Requests

Luke 22: ³¹ ‘Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. ³² But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.’

³³ But he replied, ‘Lord, I am ready to go with you to prison and to death.’

³⁴ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, Peter, before the cock crows today, you will deny three times that you know me.’

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Fueled by controlled anger, I figured that I would go above the person and talk to their boss. I mean the behavior needed to stop. Little did I know that the boss was in on the behavior and the consequences fell back on me.

• There were times when I wanted to accuse people.
• There were times when I wanted to tell on people to a higher authority.
• There were times when I wanted to go to someone in charge and get them on “my” side against “that” person.

Satan requested permission to manipulate Peter into denying his faith in JESUS. Peter responded to JESUS that he would never do such a thing. JESUS knew Peter would deny HIM three times before the rooster crowed. He would fail.

• GOD wants me to choose between complaining about people or praying for them.
• GOD wants me to choose whether I will join in on the complaining or be part of HIS solution.
• GOD wants me to choose poisonous word or pure words.

Accusing is something Satan does day and night before the throne. He complains in a wild torrent of rage to GOD and requests to test GOD’s children’s faith. In many instances, I fail. BUT GOD took care of that and picks me up to “strengthen my brothers and sisters.”

GOD wants me to think differently. HE wants me to stop acting like Satan by accusing “that” person before the throne. Others may complain about me, BUT GOD wants me to pray for their abundant salvation so things will go well for me.

• What requests are you putting before the throne?
• Are you complaining about someone or are you asking GOD for your forgiveness and theirs?
• Will you request more grace to fit in your life so you can “strengthen” people from Satan’s attacks?

Seeking Greatness

Luke 22: ²¹ But the hand of him who is going to betray me is with mine on the table. ²² The Son of Man will go as it has been decreed. But woe to that man who betrays him!’ ²³ They began to question among themselves which of them it might be who would do this.

²⁴ A dispute also arose among them as to which of them was considered to be greatest. ²⁵ Jesus said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves Benefactors. ²⁶ But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves. ²⁷ For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one who is at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. ²⁸ You are those who have stood by me in my trials. ²⁹ And I confer on you a kingdom, just as my Father conferred one on me, ³⁰ so that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

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Potato chip boxes, old coffee cans and a few bulbs from flashlights were the materials of my science project idea. I planned on building a robot. This idea would definitely “win” the science fair. “I could just see it now, they would give me the trophy or ribbon or some sort of prize”, I imagined as I jumped into my pursuit.

• Many times I wanted to be known as “great.”
• Many times I wanted to “win” something.
• Many times I wanted to be the one who was on “top” rather than being on the bottom of the junk pile.

JESUS had just told the disciples that one of them would betray HIM. After each disciple questioned whether it was them or not, they went into a familiar discussion amongst humans. The disciples argued over who would be greater. I imagine them remembering how they healed someone just by speaking, so of course they would be greater than someone else, right?

• GOD tells me to serve HIS people without thinking of becoming “great.”
• GOD tells me to be genuine with HIS people and hope for the best, even for my enemies.
• GOD tells me to humble myself and allow HIM to decide how high HE wants to raise me among humans and in heaven.

Pursuing human greatness has its flaws. Humans can flatter in order to become great within themselves. JESUS knows that worldly greatness cannot compare to HIS greatness. HE wants me to focus on HIS kingdom by becoming a servant to as many people I can while I am alive. GOD wants me to bear HIS fruit. I am grateful to be HIS servant.

• Are you stuck on trying to be great?
• Are you frustrated because your human plans have fallen apart?
• Will you allow GOD to declare how great you should be and allow HIM to deliver you to the right person to speak about HIM today?

Have to be told

Luke 22: ¹⁴ When the hour came, Jesus and his apostles reclined at the table. ¹⁵ And he said to them, ‘I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer. ¹⁶ For I tell you, I will not eat it again until it finds fulfilment in the kingdom of God.’

¹⁷ After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, ‘Take this and divide it among you. ¹⁸ For I tell you I will not drink again from the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.’

¹⁹ And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’

²⁰ In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.

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“An apple?” I questioned in my mind. I mean I wanted some doughnuts or something good to eat and this “old” person hands me some fruit. “Say thank you” another adult commanded me. “Why should I be thankful?” I questioned in my head. Not too long after, the lady passed away.

• Many times I had to be told to be thankful.
• Many times I had to be pointed in the direction of what someone had done for me.
• Many times I had to have my eyes open to the blessings that have been poured out on me.

JESUS tells HIS disciples something they could not understand. HE thanked the FATHER then explains that HE would be murdered for them so please remember HIM when you eat. HE then said “This cup is the new covenant in MY blood, which is poured out for you.”

• GOD had to tell me to be thankful otherwise I would not see HIS blessings.
• GOD had to tell me what HE has done for me otherwise I would be full of complaints.
• GOD had to tell me HE rescued me otherwise I would think that I am responsible for all my blessings.

“Remember ME” is what JESUS tells me when I try to manipulate GOD into giving me what I want. I mean HE sees when I am trying to be good so I can ask for something I want to have. During those times, HE wants me to remember HIM and what HE did for me.

When I am doubtful of HIS love, “Remember ME”. When I am feeling low “Remember ME.” When I have just about had enough “Remember ME.” JESUS doesn’t give me elaborate instructions to build a temple with my bare hands. HE simply wants me to remember HIM.

• Have you forgotten what GOD has done for you?
• Do you think you deserve more than you have?
• Will you praise JESUS today and remember what HE has don for you?

Amazing Timing

Luke 22: ⁷ Then came the day of Unleavened Bread on which the Passover lamb had to be sacrificed. ⁸ Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, ‘Go and make preparations for us to eat the Passover.’

⁹ ‘Where do you want us to prepare for it?’ they asked.

¹⁰ He replied, ‘As you enter the city, a man carrying a jar of water will meet you. Follow him to the house that he enters, ¹¹ and say to the owner of the house, “The Teacher asks: where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?” ¹² He will show you a large room upstairs, all furnished. Make preparations there.’

¹³ They left and found things just as Jesus had told them. So they prepared the Passover.

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“What a life-changing trip” I said to myself as I left my first missionary journey to a large city in a large country on a large continent. It was kind of sad to leave the people, especially the ones I had long conversations. Two years later I went back and was standing in a very populated place. Someone called out my name. It was a person I met two years prior.

• Many times I have run into someone I knew in a strange place at a strange time.
• Many times I have seen circumstances clear themselves up in amazing timing.
• Many times I have been at “the right place at the right time.”

JESUS gives precise instructions on a very random event. HE tells them to follow a guy with a jug of water on his head. There could have been twenty or thirty people doing this. Which one would be the right one? The disciples did has HE said and found everything just as HE said.

• JESUS says to me “I will take care of you.”
• JESUS says to me “MY timing is the best timing.”
• JESUS says to me “There are no coincidences, only MY power.”

GOD’s timing is amazing timing. I mean I have been in some pretty precarious positions and HE has never failed me. HE raises me up when I feel down. In this passage, another amazing timing thing happened. JESUS was being prepared as the sacrifice for mankind on the same day as the sacrifice of the Passover lamb. GOD has no coincidences in my life, only great plans.

• Have you seen GOD’s timing lately?
• Do you think coincidences happen in your life?
• Will you give GOD the credit HE deserves for guiding you in HIS plan HE has for you today?

Unfair Trade

Luke 22: Now the Festival of Unleavened Bread, called the Passover, was approaching, ² and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some way to get rid of Jesus, for they were afraid of the people. ³ Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve. ⁴ And Judas went to the chief priests and the officers of the temple guard and discussed with them how he might betray Jesus. ⁵ They were delighted and agreed to give him money. ⁶ He consented, and watched for an opportunity to hand Jesus over to them when no crowd was present.

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“Are you with us?” was the question posed to me. The crowd wanted a person fired but needed my title and position to make it happen. After meeting with the person, I gathered enough “evidence” to make the call, although it took a while to find anything really wrong. They had to go, was my final thought. I mean, this person wasn’t going to matter in the long run, right?

• There were times when I traded in my values to do what the crowd wanted me to do.
• There were times when I went with the crowd to protect “my” world.
• There were times when I overlooked the innocent to figure out how to make the rich richer.

The church leaders had enough of JESUS and wanted to have HIM killed but they couldn’t figure out how to do it and keep their “holy” appearance. Judas was open minded enough to have Satan tempt him into betraying JESUS. Judas saw this wonderful amount of money offered and figured this person didn’t matter in the long run.

• GOD says to me “Every person matters to ME.”
• GOD says to me “Do not let your heart be so concerned with getting your way that you allow Satan to drive your desires.”
• GOD says to me “Narrow is the path, but stay on it and I will be your guide.”

One day I will have to stand before GOD and account for everything I have done. Unlike a monetary system, sin outweighs any “good” I could ever do. JESUS did an unfair trade for me. HE gave HIS life in place of mine. HE decided to take my punishment in order to rescue me. I cannot thank JESUS enough for what HE has done.

• Are you justifying being “unfair” to someone?
• Do you think your slander is not seen by GOD?
• Will you turn your heart over to GOD and allow HIM to guide your words today?

Partying and Worrying

Luke 21: ³⁴ ‘Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you suddenly like a trap. ³⁵ For it will come on all those who live on the face of the whole earth. ³⁶ Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.’

³⁷ Each day Jesus was teaching at the temple, and each evening he went out to spend the night on the hill called the Mount of Olives, ³⁸ and all the people came early in the morning to hear him at the temple.

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Worried about my future, I decided to go on a trip with friends. We all piled into a hotel room dreaming of the clubs we would hit that night. Although the distraction of having ”fun” was welcome, I still had a ton of worries on my mind. The party lifestyle was not a remedy.

• There have been times when I sought out worldly “fun” to ease my pain.
• There have been times when I was going through problems, so I sought out something to distract me from those problems.
• There have been times when I felt so low that I needed something to pick me up.

JESUS gives HIS final warning to HIS followers not to fill their hearts with the partying lifestyle nor with worries of life. Both would distract HIS followers from seeking HIM daily.

• GOD wants me to look for HIM to guide me daily.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS solutions to my problems.
• GOD wants me to pray that I may be ready for HIS return every day so that I may be ready to stand in front of HIM.

Being prepared for the return of CHRIST seems antiquated in some folk’s mind. I mean HE has been gone for thousands of years, why would HE return today. JESUS wants me to live my life as if HE was going to return tomorrow. Since I do not know what preparation HE is doing or why HE delays HIS return, I still have the obligation to seek HIM.

GOD wants me to act like the world is about to be on fire and HE wants me to diligently seek those who choose to reject everything HE has already told us. I can now fill my heart with prayer.

• Are you worried so much that you want the party lifestyle?
• Are you so distracted with life that you have not thought about GOD at all during your day?
• Will you set your mind on GOD just a little today so you can see what HE has in store for you?

Stability

Luke 21: ²⁹ He told them this parable: ‘Look at the fig-tree and all the trees.³⁰ When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. ³¹ Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.

³² ‘Truly I tell you, this generation will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened. ³³ Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

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Disturbed at the situation, I asked a few people for advice. Unfortunately, each person had their own way of dealing with the puzzle. Some used rage and forcefulness while others used cunning and wit and another used empirical information. What should I trust?

• Sometimes when I need to make decisions, I get confused.
• Sometimes when there are many viewpoints I try to get the truth, but truth seems “relative.”
• Sometimes when I am faced with large circumstances, I want to make the best choice and not waiver.

JESUS continues with HIS discussion about the end of the age. HE tells a parable about humans recognizing that spring is near by their observation of the budding of the trees. HE tried to tie this analogy to recognizing the signs of the times.

• GOD wants me to recognize the signs of the times.
• GOD wants me to understand that even though there will be a “falling away” from HIM, I must hold onto HIS promises.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS words so I can make better decisions that are based on HIS truths.

Looking back, the best decisions I have ever made were those based on following GOD. Humans can try to put their political spin on things or their negative view, BUT GOD’s word provides me with a stable path to walk on. Any and every circumstance I can face is addressed through statements given by GOD to me through many prophetic writers.

 JESUS says something extremely important. “Heaven and earth will pass away, but MY words will never pass away.” I choose to seek HIS words as mu stable foundation.

• Do you waiver from the philosophies of humans?
• Do you try to join superior groups only to find they are infallible?
• Can you stop seeking human wisdom and seek GODLY wisdom, knowledge and understanding today?

Nature

Luke 21: ²⁰ ‘When you see Jerusalem being surrounded by armies, you will know that its desolation is near. ²¹ Then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains, let those in the city get out, and let those in the country not enter the city. ²² For this is the time of punishment in fulfilment of all that has been written. ²³ How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers! There will be great distress in the land and wrath against this people. ²⁴ They will fall by the sword and will be taken as prisoners to all the nations. Jerusalem will be trampled on by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

²⁵ ‘There will be signs in the sun, moon and stars. On the earth, nations will be in anguish and perplexity at the roaring and tossing of the sea.²⁶ People will faint from terror, apprehensive of what is coming on the world, for the heavenly bodies will be shaken. ²⁷ At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.²⁸ When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.’

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Startled, I jumped back so the animal could not lurch at me as it did before. “Don’t worry, it’s only acting natural” the animal’s keeper told me. This did not give me any assurance, but I heeded the warnings and did not try to pet it.

• Some things in nature confuse me.
• Some things in nature makes me a bit nervous.
• Some things in nature keeps me on edge.

JESUS continues with HIS prediction of what will come. HE speaks about the nature of humans and how they want power over others. HE speaks about how horrible those in power will treat their captives, but HE says this will last only for a period of time. HE then speaks about nature itself becoming more and more violent and disruptive.

• GOD says to me “I can see your heart and though you turned away from ME, I died for you.”
• GOD says to me “I know your thoughts and I still have plans to prosper you to a hope and a future.”
• GOD says to me “When I return, the heavenly bodies will be shaken.”

Waiting for something to happen for thousands of years can seem quite crazy. As one volcano erupts, humans scurry to see if the end is coming, but when it does not, they fall to their old, non-believing ways. JESUS tries to be as candid as possible.

HE has already seen what HE is trying to tell HIS people in this passage, yet the warning falls on deaf ears to some. Our expectation of GOD is to fix the cursed earth to be heaven. In other words we want to tell GOD to lie and go back on HIS word. GOD set the beginning and the end in motion and these things must take place. It is only natural. I will one day stand up and lift my head towards HIM.

• Have you gotten weary at looking for JESUS’s return?
• Do the problems of the day take precedence over waiting on GOD?
• Will you stop looking for heaven on earth and be thankful for every moment GOD has given you?

Strange Confidence

Luke 21: ¹⁰ Then he said to them: ‘Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. ¹¹ There will be great earthquakes, famines and pestilences in various places, and fearful events and great signs from heaven.

¹² ‘But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you. They will hand you over to synagogues and put you in prison, and you will be brought before kings and governors, and all on account of my name.¹³ And so you will bear testimony to me. ¹⁴ But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. ¹⁵ For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. ¹⁶ You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers and sisters, relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. ¹⁷ Everyone will hate you because of me. ¹⁸ But not a hair of your head will perish.¹⁹ Stand firm, and you will win life.

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“Let’s just have a discussion” the newscaster said to me in an effort to calm me down. She may have sensed that I was nervous so she randomly asked me questions before the show began. Fortunately for me, they recorded the practice discussion because I was relaxed. The answers seemed natural.

• Sometimes when I practice what I am going to say, I get nervous.
• Sometimes when I build up my answer in my mind, I get anxious.
• Sometimes when I play things over and over in my mind, I forget to live within the moment.

JESUS stirs many emotions when HE discuss the problems HIS followers would face. HE discusses huge, GOD sized problems that mere humans would face. Then HE says something strange. “Make up your minds not to worry beforehand” were HIS words of affirmation.

• GOD says to me “I will give you words of wisdom.”
• GOD says to me “I will protect you and not a hair on your head will perish.”
• GOD says to me “Stand firm and you will win life.”

“Relax and stop thinking about what you will say to your adversaries” is the gist of what GOD is telling me. HE knows humans are competitive and combative towards one another, especially towards those who believe in JESUS.

GOD wants me to drop my worries about what I will say to defend myself and rely on HIS power to give me the right words at the right time. HE is my sole protector (S O L E) and my soul protector (S O U L).

• Are you worried about something?
• Do you want an outcome to happen but are worried about it?
• Can you give your worries to GOD and allow HIM to give you words of peace rather than practicing what you will say to “that” person?

Don’t Get Used To It

Luke 21: ⁵ Some of his disciples were remarking about how the temple was adorned with beautiful stones and with gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, ⁶ ‘As for what you see here, the time will come when not one stone will be left on another; every one of them will be thrown down.’

⁷ ‘Teacher,’ they asked, ‘when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are about to take place?’

⁸ He replied: ‘Watch out that you are not deceived. For many will come in my name, claiming, “I am he,” and, “The time is near.” Do not follow them. ⁹ When you hear of wars and uprisings, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the end will not come right away.’

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Streets did not go through so there was plenty of places to play. The neighborhood was still being built and I could go on my quest to find loose pieces of wood to build my clubhouse or scooter depending on the mood. This was a paradise I thought would never change.

• I marveled at how amazing things were at one time.
• I was amazed at the paradise I was in.
• I thought things would never change in “my” paradise.

Some of the disciples may have been trying to steer JESUS towards wanting a human paradise. They spoke to HIM about the temple how much it cost to build. BUT JESUS told them the temple would one day be torn down. They couldn’t believe it.

• GOD says to me “Your journey on this earth is only temporary.”
• GOD says to me “I have place you here temporarily to bring MY sheep back to me.”
• GOD says to me “Do not get used to living here for you home is much greater than this.”

Unfortunately JESUS also told the disciples about humanity. Hatred would rise up enough to cause wars that would tear things up. As long as there is hatred, there will be no paradise on earth. GOD warns me and says “Do not be frightened” because HE is in control.

HE knows my future and has protected me all the way to the day HE has appointed for me. Neighborhoods and houses can be nice, but heaven is my home.

• Are you working hard to make earth your paradise?
• Do you struggle to form a utopia?
• Will you stop thinking there is a better place somewhere on earth and fulfill your purpose for GOD today?

Full Trust

Luke 21: As Jesus looked up, he saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. ² He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. ³ ‘Truly I tell you,’ he said, ‘this poor widow has put in more than all the others. ⁴ All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.’

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Watching the other bikers soar high and then land made me want to try. I got in line behind the others and watched them pedal hard then roll over the board that was leaning on a cinder block in the middle of our street.

It was my turn. I pedaled but at the last moment I thought about the flimsiness of the setup. I went too slow and I crashed!

• There were times when I got filled with fear.
• There were times when I doubted and could not perform.
• There were times when I did not fully trust the situation and bumped my head.

JESUS marveled over a poor widow who gave all she had. Most would think HE was speaking about offering. JESUS knew she had no means to gain income and no one to take care of her. HE was excited that she put her full trust in GOD to provide.

• GOD wants me to fully trust HIM.
• GOD wants me to give my all to HIM.
• GOD wants me to embrace HIM at every turn.

How much do I trust GOD to love me and take care of me? I believe this is the illustration JESUS was trying to make. Whether it means giving to a church or a homeless person or my time with someone in need, it should be done with “hope” in mind.

I should not fear to do what GOD wants me to do . I should pedal life’s bicycle harder and throw away the fear of failing HIM. GOD loves me and I trust HIM to decide where I should go and what I should do.

• Is your trust in GOD low?
• Do you feel like giving up on the pursuit HE has you doing?
• Will you continue to put your all in HIM and trust that HE will have the best outcome for you?

Don’t Play

Luke 20: ⁴⁵ While all the people were listening, Jesus said to his disciples, ⁴⁶ ‘Beware of the teachers of the law. They like to walk around in flowing robes and love to be greeted with respect in the market-places and have the most important seats in the synagogues and the places of honour at banquets. ⁴⁷ They devour widows’ houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. These men will be punished most severely.’

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“I dare you to tap his arm” was the playground statement posed to me. This person was known for fighting and had an extremely short fuse. I wandered over and as I got close he turned around and said “Don’t play with me!” I could tell he meant it and, not risking a beating, I walked away. Laughter ensued.

• There were times when I heeded the warnings.
• There were times when I read the signs correctly in spite of what everyone thought.
• There were times when I was forced into using proper judgment.

JESUS warns the people not to be like the church leaders who loved their positions more than GOD or HIS people. HE knew they had money and power on their minds and spoke harshly against it. Even though their prayers contained the word “GOD,” JESUS knew their hearts were not on HIM.

• GOD says to me “Follow MY commands.”
• GOD says to me “Blessed are the pure at heart for they shall see GOD.”
• GOD says to me “Ask and I will cleanse you of all unrighteousness.”

Comfort and security in cash can sometimes lead me to forget GOD like the Sadducees did. I mean I can see all the symptoms. When someone is in need I can’t give, because I’m preparing for the next problem that could arise any day. But when a rich person asks for a lunch, then of course I will be there.

GOD wants my availability, my humbleness and my desires to be placed at HIS feet. HE wants me to seek HIM rather than positions, titles and piles of cash. GOD expects me to act different and thank HIM for what HE has done daily. I will not play around with HIS word.

• Is GOD truly first in your life?
• When will you get serious about GOD in your life?
• Will you ask GOD to help you let go of the things that you should not be holding onto?

Missing the Purpose

Luke 20: ⁴¹ Then Jesus said to them, ‘Why is it said that the Messiah is the son of David? ⁴² David himself declares in the Book of Psalms:

‘“The Lord said to my Lord:
    ‘Sit at my right hand
⁴³ until I make your enemies
    a footstool for your feet.’”

⁴⁴ David calls him “Lord.” How then can he be his son?’

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Plastic handle with groves wrapped around hardened steel that protruded into a beveled point was a brilliant design for the screwdriver I owned. I clinched it in my hand and took a strong swing. The handle broke immediately as I hit the nail. All hope was lost as I was still in need of a hammer but did not have one.

• Sometimes I try to use what I have for the wrong purpose.
• Sometimes I miss the purpose of what things are for.
• Sometimes I do not understand the consequences of missing the purpose.

JESUS spoke to the Sadducees about a passage they knew, but glossed over. HE asked them a question about the Psalm David wrote. “How could the LORD, who exists forever, be called the ‘son’ of David?” HE asks them. They missed the purpose .

• GOD says to me “I AM the one who is Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end.”
• GOD says to me “I became a human and died for you and was raised from the dead; so your belief in ME will be save you.”
• GOD says to me “I came to humans with a purpose, to show everyone MY love for them.”

Missing GOD’s purpose for situations is easy to do. I mean I question why HE has me go through painful situations all the time. Then I try to “fix” the situation without having the right tools to do so.

Only when I relent to GOD’s grace and power, does the situation correct itself. I drop my immediate timeframe and allow GOD to show me HE is in control. GOD made me and HE made the world. HE knows what HE is doing and I am grateful.

• Are you missing GOD’s purpose for you?
• Do you think you have the tools to “fix” you or other people?
• Will you ask GOD to guide you and those you are praying for?

What’s Next

Luke 20: ²⁷ Some of the Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to Jesus with a question. ²⁸ ‘Teacher,’ they said, ‘Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife but no children, the man must marry the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. ²⁹ Now there were seven brothers. The first one married a woman and died childless. ³⁰ The second ³¹ and then the third married her, and in the same way the seven died, leaving no children. ³² Finally, the woman died too. ³³ Now then, at the resurrection whose wife will she be, since the seven were married to her?’

³⁴ Jesus replied, ‘The people of this age marry and are given in marriage.³⁵ But those who are considered worthy of taking part in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage, ³⁶ and they can no longer die; for they are like the angels. They are God’s children, since they are children of the resurrection.³⁷ But in the account of the burning bush, even Moses showed that the dead rise, for he calls the Lord “the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob”. ³⁸ He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.’

³⁹ Some of the teachers of the law responded, ‘Well said, teacher!’ ⁴⁰ And no one dared to ask him any more questions.

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“Can I go to school too?” I asked as I saw my siblings leave the house day after day. I had no concept of what “school” was. I only knew they went somewhere for what seemed like an eternity. I was too young to understand where they went.

• Many times I have not known what was coming.
• Many times I have faced the unknown with excitement.
• Many times I have looked forward to something people told me about that I wanted to experience.

The Sadducees were church leaders who did not believe in heaven or a life after death. They studied the Law of Moses and knew it well but never placed the words in their hearts. JESUS saw through their unlikely question about marriage and knew they were trying to use it as a façade for disproving life after death.

• GOD says to me “Before Abraham was, I AM.”
• GOD says to me “I AM the resurrection and the life. He who believes in ME, though he may die, he shall live.”
• GOD says to me “I will give eternal life to those who believe in ME.”

Only a few years are spent on this earth and the time should not be wasted. GOD protects me though difficult times and promises one day there will be no more pain. HE will wipe away all my tears as a forgiven sinner. What’s next for me is what I look forward to and have since I accepted JESUS as my savior.

• Do you think life stops when you die?
• Do you have purpose and hope in your life?
• Will you seek JESUS as the owner of your life and fulfill your purpose from now on?

Give Differently

Luke 20: ²⁰ Keeping a close watch on him, they sent spies, who pretended to be sincere. They hoped to catch Jesus in something he said, so that they might hand him over to the power and authority of the governor. ²¹ So the spies questioned him: ‘Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. ²² Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?’

²³ He saw through their duplicity and said to them, ²⁴ ‘Show me a denarius. Whose image and inscription are on it?’

‘Caesar’s,’ they replied.

²⁵ He said to them, ‘Then give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.’

²⁶ They were unable to trap him in what he had said there in public. And astonished by his answer, they became silent.

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Worrying about money had become a regular pastime of mine. I mean no matter how much I made it seemed to be just short of what I “needed.” With the mountain of debt growing higher and higher I found myself unable to give  like I truly wanted to.

• Many times I have felt “stuck.”
• Many times I have felt like I was between a rock and a hard place.
• Many times I have felt the pinch of making it from check to check, hoping nothing will go wrong.

Spies were sent to trick JESUS. They asked HIM about taxes, hoping to trip HIM up. JESUS saw through their “duplicity” and said to them “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to GOD what is GOD’s.” This made me think. What is GOD’s stuff?

• GOD says to me “I own everything.”
• GOD says to me “MY desire from you is to bear fruit.”
• GOD says to me “Give ME your family, your friends, your neighbors and your coworkers.”

What currency does GOD use? The being who owns everything decided to become a human so HE could be blamed for all of my sins. This was extremely “costly.” My debt to GOD is based on the value of life. No percentage or amount can be placed on what HE has done for me.

So what can I give when I don’t have anything? GOD wants me to give my love to those who hate me. GOD wants me to pray positively for those who speak negatively about me. GOD wants me to spend time with those who hurt and are in need. My fruit is the people I bring to GOD.

• Do you feel poor?
• Are you being asked to give more money when you don’t have any?
• Can you give your thoughts and prayers to those around you?
• Will you turn your complaining heart to that of love for others?

Employed or Called

Luke 20: ⁹ He went on to tell the people this parable: ‘A man planted a vineyard, rented it to some farmers and went away for a long time. ¹⁰ At harvest time he sent a servant to the tenants so they would give him some of the fruit of the vineyard. But the tenants beat him and sent him away empty-handed. ¹¹ He sent another servant, but that one also they beat and treated shamefully and sent away empty-handed. ¹² He sent still a third, and they wounded him and threw him out.

¹³ ‘Then the owner of the vineyard said, “What shall I do? I will send my son, whom I love; perhaps they will respect him.”

¹⁴ ‘But when the tenants saw him, they talked the matter over. “This is the heir,” they said. “Let’s kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.” ¹⁵ So they threw him out of the vineyard and killed him.

‘What then will the owner of the vineyard do to them? ¹⁶ He will come and kill those tenants and give the vineyard to others.’

When the people heard this, they said, ‘God forbid!’

¹⁷ Jesus looked directly at them and asked, ‘Then what is the meaning of that which is written:

‘“The stone the builders rejected
    has become the cornerstone”?

¹⁸ Everyone who falls on that stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.’

¹⁹ The teachers of the law and the chief priests looked for a way to arrest him immediately, because they knew he had spoken this parable against them. But they were afraid of the people.

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JESUS spoke directly to the church leaders who were looking to kill HIM. They were appointed over people to preach only about HIM, but their words turned into those of greed and lust for political power. JESUS implied that Abraham, Moses and Elijah were not listened to, so GOD sent HIM but this act of kindness would be met with murder.

• GOD says to me “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
• GOD says to me “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of ME.”
• GOD says to me “Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Whether I like it or not, I am involved in a spiritual war once I sided with JESUS. I mean each and every day I have to get up and ask GOD to protect me and those HE has given to me. HE also wants me to remain “called” versus “employed” by HIM.

• Serving GOD is a privilege, not a job. HE wants me to serve others just as HE serves me GOD is my refuge. I am glad to serve.
• Are you exhausted by serving GOD?
• Do you feel HE owes you something because of your service?
• Will you stop for a minute, regroup and look at your service to HIM with excitement today?

Stop That

Luke 20: One day as Jesus was teaching the people in the temple courts and proclaiming the good news, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, together with the elders, came up to him. ² ‘Tell us by what authority you are doing these things,’ they said. ‘Who gave you this authority?’

³ He replied, ‘I will also ask you a question. Tell me: ⁴ John’s baptism – was it from heaven, or of human origin?’

⁵ They discussed it among themselves and said, ‘If we say, “From heaven,” he will ask, “Why didn’t you believe him?” ⁶ But if we say, “Of human origin,” all the people will stone us, because they are persuaded that John was a prophet.’

⁷ So they answered, ‘We don’t know where it was from.’

⁸ Jesus said, ‘Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.’

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“There she goes again” I said to myself with my eyes rolling sarcastically. It seemed like every week the same person would get up and dance in church as the musician egged her on. Then I noticed a few more people would join in.  I wanted to go up to her and say “Stop that”, but I decided to leave that church. I mean, they were phonies, right?

• In the past I questioned other folk’s motives.
• In the past I labeled church goers as hypocrites.
• In the past I looked hard at what people in the church were doing and I critiqued their behavior based upon “my” expectations.

The church leaders questioned why JESUS was telling people “good news.” They were supposed to be “in charge” so they questioned HIS authority to speak about the ways of salvation.

JESUS quickly saw through their controlling hearts and asked them a question they could not answer about the authority of John the Baptist. HE knew the church leaders sided with politicians who murdered John. The church leaders could not answer HIS question.

• GOD says to me “Do not stifle MY sheep.”
• GOD says to me “Help MY sheep grow.”
• GOD says to me “Feed MY lambs.”

Instead of criticizing how people worship, GOD wants me to help them reach others for HIS purposes. I may not do things exactly the way that person does things, but does that make them “wrong?” Maybe not, especially if they are trying to follow GOD’s word.

GOD wants me to bear fruit and I cannot when I am focused on what someone else is doing. I must be responsible for bringing people to HIM and praise HIM for making every human different. I praise GOD for giving my life purpose.

• Are you criticizing what someone else is doing?
• Do you think they are not doing GOD correctly and you are?
• Will you stop trying to control people to do things your way and allow them to be led by GOD?

Do What You Gotta Do

Luke 19: ⁴⁵ When Jesus entered the temple courts, he began to drive out those who were selling. ⁴⁶ ‘It is written,’ he said to them, ‘“My house will be a house of prayer”; but you have made it “a den of robbers”.’

⁴⁷ Every day he was teaching at the temple. But the chief priests, the teachers of the law and the leaders among the people were trying to kill him. ⁴⁸ Yet they could not find any way to do it, because all the people hung on his words.

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“This person seems like they are after me” I said with distress. I mean they treat me different than the rest. I added. “Fight back” were the words of human wisdom. “You don’t have to stand for that nonsense. You have to do what you gotta do.” After this advice, I was filled with rage. The conflict was on! I had to protect “myself.”

• There have been many times I have been filled with rage.
• There have been many times I have gotten mad at someone who was in charge.
• There have been many times I was told to do something, but the person giving the advice had rage inside of them.

JESUS entered the temple and saw what it had become. It was not a place where HIS people were being fed, rather it was a “den of robbers.” JESUS was filled with rage and began to drive out those who sold their stuff blatantly. The church leaders mentioned “GOD” but wanted to kill HIM. They too heard the words “Do what you gotta do.”

• GOD wants me to listen to HIM for advice.
• GOD wants me to put HIS word over my actions.
• GOD wants me to remove my rage and let HIM decide what HE wants to do with the oppressor.

Hate breeds more hate and those who love to hate people may not be able to recognize love. The church leaders hated JESUS enough to kill HIM because they wanted to protect themselves and their lifestyle. They were willing to do whatever it took to take control of the situation, even murder.

GOD wants me to check my heart and give my desires to HIM. HE does not want me to be so desperate that I would prey on HIS followers. GOD wants me to seek peace with HIM so I can pass it on to others. HE is my guide.

• Are you enraged by someone?
• Do you feel like you “gotta do what you gotta do?”
• Will you consult GOD before you add rage and hatred to your heart today?

Weeping and Rejoicing

Luke 19: ⁴¹ As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it ⁴² and said, ‘If you, even you, had only known on this day what would bring you peace – but now it is hidden from your eyes. ⁴³ The days will come upon you when your enemies will build an embankment against you and encircle you and hem you in on every side. ⁴⁴ They will dash you to the ground, you and the children within your walls. They will not leave one stone on another, because you did not recognise the time of God’s coming to you.’

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Complaining about the boss was finally a good idea. I mean the popular few were doing it and I wanted to be popular. While the rest of the group did not feel the same, I joined in on the complaints. When the person left, I joined in with the popular few who rejoiced. The new boss was far worse for everyone. I recognized what the old boss provided, but it was too late.

• Sometimes I am blinded by my complaints.
• Sometimes I am distracted by what “I” think is better.
• Sometimes I am think my sin is “small” and GOD won’t mind.

“JESUS wept” sums up this passage. HE knew free will would be costly for Jerusalem. Political and church leaders would choose following human power, rather than following the ways and words of JESUS. This would be their fall and JESUS knew the fall would be eternal unless they changed their ways.

• GOD says to me, “Recognize the good times that you may label as bad.”
• GOD says to me, “Stop your murmuring and complaining and follow ME.”
• GOD says to me, “Listen to MY words today while you have a chance.”

Looking back on the number of complaints I say per day, I realize I can probably fill up a volcano with these negative words. BUT GOD wants me to seek HIM and rid myself of this negativity. HE wants me to see through the gunk of life and praise HIM for each day.

Only HE can give me the ability to praise HIM. I mean there are some days when a lot rushes towards me and I am overwhelmed. GOD takes me by the hand and leads me besides still waters where only HE can restore my soul. HE is my peace.

• Are you blinded by your complaints?
• Do you blame GOD or praise HIM regularly?
• Will you take a moment to praise GOD today for dying for your sins and the sins of the world?

Can’t Stop the River

Luke 19: ³⁷ When he came near the place where the road goes down the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began joyfully to praise God in loud voices for all the miracles they had seen:

³⁸ ‘Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!

‘Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!’

³⁹ Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to Jesus, ‘Teacher, rebuke your disciples!’

⁴⁰ ‘I tell you,’ he replied, ‘if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out.’

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Water was everywhere and all I could do was wait for the final drops to come in. A neighbor built his own pool. While this was a huge accomplishment in the neighborhood I grew up in, some things should probably be left to the pros. When the pool broke, it seemed like every drop went into our basement. I could not stop the torrent.

• There are some things I cannot stop.
• There are some things I cannot prevent.
• There are some things that I cannot hold back.

As JESUS approached the city, huge crowds proclaimed JESUS as the one who was prophesied about for thousands of years. This is the “King who comes in the name of the LORD” they shouted. The church leaders could not stand for this to happen so they tried to stop the crowd from proclaiming HIS name.

• JESUS says to me “If humans do not proclaim MY name then the rocks will.”
• JESUS says to me “Shout MY name and I will remember yours.”
• JESUS says to me “Do not be ashamed of MY name and I will not be ashamed of yours.”

Nothing can stop the power of GOD. People have tried to silence those who proclaim JESUS as LORD for years. BUT GOD’s power is too great. If one person is stopped, then three others will pop up proclaiming GOD as their savior. GOD’s power is like a mighty river that cannot be stopped. I will flow on GOD’s river.

• Are you trying to stop GOD?
• Do you think your power is greater than HIS?
• Will you allow HIM to work HIS amazing plan in your life and others instead of trying to steer things in the way “you” think they should go?