True Power

Mark 15: Immediately, in the morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council; and they bound Jesus, led Him away, and delivered Him to Pilate. ² Then Pilate asked Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?”

He answered and said to him, “It is as you say.”

³ And the chief priests accused Him of many things, but He answered nothing. ⁴ Then Pilate asked Him again, saying, “Do You answer nothing? See how many things they testify against You!” ⁵ But Jesus still answered nothing, so that Pilate marveled.

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“Look at her now” I joined in on the gloating as the difficult person was being released from the company. This person did not go away quietly. She sent an email to the entire company stating poor leadership as being the problem. I quickly dismissed her words as desperation and moved on like everyone else.

• There were times when I classified people as being weak.
• There were times when I thought people were truly on different levels.
• There were times when I judged the noisy people as being foolish.

“Do YOU answer nothing?” Pilate asked. He knew the cheap shots that were taken at JESUS were more than likely lies since he was in politics. Pilate thought JESUS would cave in like everyone else and beg for HIS life, but JESUS did something strange.

• JESUS showed me HIS true power by remaining silent during slander.
• JESUS showed me HIS awesome grace by allowing HIS creation to blame HIM.
• JESUS showed me HIS love and patience by allowing those who were supposed to represent HIM to tie HIM up and think they had power over HIM.

Power is a dangerous pursuit. GOD knows when I pursue power, I am really trying to push HIM out and place my name over HIS. I categorize people with my cheap labels in order to have power over them. GOD wants me to focus on HIS true and pure power. HIS silence spoke volumes on HIS restraint. This is the power I marvel at.

• Are you noisy?
• Do you slander people or laugh at someone else’s downfall?
• Can you stop trying to put people on levels and place GOD over everyone and every situation today?

Pressure to Deny

Mark 14: ⁶⁶ Now as Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant girls of the high priest came. ⁶⁷ And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked at him and said, “You also were with Jesus of Nazareth.”

⁶⁸ But he denied it, saying, “I neither know nor understand what you are saying.” And he went out on the porch, and a rooster crowed.

⁶⁹ And the servant girl saw him again, and began to say to those who stood by, “This is one of them.” ⁷⁰ But he denied it again.

And a little later those who stood by said to Peter again, “Surely you are one of them; for you are a Galilean, and your speech shows it.”

⁷¹ Then he began to curse and swear, “I do not know this Man of whom you speak!”

⁷² A second time the rooster crowed. Then Peter called to mind the word that Jesus had said to him, “Before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.” And when he thought about it, he wept.

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Crash, bang, slam were the noises the heavy sleds made as they tumbled off the shelves. I wanted to see one of them and all of them tumbled down. “Were you in that section of the store” was the question posed to me. “I don’t know” was the best answer I could give. I mean was I in trouble?

• There were times when I did not want to face consequence.
• There were times when I denied the truth so I could get out of trouble.
• There were times when I did not want to admit I was the cause of the trouble.

Peter faced a life or death situation. If He told the truth about being with JESUS, he would be captured, tortured and killed. He did what most would do, try to save himself by lying. Unfortunately, I would have done the same.

• JESUS wants me to mature to the point where I will not deny HIM.
• JESUS wants me to grow up so I will not forsake HIS ways.
• JESUS wants me to understand that following HIM means I will be ridiculed by HIS creation.

There are no front page stories about people who dedicate themselves to CHRIST. Even if there is not a word of judgment spoken, people find ways to look at innocent followers of GOD in a bad light.

I get lumped into political “Christians” simply by not doing what others are doing. If I say “I will never drink again”, people look at me as if I had a drinking problem that must have gotten out of control instead of saying “Wow, you are dedicating yourself to GOD.”  JESUS values what I do for HIM and does not want me to be ashamed of HIM so HE will not be ashamed of me.

• Is society pressuring you to hide your relationship with CHRIST?
• Do you feel pressure to act like everyone else so you will fit in?
• Can you stop trying to fit in and listen to GOD who made you for HIS purpose today?

Prove It

Mark 14: ⁶⁰ And the high priest stood up in the midst and asked Jesus, saying, “Do You answer nothing? What is it these men testify against You?” ⁶¹ But He kept silent and answered nothing.

Again the high priest asked Him, saying to Him, “Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?”

⁶² Jesus said, “I am. And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Power, and coming with the clouds of heaven.”

⁶³ Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “What further need do we have of witnesses? ⁶⁴ You have heard the blasphemy! What do you think?”

And they all condemned Him to be deserving of death.

⁶⁵ Then some began to spit on Him, and to blindfold Him, and to beat Him, and to say to Him, “Prophesy!” And the officers struck Him with the palms of their hands.

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“Please supply your driver’s license, passport, five years of bank statements, seven years of taxes, birth certificate and social security card please” was the overwhelming request made to me as I was going to assume a house note. “Why do you need all of this?” I asked. “To prove who you are” they said.

• There have been times when I had to prove my identity.
• There were times when I had to carry the right paperwork around with me to prove who I was.
• There have been times when I was worried about people believing in my identity.

“Are You the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?” was asked by the church leaders in an assumed authoritative way. They questioned JESUS as if to say “Prove it to us and we will let you go.” Their arrogance was noted by JESUS and HE answered “I AM” stating HE is GOD. They were furious!

• JESUS wants me to know HE IS the great I AM.
• JESUS wants me to know HE IS GOD.
• JESUS wants me to know HE IS alive, just as HE said HE would be.

“You will see the SON of MAN sitting at the right hand of the POWER, and coming with the clouds of heaven” were the words that incited pure anger. The church leaders decided to prove their power over JESUS by beating HIM, but they had no power at all. JESUS allowed every blow because HE wanted to forgive me for my sins.

• Do you believe in JESUS?
• Are you busy trying to make HIM prove HIMSELF in your life?
• Can you stop forcing GOD to show you signs and allow HIM to open your eyes in order to do a marvelous work in you?  

Inside Destination

Mark 14: ⁵³ And they led Jesus away to the high priest; and with him were assembled all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes. ⁵⁴ But Peter followed Him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. And he sat with the servants and warmed himself at the fire.

⁵⁵ Now the chief priests and all the council sought testimony against Jesus to put Him to death, but found none. ⁵⁶ For many bore false witness against Him, but their testimonies did not agree.

⁵⁷ Then some rose up and bore false witness against Him, saying, ⁵⁸ “We heard Him say, ‘I will destroy this temple made with hands, and within three days I will build another made without hands.’” ⁵⁹ But not even then did their testimony agree.

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“He is so stinky” were the hurtful words spoken towards one person in our class. “I bet he pees on himself” said one. “I bet he will give you some disease” said another. One day, he was trying to speak kind words to me, but I backed away. I mean he did smell and I didn’t want to catch anything.

• Sometimes I believe in the negative stories spoken about people.
• Sometimes I believe in the slander people sling on others.
• Sometimes I believe in the unsubstantiated things said about people.

False witness comes deep from the heart. It comes from a desire to be right and in control at the same time. The church leaders wanted to be in control but JESUS was taking the spotlight. HE did nothing wrong, yet HIS accusers tried to dream up lies.

• GOD wants me to look for the good inside of people.
• GOD wants me to speak encouraging words about people.
• GOD wants me to dig through the dirty surface of people and seek the inside HE loves.

Slander is something GOD despises. Whether I call it venting or trying to get “my” point across, speaking bad about someone is not of GOD. JESUS wants me to look inside of those who seem dirty on the outside but in reality are seeking GOD. This group of hurt people desire to follow GOD but have a hard time and need grace the same as me.

• Are you involved in slander of someone?
• Are you speaking negative words about people instead of speaking grace?
• Can you ask GOD for healing of your tongue and your mind so you can think and speak gracefully today?

Narrow Escape

Mark 14: ⁵¹ Now a certain young man followed Him, having a linen cloth thrown around his naked body. And the young men laid hold of him, ⁵² and he left the linen cloth and fled from them naked.

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“Almost there!” I said to myself anxiously. I could hear them saying, “Catch him” but I was too fast. As I ran in the door one person grabbed hold of my backpack and tried to pull me out. I squirmed inside. Fortunately it was where I worked so I was safe.

• There have been times when I have been chased.
• Three have been times when I have been in trouble.
• There have been times when the only solution was to run.

Fearing for their lives, everyone fled from JESUS because they could have been locked up and killed too. There was no longer a thought of a new king, only survival. Those who followed JESUS were now wanted by the government so everyone fled as if they never knew HIM.

• JESUS forgives me when I panic and run from HIM.
• JESUS forgives me when I get scared and doubt HIM.
• JESUS forgives me when I put myself first even though HE should be first.

Life can be scary. There are so many unknowns and trouble seems to rear its ugly head daily. BUT GOD understands. HE knows my fears, doubts and may worries. HE also sees HIS wonderful plan for me that HE has already executed.

HIS plan cannot be altered because HE has already done it for me, that is why HE can make so many promises. GOD says what will happen because to HIM it already happened. HE is the Alpha and the Omega, Beginning and the End. HE knows the future because HE is the future and HE has a bright future for me.

• Are you running scared right now?
• Is something right on your heels and you are panicked?
• Can you take a breather for a moment to understand GOD has a bright future for you if you put your trust in HIM today?

Fake Friends

Mark 14: ⁴³ And immediately, while He was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, with a great multitude with swords and clubs, came from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders. ⁴⁴ Now His betrayer had given them a signal, saying, “Whomever I kiss, He is the One; seize Him and lead Him away safely.”

⁴⁵ As soon as he had come, immediately he went up to Him and said to Him, “Rabbi, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.

⁴⁶ Then they laid their hands on Him and took Him. ⁴⁷ And one of those who stood by drew his sword and struck the servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.

⁴⁸ Then Jesus answered and said to them, “Have you come out, as against a robber, with swords and clubs to take Me? ⁴⁹ I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and you did not seize Me. But the Scriptures must be fulfilled.”

⁵⁰ Then they all forsook Him and fled.

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“He called me the wrong name again!” I said to myself. He would greet me with the warmest greeting, but when someone important walked in the room, he would leave our conversation. This, however, was the guy to know. “How can I get noticed by him?” was my thought.

• Sometimes I have sought out fake friends.
• Sometimes I wanted to be in the “in” crowd so much that I would settle for fake friends.
• Sometimes I was popular enough that I was a fake friend to people.

Hundreds of people are pictured here in this passage, yet JESUS had no friend. The army of hundreds had no feeling towards HIM and Judas put on the act of love when his heart was filled with deceit. Not even the disciples acted like a friend as they forsook HIM and fled. BUT JESUS does something different.

• JESUS says to me “Greater love hath no man than this, that a MAN lay down HIS life for HIS friends.”
• JESUS says to me ”I have called you friends, because everything I have learned from MY FATHER I have made known to you.
• JESUS says to me “I will never leave you or forsake you.”

At times JESUS has been my only friend. When the winds of life are blowing hard against me and those around me are questioning me, JESUS has been right there comforting me and lifting me up. HIS love endures forever and HE shows me that friendship is not about leaving it is about loving.

• Has everyone left you?
• Do you feel alone?
• Can you take some time to be a friend to someone today?”

Facing Something Big

Mark 14: ³² Then they came to a place which was named Gethsemane; and He said to His disciples, “Sit here while I pray.” ³³ And He took Peter, James, and John with Him, and He began to be troubled and deeply distressed. ³⁴ Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch.”

³⁵ He went a little farther, and fell on the ground, and prayed that if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. ³⁶ And He said, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for You. Take this cup away from Me; nevertheless, not what I will, but what You will.”

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“You are being let go” were the unfamiliar words I heard for the first time in my career. “What?!” was my first reaction. I had no idea what to do. Trying to resolve what went wrong was impossible as they handed me awards and accolades while I walked out the door.

• ·         There have been times in my life when I have had to face something big.
• ·         There have been times in my life when it seemed like nothing was going right.
• ·         There have been times in my life when I thought the world was going to end because I put so much into a single direction.

“MY soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even unto death”, Jesus says. HE was facing tremendous pressure and cried out in sorrow. “FATHER take this away from ME!” was HIS cry. Sometimes I feel the same.

• ·         GOD says to me “I have a greater plan than the pain you are going through.”
• ·         GOD says to me “I understand your pain because I went through tremendous pain for you.”
• ·         GOD says to me “Cry out to me when you feel any pain or sorrow and I promise to comfort you.”

JESUS does a strange thing in the middle of HIS pain and sorrow. HE doesn’t give up on HIS journey rather HE gives up HIS struggle with what HE was facing. “”Take this cup away from ME; nevertheless, not what I will, but what YOU will” was the release of trying to steer things in HIS direction. In other words “Take this, it is YOURS.”

JESUS was about to take on the blame for every sin and no other human could help HIM. Even HIS own FATHER would turn HIS back on JESUS for a moment, but not for eternity. There was no saving JESUS from death. I am glad HE understands when I am full of sorrow. HE comforts me.

• ·         Are you full of pain?
• ·         Did you just get some extremely bad news?
• ·         Can you cry out to GOD with a purpose so you can give your pain to HIM rather than holding onto it?

Practice

Mark 14: ³⁷ Then He came and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “Simon, are you sleeping? Could you not watch one hour? ³⁸ Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”

³⁹ Again He went away and prayed, and spoke the same words. ⁴⁰ And when He returned, He found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy; and they did not know what to answer Him.

⁴¹ Then He came the third time and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? It is enough! The hour has come; behold, the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. ⁴² Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.”

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“Run!” were the instructions of the track coach. “Do we have to?” was my thought. I mean we had already run miles and miles this very day. One teammate whispered to me “We can hide and pretend we practiced.” “I wonder if I should hide” was my thought.

• Sometimes I do not feel like practicing.
• Sometimes I want things to be handed to me.
• Sometimes I do not want to go through the difficulty of being ready.

JESUS brought Peter, James and John with HIM to pray for HIM as HE was about to face death. Not being used to praying on this magnitude, they fell asleep. They more than likely did not know what JESUS was going through. Even the stern warnings JESUS implored were of no use. Their senses were dull.

• GOD says to me “Do not follow the ways of this world for they distract you from MY kingdom.”
• GOD says to me “All are like sheep that go astray.”
• GOD says to me “I stand at the door and knock. If anyone opens the door, I will come in and sup with them.”

JESUS knows the world will dullen my senses. With a constant barrage of murder, sex and drugs on television, my compassion falls to zero and I cannot hear GOD’s small still voice.

BUT GOD knew this and has taken this into account. HE went to the cross for me anyway. HE knew I could not rescue the world so HE took care of it all. HE raises me up to notice HIS power.

• Are you fretting about something so much that you cannot see or hear GOD?
• Are your senses so dulled that you cannot feel for those who are hurting around you?
• Can you wake up to see GOD is guiding you today?

Truth of Being Good

Mark 14: ²⁷ Then Jesus said to them, “All of you will be made to stumble because of Me this night, for it is written:

‘I will strike the Shepherd,
And the sheep will be scattered.’

²⁸ “But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee.”

²⁹ Peter said to Him, “Even if all are made to stumble, yet I will not be.”

³⁰ Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you that today, even this night, before the rooster crows twice, you will deny Me three times.”

³¹ But he spoke more vehemently, “If I have to die with You, I will not deny You!”

And they all said likewise.

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Giving up the clubbing lifestyle was pretty drastic for me. With my renewed faith, I vowed to leave the “hanging out” scene alone. Weeks passed and I was doing pretty good then one person asked, “Do you want to come out with us?” I was single and there were going to be a bunch of women and booze there. “Yes!” I answered, knowing the crowd.

• There have been times I have tried to be good and failed.
• There have been times when I told GOD, “I am not going to ever do ‘that’ again” and did “that” hours later.
• There have been times when I hid my relationship with CHRIST.

JESUS points out the main reason HE became a human, namely to die for our sins. HE tells the disciples that they would deny HIM just like everyone in the world. HE knew the poison racing through their veins causes every human to sin and there was no exception.

• GOD says to me “I know your ways and I forgive you.”
• GOD says to me “I understand how you were made and I love you.”
• GOD says to me “I know the struggles you go through and I have a wonderful plan for you, plans to grow you for the good of the kingdom.”

In the middle of my sin CHRIST died for me. HE doesn’t stop me from sinning rather HE allows me to go right ahead and sin my brains out and turns right around and says “you are forgiven.” HE then draws me to HIM rather than pushing me away. HE comforts me when I do not deserve comforting and heals me when I make the wounds. My good can never match HIS love for me.

• Do you think you are good?
• Do you beat yourself up for your good being faulty?
• Can you stop thinking you goodness can save you and look to CHRIST who has truly taken care of it all for you?

Preparation

Mark 14: ²² And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them and said, “Take, eat; this is My body.”

²³ Then He took the cup, and when He had given thanks He gave it to them, and they all drank from it. ²⁴ And He said to them, “This is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many. ²⁵ Assuredly, I say to you, I will no longer drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.”

²⁶ And when they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.

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Searching for the right nail only took a few minutes. I hung this particular frame with care. It was my diploma and what was so special about it was it was earned with a huge struggle. I remember the struggle when I gaze at the sheet of paper most would overlook.

• I have many reminders I can look at.
• I have many items that bring me back to memories both fond and difficult.
• I have many things I can look at that reminds me of what I went through.

JESUS served HIS disciples with a purpose. HE alone would be blamed for every sin of every person. HE would be killed because a sinless human had to be responsible for the mess humans were in. JESUS showed them symbols that were important to HIS upcoming actions.

• JESUS wants me to recognize that HE blessed the bread to HIS FATHER.
• JESUS wants me to think about HIM giving thanks before HE served the wine.
• JESUS wants me to understand that HIS preparation also included singing.

Each time I remember what JESUS did for me, prepares me for the plan HE has for me. HIS death, burial and resurrection inspires me to get up another day and face the challenges and the blessings. HE prepares me for HIS wonderful blessings. One day I too will drink with HIM in the kingdom of GOD.

• Do you know you are being prepared?
• Can you recognize GOD has a plan for you?
• Will you take a moment right now and remember what JESUS did for you?

One of you

Mark 14: ¹⁷ In the evening He came with the twelve. ¹⁸ Now as they sat and ate, Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, one of you who eats with Me will betray Me.”

¹⁹ And they began to be sorrowful, and to say to Him one by one, “Is it I?” And another said, “Is it I?”

²⁰ He answered and said to them, “It is one of the twelve, who dips with Me in the dish. ²¹ The Son of Man indeed goes just as it is written of Him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been good for that man if he had never been born.”

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Giggling in the coat closet, the class surrounded us. We were supposed to go in, kiss and come out with cheers, as stated by the rules of the game. Before I went in, the door to the room opened up and everyone scrambled to get back to their seats. One person changed the whole dynamics of what was going on.

• I have been affected by one person.
• I have had my course altered by one person.
• I have tried to go in one direction but at times only one person kept me from going there.

“One of you who eats with ME will betray ME” said JESUS to HIS disciples. These words changed the atmosphere from peaceful to anguish. One person’s behavior affected many, unfortunately in a negative way.

• JESUS wants me to affect people in a positive way if I can.
• JESUS wants me to spread HIS message of grace when I can.
• JESUS wants me to HIS disciple while I can.

The power of “one” begins and ends with me. I have to make a choice to spread GOD’s message of love and grace in places where there may not be anyone who will accept HIM. GOD wants me to have the courage to rely on HIS power to transform.

HE doesn’t need me to try harder, in fact HE’d rather me just be willing to sit in the presence of those who HE sends me to. JESUS says “one person can affect the world just as I did and that person is you.”

• What is GOD saying to you?
• Is GOD putting something big in front of you and you are scared to do it?
• Can you accept GOD’s plan for you and begin affecting people whit HIS love today?

Incredible Timing

Mark 14: ¹² Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread, when they killed the Passover lamb, His disciples said to Him, “Where do You want us to go and prepare, that You may eat the Passover?”

¹³ And He sent out two of His disciples and said to them, “Go into the city, and a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him.¹⁴ Wherever he goes in, say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says, “Where is the guest room in which I may eat the Passover with My disciples?”’ ¹⁵ Then he will show you a large upper room, furnished and prepared; there make ready for us.”

¹⁶ So His disciples went out, and came into the city, and found it just as He had said to them; and they prepared the Passover.

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Driving on an expressway in a city of millions my junker of a car broke down in the middle of a lane. “What am I to do now?” I thought. Only a few minutes passed when I felt a gentle bump. I looked in my mirror and it was a couple of people gesturing that they would push my car with theirs. I put the car into gear to “pop the clutch” and the car started. Later I found out it was a friend I knew who pushed me.

• There have been times when something great happens to me.
• There have been times when something difficult happens to me.
• There have been times when the timing was just right and things just happened to go my way.

JESUS lays out a plan that on the surface sounds pretty staged. Did HE meet with a guy and set the whole thing up? I don’t think so. JESUS sent HIS disciples to a willing person who was open to share his place. The timing had to be perfect in order for them to follow the right person in this crowded town.

• GOD has incredible timing for me.
• GOD has miraculously watched over me every day.
• GOD has done some amazing things around me that I categorize as the mundane.

Giving thanks to GOD for what I consider “mundane” may be giving HIM thanks for a huge miracle. HIS timing includes protection from harm, guidance during stressful times and paths to HIS awesome plan. GOD’s timing is always incredible for me.

• Can you see GOD’s timing in your life?
• Do you think HE has pulled away from you?
• Will you open the eyes of your heart to see HIM working in your life?

Loser

Mark 14: ¹⁰ Then Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Him to them. ¹¹ And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised to give him money. So he sought how he might conveniently betray Him.

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As the newness of this potential boss wore off, I could see some flaws in his leadership style. Instead of helping, I put some “distance” away from his projects. I asked another leader in the department, “Can I work for you?”

• Sometimes I want to bail on a person who is not acting the way I want them to.
• Sometimes I want to leave the person I think is acting opposite of my beliefs.
• Sometimes I want to escape from the person I categorize as a “Loser.”

Judas decided to switch sides. As the political landscape was rapidly changing, Judas may have seen his fame, wealth and glory slipping away. “What a loser” Judas may have thought about JESUS. Since he had the inside track on JESUS, he figured he could simply have JESUS jailed and get some money. What harm could this do?

• GOD says to me “If you call your brother a worthless fool you will be in danger of going to the fire of hell.”
• GOD says to me “Put away all the following: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth.”
• GOD says to me “Have compassion.”

Impatient labeling is a dangerous practice. GOD wants me to remove my negative labels of people and see them as HE sees them… forgiven. HE wants me to stop judging people and to turn to HIS graceful ways. This is not always easy but it is a practice GOD is pleased with.

• Are you labeling someone?
• Do you place nothing but negative labels on others?
• Can you stop labeling people and start encouraging them to have a wonderful relationship with the LORD?

Legacy Moment

Mark 14: ³ And being in Bethany at the house of Simon the leper, as He sat at the table, a woman came having an alabaster flask of very costly oil of spikenard. Then she broke the flask and poured it on His head. ⁴ But there were some who were indignant among themselves, and said, “Why was this fragrant oil wasted? ⁵ For it might have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor.” And they criticized her sharply.

⁶ But Jesus said, “Let her alone. Why do you trouble her? She has done a good work for Me. ⁷ For you have the poor with you always, and whenever you wish you may do them good; but Me you do not have always. ⁸ She has done what she could. She has come beforehand to anoint My body for burial. ⁹ Assuredly, I say to you, wherever this gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her.”

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Sitting in a sales pitch was my least favorite thing to do but I was there. As the sales person went on and on about how wonderful this this was, I yawned and glanced at my watch. He then said something memorable. “Don’t you want this as a legacy to your kids?”

• There were times I wanted to leave a legacy.
• There were times when I wanted people to remember “my” name.
• There were times when the thought crossed my mind to be as famous as the latest famous people.

Like the woman who previously gave the equivalent of two pennies, this woman possibly gave all she had. She poured, what some would say, a month or even a year’s worth of income over JESUS’s head. Nothing was expected of her yet she did it.

• GOD expects nothing of me but is delighted when I do even the tiniest thing for HIM.
• GOD has no expectations of me but is filled with gratitude when I mention HIS SON.
• GOD is not looking for gifts but loves when I give to HIM from my heart.

“She has done what she could” is what JESUS said about the woman. JESUS didn’t need any new clothes or a car or a house where HE was going. HE was headed to HIS destiny and she gave what she could. JESUS is returning and wants my all. HE wants my house, cars and clothes. The more I can give them to HIM the less I will stress over them. JESUS is my legacy I give to people.

• What are you striving for?
• Do you want to be known?
• Can you stop trying to be in the spotlight and put JESUS in front always?

Who to do it for

Mark 14: After two days it was the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. And the chief priests and the scribes sought how they might take Him by trickery and put Him to death. ² But they said, “Not during the feast, lest there be an uproar of the people.”

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“Do I have to go?” was my question filled with dread. “Yes” was the answer and off we went to church. As I sat through the boring exposition I dreamt of other things I could be doing. “Man! I could be playing with my friends right now” I thought to myself.

• Sometimes I reluctantly do things.
• Sometimes I am not really present because I didn’t want to be there in the first place.
• Sometimes I am in a place for what “I” can get out of that place.

The church leader’s hearts were filled with so much poison that they could not hold it any longer. “This JESUS guy has got to go!” I imagined they said. “If we can fool the people then maybe HIS death will look like HE deserved it” is another thought.

They did this during the most holy time of celebration, the remembrance of GOD’s deliverance by passing HIS people over from death. They didn’t want an uproar from the people so they waited. They did not know who the Passover was for.

• GOD wants me to worship HIM not the building I go to.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS direction not just do things out of habit.
• GOD wants me to celebrate HIM not just celebrate traditions.

Attending church and celebrating special days in which GOD did something significant to all of mankind should not be taken lightly. GOD doesn’t want me celebrating the day, rather HE wants me to celebrate HIM.

HE should always be my focus but sometimes I slip into the comforts of blindly gathering without even mentioning HIM. Food and drink are wonderful, BUT GOD is my reason for celebration.

• Do you attend church without thinking about your relationship with GOD?
• Do you have big plans for a special day without once asking GOD what HE wants you to do?
• Will you stop doing things to be noticed by humans and do things strictly for GOD today?

Keep Looking Out

Mark 13: ³² “But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. ³³ Take heed, watch and pray; for you do not know when the time is. ³⁴ It is like a man going to a far country, who left his house and gave authority to his servants, and to each his work, and commanded the doorkeeper to watch. ³⁵ Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming—in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning— ³⁶ lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. ³⁷ And what I say to you, I say to all: Watch!”

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“Watch the food” said someone from another room. “Um Hmm” was my response but the message was clearly not received. I soon smelled something burning. I ran over to the stove only to see charred food. “Ohhh, I was supposed to watch the food” I realized in dismay.

• Being distracted can make me unaware.
• Being unaware can cause me to daydream.
• Daydreaming may cause me to miss something.

JESUS gives HIS final warning summarized in one word, “watch.” HE is referring to the ultimate demise of the earth, but it goes on a deeper level. JESUS also knows that life is fleeting and there is a specific day and time appointed for every human to die.

• GOD says to me “Watch for me daily.”
• GOD says to me “Stay on guard and do not get weary.”
• GOD says to me “Keep trusting because I AM with you always.”

Losing faith and giving up can cause me to fall asleep to GOD’s amazing works. When I fall asleep I cannot hear HIM or see HIM. I cannot be amazed rather I fall into feeling devastated. GOD says “Watch!” When I do watch, I notice GOD all around me. I can see HIS deliverance and protection and love. When I watch, I can see.

• Have your senses gotten dull?
• Have you lost your way and are blaming GOD for where you are?
• Can you take time today to quiet down and watch for GOD?

Word Power

Mark 13: ²⁸ “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender, and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.²⁹ So you also, when you see these things happening, know that it^[f] is near—at the doors! ³⁰ Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. ³¹ Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

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My limit had been reached. The person kept taunting me and I could not hold it in any longer. I blasted the person with a torrent of obscenities and degradations I had practiced in my mind. It felt better. I was superior!

• There were times I just wanted to bring someone down.
• There were times I wanted to just rip into a person.
• There were times I wanted to simply tell the person what I thought about them and make sure they never forgot my words.

JESUS says to HIS disciples that the earth would be destroyed someday. All the work humans thought was important would eventually disappear. But what will happen?

• GOD says to me “Pass MY words to as many people as you can.”
• GOD says to me “MY words do not go out without substantial return.”
• GOD says to me “Heaven and earth will pass away, but MY words will by no means pass away.”

Words spoken by JESUS are eternal so HE chose them carefully. HE wants me to do the same. Instead of practicing poisonous negative words filled with complaints and doubts, JESUS wants me to practice HIS words. GOD’s words are filled with compassion, love kindness and gentleness towards me. HE wants me to pass this on with abundance.

• Are you ready to curse someone out?
• Have you been replaying negative words over and over in your mind and are on the verge of spewing them out towards someone?
• Can you ask GOD to adjust your thinking and have HIM remove the poison so HIS sweet, sweet words can flow from your mouth today?

Incredible Return

Mark 13: ²⁴ “But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light; ²⁵ the stars of heaven will fall, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. ²⁶ Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. ²⁷ And then He will send His angels, and gather together His elect from the four winds, from the farthest part of earth to the farthest part of heaven.

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Not knowing who I was, a person took a picture of me, and then more started doing the same. A co-worker and I went to a professional football party and got a chance to walk on a red carpet. I was making a grand entrance and I was a “nobody” to this group.

• JESUS will one day return.
• JESUS will someday come back with great power.
• JESUS will reappear to gather HIS elect.

Without JESUS, no one would be saved. HE will return in a GOD-like fashion. Even the planets and the stars will be shaken. HIS return will definitely focus everyone on HIM.

• Are you trying to get attention?
• Do you think you are not special?
• Can you stop thinking poorly of yourself for moment and place your thoughts on how glorious JESUS really is today?

Early Warning System

Mark 13: ¹⁴ “So when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’  spoken of by Daniel the prophet,  standing where it ought not” (let the reader understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.¹⁵ Let him who is on the housetop not go down into the house, nor enter to take anything out of his house. ¹⁶ And let him who is in the field not go back to get his clothes. ¹⁷ But woe to those who are pregnant and to those who are nursing babies in those days! ¹⁸ And pray that your flight may not be in winter. ¹⁹ For in those days there will be tribulation, such as has not been since the beginning of the creation which God created until this time, nor ever shall be. ²⁰ And unless the Lord had shortened those days, no flesh would be saved; but for the elect’s sake, whom He chose, He shortened the days.

²¹ “Then if anyone says to you, ‘Look, here is the Christ!’ or, ‘Look, He is there!’ do not believe it. ²² For false christs and false prophets will rise and show signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.²³ But take heed; see, I have told you all things beforehand.

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“Our company is not doing well enough to keep projects going” said a person who I had a contract with. That was difficult news to hear but it was welcome as I had time to fully understand the situation and react accordingly.

• ·         There have been times when I had had difficult news told to me.
• ·         There has been news given to me that is thoroughly out of my control.
• ·         There have been when I have gone through situations that seem difficult.

The “Abomination of desolation” is probably one of the most controversial topics JESUS brings up. Rarely is it preached in churches even to this very day. HE spoke to HIS disciples about what has come and is coming. Many have said they were JESUS but were not. HE gives them early warning that what will take place will not be mistaken by those HE has chosen.

• ·         GOD warns me not to blindly follow humans.
• ·         GOD warns me to be prepared for HIS imminent return.
• ·         GOD warns me that days will sometimes be difficult, but HE is in control of the timing.

The great news is that I am chosen and so are those who believe in JESUS as their savior. Those who pretend to believe by secretly hiding behind their favorite human of the week will be in for a rude awakening. GOD does not do anything on small proportions.

From quarks to mountains to planets to stars in the universe, GOD is in them all and created all. Mankind is only here on this planet for a short number of days. GOD desires that we see HIM in everything and in every situation. HE has all under HIS control, all I need to do is believe.

• ·         Do you know you were chosen?
• ·         Can you stop thinking it is your good or bad acts that controls GOD’s living gift for you?
• ·         Will you heed GOD’s early warning and act as if the world were going to end today?