Pass It On

John 10:22-42
Jesus Claims to be the Son of God
In this passage, Jesus admits to the Pharisees that he is the Son of God.  At this, they begin to pick up stones to kill him.  Jesus then says, " At my Father's direcction I have done many thinkgs to help the people.  For which of one of these good deeds are you killing me?" (32) Jesus uses Scripture to tell them, "So if those people , who received God's message, were called gods, why do you call it blasphemy when the Holy One who was sent into the world by the Father says, ' I am the Son of God?'" (35,36)
I can actually imagine myself being at the temple and overhearing this conversation.  At first, I would believe Jesus was crazy, but when he is able to quote Scripture and open our eyes, providing us with the proof we desire, there is no question that God sent him.

Our society is so hung up on entertainment - stories and movies... all of this has confused our minds.  What is fact and fiction? All these Jesus stories are suddenly moved into the realm of childrens fiction like Care Bears and Barney... what is the fix?

2 Timothy 2:1-7
A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ
Wow!  This passage seems to have addressed my negativity from the last one.  We are to pass on our love and knowledge of Christ to trustworthy people who will also spread the word.  We are asked to endure suffering like real soldiers.  Paul then tells Timothy, " As Christ's soldier, do not let yourseld become tied up in the affairs of this life, for then you cannot satisfy the one who has enlisted you in his army.  Follow the Lord's rules for doing his work, just as an athlete either follows the rule or is disqualified and wins no prize.  Hardworking farmers are the first to enjoy the fruit of their labour... The Lord will give you understanding in all these things." (4-7)

So Father, I thank you for sharing this passage with me to give me encouragement and positive energy to fight your battle. I pray that you will life me up and protect me from those who try to cast shadows of doubt about your goodness and faithfulness.

Pain, Suffering and Ridicule is what we will face for God

John 9:13-41
The Blind Man and Spiritual Blindness
When the blind man was no longer blind, he shared this miracle with everyone.  The Pharisees questioned him, asking how could a prophet or the Messiah heal someone on the Sabbath.  The once blind man said," God does not listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. Never since hte world began has anyone been able to open the eyes of someone born blind.  If thise man were not from God, he couldn't do it." (31-33)
In a conversation between the blind man, Jesus and the Pharisees, Jesus says, " I have come to judge the world.  I have come to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind... for you remain guilty if you claim you can see" (39-41)

In the commentary on this passage, I am told that I don't need special training to share the gospel or my love for Christ and God.  Once we accept Jesus in our hearts, the Holy Spirit will lead us.  Our eyes will be open to things we did not see or feel before.  This world we live in is bound by greed, power and sin - this is Satan's evil world, not God's. 

So Father, I pray for your spirit of protection and I thank you for opening my eyes.  My husband has left on a trip to Vietnam for 2 weeks. We both agreed that all our future vacations must be done together.  It's heartbreaking to be apart even for a few days, let alone 2 weeks... and for this particular summer it will be us being apart for 4 weeks. However, I know that this opportunity arose so that we could both grow closer to you independently.  I thank you wholeheartedly for always letting us seek you out.  All we ever need to do is ask.  Father, continue to pray for his safety abroad and for your shield of protection around him.  I know the evil that lurks where he goes and I pray that you will give him wisdom and strength and will power to not give in to the temptations of gambling and overindulgence.  Please give him a time a inner peace and rest through you.

2 Timothy 1: 8-14
Encouragement to be Faithful
Today's passage starts off with a bold statement: So you must never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. (8) This is what I need to live by. The next statement in this passage that is screaming out to me is this: And that is why I am suffering here in prison. I am not ashamed of it, for I know the one in whom I trust, and I am sure that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until the day of his return. Remember to live in the faith and love that  you have in Christ Jesus (12,13).

I am reminded that I am not suffering in vain and by comparison, my suffering is no where near that of Paul's.  Father, I trust you know best. Whatever pain and suffering I endure here on earth, is temporary, and it is done in your name to bring you glory.  There will be lessons learned, but I know you will be there to support me and guide me and use me as your living testimony. I pray that you continue to stir in my heart the courage to fight your fight and not fall into the traps of Satan's world.

Be Not Afraid For Christ Is With Me & I Will Welcome Him With Open Arms

John 6: 16-21
Jesus Walks on Water
This is the passage where Jesus walks across the lake towards the boat to meet up with his disciples. Jesus calls out to his terrified disciples reminding them to not be afraid for he is here. Upon his arrival, the boat reaches its destination.

I am reminded that Jesus also tells me to "not be afraid, for he is here" with me always - to lift me up and to encourage me, to give me hope and to wisdom in times of need. When he is near, the end, his light, is not that far away.  So I pray Father that you will continue to light this path for me. I know that you love me and will bring me great joy and peace.

1 Timothy 4: 7-11
Warnings Against False Teachers (cont'd)
This passage reads 'Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and  old wives' tales.'  We are to spend our time in 'spiritual fitness', equipping ourselves for the evil one in this lifetime and ensuring we spend our next one in God's presence. 'We work hard and suffer much in order that people will believe the truth, for our hope is in the living God, who is the Saviour of all people, and particularly of those who believe. Teach these things and insist that everyone learn them. (10,11)'

God is telling me to spend my time wisely.  Don't debate and dwell on things that are of no value, especially spiritual value.  As God's children, we too will suffer and will need to work hard.  This is a part of God's purpose for us. It will be in these moments that God will reveal himself to us.  We need to open our "eyes" and let Him in, for He will be knocking.  God doesn't force himself into our lives, he wants to be welcomed in...

Satan is ever present.  We need to be on the look out for false or "watered-down: versions of the gospel.  There will be preachers and pastors out there who are misled.  God only forgives those who repent.  There is always a consequence for our actions.  If you believe in Heaven, there must alse be Hell.

Father, I pray that you will continue to reveal yourself to me and my husband, especially my husband.  I pray that he will open the door to his heart wide and welcome you with open arms.  At this moment, he hears your knock and he has looked through the peep hole.  He has removed the chain link and opened the door a crack, recognizing it is you.  Yet he is hesitating for he is scared to endure anymore pain and suffering.  So Father I pray for you strength, wisdom and words of encouragement so that he may fully accept you again and be a faithful servant and warrior for your cause, sharing his truth about your compassion and grace with all others. Amen.