, over -- and over -- and over?
Jesus gave Peter, and those around him, a parable to chew on.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Genesis 3:6 - Why Should I Wait?
Genesis 3:6
When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
How many times have I fell for the same kind if snare?
Satan has done the same thing to me time and time again... "Here is what you want. Maybe the timing is off, and you shouldn't have it yet, but who is looking? Who would know? You are going to get it later anyway, so why wait?"
How many young people have fallen for this same thing? Baby after baby has been born because Satan convinced two young people that it would be okay. "You love each other anyway, so why wait?"
When the woman saw that the fruit of the tree was good for food and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable for gaining wisdom, she took some and ate it. She also gave some to her husband, who was with her, and he ate it.
How many times have I fell for the same kind if snare?
Satan has done the same thing to me time and time again... "Here is what you want. Maybe the timing is off, and you shouldn't have it yet, but who is looking? Who would know? You are going to get it later anyway, so why wait?"
How many young people have fallen for this same thing? Baby after baby has been born because Satan convinced two young people that it would be okay. "You love each other anyway, so why wait?"
Monday, February 20, 2012
Genesis 2:22-25 - Helpmeets
Genesis 2:22-25
Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man.
The man said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.” That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.
Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.
Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man.
The man said, “This is now bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called ‘woman,’ for she was taken out of man.” That is why a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife, and they become one flesh.
Adam and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.
Our world seems to be going through a shift in its paradigm...
Marriage is slowly changing from something more than a man and a woman -- to include a man "married" to a man, or a woman "married" to a woman.
Many states in the U.S. are now considering changing laws to include such marriage definitions as legal relationships.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Genesis 39:20-21 - It's Not My Plan
Genesis 39:20-21
Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined.
But while Joseph was there in the prison, the LORD was with him; he showed him kindness and granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden.
His life was not exactly going as he had envisioned it… Amid his dreams, Joseph saw himself at the center. Now, he was forgotten, in a cold dark place…
With turn after turn, everything seemed to constantly spiral downward -- seemingly getting worse with each turn. First his brothers had shunned and mocked him -- later, they sold him as a slave, after first toying with the idea of killing him. Then, after the indignity of being merchandise for slave traders, he was sold to the captain of Pharaoh's guard.
With concentration and discipline, Joseph finally felt himself begin to rise out of his plight. He had made a good impression on his master, and had begun to reap the rewards of keeping his nose clean!
But then -- the master’s randy wife got him into deep trouble -- and he was innocent!
Friday, February 10, 2012
Acts 11:26c - What Is a Name?
Acts 11:26c
" . . . The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch."
What do the words, “Galinha,” “Huhn,” “Kip,” “Poulet,” and “Pollo” have in common?
They are the Portuguese, German, Dutch, French and Spanish words for what the English-speaking world calls a chicken.
They are the simple descriptive words each language uses to describe the tasty staple of many dinner tables.
“Rhode Island Reds,” “Mahrans,” “Leghorns,” “Jersey Giants,” and “Silkies” -- are names used to describe particular types of chickens.
Knowing the right name for the right kind of chicken is important, because each type of chicken has certain qualities -- each has certain characteristics -- each is bred to be different!
" . . . The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch."
What do the words, “Galinha,” “Huhn,” “Kip,” “Poulet,” and “Pollo” have in common?
They are the Portuguese, German, Dutch, French and Spanish words for what the English-speaking world calls a chicken.
They are the simple descriptive words each language uses to describe the tasty staple of many dinner tables.
“Rhode Island Reds,” “Mahrans,” “Leghorns,” “Jersey Giants,” and “Silkies” -- are names used to describe particular types of chickens.
Knowing the right name for the right kind of chicken is important, because each type of chicken has certain qualities -- each has certain characteristics -- each is bred to be different!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Acts 9:26-28 - Are You A Barnabas?
Acts 9:26-28
When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.
Have you ever had a poisonous snake as a pet? How about an adult crocodile -- or an un-altered skunk?
No? Probably because you were afraid of them, or not sure you could completely trust them.
What would you do if a known murderer sat next to you in church? Would get up and move . . . to the next city?
We have a natural aversion to dangerous things, and once we know something is dangerous, it is hard for us to accept them as anything else but dangerous!
Imagine what it was like for those in the church in Jerusalem who gathered for prayer only to recognize the "new guy" as being none other than -- Saul of Tarsus, "Persecutor of Christians!"
When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.
Have you ever had a poisonous snake as a pet? How about an adult crocodile -- or an un-altered skunk?
No? Probably because you were afraid of them, or not sure you could completely trust them.
What would you do if a known murderer sat next to you in church? Would get up and move . . . to the next city?
We have a natural aversion to dangerous things, and once we know something is dangerous, it is hard for us to accept them as anything else but dangerous!
Imagine what it was like for those in the church in Jerusalem who gathered for prayer only to recognize the "new guy" as being none other than -- Saul of Tarsus, "Persecutor of Christians!"
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Genesis 22:7-9 - Where Is the Lamb?
Genesis 22:7-9
Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, "Father?"
"Yes, my son?" Abraham replied.
"The fire and wood are here," Isaac said, "but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?"
Abraham took the wood for the burnt offering and placed it on his son Isaac, and he himself carried the fire and the knife. As the two of them went on together, Isaac spoke up and said to his father Abraham, "Father?"
"Yes, my son?" Abraham replied.
"The fire and wood are here," Isaac said, "but where is the lamb for the burnt offering?"
As far as he knew, Abraham was following the command of God. He was to take his son, Isaac -- his only son -- and sacrifice him on the mountain. He hadn’t told his son all of the details -- but, Isaac was a bright boy…
Can you imagine what had gone through Isaac’s mind? He knew he and his father were on a hike to build an altar for a burnt offering. And, he knew what was involved. They had the bundle of wood -- the lit torch for the fire -- and a knife -- but, where was the lamb? All his father said was, “God will provide the lamb.”
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Acts 6:2 - Wear the Right Hats
Acts 6:2
So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables.”
How many hats do you wear? Most of us have more than one task -- job -- responsibility. We refer to this as wearing many hats -- one for each type of function we perform.
So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables.”
How many hats do you wear? Most of us have more than one task -- job -- responsibility. We refer to this as wearing many hats -- one for each type of function we perform.
Occasionally, we are asked to wear a “hat” that doesn’t fit us well. When that happens, the efficiency of the task we perform suffers. We may not have the right skills -- the right ability -- the right discipline -- to do the job properly.
And, sometimes we just wear too many hats!
Wearing too many hats can be devastating to the work you want to accomplish.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Acts 5:35 - Gamaliel's Challenge
Acts 5:35
Then he addressed the Sanhedrin: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men.”
Have you ever been jealous of someone else? Maybe you wanted something they had? Maybe you wanted to look or be like them? Or -- maybe you wanted to have their power or ability to influence others? Whatever its reason, jealousy can lead you to do some strange and mean things if you don't control it soon enough.
Being Sadducees themselves, the High Priest and his close friends were not so keen on the resurrection story Peter and the other apostles -- the followers of Jesus -- had been spreading. Their jealousy led to Peter and the others being thrown in jail overnight. The next morning, they had hoped to settle the matter once and for all.
During the night, though, even with a full compliment of guards and locked gates, the apostles had been freed by an angel. He told them to go back to “telling the people all about this new life."
Learning where they were, the High Priest had them re-arrested and brought before the full council, where he gave them a good tongue lashing . . .
Then he addressed the Sanhedrin: “Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men.”
Have you ever been jealous of someone else? Maybe you wanted something they had? Maybe you wanted to look or be like them? Or -- maybe you wanted to have their power or ability to influence others? Whatever its reason, jealousy can lead you to do some strange and mean things if you don't control it soon enough.
Being Sadducees themselves, the High Priest and his close friends were not so keen on the resurrection story Peter and the other apostles -- the followers of Jesus -- had been spreading. Their jealousy led to Peter and the others being thrown in jail overnight. The next morning, they had hoped to settle the matter once and for all.
During the night, though, even with a full compliment of guards and locked gates, the apostles had been freed by an angel. He told them to go back to “telling the people all about this new life."
Learning where they were, the High Priest had them re-arrested and brought before the full council, where he gave them a good tongue lashing . . .
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Acts 2:36-38 - What Shall We Do?
Acts 2:36-38
“Therefore let all Israel be assured of this: God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Messiah.”
When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
Have you ever followed a group of people into action, and later wonder what it was that possessed you? Being in a crowd can lead to your doing things that you would never do otherwise. It's called, "peer pressure" or "mob thinking" -- and it can be intoxicating!
During riots, for instance, looting is done by many people who would never dream of stealing in normal circumstances. But, "Everyone else is doing it," can be an empowering concept.
But, when the dust clears . . . when it is time to account for your actions? -- That is another story.
When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”
Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
Have you ever followed a group of people into action, and later wonder what it was that possessed you? Being in a crowd can lead to your doing things that you would never do otherwise. It's called, "peer pressure" or "mob thinking" -- and it can be intoxicating!
During riots, for instance, looting is done by many people who would never dream of stealing in normal circumstances. But, "Everyone else is doing it," can be an empowering concept.
But, when the dust clears . . . when it is time to account for your actions? -- That is another story.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Luke 23:39-43 - Confession Is Vital
Luke 23:39-43
One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!"
But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."
Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
Jesus answered him, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise."
Enduring the pain of his own crucifixion, and knowing his life was speeding to an end -- this criminal understood his place in the big picture. The lifestyle he led, and the actions he had taken, had brought a ripe harvest of pain, suffering, and death.
One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!"
But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."
Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
Jesus answered him, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise."
Enduring the pain of his own crucifixion, and knowing his life was speeding to an end -- this criminal understood his place in the big picture. The lifestyle he led, and the actions he had taken, had brought a ripe harvest of pain, suffering, and death.
He knew he deserved it, but Christ did not! And -- when he heard his fellow criminal insulting Christ, he became indignant and told him to stop.
He understood justice. Seeing this righteous man hang on the cross next to his, and suffer the same punishment as his own, was not justice -- it was just wrong!
He said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."
He had faith in Christ -- and was willing, even as he hung on his own cross -- to make it be known.
And, Jesus replied, "Truly, I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise."
And -- there it was -- the basis of our salvation:
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Luke 21:2-4 - Even the Smallest Amount
Luke 21:2-4
He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”
He had been watching. Each one would come up and drop their gift into the collection box. A great deal was made about the sound each coin made as it hit bottom . . . a slight pause passed between each coin.
When a poor widow got her turn, the two coins she dropped in made very little noise -- and then she was gone.
He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. “Truly I tell you,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.”
He had been watching. Each one would come up and drop their gift into the collection box. A great deal was made about the sound each coin made as it hit bottom . . . a slight pause passed between each coin.
When a poor widow got her turn, the two coins she dropped in made very little noise -- and then she was gone.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Luke 18:22 - What Is Holding You Back?
Luke 18:22
When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
The man had asked Jesus how he could have eternal life. Jesus had even agreed with him -- he had been living a pretty clean life . . .
Adultery? -- Never!
Murder? -- Hadn't crossed his mind.
Stealing? -- Wouldn't dream of it.
False testimony? -- No way!
Honor his parents? -- Since his birth.
The other five of the Big Ten? -- Not a blemish on his record.
So? What was the problem?
When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
The man had asked Jesus how he could have eternal life. Jesus had even agreed with him -- he had been living a pretty clean life . . .
Adultery? -- Never!
Murder? -- Hadn't crossed his mind.
Stealing? -- Wouldn't dream of it.
False testimony? -- No way!
Honor his parents? -- Since his birth.
The other five of the Big Ten? -- Not a blemish on his record.
So? What was the problem?
Friday, January 20, 2012
Luke 16:10 - It's Just A Small Thing
Luke 16:10
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much."
Is it important that a bank manager is focused on details? Would you trust a man to keep your finances if he couldn't remember where he parked his car at the end of each day?
Or, how about a cashier who just gave back paper bills instead of bothering with coins -- two dollars instead of $2.05? Even though it is a small thing -- you would feel cheated.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much."
Is it important that a bank manager is focused on details? Would you trust a man to keep your finances if he couldn't remember where he parked his car at the end of each day?
Or, how about a cashier who just gave back paper bills instead of bothering with coins -- two dollars instead of $2.05? Even though it is a small thing -- you would feel cheated.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Luke 13:24-25 - The Party Is Inside!
Luke 13:24-25
“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.'
“But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’"
“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.'
“But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’"
When people get together, it can be enjoyable. A large group of people? -- That’s called a party!
No one wants to be left out of the party. You don’t even have to know what the celebration is about to have fun! Some of us just want to be “where the action is” . . . whether we know what the "action" is or not.
Here, Jesus urged His followers to do all they could to enter through the narrow door. It would not be easy to pass through -- and once the door was closed -- it would stay closed.
Jesus used this story to suggest that heaven would not be an easy place to enter. It had only one door in . . . a narrow one at that!
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