O Holy Night
I have to admit that I can listen to the song " O Holy Night " at least 20 times in a row near Christmas time because of the message it brings . Singers like Faith Hill, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Amy Grant can bring us as close as we can to that eventful night when Christ was born and his host of Angels announced it so brilliantly.
The time had come to announce the greatest gift ever. The hope of a weary and tired world hung in the balance. In an expression of majestic love a host of angels was sent in the night sky to the humble shepherds to declare that God was sending his only Son to make his dwelling among the people God had created. To the common worker came the noblest and most glorious musical announcement ever to fall upon the ears of mankind.
Set against the backdrop of a crystal clear and starry night, the Host of Angels sent from the very throne of God put on a concert of praise to the shepherds in the field.
Christ the Savior is born to you tonight ! A hope to the nations, a gift to the humblest of men in the most difficult of places.
The words of the song speak the message best.
O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Saviour's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!
Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
O'er the world a star is sweetly gleaming,
Now come the wisemen from out of the Orient land.
The King of kings lay thus lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friends.
He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!
Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
Break out your favorite singer's rendition and give it a listen. Revel in the message. You are valued by the King of the Heavens. fall on the knees of your heart and worship him in this season.
It'll be like you were there in the fields with the Shepherds yourself.
Merry Christmas !
His Servant,
Jeff
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
This Thing Called Love
Throughout the history of man, This Thing Called Love, has been written about, songs have been played, poems written, wars fought, and even lives lost in the pursuit of love, or the act of love. So what is it about love that burns so deep in the soul of human kind. And furthermore, just what is love really. Is it the emotion felt in the passion of a sweetheart relationship? Is it the result of the deep human need to be connected to others? Or is it a God given need within man that like other needs, when allowed to be filled by God, unlocks the human heart to great things in relationship to both man and God.
Significance in the soul of man can be tied directly to the impact of love, or sadly, the lack thereof.
So how do we get our arms around this thing called love, so that it rests in our hearts and soul from our Divine Creator in the manner that it was intended for?
Consider the following verses from I Corinthians 13: 1-4
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. [2] If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
[3] If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Clearly every effort of our own, every accomplishment, every gift of talent, and every gift we give lacks completeness without this characteristic of love. Pretty heavy words if you think about it. Basically saying if you did what you did without love in your heart…. What have you really accomplished ?
In the movie “Chariots of Fire” depicting the lives of two very different runners in the early century Olympics, one runner ran to express his gift of running back to God, and the fulfillment showed in every stride and struggle in the movie. The other runner ran for fear… Fear of insignificance, fear of losing, fear of not being the best and falling short. At the end of the race, the first runner finished the race smiling as he felt the “pleasure of God” in his running. It was a matter of love that drove him and the satisfaction of his running wasn’t in the win itself, but rather in the expression of his God given gift being given back to God in the best expression of his worship and love for him.
That moment in the movie seeing him wins his race in the manner he did, reflected the very nature in which God desires us to win our races here on earth. The runner could have run the same race with the same satisfaction in front of an audience of only God and been satisfied.
To give love from our heart, we must have love in our heart… And that comes from the gift of God. We must abide in God always to be full of the right kind of love to live satisfied lives.
1 John 4:16-18
And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love.
Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. [17] In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. [18] There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
So as we delve into this thing called “Love”, always know that you are loved, and can realize a deep sense of love as you abide in the promises of God toward you.
Have a blessed week.
His Servant,
Jeff
Significance in the soul of man can be tied directly to the impact of love, or sadly, the lack thereof.
So how do we get our arms around this thing called love, so that it rests in our hearts and soul from our Divine Creator in the manner that it was intended for?
Consider the following verses from I Corinthians 13: 1-4
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. [2] If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
[3] If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.
Clearly every effort of our own, every accomplishment, every gift of talent, and every gift we give lacks completeness without this characteristic of love. Pretty heavy words if you think about it. Basically saying if you did what you did without love in your heart…. What have you really accomplished ?
In the movie “Chariots of Fire” depicting the lives of two very different runners in the early century Olympics, one runner ran to express his gift of running back to God, and the fulfillment showed in every stride and struggle in the movie. The other runner ran for fear… Fear of insignificance, fear of losing, fear of not being the best and falling short. At the end of the race, the first runner finished the race smiling as he felt the “pleasure of God” in his running. It was a matter of love that drove him and the satisfaction of his running wasn’t in the win itself, but rather in the expression of his God given gift being given back to God in the best expression of his worship and love for him.
That moment in the movie seeing him wins his race in the manner he did, reflected the very nature in which God desires us to win our races here on earth. The runner could have run the same race with the same satisfaction in front of an audience of only God and been satisfied.
To give love from our heart, we must have love in our heart… And that comes from the gift of God. We must abide in God always to be full of the right kind of love to live satisfied lives.
1 John 4:16-18
And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love.
Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in him. [17] In this way, love is made complete among us so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment, because in this world we are like him. [18] There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.
So as we delve into this thing called “Love”, always know that you are loved, and can realize a deep sense of love as you abide in the promises of God toward you.
Have a blessed week.
His Servant,
Jeff
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Small is Big
In reading the New Testament, I am always intrigued by the underlying story of mentoring and discipleship that was taking place throughout the chapters written in both the Gospels and in the letters of Paul. Seemingly small things were used to teach big lessons .
Jesus was constantly teaching his circle of close followers that small things mattered when bringing the message of God to people. Consider the following :
1. Zacchaeus was noticed up in a tree just observing Jesus in his walking and teaching, but Christ took the time to notice him. Christ also knew that Zacchaeus was feeling a bit shy because of his position in life as a tax collector, and his stature of being small. Jesus noticed this, and called Zacchaeus out of the tree he was hiding in, and invited himself over to his house for dinner. Honor in the small thing replaced the dishonor that Zacchaeus had felt about himself. Jesus took that small observation and taught his followers to see people from God’s viewpoint, and to understand the point of view people may have of themselves that is completely counter to the value that God places on them. Small was big. Zacchaeus then reacted in a big way and gave half his possessions to those less fortunate. The spirit inside himself was freed up because of the small favor of the King of Kings.(Luke 19:1-7)
2. The young boy who was observing the crowds standing close to Jesus, and noticing that they were hungry, offered his lunch to the Lord just to help. The disciples basically laughed, but the young boy was rewarded by the actions of Jesus when Christ turned his small lunch into feeding 5000 people that day. Once again, the disciples learned that small things are big. Jesus taught them not to overlook the faith of the small people in their circle, because God did not overlook such things. They learned that small things done with faith and good motive are seeds God works with to do big things. …… And the biggest thing to Christ at that moment was rewarding the faith of the child who was brave enough to believe.
3. When Jesus was at the temple, he saw the poor widow put in the very little she had into the gifts for the temple treasury, and made the vast contrast between what the rich had given and the small coins that quietly sank into the treasury plate, out of humility.
Luke 21: 1-4As he looked up, Jesus 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] "I tell you the truth," 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."
The contrasts in these stories are hard to miss. Big versus small. Seemingly insignificant, brought to the front by the creator of the universe. I was challenged reading this stories in a few of ways.
1. When we feel small, and insignificant in the things we have or contribute by our talents in any setting we find ourselves in, it does not go unnoticed. God values the gifts and abilities he has given you and cherishes it when you offer the seemingly little you have to give, with faith that through Christ, it will do much.
2. When I think of the crowd putting down Zacchaeus , Jesus saw a heart of faith ready to happen. He saw through the history and public perceptions, and took notice of an individual just hoping to get a glimpse of him. We should never feel for a moment that we are insignificant to the creator of this universe. He has noticed you, and desires fellowship with you.
Revelations 3:20 says..Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If any man hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me.
3. And last of all, sometimes the things we think we are doing that we presume are “BIG” are really not the point of what God is trying to do. The biggest work of God is in the individual’s heart, and is accomplished as that individual sees their value and places their faith in God. This is often accomplished through a series of "small" things done faithfully over time.
Often we get trapped into thinking that God wants us to push for the big numbers in our life to impress him like the wealthy in the synagogue, or the crowd following, or the reluctant disciples who o assumed a young boy with two loaves and five fishes had the answer for the day for Jesus.
I hope this week affords you an opportunity to offer God the small contributions you have to give of time, resources, or abilities, and allow Him to show you His power to do significant things in the hearts of those around you…
God Bless
Jeff
Jesus was constantly teaching his circle of close followers that small things mattered when bringing the message of God to people. Consider the following :
1. Zacchaeus was noticed up in a tree just observing Jesus in his walking and teaching, but Christ took the time to notice him. Christ also knew that Zacchaeus was feeling a bit shy because of his position in life as a tax collector, and his stature of being small. Jesus noticed this, and called Zacchaeus out of the tree he was hiding in, and invited himself over to his house for dinner. Honor in the small thing replaced the dishonor that Zacchaeus had felt about himself. Jesus took that small observation and taught his followers to see people from God’s viewpoint, and to understand the point of view people may have of themselves that is completely counter to the value that God places on them. Small was big. Zacchaeus then reacted in a big way and gave half his possessions to those less fortunate. The spirit inside himself was freed up because of the small favor of the King of Kings.(Luke 19:1-7)
2. The young boy who was observing the crowds standing close to Jesus, and noticing that they were hungry, offered his lunch to the Lord just to help. The disciples basically laughed, but the young boy was rewarded by the actions of Jesus when Christ turned his small lunch into feeding 5000 people that day. Once again, the disciples learned that small things are big. Jesus taught them not to overlook the faith of the small people in their circle, because God did not overlook such things. They learned that small things done with faith and good motive are seeds God works with to do big things. …… And the biggest thing to Christ at that moment was rewarding the faith of the child who was brave enough to believe.
3. When Jesus was at the temple, he saw the poor widow put in the very little she had into the gifts for the temple treasury, and made the vast contrast between what the rich had given and the small coins that quietly sank into the treasury plate, out of humility.
Luke 21: 1-4As he looked up, Jesus 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] "I tell you the truth," 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."
The contrasts in these stories are hard to miss. Big versus small. Seemingly insignificant, brought to the front by the creator of the universe. I was challenged reading this stories in a few of ways.
1. When we feel small, and insignificant in the things we have or contribute by our talents in any setting we find ourselves in, it does not go unnoticed. God values the gifts and abilities he has given you and cherishes it when you offer the seemingly little you have to give, with faith that through Christ, it will do much.
2. When I think of the crowd putting down Zacchaeus , Jesus saw a heart of faith ready to happen. He saw through the history and public perceptions, and took notice of an individual just hoping to get a glimpse of him. We should never feel for a moment that we are insignificant to the creator of this universe. He has noticed you, and desires fellowship with you.
Revelations 3:20 says..Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If any man hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me.
3. And last of all, sometimes the things we think we are doing that we presume are “BIG” are really not the point of what God is trying to do. The biggest work of God is in the individual’s heart, and is accomplished as that individual sees their value and places their faith in God. This is often accomplished through a series of "small" things done faithfully over time.
Often we get trapped into thinking that God wants us to push for the big numbers in our life to impress him like the wealthy in the synagogue, or the crowd following, or the reluctant disciples who o assumed a young boy with two loaves and five fishes had the answer for the day for Jesus.
I hope this week affords you an opportunity to offer God the small contributions you have to give of time, resources, or abilities, and allow Him to show you His power to do significant things in the hearts of those around you…
God Bless
Jeff
Saturday, April 3, 2010
"Why look for the Living among the dead ?"
Christ is Risen… He is Risen Indeed !!
I love those moments when God changes our viewpoints toward eternity and lasting hope in a life changing event. The following verses in Luke 24 reflect such a moment.
24:1 Now on the first day of the week, at early dawn, the women went to the tomb, taking the aromatic spices they had prepared. 24:2 They found that the stone had been rolled away from the tomb, 24:3 but when they went in, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.24:4 While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men stood beside them in dazzling attire. 24:5 The women were terribly frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? 24:6 He is not here, but has been raised! Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, 24:7 that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.”24:8 then the women remembered his words, 24:9 and when they returned from the tomb they told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. 24:10 Now it was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told these things to the apostles. 24:11 But these words seemed like pure nonsense to them, and they did not believe them. 24:12 But Peter got up and ran to the tomb. He bent down and saw only the strips of linen cloth; then he went home, wondering what had happened.
You see, the perspective of the cross was all scrambled up in the minds of the followers. In their hearts, the message the Christ had been giving them all along had not really sunk in.
a. He had made his claims as God’s Only Son, and in fact God.
b. He had shown them miracles of his power over sickness and death on more than one occasion.
c. He taught them heaven’s principals time and again while walking and talking with them.
d. Mary knew he was conceived of God !
But….now, they had seen him die. Even though he had told them exactly what would occur, that he would be crucified for man’s sins, and buried, only to rise again in three days, the followers of Christ were naturally lost and frightened. The whole scope of their existence was in jeopardy, and fear and concern gripped their hearts and minds. Skepticism was beginning to find it’s way in.
Then, the women visiting the tomb were conducting acts of mourning and respect for the dead, when their world was turned absolutely upside down. It took a little bit for it to sink in.. The question.. “Why do you look for the living among the dead?” was the turning point of perspective…. Their Lord and Savior, the one whom they placed their trust, had conquered death and sin… The rolled back stone, the empty tomb, the bewildered guards, the grave clothes laying in tact, were all evidence to them that indeed the Lord had risen. They ran off to tell others, their hopes again proven true, now by a Risen Lord. The remarkable appearances of Christ in the days that followed have changed the history of man forever. Many witnesses experienced first hand, the Risen Lord…. And Today we celebrate God’s power over sin and death. We celebrate our value found in Christ alone.
So today, celebrate… Rejoice from the very bottom of your heart… Sing a joyful noise unto the Lord… Raise your arms to heaven. Shout out loud your joy. Hug a neighbor or friend…Christ is risen. Christ is Risen indeed !
The reassurance we have from this event is best stated in the things that Jesus said to his disciples before he went into heaven.. Again, pointing our views eternally, and heavenward..
John 14:1-6
14:1 “Do not let your hearts be distressed.You believe in God; believe also in me. 14:2 There are many dwelling places in my Father’s house. Otherwise, I would have told you, because I am going away to make ready a place for you. 14:3 And if I go and make ready a place for you, I will come again and take you to be with me, so that where I am you may be too. 14:4 And you know the way where I am going.”14:5 Thomas said, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going. How can we know the way?” 14:6 Jesus replied, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Christ is Risen..
He is Risen Indeed.
Happy Easter and God Bless.
His Servant,
Jeff
I love those moments when God changes our viewpoints toward eternity and lasting hope in a life changing event. The following verses in Luke 24 reflect such a moment.
24:1 Now on the first day of the week, at early dawn, the women went to the tomb, taking the aromatic spices they had prepared. 24:2 They found that the stone had been rolled away from the tomb, 24:3 but when they went in, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.24:4 While they were perplexed about this, suddenly two men stood beside them in dazzling attire. 24:5 The women were terribly frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? 24:6 He is not here, but has been raised! Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, 24:7 that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again.”24:8 then the women remembered his words, 24:9 and when they returned from the tomb they told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. 24:10 Now it was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told these things to the apostles. 24:11 But these words seemed like pure nonsense to them, and they did not believe them. 24:12 But Peter got up and ran to the tomb. He bent down and saw only the strips of linen cloth; then he went home, wondering what had happened.
You see, the perspective of the cross was all scrambled up in the minds of the followers. In their hearts, the message the Christ had been giving them all along had not really sunk in.
a. He had made his claims as God’s Only Son, and in fact God.
b. He had shown them miracles of his power over sickness and death on more than one occasion.
c. He taught them heaven’s principals time and again while walking and talking with them.
d. Mary knew he was conceived of God !
But….now, they had seen him die. Even though he had told them exactly what would occur, that he would be crucified for man’s sins, and buried, only to rise again in three days, the followers of Christ were naturally lost and frightened. The whole scope of their existence was in jeopardy, and fear and concern gripped their hearts and minds. Skepticism was beginning to find it’s way in.
Then, the women visiting the tomb were conducting acts of mourning and respect for the dead, when their world was turned absolutely upside down. It took a little bit for it to sink in.. The question.. “Why do you look for the living among the dead?” was the turning point of perspective…. Their Lord and Savior, the one whom they placed their trust, had conquered death and sin… The rolled back stone, the empty tomb, the bewildered guards, the grave clothes laying in tact, were all evidence to them that indeed the Lord had risen. They ran off to tell others, their hopes again proven true, now by a Risen Lord. The remarkable appearances of Christ in the days that followed have changed the history of man forever. Many witnesses experienced first hand, the Risen Lord…. And Today we celebrate God’s power over sin and death. We celebrate our value found in Christ alone.
So today, celebrate… Rejoice from the very bottom of your heart… Sing a joyful noise unto the Lord… Raise your arms to heaven. Shout out loud your joy. Hug a neighbor or friend…Christ is risen. Christ is Risen indeed !
The reassurance we have from this event is best stated in the things that Jesus said to his disciples before he went into heaven.. Again, pointing our views eternally, and heavenward..
John 14:1-6
14:1 “Do not let your hearts be distressed.You believe in God; believe also in me. 14:2 There are many dwelling places in my Father’s house. Otherwise, I would have told you, because I am going away to make ready a place for you. 14:3 And if I go and make ready a place for you, I will come again and take you to be with me, so that where I am you may be too. 14:4 And you know the way where I am going.”14:5 Thomas said, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going. How can we know the way?” 14:6 Jesus replied, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Christ is Risen..
He is Risen Indeed.
Happy Easter and God Bless.
His Servant,
Jeff
Friday, April 2, 2010
The Cost of My Sin, The Purchase of my Redemption
I stared at the crowd in front of Pilate
As Jesus, silent, before him stood.
There rang out cries from the angry brood. "Crucify Him, Crucify Him"
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
" Give us Barabus, please let him go, but kill the one who made us
whole. Please just kill the one who made us whole."
The cries of the crowd were barely done, when I. saw the crude crown
on his head was placed, causing a crimson flow down his face.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
Much to my breaking heart, I saw the whips tear his back apart.
The beating continued until he barely stood, the ground below mixed
with mud, sweat, and blood.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
Then came the cross, they demanded him to carry, up a steep hill, they
called it Calvary. With thorns on his head, blurring his sight, scars
on his back stealing his might, his steps became slow, so I stepped
into help.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
The heart of this man, found guilty of love, was clearly a divine gift
sent from above. As I carried his cross up the hill that day, hearing
the mocking crowd on the way... I saw in his eyes a resolve with
great strength.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
When we reached the top of Calvary that day, I watched and winced as
they pounded with nails, his hands and feet to therugged cross.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
When the pounding was finished they hoisted them up, each nailed to a cross... A thief on each side paying for their personal crimes
To deepen the betrayal, the Lord of the universe, hung in the
middle, paying for my sins and the sins of the world.
I listened with wonder as I heard Christ comfort the thief who understood
his own crime. With authority and love he assured the man, that soon
he would join Christ in heaven forever.
And as the day grew closer to dusk, I heard the King of Kings cry up to His Father in heaven " My God, My God Why have you forsaken me? ". And then with
relief in His voice said "It is finished" and he died.
It was then I realized this was
this was the Purchase of my Redemption!
The Purchase of my Redemption!
The Purchase of my Redemption!
A soldier said, when seeing Christ's grace on the cross "surely, oh
surely this was the Son of God "
They carried him off on the cross, and wrapped his body in burial cloth and embalming “spices”. And laid his body in the
tomb. Soldiers of strength were set at the opening of the tomb, to guard with their lives this
King of Kings who claimed equality with God.
They wee determined to silence the faithful few, who were told by
Christ he would rise again to eternal life. They wanted the proof that Jesus had
died, to end once, and to silence all the claims he had made.
The skies of the world grew dark for three days; the battle of heaven
against sin was ablaze. The veil of the holy temple tore from the top
removing the barrier of direct access to God once and for all..
The Purchase of my Redemption
The Purchase of my Redemption
So now we wait. Would he conquer the grip of sin in our lives? Would
he end forever my condemnation?
It is Friday, But Sunday is a comin!
His Servant,
Jeff
As Jesus, silent, before him stood.
There rang out cries from the angry brood. "Crucify Him, Crucify Him"
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
" Give us Barabus, please let him go, but kill the one who made us
whole. Please just kill the one who made us whole."
The cries of the crowd were barely done, when I. saw the crude crown
on his head was placed, causing a crimson flow down his face.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
Much to my breaking heart, I saw the whips tear his back apart.
The beating continued until he barely stood, the ground below mixed
with mud, sweat, and blood.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
Then came the cross, they demanded him to carry, up a steep hill, they
called it Calvary. With thorns on his head, blurring his sight, scars
on his back stealing his might, his steps became slow, so I stepped
into help.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
The heart of this man, found guilty of love, was clearly a divine gift
sent from above. As I carried his cross up the hill that day, hearing
the mocking crowd on the way... I saw in his eyes a resolve with
great strength.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
When we reached the top of Calvary that day, I watched and winced as
they pounded with nails, his hands and feet to therugged cross.
This I knew was the cost of my sin.
When the pounding was finished they hoisted them up, each nailed to a cross... A thief on each side paying for their personal crimes
To deepen the betrayal, the Lord of the universe, hung in the
middle, paying for my sins and the sins of the world.
I listened with wonder as I heard Christ comfort the thief who understood
his own crime. With authority and love he assured the man, that soon
he would join Christ in heaven forever.
And as the day grew closer to dusk, I heard the King of Kings cry up to His Father in heaven " My God, My God Why have you forsaken me? ". And then with
relief in His voice said "It is finished" and he died.
It was then I realized this was
this was the Purchase of my Redemption!
The Purchase of my Redemption!
The Purchase of my Redemption!
A soldier said, when seeing Christ's grace on the cross "surely, oh
surely this was the Son of God "
They carried him off on the cross, and wrapped his body in burial cloth and embalming “spices”. And laid his body in the
tomb. Soldiers of strength were set at the opening of the tomb, to guard with their lives this
King of Kings who claimed equality with God.
They wee determined to silence the faithful few, who were told by
Christ he would rise again to eternal life. They wanted the proof that Jesus had
died, to end once, and to silence all the claims he had made.
The skies of the world grew dark for three days; the battle of heaven
against sin was ablaze. The veil of the holy temple tore from the top
removing the barrier of direct access to God once and for all..
The Purchase of my Redemption
The Purchase of my Redemption
So now we wait. Would he conquer the grip of sin in our lives? Would
he end forever my condemnation?
It is Friday, But Sunday is a comin!
His Servant,
Jeff
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
The Days Before The Cross
When considering the days leading up to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, I am often overwhelmed and in awe of the range of emotions that Jesus Christ endured. Think through this a minute with me.
1. The Passover supper with his disciples when he informed them that he would be crucified, spilling out his blood for the sins of man.
2. The love that he must've felt for his disciples as he ate that last Passover meal with them.
3. The knowledge that one of his close and beloved followers would betray him for mere silver.
4. Prediction of Peter's denial is an honest depiction of Peter's weakness, and also helping him see his need of the Holy Spirit to guide his life.
5. The garden of Gethsemane were Jesus prayed to God the father that the upcoming events that were planned from the beginning of eternity for him be taken away.
6. That same prayer for Jesus submitted to the will of the father that he lay down his life for the sins of man.
7. Standing in the garden as he was betrayed by Judas and watching his disciples flee in fear as he took steps by allowing himself to be arrested and led off to be crucified knowing it was the will of his Father.
8. Watching his prophecy of Peter's denial come true absorbing the hurt while knowing it would eventually build Peter’s faith. Then watching Peter weep bitterly, as he reconciled and resolved the gaps in his faith that had been exposed.
9. Being led before the Sanhedrin, who claimed to be the very experts in the word of God that he himself was the manifestation of, condemn Him to die.
10. Showing the strength to stand silently before his accusers, the very people he created, and the very people he was set to die for.
The strength of our Lord Jesus Christ, is displayed brilliantly and radiantly in the scriptures depicting his last week. Knowing he had the power of all creation is fingertips, and yet exercising restraint in the face of obvious betrayal. Looking at those condemning him, and proclaiming themselves to be experts in the word of God, knowing it was for them to he was sacrificing his life.
You see the week ahead was a depiction of the depravity of man compared to the Majesty of God. It was the greatest display of trust in the heavenly father for the purpose he had sent Jesus Christ to accomplish.
John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life.” That message clearly defines Jesus Christ’s walk during the week ahead. Only God’s love could have endured a week like this.
Take time this week as we approach Easter to consider when Christ endured for you, anything through what he must've felt for you as he willingly walked in God's will to the cross on Calvary.
And remember this week, in the words of a great preacher once said “it may be Friday, but Sunday is a comin’” He died, was buried, and rose again for you.
His Servant,
Jeff
1. The Passover supper with his disciples when he informed them that he would be crucified, spilling out his blood for the sins of man.
2. The love that he must've felt for his disciples as he ate that last Passover meal with them.
3. The knowledge that one of his close and beloved followers would betray him for mere silver.
4. Prediction of Peter's denial is an honest depiction of Peter's weakness, and also helping him see his need of the Holy Spirit to guide his life.
5. The garden of Gethsemane were Jesus prayed to God the father that the upcoming events that were planned from the beginning of eternity for him be taken away.
6. That same prayer for Jesus submitted to the will of the father that he lay down his life for the sins of man.
7. Standing in the garden as he was betrayed by Judas and watching his disciples flee in fear as he took steps by allowing himself to be arrested and led off to be crucified knowing it was the will of his Father.
8. Watching his prophecy of Peter's denial come true absorbing the hurt while knowing it would eventually build Peter’s faith. Then watching Peter weep bitterly, as he reconciled and resolved the gaps in his faith that had been exposed.
9. Being led before the Sanhedrin, who claimed to be the very experts in the word of God that he himself was the manifestation of, condemn Him to die.
10. Showing the strength to stand silently before his accusers, the very people he created, and the very people he was set to die for.
The strength of our Lord Jesus Christ, is displayed brilliantly and radiantly in the scriptures depicting his last week. Knowing he had the power of all creation is fingertips, and yet exercising restraint in the face of obvious betrayal. Looking at those condemning him, and proclaiming themselves to be experts in the word of God, knowing it was for them to he was sacrificing his life.
You see the week ahead was a depiction of the depravity of man compared to the Majesty of God. It was the greatest display of trust in the heavenly father for the purpose he had sent Jesus Christ to accomplish.
John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life.” That message clearly defines Jesus Christ’s walk during the week ahead. Only God’s love could have endured a week like this.
Take time this week as we approach Easter to consider when Christ endured for you, anything through what he must've felt for you as he willingly walked in God's will to the cross on Calvary.
And remember this week, in the words of a great preacher once said “it may be Friday, but Sunday is a comin’” He died, was buried, and rose again for you.
His Servant,
Jeff
Friday, March 26, 2010
Prayer – The Vital Communication Connection
[18] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
The final verse describing the armor of God is perhaps the most important element in the armor of God. You see God has asked us as his children to call unto him and every circumstance and he has expressed us his desire to hear our prayers and to answer them. When Jesus Christ returned to heaven, in the witness of all his disciples, he promised that he would send his Holy Spirit, and that is Holy Spirit would guide and minister to the followers of Jesus Christ. I suspect when we meet Jesus Christ face to face, we will begin to see all the prayers that God has answered for his children that were offered in faith, we will be overwhelmed with his attention to every detail in our life, and in fact in the whole world.
The apostle Paul understood the need for prayer very well as he penned the verses surrounding the armor of God. He had been imprisoned, he been beaten, he had been run out of town, and yet he knew that his life was completely in the hands of God. One of the verses that Paul wrote to the Philippians, was in chapter 4 verse six, where he wrote “in everything by prayer and supplication let your requests be made known unto God and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
You see God wants us to be connected and alert. He wants us to walk in faith. He wants us to trust his hand in our life. He rejoices when we come to him boldly and layer hearts open before him and express our deepest desires to Him.
God really does answer prayer. Jeremiah 33 : 3 says “Call to me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. “
One of the greatest things we can learn about prayer, is that when we listen to God having express our hearts to him, he begins to show himself to us in ways we could never imagine. Satan likes to throw many darts at us that would keep us from our intimate praying relationship with our Lord. The dart of unworthiness, the dart of doubt, the dart of deception, the dart of urgency, the dart pride , and many other detractors that would keep our focus away from our provider and Savior.
As I write this last section about the armor of God, it dawns on me that prayer to the faithful and loving God is the glue that keeps our armor intact and functioning throughout our lives. Paul challenges us not only to be on the lookout for darts and attacks on our own spiritual stability and well-being but also to those of our loved ones and extended family in the body of Christ. “With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Jesus set an example for us to follow in prayer that is full of wisdom and teaching. In Matthew 6, during the sermon on the mount, Jesus taught great things on Prayer.
5"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 6But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
9"This, then, is how you should pray:
" 'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
10your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
11Give us today our daily bread.
12Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.[a]' 14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Just think….
We call God our Father in heaven…… A very intimate personal approach to God in a very special place.
We see his Holiness (Hallowed be thy name) ……… We acknowledge his abiding holiness and perfection
Your Kingdom come ……… we are on earth where things are not perfect, awaiting his perfect return,
Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven .... Our humble striving for His way now… In our lives.. knowing he will return..
Give us this day our daily bread …. Our acknowledgement of God’s providing hand, as well as begin grateful for what we have been given today…. This is the spirit of contentment and thankfulness.
Forgive us our debts ….. The recognition of our condition without the gift of forgiveness from God. The please before God to see us through the sacrifice of His Son for our sins. The humble beginning place of our walk with God.
As We Also Forgive our Debtors …. This is the tough one… Our nature is not to forgive people for wrong doing against us, and yet it is in the teaching of how God taught us to pray… When you think about it, this is probably the biggest key to prayer yet… For God to help our humility and grace to forgive what has been done against us….
And lead us not into temptation …. A recognition actually that God never tempts us with sin.. He leads us away from sin. Our natural desire is to sin, and we must be empowered by God to be delivered from those desires and tendencies. It is so good to know that God leads us in everlasting ways that have foundation for our life and success.
But deliver us from the evil one ….. The hope that God will spare us from the consequences of evil and evil one around us. The biggest consequence he can spare us from is bitterness in our heart and mind that stems from wrongs done against us, or those we love. Pray this often … Spiritual vitality is at stake.
His servant,
Jeff
The final verse describing the armor of God is perhaps the most important element in the armor of God. You see God has asked us as his children to call unto him and every circumstance and he has expressed us his desire to hear our prayers and to answer them. When Jesus Christ returned to heaven, in the witness of all his disciples, he promised that he would send his Holy Spirit, and that is Holy Spirit would guide and minister to the followers of Jesus Christ. I suspect when we meet Jesus Christ face to face, we will begin to see all the prayers that God has answered for his children that were offered in faith, we will be overwhelmed with his attention to every detail in our life, and in fact in the whole world.
The apostle Paul understood the need for prayer very well as he penned the verses surrounding the armor of God. He had been imprisoned, he been beaten, he had been run out of town, and yet he knew that his life was completely in the hands of God. One of the verses that Paul wrote to the Philippians, was in chapter 4 verse six, where he wrote “in everything by prayer and supplication let your requests be made known unto God and the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
You see God wants us to be connected and alert. He wants us to walk in faith. He wants us to trust his hand in our life. He rejoices when we come to him boldly and layer hearts open before him and express our deepest desires to Him.
God really does answer prayer. Jeremiah 33 : 3 says “Call to me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. “
One of the greatest things we can learn about prayer, is that when we listen to God having express our hearts to him, he begins to show himself to us in ways we could never imagine. Satan likes to throw many darts at us that would keep us from our intimate praying relationship with our Lord. The dart of unworthiness, the dart of doubt, the dart of deception, the dart of urgency, the dart pride , and many other detractors that would keep our focus away from our provider and Savior.
As I write this last section about the armor of God, it dawns on me that prayer to the faithful and loving God is the glue that keeps our armor intact and functioning throughout our lives. Paul challenges us not only to be on the lookout for darts and attacks on our own spiritual stability and well-being but also to those of our loved ones and extended family in the body of Christ. “With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.”
Jesus set an example for us to follow in prayer that is full of wisdom and teaching. In Matthew 6, during the sermon on the mount, Jesus taught great things on Prayer.
5"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. 6But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. 7And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. 8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.
9"This, then, is how you should pray:
" 'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
10your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
11Give us today our daily bread.
12Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
13And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.[a]' 14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. 15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Just think….
We call God our Father in heaven…… A very intimate personal approach to God in a very special place.
We see his Holiness (Hallowed be thy name) ……… We acknowledge his abiding holiness and perfection
Your Kingdom come ……… we are on earth where things are not perfect, awaiting his perfect return,
Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven .... Our humble striving for His way now… In our lives.. knowing he will return..
Give us this day our daily bread …. Our acknowledgement of God’s providing hand, as well as begin grateful for what we have been given today…. This is the spirit of contentment and thankfulness.
Forgive us our debts ….. The recognition of our condition without the gift of forgiveness from God. The please before God to see us through the sacrifice of His Son for our sins. The humble beginning place of our walk with God.
As We Also Forgive our Debtors …. This is the tough one… Our nature is not to forgive people for wrong doing against us, and yet it is in the teaching of how God taught us to pray… When you think about it, this is probably the biggest key to prayer yet… For God to help our humility and grace to forgive what has been done against us….
And lead us not into temptation …. A recognition actually that God never tempts us with sin.. He leads us away from sin. Our natural desire is to sin, and we must be empowered by God to be delivered from those desires and tendencies. It is so good to know that God leads us in everlasting ways that have foundation for our life and success.
But deliver us from the evil one ….. The hope that God will spare us from the consequences of evil and evil one around us. The biggest consequence he can spare us from is bitterness in our heart and mind that stems from wrongs done against us, or those we love. Pray this often … Spiritual vitality is at stake.
His servant,
Jeff
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