But we had hoped

Luke 24: ¹⁹ ‘What things?’ he asked.

‘About Jesus of Nazareth,’ they replied. ‘He was a prophet, powerful in word and deed before God and all the people. ²⁰ The chief priests and our rulers handed him over to be sentenced to death, and they crucified him; ²¹ but we had hoped that he was the one who was going to redeem Israel. And what is more, it is the third day since all this took place. ²² In addition, some of our women amazed us. They went to the tomb early this morning ²³ but didn’t find his body. They came and told us that they had seen a vision of angels, who said he was alive. ²⁴ Then some of our companions went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said, but they did not see Jesus.’

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Longing for better working conditions, I welcomed the new boss. Anything would be better than the last regime, I thought to myself. Unfortunately the announcement was modified and the new person was not going to take over our area. I felt lost again.

• There have been times when I hoped for something and it did not happen as I thought.
• There have been times when I wished something would happen but it did not happen the way I wanted.
• There have been times when I longed for something better to happen, but I got more of the same.

JESUS asked “What was going on?” to the men HE walked with. They explained that their hopes had been crushed because their Messiah had been sentenced to death by the ones who preached that the Messiah would come someday. They also explained that something strange was going on and the body of JESUS was missing and they heard JESUS was alive!

• GOD wants me to know that HIS plans are far better than what I could ever think of.
• GOD wants me to have patience with the current situation because it may not be as it appears.
• GOD wants me to see that in spite of the current circumstances, HE has the situation under control.

Back to the story of the change in plans to get a new boss. I was saddened that things would not change and they asked me what I would do differently. I explained and they asked me to step into a higher role, leading an area I was not familiar with. I was amazed just as the people were who heard the news that JESUS was alive.

GOD does not always reveal to me what is going on during the dark times, but HE does give me hope that HE is in control of every situation. I am grateful of HIS plan for me.

• Do you feel lost, anxious or scared?
• Has something extreme happened to you?
• Will you take a moment to understand that GOD is in control of your situation and HE loves you dearly in spite of what you can see?

Unrecognized

Luke 24: ¹³ Now that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem. ¹⁴ They were talking with each other about everything that had happened. ¹⁵ As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; ¹⁶ but they were kept from recognising him.

¹⁷ He asked them, ‘What are you discussing together as you walk along?’

They stood still, their faces downcast. ¹⁸ One of them, named Cleopas, asked him, ‘Are you the only one visiting Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?’

¹⁹ ‘What things?’ he asked.

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Calling out my name, a person emerged from the crowd with a huge smile. They asked about my family by name and then encouraged me. I smiled back but did not know who I was talking to.

• Many times I have run into people I was supposed to know but did not recognize them.
• Many times I have been recognized by people and I had no clue as to who they were.
• Many times I failed to recognize someone who was supposed to be important to me.

Cleopas and another person was walking to Emmaus, speaking about JESUS. They did not recognize HIM as HE joined them in their walk. In fact, they wondered if HE was the only one who did not know what was going on as they sulked about the death of JESUS. BUT HE was alive!

• JESUS wants me to recognize what HE is doing in my life on a daily basis.
• JESUS wants me to recognize HIS blessings on my life.
• JESUS wants me to recognize HIS love for me.

Recognizing JESUS can be difficult at times. I mean when I haven’t walked with HIM in a while, I forget what HE looks like and think the blessings I have come from me. BUT HE walks with me anyway. JESUS would rather have me open my eyes to HIM on a daily basis. I am grateful HE is always beside me.

• Are you having trouble recognizing what GOD is doing in your life?
• Do you think GOD has left you?
• Would you stop thinking you can do things on your own and allow GOD to work in your life today?

Possibilities

Luke 24: ⁹ When they came back from the tomb, they told all these things to the Eleven and to all the others. ¹⁰ It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the others with them who told this to the apostles. ¹¹ But they did not believe the women, because their words seemed to them like nonsense. ¹² Peter, however, got up and ran to the tomb. Bending over, he saw the strips of linen lying by themselves, and he went away, wondering to himself what had happened.

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“I’ll never have a car” I said to myself disappointedly. I was not making enough money to buy another car and my old one was sold to me from a relative. Now the car was totaled and I had no means of getting around. “Here is one for sale that maybe you can afford” a friend said to me. I did not believe them.

• When I got low, I lost faith.
• When I got low, I lost hope.
• When I got low, I lost the desire to try.

The disciples did not believe the news of JESUS being raised from the dead. All was lost to them and even some great news would not pull them up into the realm of belief. They may have argued with the women who brought the great news in an attempt to douse their fire because misery loves company. BUT GOD had other plans.

• GOD says to me “Do not lose hope.”
• GOD says to me “Keep seeking ME and you will find MY kingdom.”
• GOD says to me “I AM the way the truth and the life.”

When things go wrong, it seems like GOD doesn’t care. I mean why did that loved one have to be hurt or even die? BUT GOD wants me to think differently. HE wants me to grow up and understand things happen in life but my relationship with HIM should not be based solely on good days.

GOD wants me to keep my faith in stormy days and know HE always keeps HIS promise. Unlike the others, Peter ran to the tomb to see if what the women said was possible. It was true and he now had a lot to think about. I am grateful GOD is loving me and giving me possibilities.

• Are you feeling low?
• Do you think all possibilities are gone?
• Will you stop thinking GOD is small and know HE can do the impossible, just as HE said?

Follow the Instructions

Luke 24: On the first day of the week, very early in the morning, the women took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. ² They found the stone rolled away from the tomb, ³ but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. ⁴ While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. ⁵ In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, ‘Why do you look for the living among the dead? ⁶ He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: ⁷ “The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.”’ ⁸ Then they remembered his words.

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“After you build it, then use sand paper on it, put finish on it and then use sand paper on it again” were the counter-intuitive words from my uncle, who was a master carpenter. I heeded his words, bot did not understand how all of this would work. When I finished building my custom furniture, it turned out just as he said.

• There have been times I have been skeptical because I did not understand.
• There have been times when the instructor has given me a message and I did not receive it wholeheartedly.
• There have been times when I did not quite believe the message that was given to me by someone who knows the information.

The women went to the tomb and found it empty. They were shocked until two “men” or angels, told them JESUS had risen, just as HE had said. They remembered HIS words and put it all together.

• JESUS told me “HE loves me with all HIS heart.”
• JESUS told me “I died for you and ALL of your sins are forgiven.”
• JESUS told me “I have taken care of every one of your needs.”

“Do not be afraid” is another message JESUS told me, but sometimes I forget HIS instructions and try to fix things on my own. When I look at the future with my sinful eyes, I can only see a fearful future. BUT GOD wants me to adjust where I am looking and focus on HIM.

GOD has made so many promises to protect me, grow me and love me, that I cannot ignore HIS wonderful plan for me. HE guides me to places I never would have thought and HE brings people to me that needs an encouraging word. JESUS did as HE said and I put my faith in HIM.

• Are you fighting GOD?
• Do you believe HE has take care of your problem?
• Will you put your faith in JESUS today and allow HIM to guide you?

Not Futile

Luke 23: ⁵⁰ Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, ⁵¹ who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea, and he himself was waiting for the kingdom of God. ⁵² Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body. ⁵³ Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. ⁵⁴ It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin.

⁵⁵ The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. ⁵⁶ Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment.

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Watching the last leaf fall off, I wondered if I needed to throw the plant away. I mean it seemed to be struggling and then it was gone. Somehow I felt I needed to keep the plant, so I replanted it. Weeks later, new leaves were growing.

• There are times when I think my efforts are futile.
• There are times when I try hard and don’t seem to get anywhere.
• There are times when it does not seem to be an end to obstacles.

A church leader names Joseph did not agree with the other church leaders when it came to killing JESUS. He sought the Kingdom of GOD and was deeply moved when JESUS was murdered. He had to do something, however little. He gave JESUS a burial not knowing what would happen.

• GOD says to me “Your efforts are not futile when you do them in MY name.”
• GOD says to me “MY word does not return void.”
• GOD says to me “Keep your faith for perseverance will make it whole.”

Persistence is what GOD likes. HE wants me to continue believing in HIS power especially when it seems like everything is falling apart. Even death could not stop JESUS, so the problems I face should not stop me from telling people about HIM. GOD wants me to keep going and know my efforts are not futile.

• Do you feel exhausted?
• Have you experienced a loss and are tired?
• Can you allow GOD to lift you up so you can continue to speak for HIM, knowing your efforts are blessed?

It is finished

Luke 23: ⁴⁴ It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, ⁴⁵ for the sun stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. ⁴⁶ Jesus called out with a loud voice, ‘Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.’ When he had said this, he breathed his last.

⁴⁷ The centurion, seeing what had happened, praised God and said, ‘Surely this was a righteous man.’ ⁴⁸ When all the people who had gathered to witness this sight saw what took place, they beat their breasts and went away. ⁴⁹ But all those who knew him, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.

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Finally, the worst had been realized. I was now unemployed. It felt weird at first. I mean I had been working since I was fifteen and then I found myself not knowing what to do. After wandering for a while I asked “What do YOU want me to do?”

• There were times when I felt lost.
• There were times when I thought “my life was ruined.”
• There were times when I had to face the fear that I built up in my mind and go through the pain.

JESUS said “FATHER, into YOUR hands I commit MY SPIRIT” and then HIS earthly body died. It seemed hopeless for those who followed HIM. But something amazing started to happen. One of the mocking guards praised GOD and said “This was a righteous man.”

• GOD wants me to go through the trial so others may know HE is GOD.
• GOD wants me to understand that my life is for HIS purpose.
• GOD wants me to understand that anything I go through has already been handled by HIM.

“It is finished” were words spoken by JESUS meaning there is nothing more that I can do to achieve salvation. HE took care of everything and made me whole. Even though I may go through uncomfortable situations, GOD tells me HE has already seen the outcome and the purpose will be made good. JESUS took care of it all for me.

• Are you facing something large and frightening?
• Have you prepared yourself for the worst?
• Will you allow GOD to take total control of your situation and “commit” your situation to GOD’s outcome?

Save Me

Luke 23: ³⁵ The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at him. They said, ‘He saved others; let him save himself if he is God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.’

³⁶ The soldiers also came up and mocked him. They offered him wine vinegar ³⁷ and said, ‘If you are the king of the Jews, save yourself.’

³⁸ There was a written notice above him, which read: this is the king of the jews.

³⁹ One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: ‘Aren’t you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!’

⁴⁰ But the other criminal rebuked him. ‘Don’t you fear God,’ he said, ‘since you are under the same sentence? ⁴¹ We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.’

⁴² Then he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’

⁴³ Jesus answered him, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.’

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One of the exercises was to hold hands and walk in a large circle in the swimming pool. This created a mild vortex and my hands could not hold onto my neighbors. As I tried to use some of the techniques the swim teacher showed me, I found myself being pulled into the deep. Moments later I felt an arm around my waist pulling me to safety.

• Many times I needed to be saved.
• Many times I have been helpless.
• Many times I have been in so much trouble that I felt like I was drowning.

The church leaders thought they had gotten rid of JESUS. They sneered at HIM and said “If YOU are who YOU say YOU are then save YOURSELF.” The guards mocked HIS title of being the King of the Jews. But one criminal said “Save me when YOU get home.”

• JESUS says to me “I will remember you and those who believe in ME.”
• JESUS says to me “Do not take MY name in vain or mock ME.”
• JESUS says to me “I AM the only way to the kingdom of heaven.”

Acknowledging the fact that I need GOD is the primary condition of my sickness. Just like being in an ocean without knowing how to swim, sin tosses me around and drowns me. BUT GOD did something amazing. Without me asking for help HE saved me.

GOD pours out HIS amazing grace on me daily. How can I hold onto bitterness if GOD gives me grace? GOD deserves praise not “If” statements. HE is the Most High, all powerful, all seeing and all knowing. JESUS is my savior with whom I am grateful.

• Do you need a Savior?
• Do you think your plans will save yourself?
• Will you allow GOD to penetrate your heart so HE can work in your life today?

Not Knowing

Luke 23: ³² Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. ³³ When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him there, along with the criminals – one on his right, the other on his left. ³⁴ Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.

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“Come up here and get your hand whacked” said the new teacher to me. Yes, this was allowed. “I didn’t do anything” I exclaimed. Because we were sitting alphabetically, I was parked next to a couple of people who caused trouble. The teacher could not discern who exactly did what.

• A few times I have been mistakenly lumped into the crowd.
• A few times I have been mislabeled.
• A few times I have been thrown in with those who did stuff that I did not do.

Innocent JESUS was convicted of crimes HE did not commit. HE was nailed to the cross between two criminals to be an example of what not to do. JESUS does something strange. HE prays to the FATHER and says “Forgive them, for they know not what they are doing.”

• JESUS forgives my many sins that I blatantly and inadvertently commit.
• JESUS knows that I do not know exactly what the penalty is for my sin.
• JESUS wants me to understand, just a little, that HE was blameless and took my penalty for my sins.

“Not knowing is no excuse” I was told when being convicted of a speeding ticket. The same applies to sin, but on a much larger scale. Not knowing JESUS will be no excuse, especially since HE wrote HIS laws on every human heart.

GOD gave me the ability to not choose HIM and HE will help me do just that. When I want to go my merry way, GOD has enough grace to allow me to mess things up and welcome me back when I come crying to HIM for help. GOD’s grace for me is truly amazing!

• Are you misunderstood?
• Are you mislabeling GOD?
• Do you get angry at HIS love because you do not know what HE is doing in your life?
• Will you allow GOD to take care of you even when others are blaming you?

Being Without

Luke 23: ²⁷ A large number of people followed him, including women who mourned and wailed for him. ²⁸ Jesus turned and said to them, ‘Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep for yourselves and for your children. ²⁹ For the time will come when you will say, “Blessed are the childless women, the wombs that never bore and the breasts that never nursed!” ³⁰ Then

‘“they will say to the mountains, ‘Fall on us!’
    and to the hills, ‘Cover us!’”

³¹ For if people do these things when the tree is green, what will happen when it is dry?’

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Recently another one of my “fathers” passed away. This reminded me of my aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who proceeded him. Each of them left a spouse or children or other relatives who remain on this planet. As I attended the funeral, a tear caressed my cheek, not for the person who died, but for those who remain alive, now without.

• Many people I have known have passed away.
• Many people I enjoyed are now gone.
• Many people I walked with, laughed with and cried with are now transitioned.

JESUS redirects the tears of the women who were crying for HIM. They felt sorry for JESUS but HE told them to feel sorry for themselves. HE knew where HE was going and how difficult life would be without HIM.

• JESUS wants me to know that no matter how difficult life may be, HE is still there.
• JESUS wants me to know HIS love for me runs deeper than any loved one who has passed away.
• JESUS wants me to know that while HE is away, the HOLY SPIRIT will dwell inside of me, providing comfort in times of bereavement.

Finality of death is difficult to swallow. BUT GOD says to me, “Do not fear death for I will provide you with eternal life.” How can I have eternal life? Through belief in the ONE who holds life and death in HIS hands, namely JESUS.

HE wrote my name in the Lamb’s Book of Life when HE caused me to believe in HIS wonderful gift. HE scrubbed my sins away and made me whole. Yes, I may miss those who pass away, BUT GOD has given me purpose to usher those who fall away from HIM back to HIS loving arms.

• Has someone you loved died?
• Do you miss those who have passed away?
• Will you accept GOD’s purpose for you to bring people eternal life through JESUS so you will one day see them again?

In memory of Sherman Todd

Known For

Luke 23: ²⁶ As the soldiers led him away, they seized Simon from Cyrene, who was on his way in from the country, and put the cross on him and made him carry it behind Jesus.

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Rounding first base I advanced to second base. But on my way I tripped and skinned my knee, tearing a hole in my pants. It was kick-baseball so I made it to the base but the pants exposed a bleeding scraped leg. After gym class it was time for our homeroom to go and take pictures. I was chosen to sit in the front row. My bloody knee was immortalized on film forever.

• There are some things I did not want to be known for.
• There are memories that I did not want to keep remembering.
• There are some moments that I wish I wasn’t labeled with.

Simon from Cyrene happened to be at the wrong place at the right time, or was it wrong? He became famous for helping carry JESUS’s cross. While the guards were trying to bully the people, they did not know this simple act would forever label Simon as a helper of JESUS.

• GOD gives me small things to do so HE can be excited forever.
• GOD enables me to serve so HE will give me rewards in heaven.
• GOD wants my focus on HIM so “my” legacy will point towards HIM.

“What will you be known for?” was a question posed to me. After thinking for a while I could not think of anything I cared about that I wanted people talking about after my death. BUT GOD intervened and said “How about ME?” Then it hit me.

Perhaps if I pointed my life to GOD then people would talk about HIM rather than trying to remember me. Bringing people to truly serve GOD is what I want to be known for so GOD will be excited.

• Are you trying to be known?
• Are you seeking fame?
• Will you point your life to GOD and allow HIM to draw people to HIM through you?

Giving In

Luke 23: ²⁰ Wanting to release Jesus, Pilate appealed to them again. ²¹ But they kept shouting, ‘Crucify him! Crucify him!’

²² For the third time he spoke to them: ‘Why? What crime has this man committed? I have found in him no grounds for the death penalty. Therefore I will have him punished and then release him.’

²³ But with loud shouts they insistently demanded that he be crucified, and their shouts prevailed. ²⁴ So Pilate decided to grant their demand. ²⁵ He released the man who had been thrown into prison for insurrection and murder, the one they asked for, and surrendered Jesus to their will.

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Tired of being alone in the small town, I decided to hang out with coworkers. When we traveled, we ate together and I gave in to drink with them. “C’mon, have a little more” they said. After twenty two pitchers of beer between the three of us, I had to drive back to the hotel. Somehow I made it there but upon arrival the front desk person said “You have a message…The system is down you are being requested to come in.”

• In the past I gave in to what the crowd wanted.
• In the past I gave in to fit in.
• In the past I gave in to something I was against.

Pilate tried to wash his hands of sentencing JESUS to death, but the church leaders had stirred up the crowd so much that he had to acquiesce. He gave in to the crowds wishes and sentenced an innocent man to death and released a murderous rebel.

• GOD wants me to stop comparing my sins in terms of size.
• GOD wants me to do what is right when the time comes to make a decision.
• GOD wants me to stand up for what is right rather than giving in to the crowd.

Standing firm on GOD’s word is sometimes difficult. I mean if the crowd says one thing and I am the only one standing firm on following GOD, then it can feel uncomfortable. BUT GOD protects me and gives me the right words and actions to follow HIS ways. I am grateful for HIS guidance.

• Are you facing a difficult decision?
• Would the decision make you unpopular if you follow GOD’s ways?
• Will you decide to follow what GOD is telling you to do anyway, no matter the human consequence?

Overlooked Items

Luke 23: ¹³ Pilate called together the chief priests, the rulers and the people, ¹⁴ and said to them, ‘You brought me this man as one who was inciting the people to rebellion. I have examined him in your presence and have found no basis for your charges against him. ¹⁵ Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us; as you can see, he has done nothing to deserve death. ¹⁶ Therefore, I will punish him and then release him.’

¹⁸ But the whole crowd shouted, ‘Away with this man! Release Barabbas to us!’ ¹⁹ (Barabbas had been thrown into prison for an insurrection in the city, and for murder.)

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Wanting to move up in the company, I picked and chose who I sided with. After careful planning I found the right mix of people who could pull me up to where I wanted to be. One person in particular liked flirting with the employees in a drunken state. “Want to come to our afterwork gathering?” was the question with hidden meaning. Hesitantly I said “Sure.”

• There were times when I overlooked what was going on to get what I wanted.
• There were times when I overlooked the poor qualities of the crowd so I could get my desires.
• There were times when I overlooked how people behaved and joined in on the “fun.”

Both Pilate and Herod could not find anything “wrong” with what JESUS did, especially since they did not follow GOD’s laws anyway. The church leaders stirred up the crowd to choose a murderer and a rioter named Barabbas to be released instead of JESUS. They overlooked Barabbas’ poor qualities to get what they wanted.

• GOD wants me to look at my poor qualities before I examine someone else.
• GOD wants me to “test the spirit” of the crowd in order to decide if I should hang with them.
• GOD wants me to bear fruit and not side with the crowd who does not serve HIM.

Being placed in a bubble away from sinners is not where GOD wants me to be. HE wants me to insert myself along side of people, telling them I am a sinner who has been saved by grace. BUT GOD does not want me to join in on the blatant sins that I could easily fall into.

HE wants me to overlook sins of people in order to forgive them rather than joining in. GOD wants me to show HIS grace so HE can show even more.

• Are you joining in with the crowd?
• Do you have complaints about someone GOD may be using for HIS purpose?
• Will you stop your blind complaints and allow GOD to lead you instead of following your desires?

Entertained

Luke 23: ⁸ When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had been wanting to see him. From what he had heard about him, he hoped to see him perform a sign of some sort. ⁹ He plied him with many questions, but Jesus gave him no answer. ¹⁰ The chief priests and the teachers of the law were standing there, vehemently accusing him. ¹¹ Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked him. Dressing him in an elegant robe, they sent him back to Pilate. ¹² That day Herod and Pilate became friends – before this they had been enemies.

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After the event I discussed the person on stage. “They were not very good” I commented. I was seeking amusement and had criteria that needed to be met.  Later, I went to a church. “The pastor speaking was not very good”, I said to myself.

• Sometimes I want to be entertained by people.
• Sometimes I view people as something that satisfies me.
• Sometimes I desire people to say the right words at my command.

Herod saw JESUS as entertainment. He heard how JESUS healed people and raised someone from the dead. Herod could not wait for JESUS to do a parlor trick. He even became friends with his enemy, Pilate, for sending him this wonderful stage act.

• JESUS says to me “These are MY lambs, feed them.”
• JESUS says to me “Look at MY people with compassion.”
• JESUS says to me “I can see your heart, fill it with MY love and you will be successful.”

When I look at people as a problem, inconvenience or entertainment, I miss out on what GOD wants me to see. HE desires only one thing that all of HIS sheep come back to HIM. All of us have gone astray BUT GOD desires that all return to HIM. I am grateful for HIS love.

• Do you seek people to entertain you?
• Do you blame people for their behavior?
• Will you show “that” person grace today?

Responsible

Luke 23: Then the whole assembly rose and led him off to Pilate. ² And they began to accuse him, saying, ‘We have found this man subverting our nation. He opposes payment of taxes to Caesar and claims to be Messiah, a king.’

³ So Pilate asked Jesus, ‘Are you the king of the Jews?’

‘You have said so,’ Jesus replied.

⁴ Then Pilate announced to the chief priests and the crowd, ‘I find no basis for a charge against this man.’

⁵ But they insisted, ‘He stirs up the people all over Judea by his teaching. He started in Galilee and has come all the way here.’

⁶ On hearing this, Pilate asked if the man was a Galilean. ⁷ When he learned that Jesus was under Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who was also in Jerusalem at that time.

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Slight chuckles was what I heard as the group brought this person over to me and quickly left. This person could not stop talking and I felt stuck, wanting to get away. Not listening to a word, I thought of ways to escape. I searched the room and found my target. “Excuse me. Let me introduce you to someone I think you should meet” I said with excitement.

• There were people I passed onto others because they made me feel uncomfortable.
• There were people I did not help because I did not want to get involved.
• There were people I overlooked because there situation seemed too overwhelming for me.

The church leaders tried to lie to get someone else to prosecute JESUS. Pilate could not find anything wrong that JESUS did because he did not recognize or acknowledge the laws of GOD. “Are YOU king of the Jews?” was Pilates inquisition. Pilate did not want trouble so he sent JESUS to be tried in front of Herod.

• GOD wants me to help people when it is inconvenient.
• GOD wants me to speak with those HE delivers to me.
• GOD wants me to step in when others would leave.

Being responsible for others takes time. I usually have tons of things to do, BUT GOD wants me to focus on those HE delivers to me at inconvenient times. HE wants me to add to my responsibilities those in need. GOD takes care of me and HE wants me to care for others.

• Do people inconvenience you?
• Are you too busy for people?
• Will you step in and help the people GOD delivers to you today?

As Accused

Luke 22: ⁶⁶ At daybreak the council of the elders of the people, both the chief priests and the teachers of the law, met together, and Jesus was led before them. ⁶⁷ ‘If you are the Messiah,’ they said, ‘tell us.’

Jesus answered, ‘If I tell you, you will not believe me, ⁶⁸ and if I asked you, you would not answer. ⁶⁹ But from now on, the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the mighty God.’

⁷⁰ They all asked, ‘Are you then the Son of God?’

He replied, ‘You say that I am.’

⁷¹ Then they said, ‘Why do we need any more testimony? We have heard it from his own lips.’

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JESUS was led before the church leaders to receive a “fair” trial.  These men of GOD were accusing GOD of being GOD. “Are YOU GOD?” They accused. “You say that I AM by putting me on trial” JESUS implied.

• JESUS wants me to know that HE is the Messiah.
• JESUS wants me to know that HE is my savior.
• JESUS wants me to know that HE is GOD who voluntarily became a human to be murdered for my sins and is now alive with all power.

I have no story that could relate to what JESUS was accused of. HIS actions and words were quite clear, yet sometimes I act like some of HIS words do not apply to me. JESUS came up with the rules to follow and then never broke a single rule, yet we accused HIM.

• GOD wants me to reduce my accusations.
• GOD wants me to add grace to my language.
• GOD wants me to seek salvation rather than condemnation.

Instead of blaming others for what they are doing or not doing, GOD wants me to speak life into as many people as possible. HE wants me to tell people about the accused JESUS and how HE saved the one who needed to be accused, namely me.

• Who are you accusing?
• How often are you speaking negative words about someone?
• Can you use some of your words to speak life into people by talking about JESUS today?

Tempting Words

Luke 22: ⁶³ The men who were guarding Jesus began mocking and beating him. ⁶⁴ They blindfolded him and demanded, ‘Prophesy! Who hit you?’ ⁶⁵ And they said many other insulting things to him.

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“If YOU are GOD, then…” were the unfortunate words I have said or thought many times. I mean “IF” YOU can do what YOU say YOU can do then do exactly what I’m thinking.

• Many times I have lacked faith in GOD.
• Many times I wanted GOD to do what “I” say.
• Many times I questioned GOD’s timing, motives and power.

The men who guarded JESUS mocked HIS position as GOD. They blindfolded HIM saying “Prophesy! Who hit YOU?” In so many words they were saying “If YOU are GOD then do what I say or what I am thinking.”

• GOD says to me “I AM the LORD your GOD, do not put ME to the test.”
• GOD says to me “Believe in ME as a child and you will be saved.”
• GOD says to me “I know your thoughts and they are not MY thoughts.”

JESUS chose to be beaten even though HE could have easily wiped out those who sought to harm HIM. So why don’t I question that? I mean that doesn’t make sense either. GOD’s plan is full of grace mercy and love, which doesn’t make sense to a sinner like me.

GOD is very much GOD, no “if” statement needed. In my blind state, I cannot actually see what GOD is doing. All I know is I need to put my trust in HIM. I am blindfolded like JESUS was and I trust HIS plan.

• Do you think GOD should be doing something different in you life?
• Do you believe GOD has only punishment in mind for you?
• Can you ask GOD to reveal HIS loving plan for you in the middle of your difficult situation?

Disassociation

Luke 22: ⁵⁴ Then seizing him, they led him away and took him into the house of the high priest. Peter followed at a distance. ⁵⁵ And when some there had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and had sat down together, Peter sat down with them. ⁵⁶ A servant-girl saw him seated there in the firelight. She looked closely at him and said, ‘This man was with him.’

⁵⁷ But he denied it. ‘Woman, I don’t know him,’ he said.

⁵⁸ A little later someone else saw him and said, ‘You also are one of them.’

‘Man, I am not!’ Peter replied.

⁵⁹ About an hour later another asserted, ‘Certainly this fellow was with him, for he is a Galilean.’

⁶⁰ Peter replied, ‘Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!’ Just as he was speaking, the cock crowed. ⁶¹ The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: ‘Before the cock crows today, you will disown me three times.’ ⁶² And he went outside and wept bitterly.

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Wanting to be part of the organization, I went along with the idea of shoplifting some pants. I had no money and this certain pants was a requirement. I was used as a distraction while the others loaded up on our “uniform.” Later, while walking back to our apartment, I was stopped and questioned. “Were you with them?” “No” I replied in a bold faced lie.

• There were times when I lied to save my hide.
• There were times when I disassociated myself from others in order to stay out of “trouble.”
• There were times when I went with the immediate thought, never considering what would happen next.

Bold impetuous Peter, who showed strong faith, denied any association with JESUS. He did this three times only feet away from HIM where JESUS could see and hear him. Peter was reminded of JESUS’s prediction when the rooster crowed. He had officially renounced any association with GOD.

• JESUS wants me to tell people that I am associated with HIM.
• JESUS wants me to shine my light before all humans in order to bring people to HIM.
• JESUS wants me to put HIS life ahead of mine in order to bring those around me to HIM.

Protecting my association with GOD is important to HIM. HE said “For whoever is ashamed of ME and MY words, of him the SON of Man will be ashamed when HE comes in HIS own glory, and in HIS FATHER’s, and of the holy angels.”

It takes practice to not go along with the crowd and to say “yes” to what GOD wants me to do. Usually it means not sinning this time and to help someone in need. Instead of a vacation, maybe GOD wants me to go serve for a change. The world would call me crazy, but GOD loves my attempt to relate to HIM.

• Are there areas of your life in which you have disassociated yourself from GOD?
• Do you go along with the complaining, lustful, power hungry crowd?
• Would GOD say you are telling people about HIM regularly?

Miracle of the Ear

Luke 22: ⁴⁷ While he was still speaking a crowd came up, and the man who was called Judas, one of the Twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him, ⁴⁸ but Jesus asked him, ‘Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?’

⁴⁹ When Jesus’ followers saw what was going to happen, they said, ‘Lord, should we strike with our swords?’ ⁵⁰ And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear.

⁵¹ But Jesus answered, ‘No more of this!’ And he touched the man’s ear and healed him.

⁵² Then Jesus said to the chief priests, the officers of the temple guard, and the elders, who had come for him, ‘Am I leading a rebellion, that you have come with swords and clubs? ⁵³ Every day I was with you in the temple courts, and you did not lay a hand on me. But this is your hour – when darkness reigns.’

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“This is my chance to get back at the person” I said to myself. I worked hard, yet this person gave me a “so-so” evaluation and said I needed to improve. Now the shoe was on the other foot. This person was trying to interview at the company I moved to and my boss asked me if this person was worthy of an interview. “No” I said in a satisfying way.

• There were times when I wanted to fight those who pushed me around.
• There were times when I couldn’t wait to get back at those who did me “wrong.”
• There were times when I temporarily felt great when I saw someone’s demise.

JESUS shows extreme compassion towards a servant of those who came to arrest HIM. When one of HIS disciples cut off the servant’s ear, JESUS immediately performs yet another miracle by reattaching the ear. JESUS never said “It serves you right” to the servant, nor does HE say “Let this be a lesson to those who try to mess with ME.” HE stopped the fight.

• JESUS wants me to allow HIM to have vengeance on my enemies.
• JESUS wants me to allow HIM to show compassion to those I “think” have wronged me.
• JESUS wants me to understand HIS compassion includes people I do not like.

Perhaps GOD is showing me more compassion than I think. HE heals me when I am hurt and lifts me up when I am down. HE shows me grace when I deserve punishment. Why am I spiteful at “that” person when JESUS wants to show them, and me, compassion? GOD’s grace is sufficient.

• Are you mad at someone?
• Do you think that person has done you wrong and you want to get back at them?
• Will you allow GOD to show them compassion so HE will pour out HIS compassion on you more abundantly?

Keep Focused

Luke 22: ³⁹ Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him. ⁴⁰ On reaching the place, he said to them, ‘Pray that you will not fall into temptation.’ ⁴¹ He withdrew about a stone’s throw beyond them, knelt down and prayed, ⁴² ‘Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.’ ⁴³ An angel from heaven appeared to him and strengthened him. ⁴⁴ And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.

⁴⁵ When he rose from prayer and went back to the disciples, he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. ⁴⁶ ‘Why are you sleeping?’ he asked them. ‘Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.’

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Walking around in life, I wandered into some doors that seemed to be wide open. The temptations were amazing and once I found one, I couldn’t get my mind off of whatever new thing I wandered into.

• Many times I have been tempted to fall into sin.
• Many times I have wandered off the path and into temptation.
• Many times I have lost my focus only to wind up in sin.

JESUS faces being blamed for every sin, every human could ever commit. HIS humanity reaches out to pray to the FATHER, begging HIM to think of another way, but if JESUS had to be the way, “let YOUR will be done.” JESUS then told HIS sleeping disciples to pray that they will not fall into temptation.

• GOD wants me to practice not succumbing to sin.
• GOD wants me to pray for daily temptation removal because I would more than likely fall into the sin HE wants me to stay away from.
• GOD wants me to recognize that HE was tempted in every way and understands my predisposal towards sin.

Enormous grace is a gift  GOD has given me. HE sees the sins I easily fall into and lifts me out of each hole. While HE never gets tired of rescuing me, HE still desires that I not fall into the holes in the first place.

HE is excited to cleanse me of all unrighteousness, daily. HE gets more excited when I stay focused at HIS mighty power. GOD wants me to stay focused on HIM so that I will not get weary.

• Are you so focused on your problems that you have taken your eyes off of GOD?
• Do you feel sorry for yourself?
• Will you stop being weary and get filled up with GOD’s grace so you can stay on HIS path HE has for you?

Being Prepared

Luke 22: ³⁵ Then Jesus asked them, ‘When I sent you without purse, bag or sandals, did you lack anything?’

‘Nothing,’ they answered.

³⁶ He said to them, ‘But now if you have a purse, take it, and also a bag; and if you don’t have a sword, sell your cloak and buy one. ³⁷ It is written: “And he was numbered with the transgressors”; and I tell you that this must be fulfilled in me. Yes, what is written about me is reaching its fulfilment.’

³⁸ The disciples said, ‘See, Lord, here are two swords.’

‘That’s enough!’ he replied.

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“Who is in charge?” the person entered the room flustered. The people pointed at me and I had to handle the situation. This was my convention and I was responsible for whatever happened. Days prior to the convention, I only prepared for what would go right. I was mistaken.

• Many times I have not been prepared for problems.
• Many times I thought life would be smooth with no rough edges.
• Many times I thought everything should go my way, not the other way.

JESUS brings reality to the disciples by telling them the situation was about to change drastically. HE knew HE was about to be handed over to the church leaders and the government. JESUS would no longer be right there physically to protect them and HE implores them to be prepared.

• GOD wants me to be ready to face difficult situations.
• GOD wants me to understand that life’s situations can be difficult.
• GOD wants me to know HE is still with me through the pains and troubles of life.

Pain, torture and death was JESUS’ destiny and HE wanted HIS disciples to be prepared to take over the message HE easily spoke. HE wants me to do the same. GOD knows that I will face the difficulties of life BUT HE wants me to face them with HIM as my guide. GOD is my protection.

• Are you prepared to face difficulty and trouble?
• Do you easily cave in to the troubles of life?
• Will you ask GOD for strength to go through difficulty so you won’t turn away from HIM today?