Praising the Lord Always

 N.T.#477 "Praising the Lord Always"

Jan. 31, 2025

Luke 1-Part  12

LET IT GLOW 

Elisabeth told Mary, in verse 45: And blessed is she that believed for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.

Mary's heart and mind were saturated with the Word of God. In verses 46-55, we read Mary's song, with a Latin title "The Magnificat."  In many respects, it resembles Hannah's prayer in 1 Samuel 2:1-10, when Hannah was praying for a child:

• Mary says that her soul doth magnify (to make or declare great) the Lord. (verse 46)
• Mary has rejoiced (to jump for joy; be glad with exceeding joy) in God my Savior. She greatly rejoices and with her song Mary praises her Lord. (Ps. 28:1) (verse 47)
• She acknowledges that the Lord has regarded her lowly estate, for God had taken notice of Mary as a lowly servant girl. (verse 48)
• Mary realizes that all generations would call her blessed (esteem fortunate; count happy). Gabriel and Elisabeth had already called Mary blessed (supremely blessed).

I wonder if it sunk in what had happened to her after Elisabeth said what she said to Mary. Change takes some getting used to for me. I think that seeing her older cousin pregnant and happy helped Mary to process her situation.

Are you in a trying situation? It has been hard for me since my husband has had a knee replacement. Yet, he is finally sleeping better and walking better.

LET IT GROW

For He that is mighty hath done to me great things: and holy is His name. (verse 49) 

Psalm 24:8 askes: Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. 

Whatever our circumstances, unpleasant or enjoyable, we need to keep in mind that God is in control. Mary endured whispers, snickering, jokes, and scorn without complaints, at least not recorded. She submitted to the will of God and trusted Him for strength to endure whatever.

LET IT GO

I will magnify the Lord, who is worthy to be praised. The Lord liveth, blessed be the Rock, may 

the God of my salvation be exulted. 

Help us let go of us and do Your will today.

What a Greeting!

N.T.#476  "What a Greeting!"

Jan. 30, 2025 

Luke 1-Part 11 

LET IT GLOW

I tend to think as soon as Mary surrendered to the Lord's will for her to be the mother of the Savior/Messiah, Jesus Christ, she conceived Him. The Holy Spirit came upon her and the power of the Highest God overshadowed her and Mary carried the Son of God inside her. (verse 35)

Why did angel Gabriel share with Mary that her cousin Elisabeth (who had been barren for years and now in her old age) was pregnant in her sixth month? into the hill country with haste Mary went  to visit her cousin. It was some 60 or more miles south of Nazareth in the Judean territory, I wonder if Mary borrowed her father's donkey. Or did she walk with others on their journey to the Jerusalem rea? Surely Mary did not travel alone. However, Luke gives us no details concerning her trip. He doesn't tell us anyone was present when the two women first see each other. Guess it really doesn't matter. We know Mary stayed at the home of Zacharias and Elisabeth for 3 months. The two had some women talk to do. (Evidently Mary stayed until John the Baptist was born.)

Were the events of the last few days real? It takes about 3-4 months before a baby kicks inside its mother. She knows that life is insider her, then. No wondering, no doubt. I recall when I found out that I was pregnant with our first child. It was a glorious, joyful time. What about you?

LET IT GROW

Keep in mind that there were no phones, emails, buses, cars, nor planes. I'm thinking it could have taken Mary up to a week for her to arrive at her cousin's house.  However long it took, Mary would have been exhausted from the trip. (Hopefully, she did not experience morning sickness along the way.) 

Shall we take a close look at the meeting of the two ladies?

• Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary and John leaped in Elisabeth's womb. Saluted means to enfold in the arms; embrace; to welcome. Leaped refers to jump; leap (for joy).
• Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost (Spirit).(verse 41)
• Before Elisabeth heard the good news from Mary, she said with a loud voice, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. (verse 42)
• Then Elisabeth asked Mary why she was so honored that the mother of her Lord shoud visit her. (verse 43)
• Elisabeth shared with Mary that when she heard Mary's greeting, the baby insider her jumped for joy. (verse 44)
• One more thing Elisabeth said to Mary-You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what He said. (verse 45)

This was all confirming what Mary had head from the angel. Mary was not the one which Elisabeth praised, but Jesus was being praised. What joy the two ladies shared. The Spirit of God had revealed Mary's news before she shared it. The long-hoped-for Messiah was there in their midst. Elisabeth had received a royal visit from her Lord. (verse 43) Without a doubt, the unborn Messiah had entered Elisabeth's home. 

We will look at Mary's response to Elisabeth's greetings. 

Do you welcome Jesus into your home, workplace, car?

LET IT GO

Come into my heart Lord Jesus.

Walk with me along this road of faith.

Direct my steps, words, heart.

Help me let go of my insecurities and trust You.

  

Who Are We Serving?

N.T.#475 "Who Are We Serving?"

Jan. 29, 2025 

Luke 1-Part 10

How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? (verse 34)

LET IT GLOW

We have choices we can make while living in this world-our career, location, family, etc. We also have a choice of living for God and following His will for our life or living for ourself. Which will you choose today? Which did Mary choose? 

After hearing was God's will for her life, Mary had a legitimate question, a right to ask it. She had not had a relation with a man (including Joseph). So Mary was wondering how this was going to happen without a man. A simple question, but needful one. The Holy Spirit would do it. Did she know about the trinity-God the Father, the Holy Spirit, Christ the Son?

We know that God created everything out of nothing, just by speaking it into existence. He could do the same with creating Jesus inside Mary. He created out of nothing what Mary needed to conceive a child. With a miraculous creation of a baby, this one would be the Son of God. He would be free of contamination of sin, from the beginning of His life.

For with God nothing shall be impossible. (verse 37)

Mary was not bringing a sinner into the world. Jesus is holy. Anything God determines to do will be done or accomplished. God provided a substitute to pay the penalty for our sins on our behalf-Jesus Christ. This is God's grace, not that we deserve forgiveness of our sins, but that He loves us that much to die for us, in our place.

LET IT GROW

How did Mary react to all of this amazing news? 

Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. (verse 37)

This verse reveals Mary's submission to the will of God. 

Handmaid, in the Greek language, means  female slave (in a qualified sense of subjection). 

Mary willingly committed herself to the unconditional service of the Lord while she felt stunned, surprised, humbled, and curious. We didn't hear any hesitation Mary's part of this unique event. She had the option to not believe it was possible and to refuse to let it happen. However, that was not what Mary chose. Aren't we glad! Maybe she will tell us the details when we get to heaven.

I wonder if Mary shared this exciting news with her parents. Luke doesn't tell us. Mary had to let go of her plans and follow the will of God. Her life was changed forever. But Emanuel, God with us, was with Mary every step of the way. God did the impossible with her. What a blessing for her to hold the sweet baby Jesus in her arms later!

LET IT GO

What do we need to let go of so we can follow God's will for our life?

Is your faith strong enough for God to use you in whatever way He choses? 

Are you trusting His provision?

Are you willing to sacrifice it all?

Your will,

Your way,

Today, I pray.

Work in me,

so I can be.......

What an Exceeding Abundantly Blessing!

N.T. #474"What an Exceeding Abundantly Blessing!"  

Jan. 28, 2025 

Luke 1-Part 9

LET IT GLOW

Can you think back to when you were about 14 years old? The future was ahead of you with hopes and dreams. Young love may have come along and you think beyond school. I consider young Mary like that. She was engaged to Joseph, a carpenter. Maybe she thought about the possible home and family life ahead of her. 

Then suddenly everything changed for Mary. She was visited by an angel with a specific message from God. She was told how blessed and favored she was by God. He picked her to give birth to Jesus, the Messiah, the Son of the Highest. What a shock to a young girl about to be married.  Didn't she already think that she was following God's will for her life by marrying Joseph? Wasn't it all planned out, to have it changed, drastically changed? What a shock to suddenly find out it was God's will for her to be pregnant before the wedding!  What a shock to even have been visited by the angel Gabriel! But maybe she didn't have time to think about these things. Just some thoughts between the lines.

Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? (verse 34)

This was a legitimate question, for Mary was not married. Her question was not one of doubting God's power and ability as was Zachariah's question.

Mary didn't completely understand the doctrinal significance of the angel's message. Had Joseph begotten Jesus, He would have been merely human, not divine. Only a miraculous virgin birth can account for the God-Man. Because of Mary, His mother, Jesus was human; as the eternal Son of God, a member of the Trinity, He is God. (David Jeremiah)

It was going to be a miraculous conception for sweet Mary, not because of a sin she committed, but she was chosen. Then Gabriel told Mary some exciting news-her cousin Elisabeth was expecting a son, 6 months along. How would we have reacted if it were you or me in this situation?

LET IT GROW

Suddenly Gabriel made a profound statement: For with God nothing shall be impossible. (verse 37)

This applied to the situations of Elisabeth and Mary. Since Elisabeth was a descendant of Aaron, and Mary could have been related to Elisabeth through her mother's side of the family, then Mary was of the Aaronic descent. Thus, Mary was a descendant of David through her father. (MacArthur) 

Therefore, Jesus was of the right Jewish lineage to be our High Priest and Everlasting King. It had all been planned out. Also, it was a God thing when John the Baptist and Jesus were both conceived. John was born to prepare the way for the Lord Jesus and Jesus was born to be our perfect sacrifice.

Why is it important to the Christiaan faith that Jesus was born of a virgin?, 

Jesus was born without the sin that entered the world through Adam. He was born holy, just as Adam was created sinless. Jesus did not sin while He lived as a man. Adam did sin and sin was carried on through his sin nature to us. Jesus, being the Son of God, not Joseph, was fully human and fully divine.

How can we believe this as truth?

1. First, Luke being a physician, knew how babies were made. So it would take faith to believe this happened for Luke and for us.
2. Luke being a researcher; tradition holds that he talked to Mary as an eyewitness of the accounts he wrote. So Mary's story was not a fictional invention. 
3. Christians and Jews, who worship God as the Creator of the universe, all things, and us, should not doubt that God has power to create a child in a virgin's womb. (Life Application Study Bible)

The question is, do you believe this is truth?

Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. (Eph. 3:20)

Exceeding means more super abundantly.

I consider that Mary was blessed exceeding abundantly having Jesus as her son. Don't you?

Recently, God gave me a blessing overflowing. I made plans to attend a meeting in our denomination with 3 other women, but they backed out on me. So I could not attend. Let me tell you, I was down and out, so disappointed. Then I decided to offer the paid tickets to someone going that might need a free ticket. Sure enough, a lady contacted me. I gave her the information and she attended the meeting free of charge. I was happy to pass it on so someone could get the blessing. Unexpectantly, she has picked up the items we would have received free had we attending and she is mailing them to me. Now that is an exceeding abundantly blessing! 

LET IT GO

As I let go of the disappointment and freely gave to another, God blessed me.

What a loving and  mighty God we serve!

 

 

What a Message!

N. T. #473  "What a Message!"

Jan. 27, 2025 

Luke 1-Part 8 

LET IT GLOW 

Keep in mind that God broke His silence after 400 years and sent Gabriel twice to earth with a message from Him. This was an unusual message that Gabriel delivered to the young Mary. Luke is specific in identifying this girl. Mary was a virgin engaged to Joseph, of the house of David. (verse 27) He reassured Mary that she was highly favored with special honor by God. 

J. Vernon McGee explains that a virgin is a woman who could never have a child in a natural way because she has never had a relationship with a man that would make the birth of a child possible.

It was natural for Mary to be troubled, disturbed, when she saw the angel Gabriel. Who wouldn't be? 

What was Gabriel's message for Mary? Thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.  (verse 31)

This was a plain, to the point, and literal message.  Isaiah had foretold of this great event in 9:6;

For a child will be born for us, a son will be given to us, and the government will be on His shoulders. He will be named Wonderful, counsel for, Might God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

The Jews knew this prophecy about the Messiah coming. This child which Mary was going to deliver would become the Deliverer for sinners. The Holy Spirit, with the power of the Most High would cause this to be-Jesus in the form of a baby. 

Mary was a receiver of grace, not a dispenser of divine grace.  (MacArthur)

Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Joshua, which means the LORD saves, or the Lord is Salvation. Christos in Greek means anointed one, which is the exact equivalent of the Hebrew word for Messiah.

Names were important to Jews. They had meaning. Before creation time, God's Son was going to come to earth as a baby, grow into a man, live a perfect and sinless life, in order to be the Salvation for sinners.

Dear one, I pray that you will accept this as truth and will believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior. He left His throne on high in order to take our punishment for our sins so we don't have to pay for them. Such awesome love! have you trusted in Jesus as your Savior today? What about your family and friends?

LET IT GROW 

What did Gabriel say Jesus would be like and be called?

He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of His father David.  (verse 32)

In Greek, the word used here for great means exceedingly; high; mighty; strong.

Also, Jesus would be called the Son of the Highest; Highest used here means the Supreme (God).

Another thing the angel told Mary that Jesus would be given the throne of David. (verse 32) Jesus was David's physical descendant through Mary's line. David's seed would establish his kingdom forever. One of his would be reigning on the throne. Jesus, the Messiah, is doing so in heaven and will do so during His Millennial reign. (2 Sam. 7) This is known as the Davidic Covenant god made with King David.

Jesu will reign over the house of Jacob and His kingdom will have no end. Glory to God in the Highest! Heaven as an everlasting kingdom. Are you going to see the King?

Now, that was a lot for Mary to take in, don't you think? God chose her to birth the Messiah, the Son of God. 

LET IT GO 

Thank You, Heavenly Father, that You keep Your promises.

You do what You say You will do.

Help us to keep our word, too.

You alone are worthy of worship, praise, glory, and honor.

A Conversation Like No Other

N.T.#472 "A Conversation Like No Other"

Jan. 24, 2025 

Luke 1-Part 7 

LET IT GLOW 

I wonder what Mary was doing whenever the angel Gabriel appeared to her with a special message from God. Was she doing household duties? Was she praying? we aren't told. Let's take a closer look at this unusual event in Mary's life:

• Twice Luke tells us in verse 27 that Mary is a virgin (an unmarried daughter), espoused or engaged to Joseph.
•  Mary was a virgin, waiting for the celebration of her vows, and the consummation of her union with Joseph. This meant that Joseph had chosen Mary to be his mate, entered a contract or formal agreement of engagement with her for marriage, signed and sealed it, and waited for the wedding ceremony, then a grand family feast. (Swindoll)
• All was ready as the couple awaited the betrothal period to be over as proof that Mary was not pregnant. All of this was important because Jesus was to have no earthly father. God caused Jesus to be implanted in Mary's womb, not a man.
• Then by a startling greeting, an angel appeared to Mary, out of the blue. 
• Gabriel gave Mary a greeting like no other-You are highly favoured, found grace and endued with special honor by the Lord. She was blessed among women.
• Mary was chosen to be the mother of the Messiah, Jesus Christ, the son of God.
• When Mary saw the angel, she was troubled (to disturb wholly; agitate with alarm) at his words, Mary tried to think what the angel meant. (verse 29)
• I wonder if Mary was backing up away from Gabriel when he said again that she found favor with God. (verse 30)

God's blessing on Mary was that she would be the mother of the Messiah. However, that would bring her pain, from her peers in ridicule, her fiance' wo came close to leaving her, and her son would be rejected and murdered. Her submission to God's plan would bring the world's only hope, and our salvation. (Life Application Study Bible)

Is life getting difficult for you? Keep on following Jesus, my friend. Even when it is hard or uncomfortable, know that He will not forsake you.  Keep your focus on eternal things, kingdom work, and sharing the love of our Savior. You will be blessed when you

LET IT GROW 

Swindoll gives us 5 future facts which Gabriel revealed to Mary:

1. She will conceive and bear a son. (Isaiah 7:14)
2. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High.
3. He will be given the throne of David. (2 Sam. 7:16) and Judah. (Gen. 49:10)
4. He will be the Hebrew Messiah and King of Israel. (Ps. 89:36; Isaiah 9:6-7; Jer. 23:5-6)
5. His kingdom will endure forever. 

Matthew gave us the lineage of Joseph, Jesus's legal father, through the tribe of Judah. Luke gives us Mary's blood-line as a descendant of King David.  (chapter 3) All of this was very important to the Jews.

It is my hope that we can see how God had it all planned out. Mary and Joseph were very important in Jesus' life as He grew up. They trained Him in the Jewish traditions and worship. It is by faith that we believe Jesus to be virgin born, the son of God. Oh how He humbled Himself to come to earth in the form of a man so He could die on a cross in our place. 

LET IT GO 

We praise You Lord Jesus for all the blessing You have given to us.

We lift You up as King of kings and Lord of lords, the Messiah, Savior, and Redeemer.

Thank You that it is by faith that we are save, through grace.

Help us yield to Your plan for our life, letting go of the worldly things today.

Unexpected Children

N.T.#471 "Unexpected Children"

Jan. 23, 2025 

Luke 1-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

I have always considered myself an unexpected child. My parents already has a son and daughter. Seven years later I came along. But I felt loved and was definitely spoiled. Today, we study about two unexpected children.

When Zacharias's week of service in the Temple was over, he returned home. Don't you think they had a romantic weekend together? I say that because soon afterward Elisabeth, his wife, became pregnant and went into seclusion for 5 months. 

"How kind the Lord is!" she exclaimed. "He has taken away my disgrace of having no children." (verse 25)

Angel Gabriel was busy that year. He appeared to Zacharas in the Temple in Jerusalem and now to Mary. It was while Elisabeth was in her sixth month of pregnancy that God sent Gabriel to Nazareth, a city of Galilee, to the virgin Mary, who was engaged to Joseph that he appeared again. (Joseph was a descendant of King David.)

Nazareth was a remote village north of Jerusalem. It sits on top of a mountain range above the Jezreel Valley. It was a farmland and a place where animals were raised. Rather insignificant, I would say, except for a special couple being from that place.

Mary was a virgin, (Parthen'os), a maiden; an unmarried daughter. Espoused means betroth.

Mary knew no man before the visit of Gabriel, so she was a pure, engaged girl. The engagement of Mary and Joseph could have lasted as long as a year, according to Jewish tradition. That was so it was evident the girl was not pregnant. The bride and groom were bound to each other, just not in a physical relationship. It took a writ of divorcement to break their covenant. Had the girl become pregnant during the betrothal period, she was viewed an adulteress and might be stoned publicly to punish her and vindicate the groom's honor. (Swindoll) 

LET IT GLOW

I wonder what Mary was doing whenever angel Gabriel appeared to her. Was she doing chores at home? Was she fetching water from the city well? Was she making her wedding dress? Scripture doesn't tell us, so it must not be important for us to know.

In verse 28, we read how the angel greeted Mary:

Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. 

Favoured, in the Greek language, means to grace; endue with special honor; make accepted; highly favored.

Mary was full of grace, accepted. She was a recipient, not a dispenser, of divine grace. (MacArthur)

Mary was just a poor, young, female, who seemed unusable and unimportant to be used by God. Yet, God chose Mary for one of the most important acts of obedience He has ever demanded of anyone.

You may feel that your ability, experience, or education makes you an unlikely candidate for God's service. Don't limit God's choices. He can use you if you trust Him. (Life Application Study Bible)

LET IT GO

Use us for Your kingdom work, Lord Jesus.

Thank You for life and breath today.

Help us see the needs of others so we can meet those needs.

How Strong is Our Faith?

N.T.#470 "How Strong is Our Faith?"

Jan. 22, 2025 

Luke 1-Part 5

LET IT GLOW 

It was an ordinary day as the priest Zacharias burned incense on the altar in the Temple. Yet it was an extraordinary day for him as an angel was sent by God to deliver an unusual message to a. He  barren and older couple.  He would have a son, John. The messenger was Gabriel who stood in the presence of God. Anything is possible with God.

John means the LORD is gracious. 

John would grow up to be a lifelong Nazirite all his life. The Holy Spirit would fill John, even before he was born. He would turn the disobedient people's hearts to the Lord. John would prepare the way for the Messiah. 

How did Zacharas react to this astounding message? He doubted, lacked trust and faith that he and his elderly wife could have such a child and God would do it. 

How can I be sure this will happen? I am an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years. (verse 18, NLT)

But now, since you didn't believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time. (verse 20, NLT)

Hadn't Zach prayed for a son numerous times? Why did he not trust in the Word of God? He should have believed in the power of God to fulfill His promises. (Gen. 21:1) I am old! I am Gabriel! What a conversation this man had that day in the Temple. 

Yet, we should not come down too hard on Zach. How many times have we prayed specifically and it not happen, then we stop praying for it? How many times have we given up on God?

It took 40 years before I saw the right medical person to obtain the right medicine for my disease. I kept praying, but no results came. God is so gracious that He gave me the right nurse practitioner, who had me try the right medicine. Friend, do not give up. Keep praying. In God's time and way He will answer.

 LET IT GROW

So Zach could not speak until John the Baptist was born, when he named the baby. He could not share the great news with other priests, those praying in the courtyard, nor with Elisabeth when he got home. Did you realize that Zacharias could not hear until he wrote what to name John? (verse 62) What a long time to not be able to speak nor hear. He could not share about his divine encounter. He had to keep it to himself.

LET IT GO

What do we need to let of so our faith and obedience continues to grow? Is it our time we need to give to God? Is it our money? Is it our family? 

Are we walking by faith and not by sight?

To God be the glory for the things He hath done!

 

An Angelic Visit

N.T.#469 "An Angelic Visit"

Jan. 21, 2025 

Luke 1-Part 4

LET IT GLOW 

Zacharias was at the right place (Temple), doing the right thing (burning incense so God would her the prayers of His people), and at the right time. This priest and his wife, Elisabeth, were barren, not children in the home. They were beyond childbearing, years by this time. 

Don't you think they prayed year after year, day after day for a child? Yet none came to them, not even a Word from God, until now, in the Temple. Probably the couple had prayed for a son, for a Messiah, or both. Remember, it had been 400 years since God spoke or revealed anything to His people the Jews.

Then it happened. 

What happened?

• An angel of the Lord stood at the right side of the altar of incense. (verse 11)
• When Zacharias saw the angel, he was troubled (to stir up or agitate) and fear (alarm or fright; be afraid, exceedingly; terror.) fell upon him. (verse 12)
• The angel told Zacharias to Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. (verse 13)
• And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth. (verse 14)
• For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb. (verse 15)
• And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. (verse 16)
• And he shall go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers of the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just: to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. (verse 17)

What a day! What a scarry time. What a divine revelation! What a divine message! God sent His angel to tell Zach that His prayers were heard and answered. This older couple was going to have a son. What a miracle!

LET IT GROW 

I think Zach's reaction of fear was a normal one. An angel of the Lord had appeared to him. Besides that, the angel was conversing with him. Do you think this shook-up Zach? He and his wife were going to have a baby in their old age. Not only that, but this baby was also going to preach the good news, preparing the way for the Lord, the Messiah.  What a blessing beyond their dreams!

We know what a man this miracle child became! How blessed this Jewish couple was and is. Their child turned hearts to the Lord Jesus. Their child turned the disobedient to wisdom of the just. I say it was a blessing!

We are going to stop there in verse 17. Join us tomorrow for more of this story.

LET IT GO 

Bless the Lord, oh my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name-King Jesus.

How has God blessed you and your family?

Being at the Right Place at the Right Time

N.T.#468 "Being at the Right Place at the Right Time"

Jan. 20, 2025 

Luke 1-Part2

LET IT GLOW 

Keep in mind that it had been a 400-year silence between Israel and heaven. God's promises remained in tact. He was still going to send a Messiah. Yet, during those lean years, the Jewish priesthood became a  corrupt crime syndicate and the temple was a funnel for their money. 

Herod the Great was great alright, great in evil. He was ruling the land of Judea and over the Jews. You will recall that he was so hateful that he even killed potential family members would could take over his throne. 

Yet God... God is full of surprises. His surprise for an older couple who served Him faithfully in the priesthood, sought to live blameless lives, and had hope dwindling, hope for a child. Decades passed and they remained childless. Luke zooms in on this couple, in the dark days of their lives.

How is Zacharias described by Luke:

• A certain priest, which means he was one of 24 divisions of priests who rotated their duties in the Temple, performing 1 week every 6 months. (1:5)
• His wife, Elisabeth, who was of the lineage of Aaron and the tribe of Levi. (1:5)
• The couple were both righteous in the sight of God, walking blamelessly in all His commandments and ordinances (verse 6)
• They had no child, which the Jews considered their lives were displeasing God; this brought shame upon Zachariah and Elisabeth. (verse 7)
• Both were well stricken in years. which means advance or in years; be of a great age.
• 
  

LET IT GROW

To determine which priest would fulfill each duty in the Temple, they drew lots. On this day, Zacharias had the great honor of offering incense in the holy place. (Exodus 30) Twice a day a priest would trim the wicks of the lampstand and burn incense on a small altar in front of a woven veil which separated the room from the Holy of Holies. It was likely that Zacharias did this the one and only time. It was no ordinary day. Obviously, he had no idea what was ahead of him that day whenever Zach entered the Temple.

Two other priests stirred the coals on the altar of burnt offering while the incense was refilled. Immediately the priests would prostrate himself, then leave the room backwards. Meanwhile, the crowds gathered outside the courtyards in the morning and evening for prayers. 

God is sovereign in human affairs. He works through seemingly random processes to accomplish His will. Since God is sovereign, there is no such thing as luck. (Tony Evans)

This was all in God's timing. Zachariah was at the right place at the right time, doing the right thing. It was the providence of God. 

Do we seek God's will daily so we can be at the right place and at the right time for Him to use us for kingdom work? 

LET IT GO

All my life You have been faithful. All my life You have been so, so good. With every breath that I am able, I will sing of the goodness of my God.

I love You Lord Jesus! Use us for Your glory and honoe today, Jesus. 

A Lesson for Us All

 N. T. #467 "A Lesson for Us All"

Jan. 17, 2025 

Luke 2-Part 2 

LET IT GLOW 

I found it interesting that John MacArthur would say that about 60% of the material in Mark is repeated in Luke. 

Luke used the word eyewitnesses (autoptics/where we get our word autopsy, which means self-seeing. 

Luke did his research before writing this book. As he traveled with Paul, Luke gathered scraps of written memoirs of the apostles who walked daily with Jesus, heard His teachings, saw Him perform miracles, and experienced discussions with the Messiah/Creator. We must include that Luke was directed through divine revelation inspired by the Holy Spirit in his writings. Luke wrote to narrate the ministry of Christ in an authoritative, logical, and factual order. However, it was not always chronological. 

Luke interviewed the people who knew Jesus best. Their testimony was a reputable eyewitness. His writings were the result of a research of excellence, an excellent organization, expression, and discipline. (Swindoll)

How are we doing in our life tasks? Are they performed with excellence?

LET IT GROW

No matter what our work involves, we should do it with these things in mind:

• Do it with all our might. (Exc. 9:10)
• Do all to glorify God. (1 Cor. 10:31) 
• Do it honorably. (2 Cor. 8:21)
• Do it as a service unto the Lord. (Eph. 6:7-8)
• Do all things without grumbling or disputing. (Phil. 2:14-15)
• Do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Col. 3:17)
• Do whatever heartily, as for the Lord. (Col. 3:23-24)
• Keep your behavior excellent among the Gentiles so our good deeds glorify God. (1 Peter 2:12)
• When you speak and serve, do so in order that God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 4:11)

Confession time: As I was typing all these verses, my new computer was taking over, making letters bold and large. Every time I typed a new verse summary, I was getting madder and madder at it. Spitt'n and sputter'n, I was. Then I was humbled by the words I had typed. Boy, did I fail that test!

Those verses are for us to apply, not just read, including me. Lesson learned.

LET IT GO

Help me honor You in all I do. Especially as I continue to drive my husband everywhere he needs to go. It has been almost 3 weeks and I am a homebody. So as I serve him today, may I honor You, Lord Jesus.

(His knee replacement has been a challenge for me, too.)

Do it.

There is Joy!

N.T.#466  "There is Joy!"

Jan. 16, 2025 

Luke 1 

LET IT GLOW

Need some joy today, my friend? Read on and find it.

As said earlier, Luke was a physician who shows Jesus' compassionately identifying with the needs of humanity. Luke marvels that God, moved by love for us, would make Himself so vulnerable. Only in Luke's account do we see the Almighty wrapped in swaddling clothes, a helpless infant laid in a manger. We see the Christ child matching wits with the greatest theological minds of His day and becoming fully aware of His dual nature-His divine origin, divine purpose, healing diseased and disfigured people for no reason other than love. (Swindoll)

Luke was not one of the 12 disciples which Jesus chose to follow Him and teach. It is possible that Luke became a believer as a direct result of Paul's ministry in Troas. In Acts 16, Luke includes himself as part of the missionary team with Paul, referring to "we" in the chapter. He may have heard about the Hebrew God while living around Philippi. He may have heard the gospel from Paul and accepted Jesus as the Messiah. Or Luke may have heard about Jesus from a Jewish convert returning from Pentecost. (Acts 2)(Swindoll)

At any rate, Luke was a believer in Christ Jesus who wrote this book. Why did he write it?

• Many people set out to write accounts about the events that were fulfilled among them. (verse 1)
• There were eyewitness reports circulating among them from the disciples. (verse 2)
• Luke decided to write a careful account for Theophilus, so he could be certain of the truth of everything he was taught. (verses 3-4) New Living Translation

Luke set out to complete the history of the events surrounding the beginnings, growth, and development of Christianity. By the way, Theophilus was a Greek noble and a believer in Jesus.

Are you a believer in Jesus?

LET IT GROW 

We will learn why Jesus is the object of our faith, hope, and deserves worship while studying this book. We will see Jesus':

• miraculous, divine conception,
• humility as He identifies with the lowest of the low,
• His righteousness displayed in His life,
• His triumph over temptation and compassion for infirmity,
• intolerance of hypocrisy,
• confrontation of evil,
• welcoming sinners, 
• obedience to the Father,
• His willingness to suffer on our behalf,
• and His conquest over death. (Swindoll) 

Luke presents Jesus as a human, an extraordinary human, because of His character. Jesus is not a dead hero, but a Risen Savior! This is His story!

And they worshiped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. (24:52)

There we are, saved to worship the Lord Jesus, our Savior. There we are, sent to spread the Gospel, the Good News to our Jerusalem. How are we to do it? With great joy!

LET IT GO 

About Luke

 N.T.#465 "About Luke"

Jan. 15, 2025 

Introduction to Luke 

There are some interesting information about this author called Luke. I found this on the internet site of Crosswalk:

1. Luke was a Gentile and the only writer of a book of the Bible. Therefore, he wrote of things the Gentiles likely were not acquainted with in the Jewish practices. Also, Luke wanted to record the life of Jesus and gave as accurate account for the Gentile audience, especially Theophilis, a Roman official that was saved.
2. He was a physician, probably practicing medicine in Antioch. He sacrificed a comfortable life to follow the Lord and Paul on his missionary journeys.
3. Luke was humble. He used the term "we" in his writings.
4. He met some of the apostles/disciples; traveled with Matthew and Mark.
5. Luke remained with Paul until Paul's death when others fled due to Nero's persecution and killing of Christians. (2 Tim. 4) Luke was a loyal, faithful, brave, long-term friend, fellow worker, and companion to Paul over the years.
6. Luke's historical narrative spans over 60 years, from John the Baptist to the gospel reaching Rome.

A running theme in Luke's Gospel is Jesus' compassion for Gentiles, Samaritans, women, children, tax collectors, sinners, and others often regarded as outcasts in Israel. He included the salvation of the rich and respected. This showed the Great Physician ministering to those most aware of their need.(MacArthur)

Other themes in Luke's writings include the human fear in the presence of God, forgiveness, joy, wonder at the mysteries of divine truth, the role of the Holy Spirit, the temple in Jerusalem, and Jesus' prayers. the heart of Luke's Gospel is Jesus' relentless progression toward the Cross. Jesus did not deter from it, for His whole mission was the saving of sinners. Luke highlighted Paul's doctrine of justification by faith.  (MacArthur)

Don't you feel like you know Luke? I hope you will continue on this journey through Luke's writings as we walk by faith in our own journey of life.

Jesus told the scribes and Pharisees, I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.  (Luke 5:32)

Friend, have your repented of your sins and asked Jesus to be your Savior? What about your family, friends, neighbors? 

The End is the Beginning

N.T.#464 "The End is the Beginning"

Jan. 14, 2025 

Summary of Mark

Jesus gave the Olivet Discourse as He prophesied about the future events to come. (chapter 13) 

Mark didn't give us details of Jesus' teachings in the upper room, when He and the disciples celebrated the Passover. Yet 7 times Jesus foretold of His death and resurrection to His disciples. Judas left to collect his blood-money, then the Lord's Supper became a symbol of the New Covenant. Jesus gave His body and blood for us as a sacrificial Lamb of God that takes away the sins of the world. We come to Jesus in faith, believing who He is and what He has done for us. Is Jesus your personal Savior?

Peter denied Jesus, which He previously had revealed to him. Jesus went through 6 trials, which we studied in depth. 

And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven. (14:62) 

Before suffering on the cross, they beat Jesus. made fun of Him, then drove 3 nails into His body so He would die on the cross at age 33. After He died, the veil of the Temple was torn from top to bottom. This signified that we now have access to our Heavenly Father through Jesus our Intercessor.

The centurion proclaimed that Truly this man was the Son of God. (15:39)

The faithful women encountered an angel who said, Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: He is risen: He is not here: behold the place where they laid Him.  (16:6)

After that Jesus appeared to Mary Magdalene and two men on the road to Damascus. Jesus gave the Great Commission, Go ye into the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.  (16:15)

Jesus actually remained with them 40 days. (Acts 1:3) 

Others wrote book and letters, sharing the life of Jesus Christ. They were led of the Holy Spirit to give us instructions as to how we are to obey God and believe in Him and His Word as Truth. Such grace and mercy our Lord is showing us through the Scriptures. We may not understand it all, but faith knows it is Truth.

Thank you for studying the Gospel of Mark. Join us tomorrow as we begin studying The Gospel According to Luke. What a blessing you have been.   

What is to Come

 N.T.#463 "What is to Come"

Jan. 13, 2025

Summary of Mark-Part 4

We are continuing to look at some of the highlights in this book:

• One of the scribes asked Jesus which is the most important of all. And Jesus answer him, The first of all commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord. An thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength; this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other but He. (Mark 12:28-31)
• Then in chapter 13, Jesus taught about signs or event to take place in the future Messianic Kingdom: deceivers, wars, earthquakes, famines, and 7-year Tribulation.
• And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory. (verse 26)
• Heaven and earth shall pass away: but My Words shall not pass away. (verse 31)

Only the Heavenly Father knows when He will send His Son to get His children to take to heaven. In the meantime, we are told to heed, watch, and pray. We are to be looking up for our redemption draweth nigh. We believe the rapture will come before the Tribulation. Pray for other believers, the church, and ourself to remain faithful to the Redeemer. Also, pray for the lost to come accept Jesus as their Savior. Time seems to be getting shorter.

Are you ready for the rapture and Tribulation?

Where Does Your Loyalty Lie?

N.T.#462  "Where Does Your Loyalty Lie?"

Jan. 10, 2025 

Summary of Mark-Part 3 

Everyone stay safe out there. It is truly a winter wonderland here. We have 6.6 inches of snow. More fell in other parts of my state. Praying for those in California as the fire spreads.

As we continue to look back at what Mark wrote:

• Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God. (Mark 10:14)
• It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved? And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible. (verses 25-27)
• In speaking about those who rule over the Gentiles exercise authority over them, Jesus said, But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister. And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many. (verses 42-45)
• Have faith in God. (verse 22)
• And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. (verse 25)
• Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's. (12:17)
• 
  

Jesus taught a lot of things concerning how we are to live-have faith like a child, have faith in God who can do all things according to His will, minister and serve others, forgive others, make God our ultimate authority.

God's authority is the ultimate one we are to surrender to in our life. However, we are to obey the laws of the land if they do not interfere with God's laws. He is the One to whom our loyalty and affection, dependence and faith lie. 

 Are you trusting in Jesus today?

  

Who is Jesus to You?

 N.T.#461 "Who is Jesus to You?"

Jan. 2025 

Summary of Mark-Part 2

We are continuing to look at some verses which are significant to me in this book:

• And He said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. (Mark 7:19) Defileth means profane; pollute; unclean.
• And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath done all things well; He maketh both the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak. (7:37) Jesus didn't heal people for money or fame, but out of love.
• And He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto Him, Thou art the Christ.  (8:29) The Greek Christos comes from the word which means to anoint, the Anointed One, being the Messiah.
• ...Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. (8:34) 
• If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. (9:35) 
• And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in Me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.  (9:42)

Who is Jesus Christ to you? Is He just a teacher mentioned in a good book? Or is Jesus Christ your Savior, Redeemer, and Messiah? Are we surrendered to Him in everything? Do we acknowledge Him, serve Him, and glorify Him?

Faith in Jesus Makes Us Whole

N.T.#460 "Faith in Jesus Makes Us Whole"

Summary of Mark

 As we finish our study of one of the books in the Bible, I like to go back and review it. Even look at some verses which I highlighted. 

John Mark was actually his name, the author of this book. It was to his mother's home in Jerusalem where Peter went when he was released from prison. (Acts 12:12)  John Mark was a cousin of Barnabas and he accompanied Paul and his cousin on Paul's first missionary journey. However, he deserted them long the way in Perga and returned home. Paul refused to take John Mark on his second missionary journey. That friction resulted in Paul and Barnabas' separation. In time, Mark matured and he proved himself even to Paul. In Colossian, Paul was ready to welcome John Mark. In Timothy, Paul told Timothy to bring Mark, for he is useful to his ministry.

Peter seemed to have remained close to Mark. Mark was an interpreter of Peter's and wrote down accurately whatsoever he remembered. Some call the Gospel of Mark is the memoirs of Peter.

Mark and Luke were both companions of Paul; the early church met for a time in the home of Mark's mother. 

It is suggested that Mark wrote his Gospel while in Italy, particularly to the Roman Christians. He presents Jesus as the Servant of the Lord. Mark begins with the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. He omits Jesus' ancestry and birth. 

The Gospel writers were inspired by God and wrote independently of one another, being led by the Holy Spirit. 

[Resource: the MacArthur Bible Commentary]

As a summary of the ministry of Christ Jesus, we read of His baptism and temptation; ministry in Galilee with the calling of His disciples and parables He taught; miracles Jesus did; His ministry beyond Galilee; His teachings beyond Jordan; the concluding ministry of Jesus; Christ's crucifixion and death, as well as the resurrection of Christ. [Liberty Bible Commentary]

What can be the summary of our life? Have we faithfully followed Jesus? 

Did you notice 19 times Mark uses the words straightway and immediately? They mean the same in the Greek language.

What are some teachings of Jesus that are significant to believers?

• The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath. Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. (Mark 2:27-28)
• And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot stand.  ((3:25)
• For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is My brother, and My sister, and mother. ((3:35)
• For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.  (4:22)
• What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him? (4:41)
• Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague. (5:34)

Has your faith made you whole, friend? The woman with the issue of blood for 12 years was sick and she believed Jesus could make her well. Jesus has power over the physical and spiritual. Have you trusted Jesus as your Savior and been made whole by faith in Him? Just ask Him today, if not. Rejoice if your have already.

Sharing and Caring

N.T.#459 "Sharing and Caring"

Jan. 7, 2025 

Mark16-Part 2

LET IT GLOW 

Was Mary Magdalene obedient to what the Lord Jesus told her to do? Yes, the first one to witness the resurrected Christ went quickly on the first day of the week. I imagine she and the other women dropped their spices and ran with joy, trembling, fear, and amazement. (verse 8)

Mary M. did as her Lord commanded. How did the disciples react?

• Three times in this passage the disciples resisted in believing Jesus was alive. (verses 10-13)
• The disciples were weeping and grieving when Mary told them Jesus was alive and he had seen Him, but they believed her not. (verse 11)
• Jesus appeared to two walking on the road to Emmaus. (It was Cleopas and another, which could have been his wife Mary.) These went and told the rest of the disciples, except for Thomas, neither believed them. (verse 13)
• After that, Jesus appeared unto the 11 as they sat eating meat. Jesus rebuked them for their stubborn unbelief because they refused to believe those who had seen Him after He had risen from the dead. (verse 14, NLT)

In the meanwhile, the chief priests and elders gave large sums of money to soldiers to say someone stole Jesus' body while they slept. This is a common saying among the Jews today. (Matt. 28:11-15)

Does our faith believe Christ is risen from the dead? Has His Spirit spoken to you? 

LET IT GROW

Mark doesn't give much detail of the visit between Jesus and His disciples in the upper room in Jerusalem. He does record the Great Commission given by Jesus to His believers:

And He said unto them, God ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved: but he that believeth not shall be damned. (verses 15-16)

Then Jesus spoke of signs that believers were protected in the book of Acts. those things are not for show, but His protection. Jesus remained with the apostles 40 days.(Acts 1:3) Peter and Paul performed many miracles as a confirmation of the reality of their claims. 

Friends, we have the Good News to share with others in our little world and in the big, wide world. Are we being faithful to do so?

LET IT GO

How beautiful are the fee that bring Good News. (Isaiah 52:7)

Use us Lord Jesus to share what You have done in our life, Your grace and mercy.

As we go, may we minister to the needs of others and share Your love with them.

We pray for missionaries around the world and Your protection and encouragement to them, along with blessings. 

A Personal Encounter

N.T.#459 "A Personal Encounter"

Jan. 7, 2025 

Mark16-Part 2 

LET IT GLOW 

Have you had a personal encounter with Jesus? today's lesson informs us a woman who did. Read on, dear one.

Who was the first one to witness the resurrected Jesus Christ? That privilege was given to Mary Magdalene because of her unreserved dedication. Her Lord had delivered Mary from 7 devils. 

We read of the personal encounter she had with the Risen Jesus in John 20:11-18:

• She was weeping, grieved, sorrowful, so much so that Mary doesn't recognize Jesus standing in the tomb with her. 
• Mary stooped down and looked into the empty tomb.
• She wants to know where the Lord's body is lying so she can complete the embalming process. 
• This happened after Peter and John ran to the garden and tomb, then left. 
• This good woman, loving and faithful woman, spoke with the Risen Savior, yet she didn't recognize Him at first. 
• Jesus asked Mary why she was weeping. It was like a rebuke for her as if to question her weeping when she should have been rejoicing. Her tears would be turned to gladness. 
• Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou? Jesus asked Mary Magdalene.
• When Mary recognized Jesus and calls Him Rabboni, Master.

LET IT GROW

In John 20, there are some insights to Jesus and Mary's relationship:

• Like any woman seeing the loved one she thought was dead, Mary must have hugged Jesus.
• The Greek word for Touch Me not  is haptomai,  which means to cling to or to take hold of.
• Christ told Mary to stop clinging to Him, because, by doing so, she kept the Lord there with her. His destination was to go to the Father. 
• Mary recognized Jesus' voice. 
• Jesus gave Mary a mission-go tell the brethren what she had seen and heard, that He ascended into heaven. (Falwell)

Do we cling to Jesus in our time of need? He will not turn us away.

Whom do we seek in our hour of need? Are we seeking Jesus? Seek and ye shall find. Mary's heart was set on finding Christ. Is our heart belonging to Jesus?

Friend, do you have a personal relationship with Jesus?

Mary recognized Jesus' voice. Christ's sheep know His voice. (John 10:4)

The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart. (Ps. 34:18)

Jesus ascended to His Father and our Father, to His God and our God. (verse 17)

As Christ ascended into heaven, so will believers when He calls us home to sit with Him in heavenly places. (Eph. 2:5-6)

Are we telling others that Jesus is risen from the grave?

LET IT GO

The angels and saved souls ae praising our Risen Savior in heaven.

Holy is the Lord! Holy forever!

All creation will one day sing His praises.

Faith or Fear

N.T.#458 

Jan. 6, 2025 

Mark 15-Part14

LET IT GLOW 

This is the last chapter in Mark's gospel. The same women who watched where the men laid the body of Jesus came back to the tomb early in the morning as the sun rose. Obviously, they had agreed earlier to meet there at that time.  It had been three days since the horrible crucifying of Jesus. They would have needed nearly 75 pounds of aromatic resins to neutralize the smell of decay. 

On their way to the tomb, the women discussed, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? 

In the Greek language, sepulchre means a grave; tomb.

Burial caves were designed to keep grave robbers and wild animals out, so the entrance is usually covered with a massive stone wheel weighing as much as a tone or more. To open the tomb, several men would need to use levers to roll it away and then secured with a wedge.

By the time the women got to Jesus' tomb, the stone had been rolled away. This would have been perplexing and great concern. They may have assumed someone else had come to complete the burial ritual. You will recall that in Matthew 27, we read of the chief priests and scribes made a request of Pilate that the sepulchre where Jesus was laid be secure so no one stole it, saying He arose after 3 days. So they put a guard there, sealed the tomb with a stone and set up a watchman. (Matt. 27:65-66) Well, that didn't work well for them because the angel of the Lord rolled back the stone from the door and sat upon it. 

Did you catch their concern? They wanted to make sure the tomb of Jesus was not made empty since He said He would rise on the third day.

  

LET IT GROW 

LET IT GO 

When It Doesn't Make Sense

N.T.#457 "When It Doesn't Make Sense"
Jan. 3, 2025 

Mark 15-Part 13 

LET IT GLOW 

When unexpected things happen quickly, don't you sit and try to make sense of it all? I know I did concerning my brother's death. The doctor gave him 2 months to live because cancer was eating his live. Then five days later he was gone. Similar were the events surrounding Jesus' death. Read on to get the details.

Who is going to bury Jesus? the Sabbath was coming quickly, so it had to be done right away. The women had the spices for preparation. Where were His disciples? Weren't they going to do it? What about the tomb? So many questions unanswered. Deuteronomy 21:22-23 requires their body of an executed person be buried the same day. They better hop to it. Then up steps a man who asked Pilate for Jesus' body. It was Joseph of Arimathea. Where were Jesus' brother and sisters, closest friends, disciples?

Who was Joseph of Arimathea?

• He was from Arimathea, not Jerusalem. Arimathea was located some15-20 miles northwest of Jerusalem. the birthplace of Samuel. 
• He was a prominent member of the Sanhedrin council. 
• He opposed Jesus' condemnation. (Luke 23:51)
• Joseph boldly approached Pilate and asked for His body. (verse 43)
• He and a few others watched the soldiers removed the Lord's corpse from the cross.  
• Joseph, Nicodemus, and others rinsed Jesus' body, anointed it with oil and spiced resins, and then wrapped it in a linen cloth, as was customary in the Jewish traditions. John 19:39) (Swindoll)

Did you notice that Pilate marvelled (to wonder) if Jesus was already dead. Then he asked the centurion about it. The eyelids stiffen from rigor mortis immediately. Death was obvious to those observing. Rigor mortis sets in quickly if the person had been strenuous physically previously. Jesus' outstretched arms would have needed to be massaged since He was on the cross 3 hours. (Swindoll)

What love for the Messiah was demonstrated.

LET IT GROW 

They laid Jesus' body in a sepulchre which was dug out of a rock. (verse 46) Located on a limestone hill with a garden close by is the place. The tomb had never been used. A great stone was rolled in the doorway. (Matt. 27:60) The group was intending to return to complete the burial process after the Sabbath.

Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses were watching this take place. (Matt. 27:61) They wanted to know the location of Jesus' body so they could complete 

After a long, exhausting, traumatic day, the women sat before His tomb, staring, trying to make sense of it all. (That is how Swindoll describes them.)

Our family has often been astounded by the sudden death of our loved ones. My parents and brother went suddenly. It is like you don't get to say good by to them, share your love for them, and are alone.

But Sunday is coming! Jesus had told His followers that would all happen, yet on the third day He would rise. And it was so.

Do your loved ones believe in Jesus as their Savior and hope of eternal life? What about you?

LET IT GO

 Trust Jesus with all your heart that He does things right.

Don't lean on your understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.

We are not alone, for Jesus never leaves us nor forsakes us.

Women are Important

N.T.#456 "Women are Important"

Jan. 2, 2025 

Mark 15-Part 12

LET IT GLOW 

While my husband has been healing from his knee replacement, a wonderful lady in our church has brought us two meals. How appreciative I am, for I, too, was worn out from the drive, waiting, helping to keep him comfortable. Love was shown just when we needed it and a lift up of our spirits. Women can have an active part in ministering to others. Women are important to Jesus. We will see how in today's lesson.. 

In Luke 23, we read of the conversation between Jesus and the thieves on the cross, which Mark leaves out. The earth was dark for three hours, then the veil of the Temple was torn from top to bottom. 

Then with a loud voice Jesus said, Father, into thy hands I commend My Spirit: and having said thus, He gave up the ghost. (Luke 23:46)

Time was of the essence, for the Jewish Sabbath was upon them. It began at 6PM and now it was after 3PM. Jesus' body needed to be taken off the cross and prepared for burial. 

On the darkest day in history, women stood afar off due to the soldiers. They had faithfully followed Jesus through His 3 years of ministry, tending to His and the disciples physical needs out of their own resources.  (Peter off somewhere was weeping; Judas had hung himself; other disciples left for safety sake.) Who were the women mentioned in Scriptures which stood a distance away from the cross, observing the events?

• Mary Magdalene, who was delivered from demon-possession,
• Mary, the mother of James the disciple and Joses,
• Salome,
• the mother of the disciples James and John, (Matt. 27:56)
• Mother of Jesus,, as well as a coworker
• Jesus' aunt,
• Mary, the wife of Clopas. (John 19:25),
• and many other women who came with Jesus to Jerusalem.

Those women continued to support their Master as they had since the early days in Galilee. Women tend to have a tenderness and see the needs of others. They were important or God would not have mentioned them in Scriptures.

LET IT GROW

Ladies, don't underestimate your importance in the Lord's work. We can teach the Word, provide meals for the sick and bereaved, love the unlovely, help those strays, being Jesus hands, feet, and mouth here in our little world. We can be missionaries, wives, mothers, and a friend as well as a coworker. Blessings to those who do such things.

LET IT GO

Use us, Jesus, for kingdom work today.

Fill us with Your love to show love to others.

Help us let go of ourself and tend to others. 

To You be the glory forever and ever. 

Hope in the New Year

 N.T.#455 "Hope in the New Year"

January 1, 2025 

Mark 15-Part  

LET IT GLOW 

Looking back, it has almost been 14 years since I started this blog. I have grown so much through studying the Bible with you. I appreciate your loyalty in joining me as we walk deeper in God's Word. It's my prayer that your walk of faith has become stronger, too. You are such a blessing to me. Last year we studied Matthew and Mark together. Now we are about to wrap up the book of Mark. 

It is always good to look back on the year. The Lord brought us through the valley of the shadow of death twice-my father in law in Jun and my brother in October. What a comfort it is to know they are with the Lord Jesus in heaven.

We were in the Temple as the veil tore from top to bottom, allowing us access to God the Father through Jesus the Son. this happened when Jesus died on the cross. (verses 37-38) The veil was a heavy curtain that separated the Most Holy Place from the rest of the Temple. (Falwell)

Jesus is our intercessor to God in our prayers.  Jesus Himself said, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me. (John 14:6)

There is no other way to enter heaven but through faith in Jesus Christ as your Savior. If you want to know the Father and our Creator, we must come to Him through His Son Jesus. Where are you spending eternity, dear one?

LET IT GROW

In verse 39, we read about the centurion's declaration, Truly this man was the Son of God.

Jesus is our hope-in this life and after life. 

Through it all, the centurion had been in charge of Jesus, through His:

• Stripping Jesus naked,
• laid the cross beam on His shoulder,
• hung the title above His head while on the cross,
• prodded Him along the Way of suffering, 
• got Simon to carry His burden,
• supervised the hammering of the nails and erecting the cross,
• witnessed the taunting of Jesus,
• and studied the Lord's response.

This man had seen hundreds die by crucifixion. He recognized what experts of the Law did not. He saw the truth about Jesus before the Resurrection. (Swindoll)

Have you seen the Truth in the Word? Is Jesus your way of life?

LET IT GO

Your love never fails, never gives us, never runs out on me. Such love, Lord Jesus, that You would die for us sinners.

May God be with you through this new year. 

May He fill your heart with love, cheer, and comfort. 

May mHopeany blessings are sent your way.

Happy New Year!