Family

Luke 8: ¹⁹ Then His mother and brothers came to Him, and could not approach Him because of the crowd. ²⁰ And it was told Him by some, who said, “Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see You.”

²¹ But He answered and said to them, “My mother and My brothers are these who hear the word of God and do it.”

============

“Stay and eat” said one of my mothers as my stomach growled. I gladly accepted the offer. “Come bowling with us” said one of my fathers as I was getting ready to go home. “Wow, these people are generous” I thought to myself.

• I used to think my relatives were only blood relatives.
• I used to think my only family were those I would visit on occasion.
• I used to think my relatives were those who were supposed to be in my corner.

JESUS increases the number of HIS relatives by saying “MY mother and MY brothers are these who hear the word of GOD and do it.” In other words, relatives do not have to be paternally or maternally driven.

• GOD wants me to seek to increase the “family” by bringing people to HIM.
• GOD wants me to be generous so I can increase HIS “family”
• GOD wants me to see the people around me can be part of HIS “family.”

GOD’s family is not limited by blood relations. HE opens HIS door to those who believe in JESUS as their personal savior. Those who do are adopted into a wonderful family that follows HIS will and serves others as HE guides them to do. I love being adopted in this wonderful family!

• Has your family disappointed you?
• Do you wish you were born of a different family?
• Can you forgive relatives who have hurt you and welcome people who follow GOD into your spiritual family today?

Open Lighting

Luke 8: ¹⁶ “No one, when he has lit a lamp, covers it with a vessel or puts it under a bed, but sets it on a lampstand, that those who enter may see the light. ¹⁷ For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light. ¹⁸ Therefore take heed how you hear. For whoever has, to him more will be given; and whoever does not have, even what he seems to have will be taken from him.”

============

Ashamed of who I was, I hung out with a group of people who could care less about GOD. We would drink and hang out and that was about the extent of the damage. “No harm, no foul” I thought to myself. I mean, who am I to push “my” values on someone?

• There were times when I was ashamed to be called a follower of GOD.
• There were times when I steered away from people with Bibles in their hands.
• There were times when I was scared to admit I believe in the power of JESUS.

JESUS spoke about hidden things using a parable. I believe HE is speaking about more than enlightenment as it pertains to knowledge. The “Light of GOD” heals, protects, grows and provides shelter for wounded hearts.

• GOD wants me to know that any light that is inside of me was placed there by HIM.
• GOD wants me to use the light HE gave me so many can be reached for HIM.
• GOD wants me to be transparent about my sins and GOD’s victories in my life so many would come to HIM.

Light is not “mine” rather it is GOD’s. HE placed light in me to shine before the world. I can snuff out the light by desiring what the world has to offer. When I keep quiet about GOD I allow the light to get dimmer and dimmer. Eventually, no light shines. GOD wants me to have so much more than the world has to offer. HE gave me light and I want to use it.

• Do you want more out of life?
• Is your life ruled by the world’s standards?
• Can you stop hiding your sin, fear and relationship with GOD so others can come to HIM through you?

Patient Fruit

Luke 8: ⁹ Then His disciples asked Him, saying, “What does this parable mean?”

¹⁰ And He said, “To you it has been given to know the ^[f]mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that

‘Seeing they may not see,
And hearing they may not understand.’

¹¹ “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. ¹² Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.¹³ But the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, who believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. ¹⁴ Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity. ¹⁵ But the ones that fell on the good ground are those who, having heard the word with a noble and good heart, keep it and bear fruit with patience.

============

“When will I ever be respected?” I said frustrated. I mean every word I said seemed to be stolen by someone in the room and credited to them. I decided I had enough. “I quit” was my solution to the situation. My patience had grown thin.

• Sometimes I want what I want, when I want it.
• Sometimes I get frustrated by circumstances out of my control.
• Sometimes I lose my patience for things going on around me.

JESUS explains the parable of the sower. HE sums up all of life in a few brief sentences. HE basically says that life will have temptations, interruptions, difficulties OR fruit. It is my choice.

• GOD says to me “Bear fruit with patience.”
• GOD says to me “Hear MY word and place it in your heart.”
• GOD says to me “Ask me for a noble and good heart.”

My selfish heart has more statements that revolve around me. The more I’m focused on me the more life can beat me up. GOD wants me to see more than me. HE wants to remove my blindness so I won’t fall into life’s holes so easily. HE gives me patience to not only endure trials, but to accept grace HE has for me and those who are disgusted with me. HE loves my fruit.

• Are you bearing GOD’s fruit?
• Are you so focused on yourself that no one else matters?
• Can you have patience through trials and with “that” person today?

Something Inside

Luke 8: ⁴ And when a great multitude had gathered, and they had come to Him from every city, He spoke by a parable: ⁵ “A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it. ⁶ Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture. ⁷ And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it.⁸ But others fell on good ground, sprang up, and yielded a crop a hundredfold.” When He had said these things He cried, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”

============

As we ate lunch the former officer over the department confided in me. He let me know in so many words that he watched over me. He didn’t directly say it, rather he thanked me for things I had no idea he knew.

• There were times when I was taken care of and did not know it.
• There were times when I was being watched over and had no idea why.
• There were times when I was protected and didn’t even realize I was in danger.

JESUS tells a parable of “The Sower.” What I noticed was the sower went out to sow some HIS seed. What made the sower go out?

• JESUS wants the best for me.
• JESUS seeks me daily and wants me to hear HIM.
• JESUS is motivated by love to seek me and feels a great loss when I do not listen.

What makes a person care for another person? JESUS! HE opens my wounded heart and fills it with HIS love, care and compassion. I would be exhausted if it were not for JESUS. HE is my “something inside.”

• Do you want motivation?
• Are you running on empty?
• Can you understand GOD’s compassion for you and allow HIM to change your life today?

Hope Power

Luke 8: Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, ² and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities—Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, ³ and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance.

============

Running as fast as I could I began to grow weary. I could see the bus, crammed with people,  that I missed and it seemed to get further and further away as I chased it. Finally I gave up as I saw the bus pick up momentum in a stretch where there were no awaiting passengers. I lost hope.

• Some days I felt like giving up.
• Some days it seemed like I was chasing something that I could never catch.
• Some days I felt like my legs were moving as fast as I could make them go, but I was standing still.

Jesus went through every city and village, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of GOD. HE brought hope to the hopeless. Many women who HE healed and saved were so grateful that they gave up everything just to serve HIM.

• JESUS wants me to place my hope in HIM.
• JESUS wants me to hear glad reports about the kingdom of GOD.
• JESUS wants me to not give up but stand still and wait on HIS power.

Hope brings me power. When I place my hope in what I can do, I run out of energy quickly. BUT GOD says “Wait on ME.” Back to the bus situation. I stopped at an obscure bus stop and minutes later an empty bus pulled up and I sat in comfort as this bus eventually passed the full one I was chasing. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

• Where are you placing your hope?
• Are you feeling down because things are not going your way?
• Can you stop trying to do things under your own power and get GOD’s power by placing your hope in HIM today?

Nothing to Give

Luke 7: ⁴⁰ And Jesus answered and said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.”

So he said, “Teacher, say it.”

⁴¹ “There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. ⁴² And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more?”

⁴³ Simon answered and said, “I suppose the one whom he forgave more.”

And He said to him, “You have rightly judged.” ⁴⁴ Then He turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head. ⁴⁵ You gave Me no kiss, but this woman has not ceased to kiss My feet since the time I came in. ⁴⁶ You did not anoint My head with oil, but this woman has anointed My feet with fragrant oil. ⁴⁷ Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.”

⁴⁸ Then He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.”

⁴⁹ And those who sat at the table with Him began to say to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?”

⁵⁰ Then He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.”

============

“Would you like a dining room set?” one family said to me. “Um, sure” I said to them. I went to their luxurious home and they had an extra dining room set with all the furniture I could imagine. “I don’t have anything to repay you” were the first words out of my mouth. “Just take it” they said.

• There were times when I felt bad because I had nothing to give.
• There were times when I had more needs than resources.
• There were times when I wanted to be a blessing to people but needed to be the recipient of blessing.

JESUS points out the flaw in humans thinking they have it all together. The Pharisee invited JESUS to his house and overlooked the need for hospitality. He did not give JESUS anything. The woman had nothing to give JESUS in return for her forgiveness. She could only offer tears and some expensive oil. She tried to give JESUS something and HE loved it.

• JESUS wants me to know I cannot repay HIM.
• JESUS wants me to know I owe HIM everything.
• JESUS wants me to know that if I serve the poor and hurt, I have served HIM.

I can never repay JESUS for forgiving me of my overt sins. HE sits right there and watches me do exactly what HE tells me not to do and then turns right around and forgives me.. All I can give HIM is my praise and desire to be like HIM. HE accepts my offering and loves me for trying.

• Do you feel you have to try harder to please GOD?
• Are you burnt out, thinking GOD is demanding more from you?
• Can you stop thinking GOD provides blessings based on your actions and simply believe HE loves you?

Inside Out

Luke 7: ³⁶ Then one of the Pharisees asked Him to eat with him. And He went to the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to eat. ³⁷ And behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, ³⁸ and stood at His feet behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with the fragrant oil. ³⁹ Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he spoke to himself, saying, “This Man, if He were a prophet, would know who and what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner.”

============

Garnished with a smile, I stepped into church. With worries as high as a mountain, I dare not smile and say “everything is fine” in front of the group. No one asked how I was doing, no one checked in the next week.

• There were times when the hurt outweighed the wealth.
• There were times when something inside just had to come out.
• There were times when I wanted to cry out, but had not place to do it.

The woman had a reputation of doing sinful things. She may have even been wealthy as she held an expensive alabaster flask of fragrant oil to anoint JESUS’s head. She was so hurt that she used her tears and hair to wash HIS feet. The Pharisee on the other hand criticized her lifestyle.

• GOD wants me to throw away my criticism.
• GOD wants me to stop looking at what other people are doing and tell HIM about my sin.
• GOD wants me to seek HIM when I am hurting.

The phonier the church, the more masks are worn by the attendees. Pharisees criticize people for their imperfections, BUT GOD sees through this. HE wants the sinner to be able to confess their sin without being damaged more. HE also does a wonderful thing by allowing me to come to HIM with any problem.

• Are you hurting?
• Is life up one day and down the next?
• Can you seek GOD directly with your hurt, worries and problems today?

You Are Doing It

Luke 7: ²⁹ And when all the people heard Him, even the tax collectors justified God, having been baptized with the baptism of John. ³⁰ But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the will of God for themselves, not having been baptized by him.

³¹ And the Lord said, “To what then shall I liken the men of this generation, and what are they like? ³² They are like children sitting in the marketplace and calling to one another, saying:

‘We played the flute for you,
And you did not dance;
We mourned to you,
And you did not weep.’

³³ For John the Baptist came neither eating bread nor drinking wine, and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ ³⁴ The Son of Man has come eating and drinking, and you say, ‘Look, a glutton and a winebibber, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ ³⁵ But wisdom is justified by all her children.”

============

“You are doing it wrong” I said to the person as I jumped in and started “helping” them. After a while I took over the task and the person shrunk away. “Thank goodness! They weren’t meeting my standards anyway.”

• Three have been times when I set the bar high when it came to meeting “my” expectations.
• There have been times when I talked about people who made mistakes and could not cut it.
• There have been times when I looked down on others who could not perform to what I thought should be the performance level.

The Pharisees and lawyers rejected being baptized by anyone who would call JESUS “GOD.” Their attitude seemed like they were doing everything right and JESUS was doing everything wrong. GOD HIMSELF appeared to them as a sinner and a drunkard.

• JESUS says to me “Do no judge lest you be judged.”
• JESUS says to me “Serve everyone, just as I have come to serve mankind.”:
• JESUS says to me “Follow ME and serve those who do not look or act like you.”

“You are doing it right” should be the words I say to someone who worships JESUS differently than I do. Instead of judging the people to “my” standard,

I should be praising GOD that there is another person who is doing things for HIS kingdom and I don’t have to do all the work. Unity is something GOD wants me to have so the kingdom can grow stronger.

• Are you judging someone?
• Do you feel you are doing things better than other people?
• Can you stop labeling people and start praising and encouraging them to follow GOD today?

Nobody Greater

Luke 7: ²⁴ When the messengers of John had departed, He began to speak to the multitudes concerning John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? ²⁵ But what did you go out to see? A man clothed in soft garments? Indeed those who are gorgeously appareled and live in luxury are in kings’ courts. ²⁶ But what did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I say to you, and more than a prophet.²⁷ This is he of whom it is written:

‘Behold, I send My messenger before Your face,
Who will prepare Your way before You.’

²⁸ For I say to you, among those born of women there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.”

============

“Wow” is all I could say as I walked into the executive wing. I saw a meeting with the top executive in the company making plans and doing whatever they did. “I want to be great like them” I said to myself.

• I used to have a different definition of greatness.
• I used to think greatness meant wealth and power.
• I used to see greatness as being a corporate executive whit a huge internal following.

JESUS spoke specifically about the greatness of John. He wasn’t dressed fancy or live in a fancy house. In fact, John was homeless and wore animal skins. JESUS says John was great because he put all of his time into spreading the great news about JESUS.

• GOD wants me to see HIM as my measure of greatness.
• GOD wants me to know that humans have no power over HIM.
• GOD wants me to know that Spiritual HIS kingdom is greater than any human.

Fancy cars, houses and tailored clothes does not make one great according to the LORD. GOD wants me to focus on bringing people to HIS kingdom. The least in HIS kingdom is greater than any rich or powerful human. GOD’s definition of great is what I seek.

• Are you seeking greatness?
• Do you want to be seen by humans as being great?
• Can you change your definition of greatness and focus on GOD’s greatness today?

Criteria

Luke 7: ²² Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. ²³ And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.”

============

“Write down your criteria for the person you are looking for” said Human Resources. I was searching for a candidate to hire and had to write a short list of standards the person needed to have in order to get the job.

• Sometimes I have set standards for how people will act.
• There were times when I set the conditions for how I expected people to behave.
• Sometimes I wonder what is the criteria for being GOD transformed into a human.

JESUS gives a shocking list that no human could do. HE healed the blind, lame, lepers and deaf people of their ailments. HE took it one step further and mention the dead are raised. One other strange item that JESUS added was “the poor have the gospel preached to them” as if not preaching to them was similar to the diseases and death HE just mentioned.

• GOD wants me to preach the gospel to the poor.
• GOD wants me to believe in HIS power over the physical body.
• GOD wants me to bold in my belief of HIM and the not be ashamed or offended by believing in HIM.

GOD’s standards are so far above mine. I mean, sometimes I just want GOD to give me a vacation or pay a few bills. HE is concerned about me and the other poor person HE sends me to, or the person who is sent to me. JESUS wants life and only HE can give it.

• Are you looking for something?
• Do you think you have the right criteria for your life?
• Can you allow GOD to guide you to the place HE wants you to be?

Expectations

Luke 7: ¹⁸ Then the disciples of John reported to him concerning all these things. ¹⁹ And John, calling two of his disciples to him, sent them to Jesus, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?”

²⁰ When the men had come to Him, they said, “John the Baptist has sent us to You, saying, ‘Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?’ ” ²¹ And that very hour He cured many of infirmities, afflictions, and evil spirits; and to many blind He gave sight.

============

After I was baptized, I felt my life had more of a purpose than just living. I was young, scrawny and misunderstood, but now I had GOD on my side. I expected my life to be smooth sailing from that moment on. When trouble hit, I questioned GOD’s power and love for me.

• There were times when I sought after GOD but was looking for HIM to act as “I” expected.
• There were times when I looked for GOD but could not see HIM because of “my” expectations.
• There were times when I listened for GOD but could not hear HIM because of “my” expectations.

No one in the world had ever healed people, driven out evil spirits and given sight to the blind except JESUS. HE did amazing things in the sight of huge crowds. John’s disciples did not want to be fooled. They asked “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?”

• JESUS wants me to expect trouble in life.
• JESUS wants me to expect HIM to decide when or if HE wants to get me out of life’s trials.
• JESUS wants me to expect an everlasting life with HIM beyond this life of highs and lows.

“Expectation” instead of “observation” leads to me being disappointed in GOD. When I expect GOD to do things “my” way, I often get disappointed. But when I observe GOD and the marvelous things HE does daily, I am amazed! HE shows me just how powerful, yet merciful HE is, each and every day. Mt expectation of GOD should be that HE cares for me deeply.

• What are you expecting GOD to do or look like or sound like?
• If HE does not meet “your” expectation will you run away from HIM?
• Can you change your expectations of GOD and seek to observe HIS majesty daily?

More Than a Visit

Luke 7: ¹¹ Now it happened, the day after, that He went into a city called Nain; and many of His disciples went with Him, and a large crowd. ¹² And when He came near the gate of the city, behold, a dead man was being carried out, the only son of his mother; and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the city was with her. ¹³ When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” ¹⁴ Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still. And He said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” ¹⁵ So he who was dead sat up and began to speak. And He presented him to his mother.

¹⁶ Then fear came upon all, and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has risen up among us”; and, “God has visited His people.” ¹⁷ And this report about Him went throughout all Judea and all the surrounding region.

============

“Do you mind if my friend crashes on your couch?” was the question posed to me  one weekend. “Sure” was my answer. That weekend turned into a week which turned into a month. Soon the “guest” was eating up my food. “When is he going to leave?” I asked.

• There were times when I had unwanted visitors.
• There were times when I thought the “visit” was only going to be temporary.
• There were times when I wanted the visitor to go home.

Ancient doctors could claim to heal people when they did something and the patient got well, but no one had ever raised someone from the dead, until JESUS. When HE said “Young man, I say to you, arise” the dead man got up and spoke. The crowd said “GOD has visited HIS people.”

• JESUS became a human specifically to die in my place.
• JESUS gave up everything just to save me.
• JESUS has been placed above everything and has lifted me up eternally.

What the crowd did not understand was JESUS didn’t just stop by for a visit, HE came to HIS humans with a purpose, namely redemption. The thought HE was going to heal one or two people with magical powers.

Little did they know that JESUS would heal all of humanity with HIS death and resurrection. Those who believe in HIS sacrifice will be with HIM eternally. I am grateful for being saved!

• Do you think GOD leaves you when you have problems?
• Do you think GOD is doing some sadistic laboratory test on you to see things HE doesn’t already know?
• Can you stop thinking negatively about GOD and see the enormous sacrifice HE did for you today?

Faith Practice

Luke 7: ⁶ Then Jesus went with them. And when He was already not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to Him, saying to Him, “Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof. ⁷ Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. ⁸ For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.”

⁹ When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have not found such great faith, not even in Israel!” ¹⁰ And those who were sent, returning to the house, found the servant well who had been sick.

============

“How will I ever do this?” I said to myself nervously. I had never done this before and I did not feel comfortable. As I took a deep breath, I got behind the wheel of the car. To my dismay, there were other practicing drivers sitting in the back seat. “Put the car in drive” the instructor said. I followed his instructions. After the drive was over, I felt more confident. “When will we do this again?” I said excitedly!

• Sometimes my faith is lacking.
• Sometimes I am not confident because of the unknown.
• Sometimes I need help with my faith.

One thing I noticed is the centurion never actually came out to speak with JESUS. He sent messengers to communicate between them because he did not feel worthy to be in JESUS’s presence. The centurion also believe in JESUS’s authority, so much so, that he could accept a word from JESUS knowing the healing would take place.

• JESUS wants me to practice having faith in HIM.
• JESUS wants me to believe in HIS authority over all of my situations.
• JESUS wants me to be more and more confident in HIS abilities and less confident in mine.

Just knowing JESUS is concerned about my situations is good enough. I mean once I know HE is handling the circumstance, I feel better. I praise HIM in the middle of the storm rather than when it is over, but it took practice to get there. Yes, I still question “why” and sin, BUT GOD teaches me faith daily and I trust HIM more and more.

• Do you feel your faith is lacking?
• Are you facing a huge situation that seems insurmountable?
• Can you allow GOD to have authority over your circumstance to do as HE pleases?
• Will you put your trust in HIM today?

Convincing and Deserving

Luke 7: Now when He concluded all His sayings in the hearing of the people, He entered Capernaum. ² And a certain centurion’s servant, who was dear to him, was sick and ready to die. ³ So when he heard about Jesus, he sent elders of the Jews to Him, pleading with Him to come and heal his servant. ⁴ And when they came to Jesus, they begged Him earnestly, saying that the one for whom He should do this was deserving, ⁵ “for he loves our nation, and has built us a synagogue.”

============

Bargaining was all I had left. I sat and replayed my story over and over, trying to get the words straight, but the pressures of life kept creeping in my head. Finally, I thought of what I would say… “LORD, why?” “I’m good!” “I did x, yesterday, y last week and z years ago.” “Why am I still having problems.”

• There are times when I want to convince GOD that I am good.
• There are times when I want to tell GOD about what I have done for HIM.
• There are times when I want to let GOD know I deserve better because I have been “good.”

The centurion was a wealthy, connected man. He learned how to get things done by having people speak on his behalf. But he did not know who he was approaching. He sent who he thought would convince JESUS to do his bidding. He asked church leaders to speak on his behalf because he did not know where to turn.

• GOD wants me to see HIM as the first plan, not the last resort.
• GOD wants me to recognize that I do not deserve better treatment but I can humbly ask for it.
• GOD wants me to seek HIM for myself, especially when I do not feel worthy.

Convincing GOD that I deserve better treatment counters what HE thinks of humans. HIS declaration that any human who is a physical descendant of Adam and Eve is born into sin. BUT JESUS was conceived spiritually and qualified to redeem the world.

JESUS is my Savior and nothing I can say or do can convince HIM I am good. HE is the one who makes me good because HE died and is now alive for me.

• Are you trying to bargain with GOD?
• Do you feel you deserve better?
• Can you admit you may not deserve to have your problem fixed, but ask GOD to grant you grace in exchange for your praise?

It’s Gonna Rain

Luke 6: ⁴⁶ “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? ⁴⁷ As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. ⁴⁸ They are like a man 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. ⁴⁹ 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.”

============

“I think it’s going to rain” I said to my parents. “Can I please wear my new raincoat?” I begged. They said “Yes” so I ran outside and prepared for the downpour. It was a sunny hot day and I was the only one wearing a bright yellow raincoat on the schoolyard. I took embarrassingly took it off when I was teased.  

When school was over, I “forgot” the coat. The next day it rained. “Where is your coat?” my parents asked.

• There have been times when I tried to follow the rules.
• There were times when I tried to play it safe.
• There were times when I tried to be prepared but was not.

JESUS gives a lesson that sounds a bit harsh, but was actually done in love. HE talks about being prepared for difficult times by following HIS words. Those who put them into action will be able to endure tough times, but those who do not will fall to pieces when the storms of life blow.

• GOD says to me “Follow MY Son because I AM please with HIM.”
• GOD says to me “Be strong and place your faith in ME.”
• GOD says to me “Be like a tree planted by the water’s edge.”

I can question GOD’s intent for having storms, but will be met with more questions than answers. HE does, however, tell me to be prepared for the storms. HE wants me to put on prayer, peace, faith, righteousness, salvation and the SPIRIT as my protection. I may fall to sin, but I am lifted up by the ONE who forgives me.

• Are you ready for the storms of life?
• Are you being blown around by the problems life brings?
• Can you stop trying human tactics and look to GOD to strengthen you “through” the storm of life?

Yuck Mouth

Luke 6: ⁴³ “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.44 Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thorn bushes, or grapes from briers. ⁴⁵ A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

============

Making people laugh felt great. After I strung together a beautiful tapestry of foul words and nasty quips, I had my makeshift audiences filled with laughter. Afterwards, I would use my filthy mouth to bring someone down to size, especially if they cut me off in traffic!

• There were times when I was full of rage.
• There were times when I would sit and think of foul things.
• There were times when my foul thoughts turned into foul words.

JESUS spoke about the heart. HE mentioned that whatever is in the heart will come out of the mouth. This would be good or bad fruit.

• GOD says to me “Whatever you sow, you will reap.”
• GOD says to me “Teach people about MY love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”
• GOD says to me “Treat people how you want to be treated and how I want you to treat them.”

Bearing fruit for GOD means my heart has to change. I need to see things from a different perspective. Rage, filth and ego can only be replaced by GOD’s love, grace and mercy when I recognize the need for HIM. HE provides in HIS way and time. No longer should I complain, but praise!

• What conversations have you held recently?
• Have you been complaining or spreading peace?
• Will you mature enough to teach people about GOD’s everlasting love to others today?

Booger Check

Luke 6: ⁴¹ “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? ⁴² How can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

============

“Keep your nose clean and check for boogers along the way” was the sage advice I was not expecting. I was headed into meet with the steering committee to discuss an important project and needed some pointers. “What was that supposed to mean?”

I blew off the advice and went to seek those who were more critical. I got plenty of advice. One day, an executive pulled me to the side and asked me “Why are you hanging around the group who drags people down?”

• There were times when I wanted to be part of the critical group.
• There were times when I wanted to criticize versus being criticized.
• There were times when I kept company with nay-sayers and I soon turned into one of them.

JESUS points out how deep a critical heart can run. I believe HE was saying “How can you be critical with others when you have not declared yourself a disaster?”

• GOD wants me to check my attitude when I approach HIM or HIS children.
• GOD wants me to look at myself before I step in with HIM.
• GOD wants me to examine my pitiful attempt at righteousness and count my actions as dung instead of patting myself on the back.

I finally learned I needed to do a “Booger check” with others. We would sit together and help each other with our blind spots. This close group would eventually watch each other’s back and would accept advice as well as dish it out. GOD wants me to admit I need help first before jumping in and providing my “wisdom.”

• Are you critical of others?
• Do you find wrong in what other people easily?
• Can you examine yourself before you are critical of others so you will change your approach with them?

Blind Mentor

Luke 6: ³⁹ He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? ⁴⁰ The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher.

============

Finally I got a chance to meet with the executive. I had been waiting to get on his calendar for weeks. Waiting on his sage advice, I was bubbling over with wonder. After I left the meeting I felt dejected. I mean he spoke in circles as if to protect his territory.

• There were times when I was blind.
• There were times when I sought advice from other blind people.
• There were times when I hoped to be richer and more powerful and even more blind.

JESUS spoke in a parable from which the meaning was not as direct. I believe HE is saying, “Those who desire to learn may sometimes seek the wrong mentors, but if you have the right teacher, you can grow.”

• JESUS says to me “Take MY yoke upon you and learn of ME.”
• JESUS says to me “Remember MY words and you will be well.”
• JESUS says to me “I AM the gate and the door, no one enters MY kingdom without coming through ME.”

Worldly advice carries some wisdom, but is faulty. If I seek evil wisdom, I can find it, but it has no gain. GOD says that worldly wisdom is blind. HE wants me to seek wisdom from the HOLY SPIRIT.  When I learn from GOD I can become more like HIM.

• Are you confused and looking for a mentor?
• Are your desires in line with GOD’s desires for you?
• Can you seek training from the HOLY SPIRIT  by asking GOD to guide you today?

Simply Be

Luke 6: ³⁷ “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. ³⁸ Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”

============

Asked to interview for the position, I felt delighted and suspicious at the same time. “They will not like me” I said to myself. I looked at their “evil” “sneaky” “low-down” ways and automatically said, there is no way I want to work with “these” people. I had no idea they wanted me to work on changing the culture.

• When I judge people I make assumptions.
• When I condemn people I may be missing out on opportunities.
• When I treat people as throw away, then I am measuring them.

JESUS says some very difficult words to absorb. HE breaks through the natural act of self-preservation by teaching people not to judge or condemn people too fast. HE knows humans use filters that may be inadequate to truly assess the situation. HE has different expectations.

• JESUS wants me to be generous instead of judging.
• JESUS wants me to speak life instead of pouring out poison.
• JESUS wants me to recognize the need for forgiveness so I can recognize that I need to be forgiven.

Blindness comes from a judgmental condemning attitude. Soon, no one can meet “my” standards. BUT GOD wants me to behave differently. HE want me to “Welcome”, “Edify”, “Build”, “Forgive” and “Love” as I want to be treated by HIM.

Here is another way to put it… Each thought I have and action I do, I am saying to GOD, “Please do the same to me.”  GOD gives me an abundance of what is in my heart.

• How do you treat people?
• Are you suspicious and judgmental so you can protect yourself?
• Can you stop judging and condemning people and start lifting them up so you can be lifted up by GOD?

A Little Too Easy

Luke 6: ³² “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners love those who love them. ³³ And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even sinners do that. ³⁴ And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, expecting to be repaid in full.35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. ³⁶ Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

============

Irritated and disgusted were the words that described this particular week. Even on Saturday, I brooded over the divisiveness the group I worked with fostered. When I stepped in church, I felt relief. I mean everyone looked and acted like me so I felt comfortable. It was easy.

• Sometimes I want to separate GOD from certain parts of my life.
• Sometimes I desire to have an easy time serving GOD.
• Sometimes I wish that doing things for GOD would be trouble free and easy.

JESUS challenges HIS followers thinking by asking the right questions. HE asks them about their choices to love and serve people who look and act like them. HE says it is easy to serve people who already love you and have plenty of money to repay you. Unfortunately that would constrain who I serve. GOD has an answer.

• GOD wants me to have a larger reward by loving my enemies.
• GOD wants me to be extremely blessed by loaning to those who cannot pay me back.
• GOD wants me to serve those who are ungrateful and wicked because I am the same.

The HEAVENLY FATHER is merciful to me and HE expects me to be the same towards others, especially those who are difficult to serve. Patience, love and kindness gets added each time I show mercy to those who are constantly angry at me, or show their hatred towards me.

GOD blesses me to see people in a different light. Instead of adversarial stances, HE grants me the ability to pray for those who may never pray for me. I look forward to the rewards HE promises me.

• Are you upset with someone or some group of people?
• Do you place blame on them for what they have done?
• Can you stop seeking blame and seek restoration just as GOD has restored you with HIS mercy?