Overtaken

I hope you all had a wonderful Resurrection Sunday!  Ours was magnificent.  Our youth department did a drama both Sunday morning and Sunday night.  Les and I were the representatives from the senior saints department - he was the narrator and I helped with the singing.  Our youth did a great job.  I am so thankful for what happened that weekend more than two thousand years ago.

My Bible reading this weekend included Deuteronomy chapter 28.  I can't read that chapter without remembering a time when Elder Morton told me that the blessings of God would overtake me.  I've written about it before, but as I sit here this morning, still basking in thankfulness for the ultimate sacrifice, I'm reminded again of just how blessed I am.

Deuteronomy 28:1-3 says:

1 And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the Lord thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:
2 And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God.
3 Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.

This chapter goes on to list many, many ways the blessings of God are promised.  But in verse 15, the tone changes:

15 But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all his commandments and his statutes which I command thee this day; that all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee:
16 Cursed shalt thou be in the city, and cursed shalt thou be in the field.

This chapter has 68 verses -  14 are dedicated to blessings, while the other 54 focus on curses!  So while I am overwhelmed by blessings, I am equally thankful that I have not been overtaken by curses.  The curses of the unfaithful far outnumber the blessings of the faithful.

I don't know why there are those who live righteously and still have a life of pain.  I don't understand why Rod was born with hemophilia and was taken from us too soon.  I don't know why Mom was stricken with cancer when she was only 50.  While I don't understand and I'm certainly undeserving, I never, ever, want to be unthankful!  So this post is simply to take the time to say, "Thank You, Lord."

Joy to the World!

I know we don't usually say Joy to the World on Resurrection Sunday, but that is truly when the joy happened!  My favorite song for this morning is "Easter Song" written by Keith Green.  You can hear his version here.  Second Chapter of Acts does a fabulous job with it, too (listen here).  Turn up the volume and sing along!

Hear the bells ringing
They're singing that you can be born again
Hear the bells ringing
They're singing Christ is risen from the dead

The angel up on the tombstone
Said He is risen, just as He said
Quickly now, go tell his disciples
That Jesus Christ is no longer dead

Joy to the world, He is risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah, hallelujah

Hear the bells ringing
They're singing that we can be born again
Hear the bells ringing, they're singing
Christ is risen from the dead

The angel up on the tombstone
Said He is risen, just as He said
Quickly now, go tell his disciples
That Jesus Christ is no longer dead

Joy to the world, He is risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah, hallelujah
Hallelujah!

Fear Not! He Is Risen!

Happy Resurrection Sunday!  I hope you take the time to rejoice that we have a risen Savior!

The greatest "Fear Not" in the Bible happened at dawn on the first day of the week.  Once again, an angel was dispatched with news.  Matthew chapter 28 records:

1) In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
2)  And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3)  His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
4)  And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
5)  And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6)  He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7)  And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
8)  And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.
9)  And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
10)  Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

Several commentaries pointed out the word "ye" in verse 5.  The Jamieson, Fausset and Brown Commentary put it this way, "And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye — The “ye” here is emphatic, to contrast their case with that of the guards. “Let those puny creatures, sent to keep the Living One among the dead, for fear of Me shake and become as dead men; but ye that have come hither on another errand, fear not ye."

The Biblical Illustrator by Joseph S. Exell, M.A. said this:
Fears dispelled
Why should not the seekers of Jesus fear?
I. Because in seeking Him, they have an evidence that He has sought them, and found them, and touched their hearts.
II. They that seek Christ should rejoice; for in seeking they shall certainly find.
III. In finding Christ, they find everything suited to banish their fears. Christ has magnified the law. Sin taken away that troubles the conscience; death disarmed of his sting; the grave of its terrors; the dominion of Satan destroyed.
IV. Nothing shall finally separate them who have sought and found Christ

I know I posted this song earlier this month, but here it is again.  My favorite song for this morning is "Easter Song" written by Keith Green.  You can hear his version here.  Second Chapter of Acts does a fabulous job with it, too (listen here).  Turn up the volume and sing along!  You can't have fear and joy at the same time.

Hear the bells ringing
They're singing that you can be born again
Hear the bells ringing
They're singing Christ is risen from the dead

The angel up on the tombstone
Said He is risen, just as He said
Quickly now, go tell his disciples
That Jesus Christ is no longer dead

Joy to the world, He is risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah, hallelujah

Hear the bells ringing
They're singing that we can be born again
Hear the bells ringing, they're singing
Christ is risen from the dead

The angel up on the tombstone
Said He is risen, just as He said
Quickly now, go tell his disciples
That Jesus Christ is no longer dead

Joy to the world, He is risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah, hallelujah
Hallelujah!

Miscellaneous Monday Matters

Welcome to week three of Stay Home, Stay Safe.  I hope you're all doing your part and staying healthy without going crazy!  The best thing any of us can do is read more of the Good News and less of the rest of the news!  If you're spending three hours a day reading the latest COVID-19 updates and three minutes a day reading from God's word, you're going to lose the battle of the mind.  There is a lot of unknown and misinformation.

Les sent me this quote and I think it's excellent:

People should remember that they're as healthy as they feel, and shouldn't go around feeling as unhealthy as they fear.

I'm not saying that COVID-19 isn't a real threat to our health, but I am saying:  Don't Let Fear Win.
 
I thought about saving this picture for another Wordless Wednesday, but we need smiles on Monday, too!   This picture has so many things going on that make me smile.  I'm pretty sure this was Easter 1971, I was in first grade.  I was about to turn 7, Rod had just turned 8, Rick was 10, and Kim was almost 12 (our birthdays happen January through April.)  It should come as no surprise that I've always loved wearing bright colors!  But the real treasure in this picture is everything I am holding - my white purse, an Easter basked AND a huge Easter egg.  By the look on my face (which makes me giggle right along with my almost 7 year old self) I'm guessing I may have had a bit of chocolate for breakfast.  The only thing I don't know is if one or both knees were skinned...

Are you wearing a mask now?  Up to this point I have not worn one.  I'm probably going to start wearing one in the grocery store - that seems to be the only place where I'm in close contact with people I don't know.   I may end up feeling silly, it will probably really annoy me to wear one, but better safe than sorry, right?  If you're looking to buy one, Active Faith Sports is selling masks that say, "Faith Over Fear."  These are not N95 masks, but they're a cool reminder.

In an effort to stay active, I signed up for the Allstate Hot Chocolate 15k virtual race. The goodie bag includes a jacket, race medal and chocolate.  The race organizer, RAM racing, chose the Make-A-Wish Foundation as their official charity.  I love what Make-A-Wish does, granting wishes to children with critical illnesses.  You can sign up for the race, 5k or 15k, HERE.  You can walk or run the race anytime between April 30th and May 31st. If you'd like to donate to Make-A-Wish, you can do that on my fundraising page HERE.

I tried something different on Friday.  We wanted pizza from our local pizza place for dinner.  They do not deliver but are still open for carry out only.  I wanted to avoid the dinner time rush, so I placed my order mid afternoon and asked them if they could bake it only half way.  They were happy to do that.  I picked the pizza up at 3:00, took it home and put in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.  I finished baking it at 425 degrees for 7-10 minutes (I just kept an eye on it.)  It was perfect!

Finally, here are two little gems from Mom's Bible to get this week started on the right foot:

Worry never robs tomorrow of its sorrow,
it only saps today of its strength.

I can see to the corner,
but God sees around the corner,
Don't worry!

Tell me some good news!  

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Joy to the World! It's Not a Hoax

I posted this on Resurrection Sunday 2017, but I think we all need to turn our hearts to the only real reason to have joy.  He is Risen!  There is no doubt in my mind and because He lives, well that is enough for me.

I know we don't usually say Joy to the World on Resurrection Sunday, but that is truly when the joy happened!  My favorite song for this morning is "Easter Song" written by Keith Green.  You can hear his version here.  Second Chapter of Acts does a fabulous job with it, too (listen here).  Turn up the volume and sing along!

Hear the bells ringing
They're singing that you can be born again
Hear the bells ringing
They're singing Christ is risen from the dead

The angel up on the tombstone
Said He is risen, just as He said
Quickly now, go tell his disciples
That Jesus Christ is no longer dead

Joy to the world, He is risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah, hallelujah

Hear the bells ringing
They're singing that we can be born again
Hear the bells ringing, they're singing
Christ is risen from the dead

The angel up on the tombstone
Said He is risen, just as He said
Quickly now, go tell his disciples
That Jesus Christ is no longer dead

Joy to the world, He is risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah, hallelujah
Hallelujah!

Update:
After posting this, I realized that today is April 1st.  Good old April Fool's day.  Many through the ages have called the resurrection of Jesus a hoax.  It started with the chief priests in Matthew 28:11-15:
Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.
And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,
Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.
And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.
So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.

Acts 1:3 says, "To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God."  If the resurrection had been a hoax, at least one of the disciples would have recanted.  They were eye witnesses and never changed their story. If Jesus had been a fraud, they would not have endured the torture they each endured:

1. Judas hung himself because he knew he had betrayed innocent blood.
2. James (son of Zebedee, AKA James the Greater): Acts 12:1-19 says that James was beheaded with a sword.
3. Simon, AKA Peter: Peter asked to be crucified upside down, so that his death would not be the equal of Jesus and the Romans supposedly obliged.
4. Andrew: According to 15th Century religious historian Dorman Newman, Andrew—the brother of Peter—went to Patras in western Greece in 69 AD, where the Roman proconsul Aegeates debated religion with him. Aegeates tried to convince Andrew to forsake Christianity, so that he would not have to torture and execute him. But when that didn’t work, apparently he decided to give Andrew the full treatment. Andrew was scourged, and then tied rather than nailed to a cross, so that he would suffer for a longer time before dying. Andrew lived for two days, during which he preached to passersby.
5. Philip: Philip, became a missionary in Asia. Eventually, he traveled to the Egyptian city of Heliopolis, where he was scourged, thrown into prison, and crucified in 54 AD.
6. Bartholomew: Bartholomew supposedly preached in several countries, including India. In one account, “impatient idolaters” beat Bartholomew and then crucified him, while in another, he was skinned alive and then beheaded.
7. Thomas: Apparently Thomas preached the gospel in Greece and India, where he angered local religious authorities, who martyred him by running him through with a spear.
8. Matthew: According to legend, the former tax collector turned missionary was martyred in Ethiopia, where he was supposedly stabbed in the back by an swordsman sent by King Hertacus, after he criticized the king’s morals.
9. James (son of Alphaeus, AKA James the Less): According to Foxe, James, who was elected by his fellow believers to head the churches of Jerusalem, was one of the longest-lived apostles, perhaps exceeded only by John. At the age of 94, he was beaten and stoned by persecutors, and then they killed him by hitting him in the head with a club.
10. Thaddaeus, AKA Judas or Jude: According to several stories, he was crucified at Edessa (the name of cities in both Turkey and Greece) in 72 AD. * more than 40 years after Jesus’ resurrection.
11. Simon the Canaanite AKA the Zealot: Simon preached in Mauritania on the west coast of Africa, and then went to England, where he was crucified in 74 AD.
12. John: John was the only one of the original disciples not to die a violent death. Instead, he passed away peacefully in Patmos in his old age, sometime around 100 AD.

2 Peter 1:16 says, "For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty."  Joy to the world indeed!

Mary Magdalene ~ Woman of the Week

I'm going to change the order of things in this post.  I usually conclude with how the woman might have reset, but the first thing we read about Mary Magdalene is how Jesus helped her reset her life.

Verses, in chronological order:  Luke 8:1-3; at the crucifixion - Matthew 27:55-61, Mark 15:40-47, Luke 23:55-56, John 19:25; at the resurrection Matthew 28:1-8, Mark 16:1-11, Luke 24:1-11, John 20:1-18

Background – parents, husband, children, siblings
The only thing we know of Mary's background is her home.  Magdala is situated on the northwestern shore of the Sea of Galilee, south of Capernaum. 

Did she reach a place when she needed to reset?  If so, did she?  For good or evil?
Luke is the only Gospel that records Mary's early condition.  "And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils."   Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible said, "The word “seven” is often used for an indefinite number, and may signify merely “many” devils. The expression is used to signify that she was grievously tormented, and rendered, doubtless, insane by the power of evil spirits. It has been commonly supposed that Mary Magdalene was a woman of abandoned character, but of this there is not the least evidence. All that we know of her is that she was formerly grievously afflicted by the presence of those evil spirits, that she was perfectly cured by Jesus, and that afterward she became one of his most faithful and humble followers."

It would be easy to think that anyone who Jesus healed or delivered would never walk away from Him.  But that was not always the case when He was here on earth, and it is not the case today.  John chapter 6 records, "From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him."  Jesus also taught in Matthew 12 that an unclean spirit will come back to a man and will bring others with it and "the last state of that man is worse than the first."  Mary Magdalene remained healed and free.

Mary, along with Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance "From the things belonging to them. This is the first woman’s missionary society for the support of missionaries of the Gospel. They had difficulties in their way, but they overcame these, so great was their gratitude and zeal." (Archibald Thomas Robertson) 

What is she most known for? Victories? Defeats? How can I be like her? How can I avoid being like her?

In searching for information on Magdala, I read that Mary is the woman most often mentioned in the New Testament after Mary, Mother of Jesus.  I don't know if she followed Jesus while He was ministering, but she was in Jerusalem for the crucifixion, which was also during the passover.  Magdala was about 80 miles from Jerusalem, so at some point she made quite a journey.  Matthew Henry said, "It does not appear that she had any business now at Jerusalem, but to wait upon him, for the women were not bound to go up to the feast, and probably she and others followed him the closer, now that they knew their Master would shortly be taken from their head. The continued instances of her respect to him at and after his death prove the sincerity of her love."

Matthew and Mark both record the women "afar off," while John records Mary Magdalene standing at the cross with Mary, the mother of Jesus.  "These women were probably not suffered to come near the cross because it was surrounded by soldiers. They witnessed with intense feelings his sufferings from some convenient place as near as they could approach.  Attending him and providing for his wants. While multitudes of people joined in the cry, “Crucify him!” and forsook him in his trying moments, it does not appear that any of his female followers were thus unfaithful. In the midst of all his trials, and all the Contempt poured upon him, they adhered to their Redeemer. Never did female constancy shine more brightly, and never was a happier example set for all who should afterward believe on him!"  (Albert Barnes)  "These good women standing by the cross of Christ, may teach us to do, as they did, look upon a crucified Christ, view his sorrows, and his sufferings, and our sins laid upon him, and borne and taken away by him; we should look unto him for pardon, cleansing, and justification, and, in short, for the whole of salvation: we should also weep, as they did, whilst we look on him; shed even tears of affection for, and sympathy with him; of humiliation for sin, and of joy for a Savior: and likewise should abide by him as they did, by his persons, offices, and grace; by the doctrine of the cross, continuing steadfastly in it; and by the ordinances of Christ, constantly attending on them, and that notwithstanding all reproaches and sufferings we may undergo." (John Gill)

While most hurried home after Jesus died, Mary and the other women followed to His burial.  "And beheld, the sepulchre; took notice of it, what an one it was, whereabout it stood in the garden, that they might know, and find it again:  and how his body was laid; in what position, form, and order; and observed that it was only wrapped in linen, and not anointed, or embalmed." (John Gill)

The next day was the sabbath, so they had to wait, but they only waited as long as the law commanded.  Matthew 28:1 records, "In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre."  Mark records it was "very early in the morning, at the rising of the sun."

All four gospels record Mary on resurrection morning, but John's gives the most detail.  Mary first goes to the sepulchre and finds it empty.  She then runs to Peter and John with the news.  Peter and John saw that the tomb was empty and return to their homes.  "But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre," she couldn't tear herself away.  She had to make sure He was truly gone.  The angels told her, "He is not here: for he is risen."

Mary is then the first person to encounter the risen King!  "To a woman was this honor given to be the first that saw the risen Redeemer." (Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown)  His first words are "Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou?"   She doesn't know it's Him, even thinks He is the gardener.  Then she hears one single word, "Mary."  "Christ's way of making himself known to his people is by his word.  This one word, Mary, was like that to the disciples in the storm, It is I." (Matthew Henry)  "This was spoken, doubtless, in a tone of voice that at once recalled him to her recollection." (Albert Barnes)

Mary's response was "Rabboni; which is to say, Master."  Les pointed out in his preaching on Sunday, that Jesus was not only Master of Mary's life, but now He was the Master of death.  He had overcome it all!  "The message is sent to the whole world. Mary Magdalene, formerly possessed by seven demons — the absolute slave of that dreadful power — is employed to communicate the knowledge of His resurrection to the companions of Jesus." (John Nelson Darby)

"Mary Magdalene came,.... Directly and immediately, being ready and willing to obey the commands of her Lord, with the utmost cheerfulness; and glad to go on such an errand, and carry such news to his disciples, even though her private interest and personal affection might have inclined her to desire to stay with Christ: and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord; not only that he was risen from the dead, and she had been told so by the angels, but she had seen him herself, and was an eyewitness of his resurrection, and which she firmly believed; this she said, not only with all the marks of pleasure, joy and transport, but with an air of assurance and confidence:  and that he had spoken these things unto her; as that he called them brethren, and bid her go unto them, and acquaint them, that as he was risen, he should in a short time ascend to his Father and theirs, to his God and theirs; all which she faithfully related to them." (John Gill)

Don't you just love a happy ending?!

Mary, the Mother of Jesus ~ Woman of the Week

This weekend we celebrate the greatest event that has ever taken place - the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  It was the single event that split time. While there were many gathered at the cross that day, I can't think of anyone who was hurting more than Mary.

Verses:  Matthew 12:46-50, Matthew 13:54-58, Mark 3:31-35, Luke 8:19-21, John 2:1-5, John 19:25-27, Acts 1:14
The order of these verses, according to my chronological Bible, is John 2:1-5; Matthew 12:46-50, Mark 3:31-35, and Luke 8:19-21 record the same story; Matthew 13:54-58; John 19:25-27; and Acts 1:14

Background – parents, husband, children, siblings
We don't know anything about Mary's parents.  She had at least one sister who was with her at the cross. She was married to Joseph of Nazareth, a carpenter.  She was the mother of Jesus but also had other children.  Most importantly, Mary was not the mother of God.  She was the mother of the fleshly manifestation of God, she was highly favored, but she was still human.

What is she most known for? Victories? Defeats? How can I be like her? How can I avoid being like her?
Focusing on just the three and a half years of Jesus' earthly ministry we don't read much about Mary.  Of course Jesus was traveling and as far as we know Mary was not part of those travels.  She was there for His first miracle in John chapter 2.  "and the mother of Jesus was there; who seems to have been a principal person at this wedding, and was very officious; when wine was wanted, she signified it to her son, and ordered the servants to do whatever he bid them: and since she, and Jesus, and his brethren, were all here, it looks as if it was a relation of hers that was now married." (John Gill's Exposition of the Entire Bible)  When they run out of wine at the marriage, Mary gets Jesus' attention.  "It is not known why Mary told this to Jesus. It would seem that she had a belief that he was able to supply it, though he had as yet worked no miracle."  (Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible)

Some commentaries felt Jesus rebuked Mary, but others said the use of the word "woman" was not a rebuke.  Archibald Thomas Robertson gave a closer look at the word woman, "Vocative case of gunē, and with no idea of censure as is plain from its use by Jesus in John 19:26. But the use of gunai instead of mēter (Mother) does show her she can no longer exercise maternal authority and not at all in his Messianic work."  Albert Barnes put it this way, "The words sound to us harsh, but they might have been spoken in a tender manner, and not have been intended as a reproof. It is clear that he did not intend to refuse to provide wine, but only to delay it a little; and the design was, therefore, to compose the anxiety of Mary, and to prevent her being solicitous about it. It may, then, be thus expressed: “My mother, be not anxious. To you and to me this should not be a matter of solicitude. The proper time of my interfering has not yet come. When that is come I will furnish a supply, and in the meantime neither you nor I should be solicitous.” Thus understood, it is so far from being a “harsh reproof,” that it was a mild exhortation for her to dismiss her fears and to put proper trust in him."

Obviously Mary wasn't offended by Jesus' words.  She turned to the servants and said, "Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it."  John Gill said, "She took the reproof in good part, and by the words he said, and the manner in which he spoke them, or by the looks he gave, and the gestures he might use, she hoped, and even believed, that the thing she moved for would be done; and therefore went immediately to the servants."  "Mary took comfort in the “not yet” (oupō) and recognized the right of Jesus as Messiah to independence of her, but evidently expected him to carry out her suggestion ultimately as he did. This mother knew her Son."  (A.T. Robertson)

Matthew, Mark and Luke all record Mary coming to where Jesus was at a later time.  There was a large crowd and she stood outside waiting.  "Not with a pure view to interrupt him in his work, or to divert him from it, lest he should overspend himself; nor from a principle of ambition and vain glory, to show that they were related to him, and that he was at their beck and command; but rather, to observe unto him the danger he exposed himself to, by the freedom he took with the Pharisees in his discourses, and probably to acquaint him with some conspiracies formed against him." (John Gill)

John Gill goes on to say, "Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? These questions are put, not as if he himself was ignorant who were his mother or his brethren; or as suggesting as if he had none; or as denying that these were in such a relation to him; or as casting any slight upon them; or as intending to teach men disrespect to parents and kindred, according to the flesh; but as displeased with the man, or men, for interrupting him in his work; and to let them know, that the business of his heavenly Father was preferred by him to any his natural relations could have with him; and that he might have an opportunity of pointing out who were his relations in a spiritual sense."

Did she reach a place when she needed to reset?  If so, did she?  For good or evil?
As Mary stood at the foot of the cross, she suffered the greatest pain a mother can face.  I really cannot imagine how she felt.  Yes, she knew all the prophecies, all the promises, but to stand there and watch the gruesomeness of Jesus' crucifixion, she must have been completely overcome.

John Gill had some powerful words, "the mother of Jesus, Mary; which showed her affection to Christ, and her constancy in abiding by him to the last; though it must be a cutting sight, and now was fulfilled Simeon's prophecy, Luke 2:35, to see her son in such agonies and sorrow, and jeered and insulted by the worst of men; and though she herself was exposed to danger, and liable to be abused by the outrageous multitude; and it also showed that she stood in need, as others, of a crucified Savior; so far was she from being a co-partner with him in making satisfaction for sin."

Matthew Henry wrote, "His torments were her tortures; she was upon the rack, while he was upon the cross; and her heart bled with his wounds; and the reproaches wherewith they reproached him fell on those that attended him.  We may justly admire the power of divine grace in supporting these women, especially  Mary, under this heavy trial. We do not find his mother wringing her hands, or tearing her hair, or rending her clothes, or making an outcry; but, with a wonderful composure, standing by the cross, and her friends with her."

Even in His last moments, Jesus was aware of Mary standing there.  Some of His last words were to her and the apostle John.  But He did more than that, He sent the Comforter.  We find Mary just one more time in Acts chapter 1:

"Mary, the mother of Jesus, is here particularly mentioned, showing that she now cast in her lot with the apostles." (Albert Barnes)  "She had come out of the shadow of death with the song in her heart and with the realization of the angel’s promise and the prophecy of Simeon. It was a blessed time for Mary."  (A.T. Robertson)  "Distinguished from the other “women,” but so as to exclude the idea of her having any pre-eminence over the disciples. We find her with the rest in prayer."  (A Commentary on the Old and New Testaments by Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset and David Brown)

Mary was found with those waiting for the promise and she was not disappointed.  "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.  And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.  And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. " (Acts 2:1-4)  This was the gift that Jesus gave to his mother and offers to everyone who calls on His name.

Unworthy

I saw this quote today:

We are so unworthy of the price that was paid.  For there is none righteous, no not one.  But Jesus paid it all.  Have a blessed Resurrection Sunday tomorrow.  Go to iTunes and download this song by Keith Green (the 2nd Chapter of Acts version is a favorite in our home!)  Crank it up loud and rejoice!

Easter Song

Hear the bells ringing
They're singing that you can be born again
Hear the bells ringing
They're singing Christ is risen from the dead

The angel up on the tombstone
Said He has risen, just as He said
Quickly now, go tell His disciples
That Jesus Christ is no longer dead

Joy to the world, He has risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah
He's risen, hallelujah, hallelujah
Hallelujah!!

Rejoice!

The Promise

Genesis 9:13 I do set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth.

14 And it shall come to pass, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow shall be seen in the cloud:

15 And I will remember my covenant, which is between me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh.

I took these pictures from our condo this morning and was reminded of the promises of God.  "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life"  John 3:16.  May your Resurrection weekend be blessed, and remember, every promise God makes will be fulfilled!

A Little Q and A

Les and I were chatting with a young lady from our church on Sunday about the lessons he taught.  She had two very good questions and I hope we had two very good answers!  I know many of my readers are young adults and teenagers, like this young lady.  Digging for answers is a good thing!  Understanding God's word is extremely important.  Here are her two questions and answers we gave her.

Q1  Why couldn't the religious leaders and Romans see that Jesus was God?  How could they abuse and crucify Him?
A  The Romans didn't care what Jesus did unless it interfered with their own wealth or pleasures.  Their main concern was keeping the Jews under their thumb.  The religious leaders were jealous of Jesus' following, but I also believe they were blinded (John 12:38-40)  Ultimately, there was absolutely no stopping Calvary.  Jesus was the Lamb, slain from the foundation of the world. (Revelation 13:8) Jesus came to this earth for one purpose and it would be fulfilled.  Romans, Pharisees, Sadducees, Pilate, and Herod all played a part in fulfilling God's plan of redemption.

Q2  Why does Satan only attack Christians?  Why doesn't he go after other religions?
A  Satan only goes after those who believe the truth.  Those who are already blind don't concern him.  The only way Satan has to hurt God at all is to attack His children.  I blogged about the book "Demon: A Memoir" here, it was a fascinating read that gave me much to think about.  The main thing I took away from that book is that Satan hates it when man is given mercy.  We fall over and over and the blood of Jesus is there for us.  We are forgiven time and again.  Satan fell once and was never given a second chance.  He hates it when a sinner repents!  He is so jealous and he knows that destroying Christians is his only way of getting back at God. 

I mentioned yesterday that Les talked about all the hours leading up to the death of Jesus.  Jim Bishop wrote an incredible book about that subject called "The Day Christ Died."  Originally published in 1957, this book takes the four Gospels and puts them all together in order.  I highly recommend adding this book to your library.

Recovery Monday

Today, for many church goers, should be called "Recovery Monday."  It's the day following Resurrection Sunday, one that has been filled with dramas and musicals and worship and reflection.

Our Easter was wonderful.  After a rocky rehearsal on Saturday, our drama came off very well on Sunday.  As Pastor White pointed out, our church isn't full of actors.  I think the important thing about any Easter program is taking the time to reflect.  To just stop and think about what Jesus did for us on the Cross.

Funny little tidbit about our drama - Les was asked to play the part of Caiaphas.  He is not usually in our dramas, so people did not know who he was at first!  Pastor White said one lady told him, "I don't know who that was, but I really liked his part!"

And so today, we recover.  Hope your Easter was blessed!

Rejoice! He is Risen!

Because He Lives

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal, and forgive.
He lived and died to buy my pardon,
An empty grave is there to prove 
My Savior lives.

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow.
Because He lives, All fear is gone.
Because I know He holds the future,
And life is worth the living just 
Because He lives.

Words: Bill & Gloria Gaither

It's Friday...

 ...but Sunday's Coming!!

Jesus Paid It All

In recent years I have seen pictures of individuals in the Philippines participating in flagellation.  This is a brutal practice, usually taking place just before Easter, with participants whipping their flesh.  The pictures I have seen are horrifying as individuals torture their bodies.

Webster defines a flagellant as a person who scourges himself or herself as a public penance. According to Wikipedia, this practice has been going on for centuries, in many religions around the world. A further search took me to Redemptive Suffering, described as:

Redemptive suffering is the Roman Catholic belief that human suffering, when accepted and offered up in union with the Passion of Jesus, can remit the just punishment for one's sins or for the sins of another. Like an indulgence, redemptive suffering does not gain the individual forgiveness for their sin; forgiveness results from God’s grace, freely given through Christ, which cannot be earned. After one's sins are forgiven, the individual's suffering can reduce the penalty due for sin.

No amount of suffering on our part can pay the price for our sins.  We will never be good enough or holy enough.  It's impossible!  That's why Jesus came.  He paid the price IN FULL.  We don't have to suffer, because He did.  The second verse of this song says it perfectly, "nothing good have I, whereby Thy grace to claim..." but Jesus Paid It All!

Jesus Paid It All

I hear the Savior say,
“Thy strength indeed is small;
Child of weakness, watch and pray,
Find in Me thine all in all.”

Refrain:
Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,

He washed it white as snow.

 

For nothing good have I
Whereby Thy grace to claim;
I’ll wash my garments white
In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb.
 

And now complete in Him,
My robe, His righteousness,
Close sheltered ’neath His side,
I am divinely blest.
 

Lord, now indeed I find
Thy pow’r, and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots
And melt the heart of stone.
 

When from my dying bed
My ransomed soul shall rise,
“Jesus died my soul to save,”
Shall rend the vaulted skies.
 

And when before the throne
I stand in Him complete,
I’ll lay my trophies down,
All down at Jesus’ feet.

 

Refrain:
Jesus paid it all,
All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

 

~Elvina M. Hall

Oh The Cross!

This Sunday we will celebrate the single most important event in the history of mankind.  The death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ!  It changed everything.  It's overwhelming when I try to wrap my mind around what God did for me.  And you.

Our youth department has a drama in the works for Sunday.  I have been asked to sing "Oh The Cross" by Brooklyn Tabernacle.  The words to this song are beautiful.  Since it's a Brooklyn Tab song you know it's a bit on the high side, so I'd really appreciate your prayers.  I've flubbed more than once while trying to sing, but I especially want God's anointing as I sing this Sunday.  Here are the lyrics:

Oh The Cross

My longing for love wouldn’t go away
I was desperate, searching, broken by pain
Looking for answers but nothing seemed right
Where was my answer, what was my life?
Blinded by sin I was lost, couldn't to see
Until I turned my eyes to Calvary

Oh the cross where Jesus died
He shed His blood, gave His life for you and I
My sins erased, no longer lost
My debt was paid, I am saved
Oh the cross

Day after day as I live my life
I find heartache, trouble, battles to fight
When fear tries to grip me and I feel alone
Jesus is with me, I’m not on my own
Now I can say in my heart I believe
My life has been changed because of Calvary

Oh the cross where Jesus died
He shed His blood, gave His life for you and I
My sins erased, no longer lost
My debt was paid, I am saved
Oh the cross

Still Rejoicing!

It was a beautiful Resurrection weekend. I hope yours was just as glorious!

Les preached for our Spanish service on Saturday night - he talked about "Living Between Death and Life." He talked about what the Saturday before Jesus' resurrection must have been like for the disciples. We know the rest of the story, but they didn't. It's the same in our lives when we're going through a trial. But God is going to bring life back to us.

Les also taught our adult Sunday school class yesterday morning. He talked about the many witnesses to Jesus' resurrection. More than 500 people saw Jesus alive in the days before His ascension. If Jesus had not risen, Christianity would be a hoax. But He DID rise and I'm so glad!

Pastor White had been out of town last week. He was suppose to fly home on Saturday. His flight was out of St. Louis, Missouri. You've probably heard there was a powerful tornado that ripped through St. Louis. The airport was hit, so it had to be closed. Pastor White drove to Little Rock, Arkansas to get a flight home, but did not arrive until during our morning service. We were just glad he made it home safely!

Due to Pastor White's travel woes, he asked Bro. Josh Mayes to preach on Sunday morning. He did a great job! He reminded us that before there is a resurrection, there has to be a death. Each of us must die to our carnal nature before the hope of new life can spring up.

We finally got to hear our Pastor preach last night! It was excellent as always. If we didn't know better, it seemed he listened to the CD of Les' Sunday morning lesson. He gave some of the same examples of people seeing Jesus after His resurrection. There are those who would question the resurrection of Jesus, and those same people will question the rest of God's word. Since Jesus did rise, just like He said He would, we must believe every word that came from His mouth.

In the midst of all this wonderful preaching, we had one burial. Joseph Ramirez was baptized in Jesus name on Sunday morning. It was a special treat to see him go down in water in that wonderful name of Jesus!

He IS Risen!!!

We sing about Christmas being the "Most Wonderful Time of the Year" and Disneyland claims to be the "Happiest Place on Earth." But NOTHING compares to Resurrection Day! Yes, on Christmas a special baby was born, but if He had just lived and died, our lives would be the same. Oh, but He lived, He died, and He Arose!!! Can you imagine the joy at the tomb that morning?


Matthew 28

5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.

Rejoice today!

Precious Moment #03301991

Les and I have been all over the country in our years together. We've been in beautiful settings. Watched gorgeous sunsets. Hiked, biked, and kayaked our way through many adventures. But there is one memory that makes us both laugh every time we talk about it!

It was March, 1991. We were engaged. Les came to Fresno for a visit. Because it was March, Truth Tabernacle was in the middle of our Easter outreach. You Fresnans know what I'm talking about! So what did we do that Saturday when Les came for a visit? We went on outreach together!

Les and I knocked doors, inviting people to church. We came to one door where the mom did not speak any English. Her son, who appeared to be about seven, became our translator. "The bus will pick you up and take you to church on Easter Sunday."

A huge smile brightened the mother's face. She nodded enthusiastically and said in her heavy Spanish accent "Oh, Easter Bunny!"

Something got a little lost in the translation, but all Les has to say to me is "Easter Bunny!" and we both laugh at the shared memory.

He's Alive!!

It's been quite a week. I hope you've taken the time to re-read the account of all that Jesus did for YOU. He laid down His life, but best of all He arose!! Hallelujah! Rejoice!!


Matthew 28

1 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.
9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
10 Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.



Mark 16

1 And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.
2 And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.
3 And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?
4 And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.
5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
6 And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.
7 But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.
8 And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre; for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any thing to any man; for they were afraid.
9 Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.
10 And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept.
11 And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not.


Luke 24

1 Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them.
2 And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.
3 And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus.
4 And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments:
5 And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead?
6 He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee,
7 Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.
8 And they remembered his words,
9 And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.
10 It was Mary Magdalene and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.
11 And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not.
12 Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.


John 20

1 The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.
2 Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the LORD out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him.
3 Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre.
4 So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre.
5 And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in.
6 Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie,
7 And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.
8 Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed.
9 For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.
10 Then the disciples went away again unto their own home.
11 But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,
12 And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.
13 And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my LORD, and I know not where they have laid him.
14 And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.
15 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.
16 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.
17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.
18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the LORD, and that he had spoken these things unto her.