Matthew 12:38-42 ~ some of the scribes and Pharisees answered Him

Matthew 12:38-42

38 Then some of the scribes and Pharisees answered him, saying, “Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.” 39 But he answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40 For just as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of the great fish, so will the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41 The men of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here. 42 The queen of the South will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here.

Matthew 12:34
For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
What answers did the scribes and Pharisees have... more questions. Give us more proof. What would they have wanted? The Temple to fall down & stand up? They wouldn't have liked that. The blind could see, the deaf could hear...

With all the Temple authorities looking for God, you'd think there would be more abundance of the fruit of faith. But there was some godly advice:

Acts 5:33-40 33
When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. 34 But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. 35 Then he addressed them: "Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. 36 Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. 37 After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. 38 Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. 39 But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God."

40 His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

It seems not just Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea (Isaiah 53:9) were paying attention. Gamaliel was spoken of by Paul, Saul of Taurus, he wanted listeners to know Gamaliel was his teacher. Gamaliel's advice was not closely followed. Yet it was from God.

Father God, no one is good enough to place themselves in Your Kingdom. Only by the grace of God Most High, will we allowed to enter. Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now and will be forever. Amen.

The visit from Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God (Luke 1:19, 26)
The muteness and healing of elderly Zechariah (Luke 1)
The conception of John the Baptist to an elderly priest and his wife (Luke 1)
The prophesy of Anna and Simeon, during Jesus' baby presentation at the Temple (Luke 2)
The cure of two blind men (Matt 9:27-31)
Piece of money in the fish's mouth (Matt 17:24-27)
The deaf and dumb man (Mark 7:31-37)
The blind man of Bethsaida (Mark 8:22-26)
Jesus passes unseen through the crowd (Luke 4:28-30)
The miraculous draught of fishes (Luke 5:4-11)
The raising of the widow's son at Nain (Luke 7:11-18)
The woman with the spirit of infirmity (Luke 13:11-17)
The man with the dropsy (Luke 14:1-6)
The ten lepers (Luke 17:11-19)
The healing of Malchus (Luke 22:50-51)
Water made wine (John 2:1-11)
Cure of nobleman's son, Capernaum (John 4:46-54)
Impotent man at Bethsaida cured (John 5:1-9)
Man born blind cured (John 9:1-7)
Lazarus raised from the dead (John 11:38-44)
Draught of fishes (John 21:1-14)
Syrophoenician woman's daughter cured (Matt 15:28; Mark 7:24)
Four thousand fed (Matt 15:32; Mark 8:1)
Fig tree blasted (Matt 21:18; Mark 11:12)
Centurion's servant healed (Matt 8:5; Luke 7:1)
Blind and dumb demoniac cured (Matt 12:22; Luke 11:14)
Demoniac cured in synagogue at Capernaum (Mark 1:23; Luke 4:33)
Peter's wife's mother cured (Matt 8:14; Mark 1:30; Luke 4:38)
The tempest stilled (Matt 8:23; Mark 4:37; Luke 8:22)
Demoniacs of Gadara cured (Matt 8:28; Mark 5:1; Luke 8:26)
Swine rush into and drown (Mark 5:1-20)
Leper healed (Matt 8:2; Mark 1:40; Luke 5:12)
Jairus's daughter raised (Matt 9:23; Mark 5:23; Luke 8:41)
Woman's issue of blood cured (Matt 9:20; Mark 5:25; Luke 8:43)
Man sick of the palsy cured (Matt 9:2; Mark 2:3; Luke 5:18)
Man's withered hand cured (Matt 12:10; Mark 3:1; Luke 6:6)
Child cured (Matt 17:14; Mark 9:14; Luke 9:37)
Two blind men cured (Matt 20:29; Mark 10:46; Luke 18:35)
Jesus walks on the sea (Matt 14:25; Mark 6:48; John 6:15)
Jesus feeds 5,000 “in a desert place” (Matt 14:15; Mark 6:30; Luke 9:10; John 6:1-14)
Many fulfilled prophecies (also see: prophets)
The conception of Jesus Christ by the Holy Ghost (Luke 1:35)
Star of Bethlehem
The transfiguration (Matt 17:1-8)
The resurrection (John 21:1-14)
The ascension (Luke 2:42-51)
Peter and the healing of a the paralytic Aeneas at Lydda (Acts 9:32, 35, 38)
Miraculous ability to speak and/or understand a foreign language (tongue) previously unknown to the speaker
Inspiration of Scripture by God
He healed them all (Matthew 4:24, Matthew 12:15, Luke 4:40, Luke 6:19)
John 20:
30 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.

And according to the Scriptures, when we have faith in the Lord, in Jesus' name, these blessings are still ours today.

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Luke 10:38-42 ~ has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her

Jesus with the Samaritan Woman, painted by Henryk Siemiradzki


Luke 10:38-42 ~ (New Revised Standard Version)

Now as they went on their way, he entered a certain village, where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to what he was saying. But Martha was distracted by her many tasks; so she came to him and asked, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to do all the work by myself? Tell her then to help me." But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are worried and distracted by many things; there is need of only one thing. Mary has chosen the better part, which will not be taken away from her."

The Message ~
As they continued their travel, Jesus entered a village. A woman by the name of Martha welcomed him and made him feel quite at home. She had a sister, Mary, who sat before the Master, hanging on every word he said. But Martha was pulled away by all she had to do in the kitchen. Later, she stepped in, interrupting them. "Master, don't you care that my sister has abandoned the kitchen to me? Tell her to lend me a hand."

^41-42The Master said, "Martha, dear Martha, you're fussing far too much and getting yourself worked up over nothing. One thing only is essential, and Mary has chosen it—it's the main course, and won't be taken from her."

People have been known to complain to Jesus. I know I called my own mother yesterday to complain. Same thing, I wasn't appreciated. I'm thinking it's possible, Martha's brother Lazarus, might have found his way into the kitchen to say "Is it ready Yet? What are you making? Not that, no one thinks that's good! OMG, this is Jesus, can't you come up with the Good fatted calf?"

Or maybe someone helpful came to tell Martha that Mary's hair was beautiful today and she seemed to glow. Did Mary have a new robe / chiton . Yes, I'm sure that is where the glow of inner peace and love comes from.

Or maybe the snake slithered in to say, "Good thing we have such good.... help."

My mother had good Jesus advice. What is good Jesus advice? It is surprising. It doesn't make you weep with more self-pity. Jesus advice makes you aware that there is more than just that beautiful golden circle of... self-interest. Jesus advice, goes like this: ".... Who do you work for? (God) Who was pleased? (God) Do you feel pleased with your efforts? Pull up your adult underclothes and go on. (i.e. big girl panties or gird your loins - choose the phrase meaningful to you, "loin-cloth" in Hebrew is ezor.)" It is important to note Jesus advice, is given kindly. With a caress and an outstretched hand.

Think about it. The woman at the well wanted the trouble to be hidden, she was ostracized, was living in sin and then she wanted Jesus to accept her. Jesus advice surprised her.

Jesus advice is to please the Lord and be loved by Him. To bask in that love and be grateful. There's always His outstretched hand!

Thank You, Father. Your advice is to love and get past ourselves. Help us to appreciate others as much as our own feelings. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

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Matthew 12:14-21 ~ Jesus healed them all

Matthew 12:14-21

14 But the Pharisees went out and conspired against him, how to destroy him.

15 Jesus, aware of this, withdrew from there. And many followed him, and he healed them all 16 and ordered them not to make him known. 17 This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah [42:1-3]:

18 “Behold, my servant whom I have chosen,
my beloved with whom my soul is well pleased.
I will put my Spirit upon him,
and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.
19 He will not quarrel or cry aloud,
nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets;
20 a bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not quench,
until he brings justice to victory;
21 and in his name the Gentiles will hope.”

I'd been a Christian for more than two decades when it was pointed out to me how many times the Scriptures said "He healed them all." I remembered a lot of healings, the ones written about in more than a few sentences. Yet that small phrase "healed them all". Sometimes Scripture says they sought to touch Him & not just Jesus reaching out. Sometimes He physically touched them, and it also says merely, "He healed them all."

Sure, a lot of people were ill. When you think about the age: slavery, war, destruction, highway robbery, people born blind & the parable of the Good Samaritan - this was a difficult time. Not just the people who were deaf, blind, ill, but the sorrow of the people who had seen difficult things happen to loved ones. Children who died, loved ones who died in child birth, people who were well and suddenly died of fever. There are a lot of stipulations in the Bible for the fatherless and the widow.

What does it mean, "He healed them all?" The Word of God, proclaimed in love. The hopeless, the fearful, the lonely & the cut to the quick. The ones who had heard the Word of God in their youth - life had stamped on their seed of hope. The fruit of circumstance and the weed of bitterness, the joy found in life, had robbed them of their greatest need - the need of God.

These people who found Jesus had put aside the every day of life, they sought Him. Jesus didn't stay to quarrel, debate the Pharisees, shock, anger, and create a stir - Jesus wasn't a sidewalk hack or a temperamental star.

No, Jesus repaired the bruised reed. Jesus rekindled the flickering flame, the light became a torch. Jesus gave hope & mercy to the word - justice. Jesus didn't select a few, the light of Jesus Christ is for all. Not just to the eyes blessed to see Him, but those who look to Him in faith, after He died, and today.

“Behold, my servant whom I have chosen,
my beloved with whom my soul is well pleased.
I will put my Spirit upon him,
and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles.
19 He will not quarrel or cry aloud,
nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets;
20 a bruised reed he will not break,
and a smoldering wick he will not quench,
until he brings justice to victory;
21 and in his name the Gentiles will hope.”

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John 21:6-14 ~ it is the Lord

Painting of Jesus Christ adapted from the Shroud of Turin. The Shroud should only cast a two dimensional image, but a 3 dimensional image is created, giving depth to the images and the painting was created from the shades and elevations in the 3rd dimension.
Painting of Jesus adapted from the Shroud
Negative photographic image from the Shroud of Turin. Scientists are completely divided on the tests for age on the Shroud. There is unexplained radioactivity from the cloth and edges were sewn on the Middle ages repairs.
Volto Santo or Holy Face. Pope Benedict XVI visited the image September 1, 2006. The image is made of byssus, which is linen woven from a fine, yellowish flax referred to as sea silk; a silky filament by which certain mollusks attach themselves to hard surfaces. It is impossible to paint on the material, it may only be dyed one shade as it is woven. No one understands how this image came to be. The image cannot be dated or the information is not given. I've seen this with the Vatican treasures displayed in the Houston Museum of Science, the Dead Sea Scroll tour. It was explained as being the Cloth of Veronica. The image appeared when a woman gave Jesus a cloth to wipe his face, during Jesus' carrying His cross.

John 21:6-14

6 He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, because of the quantity of fish. 7 That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment, for he was stripped for work, and threw himself into the sea. 8 The other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off.

9 When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire in place, with fish laid out on it, and bread. 10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” 11 So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, 153 of them. And although there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. 14 This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.


People have interesting reactions. Put Morgan Freeman, or George Burns, in a movie as God in a white suit, people generally love it. "The Shack" had a parable of God as a black woman and there was controversy.

John 7:24
Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment.

Having a visual image is something people like to have. We live in this world by making decisions based upon our own judgment. Time Magazine ran a cover of an image of Jesus far from our usual image. The story of Adam & Eve was confirmed with evidence of Mitochondrial Eve DNA, the Human MRCA. All humans alive today share a surprisingly recent common ancestor, perhaps even within the last 5000 years, even for people born on different continents. This man was made in the image of God. No mention is made of color.

Moses asked God for the ability to be able to see Him. Moses was rewarded with a glimpse of God.

Exodus 33:20-23
20 But," he said, "you cannot see my face, for no one may see me and live."

21 Then the LORD said, "There is a place near me where you may stand on a rock. 22 When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by. 23 Then I will remove my hand and you will see my back; but my face must not be seen."

What are we told about Jesus' appearance?

Isaiah 53:2
He grew up before him like a tender shoot, and like a root out of dry ground. He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to him, nothing in his appearance that we should desire him.

and

Isaiah 52:14
Just as there were many who were appalled at him — his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and his form marred beyond human likeness—


Luke 9:28-29
About eight days after Jesus said this, he took Peter, John and James with him and went up onto a mountain to pray. As he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a flash of lightning

The Romans had taken over Judea at the time of Jesus. Time Magazine's image of Christ was of a similar to today haircut. Why is Jesus different, with "Jesus hair"? Jesus was from Nazareth and may have considered His appearance to be that of a Nazirite, one set apart in holiness from sin, no razor would have touched His hair. Numbers 6:1-27 Yet Jesus, did not follow the rules of the Nazirite in His life.

When we picture Father God in our minds in Love, we can do no wrong. Whatever we picture, we picture a parable. We have never been given the ability to see the vast attributes of God.

We know Jesus told us He did not have a possessions like a home, but He did have one fine garment, not the flowing Sheik robes we are shown all the time. And that garment was woven from top to bottom. I like to think it was made by someone loving Jesus.

We do not see Jesus' physical face, but we do know how people felt looking at Jesus.

Matthew 9:20-29
20 And behold, a woman who had suffered from a discharge of blood for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment, 21 for she said to herself, “If I only touch his garment, I will be made well.”

Matthew 14:35-36
35 And when the men of that place recognized him, they sent around to all that region and brought to him all who were sick 36 and implored him that they might only touch the fringe of his garment. And as many as touched it were made well.

And how did Jesus react to the people who sought Him?

Matthew 9:22
22 Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well.

Even if we do not have Jesus' face or Father God's face perfectly know to us, more importantly, Jesus, God, knows us.

Luke 19:1-6
He entered Jericho and was passing through. And there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small of stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully.

Father God, we know and love You by Your actions of mercy. Help us each day to see You more clearly and for You to see Yourself in our love. In Jesus' mercy. Amen.

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Psalm 28 ~ hear the voice of my pleas for mercy

Psalm 28

1 To you, O Lord, I call;
my rock, be not deaf to me,
lest, if you be silent to me,
I become like those who go down to the pit.
2 Hear the voice of my pleas for mercy,
when I cry to you for help,
when I lift up my hands
toward your most holy sanctuary. [ your innermost sanctuary]

3 Do not drag me off with the wicked,
with the workers of evil,
who speak peace with their neighbors
while evil is in their hearts.
4 Give to them according to their work
and according to the evil of their deeds;
give to them according to the work of their hands;
render them their due reward.
5 Because they do not regard the works of the Lord
or the work of his hands,
he will tear them down and build them up no more.

6 Blessed be the Lord!
For he has heard the voice of my pleas for mercy.
7 The Lord is my strength and my shield;
in him my heart trusts, and I am helped;
my heart exults,
and with my song I give thanks to him.

8 The Lord is the strength of his people; [is their strength]
he is the saving refuge of his anointed.
9 Oh, save your people and bless your heritage!
Be their shepherd and carry them forever.

The Lord is the strength of his people; He is the saving refuge of His anointed.

We have such a great hope in Jesus Christ, only Son of God, the Most Almighty. When we accept Jesus to live in us as the Holy Spirit, we are building the Kingdom of God.

There will be those who will not be built up. The Scriptures say so from Genesis all the way to Revelation. What greater hope is there, for those we know who are not building up the Kingdom of God other than Jesus Christ himself?

1 Samuel 12:23
Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way.

Father God, You hear our prayers, You listen in love. We will continue to pray and know You are our hope always. In Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Psalm 48:2-8 ~ ships of Tarshish

Psalm 48:2-8 ~ (Revised Standard Version)
[2] beautiful in elevation, is the joy of all the earth, Mount Zion, in the far north, the city of the great King.
[3] Within her citadels God has shown himself a sure defense.
[4] For lo, the kings assembled, they came on together.
[5] As soon as they saw it, they were astounded, they were in panic,
they took to flight;
[6] trembling took hold of them there, anguish as of a woman in travail.
[7] By the east wind thou didst shatter the ships of Tarshish.
[8] As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God, which God establishes for ever. [Selah]



Isaiah 2:12-20
12 For the Lord of hosts has a day
against all that is proud and lofty,
against all that is lifted up—and it shall be brought low;
13 against all the cedars of Lebanon,
lofty and lifted up; and against all the oaks of Bashan;
14 against all the lofty mountains,
and against all the uplifted hills;
15 against every high tower, and against every fortified wall;
16 against all the ships of Tarshish,
and against all the beautiful craft.
17 And the haughtiness of man shall be humbled,
and the lofty pride of men shall be brought low,
and the Lord alone will be exalted in that day.

Yesterday we discussed Job, Isaiah and spiritual voyages. We looked for God to uplift us in troubled times and talked about how Jesus spoke of Heaven as growing from a seed into a beautiful tree. Spiritual voyages looking for the Lord in earnestness, will always end in God's grace and salvation.

In another era, we might not be able to believe what the Holy Spirit wrote about the destruction of a port or a fleet of ships. God tells us not all will be built up. We could imagine it when we think of the city of New Orleans - 2 hurricanes and now a spill in the Gulf of Mexico. Yet really, this is not what this speaks of.

New Orleans wouldn't have to be hit numerous times, if it was God's punishment. God is at work, but this isn't His retribution.

Nahum 1:9
What do you plot against the LORD?
He will make a complete end;
trouble will not rise up a second time.

The ships of Tarshish are struck only once by God's hand. The destruction worked so well, we know only Tarshish was on the Mediterranean. The ships of Tarshish are an analogy. What man sees as a sure thing, as enduring, God does not. God protects Jerusalem time and time again:

Exodus 14:30
Thus the LORD saved Israel that day from the hand of the Egyptians, and Israel saw the Egyptians dead on the seashore.

Joshua 6:20
When the trumpets sounded, the people shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the people gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so every man charged straight in, and they took the city.

1 Samuel 7-10
While Samuel was sacrificing the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to engage Israel in battle. But that day the LORD thundered with loud thunder against the Philistines and threw them into such a panic that they were routed before the Israelites.

2 Kings 6:18
As the enemy came down toward him, Elisha prayed to the LORD, "Strike these people with blindness." So he struck them with blindness, as Elisha had asked.

Judges 7:22
When the three hundred trumpets sounded, the LORD caused the men throughout the camp to turn on each other with their swords. The army fled to Beth Shittah toward Zererah as far as the border of Abel Mehol

2 Kings:42-44
⁴² A man came from Baal Shalishah, bringing the man of God twenty loaves of barley bread baked from the first ripe grain, along with some heads of new grain. "Give it to the people to eat," Elisha said.

⁴³ "How can I set this before a hundred men?" his servant asked.
But Elisha answered, "Give it to the people to eat. For this is what the LORD says: 'They will eat and have some left over.' " ⁴⁴ Then he set it before them, and they ate and had some left over, according to the word of the LORD.

2 Samuel 5:23-25
so David inquired of the LORD, and he answered, "Do not go straight up, but circle around behind them and attack them in front of the balsam trees. ²⁴ As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the balsam trees, move quickly, because that will mean the LORD has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army." ²⁵ So David did as the LORD commanded him, and he struck down the Philistines all the way from Gibeon to Gezer.

2 King 20:4-6
Before Isaiah had left the middle court, the word of the LORD came to him: ⁵ "Go back and tell Hezekiah, the leader of my people, 'This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer and seen your tears; I will heal you. On the third day from now you will go up to the temple of the LORD. ⁶ I will add fifteen years to your life. And I will deliver you and this city from the hand of the king of Assyria. I will defend this city for my sake and for the sake of my servant David.' "

Luke 7:12-18
12As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. ¹³When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, "Don't cry."

¹⁴Then he went up and touched the coffin, and those carrying it stood still. He said, "Young man, I say to you, get up!" ¹⁵The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.

¹⁶They were all filled with awe and praised God. "A great prophet has appeared among us," they said. "God has come to help his people."


We look to you Father God, for Your blessings. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

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Job 24:1-8 ~ His days

Job 24:1-8

1 “Why are not times of judgment kept by the Almighty,
and why do those who know him never see his days?
2 Some move landmarks;
they seize flocks and pasture them.
3 They drive away the donkey of the fatherless;
they take the widow's ox for a pledge.
4 They thrust the poor off the road;
the poor of the earth all hide themselves.
5 Behold, like wild donkeys in the desert
the poor [they] go out to their toil, seeking game;
the wasteland yields food for their children.
6 They gather their [his] fodder in the field,
and they glean the vineyard of the wicked man.
7 They lie all night naked, without clothing,
and have no covering in the cold.
8 They are wet with the rain of the mountains
and cling to the rock for lack of shelter.

Isaiah 1:11-17

11 “What to me is the multitude of your sacrifices?
says the Lord;
I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams
and the fat of well-fed beasts;
I do not delight in the blood of bulls,
or of lambs, or of goats.

12 “When you come to appear before me,
who has required of you
this trampling of my courts?
13 Bring no more vain offerings;
incense is an abomination to me.
New moon and Sabbath and the calling of convocations—
I cannot endure iniquity and solemn assembly.
14 Your new moons and your appointed feasts
my soul hates;
they have become a burden to me;
I am weary of bearing them.
15 When you spread out your hands,
I will hide my eyes from you;
even though you make many prayers,
I will not listen;
your hands are full of blood.
16 Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean;
remove the evil of your deeds from before my eyes;
cease to do evil,
17 learn to do good;
seek justice,
correct oppression;
bring justice to the fatherless,
plead the widow's cause.

What did Job and Isaiah have in common? Obviously God. These are not the Glory of God stories were God Triumphs..... immediately. These are the biblical histories of people having a tough time of it - struggling. Job famous for feeling - condemned and pressed by his problems. Isaiah, the prophet, was called on for 4 decades and 4 kings, to solve Judah's problems of oppression & war from large and small foreign neighbors/governments/kingdoms.

Job had renewal/regeneration and new hope. When Judah listened to Isaiah, there was peace. Job considered God a lot, but God wasn't looking for "consideration." During Judah's difficulties, the sacrifices were offered daily, the grain offerings and bread of the presence were ready. God was not looking for the "I follow the steps of worship, now bless me, God." God was looking for us to look beyond ourselves. God hears a lot about what we want in prayer. God wants to look at our lives and see people not foraging for the best seat, the best place, the coronet of "perfect life". God wants our hearts to be filled for other people, to care about other's well being. One of the reason's Job's life was renewed, he was able to care for others. It led him to be able to understand God is greater than Job's opinions and problems. It led him to the heart and soul and love and worship of God.

Rarely in Scripture does a miracle occur immediately, with God all things are possible, yet just as Job had steps in his spiritual voyage, Judah had steps during Isaiah's mighty Spirit filled time. It isn't a limitation of the power of God, it is growth like Jesus told us.

Matthew 13:31-32
He put another parable before them, saying, ““The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.”

Matthew 22:37-39
And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

Father God, each voyage begins with a footstep from our home, help us to be willing to leave our own interests to help others. In the name of Jesus, who loves us, Amen.

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Joshua 1 ~ and Joshua commanded

Sea of Galilee

Joshua 1

1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' assistant, 2 “Moses my servant is dead. Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, into the land that I am giving to them, to the people of Israel. 3 Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised to Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun shall be your territory. 5 No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you. 6 Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them. 7 Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. 8 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

10 And Joshua commanded the officers of the people, 11 “Pass through the midst of the camp and command the people, ‘Prepare your provisions, for within three days you are to pass over this Jordan to go in to take possession of the land that the Lord your God is giving you to possess.’”

12 And to the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh Joshua said, 13 “Remember the word that Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, saying, ‘The Lord your God is providing you a place of rest and will give you this land.’ 14 Your wives, your little ones, and your livestock shall remain in the land that Moses gave you beyond the Jordan, but all the men of valor among you shall pass over armed before your brothers and shall help them, 15 until the Lord gives rest to your brothers as he has to you, and they also take possession of the land that the Lord your God is giving them. Then you shall return to the land of your possession and shall possess it, the land that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you beyond the Jordan toward the sunrise.”

16 And they answered Joshua, “All that you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. 17 Just as we obeyed Moses in all things, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you, as he was with Moses! 18 Whoever rebels against your commandment and disobeys your words, whatever you command him, shall be put to death. Only be strong and courageous.”

In Aramaic & Hebrew, the name Jesus is "Yeshua". Jesus was probably called "Yeshua". Joshua is “Yehoshua”, in Hebrew - Aramaic. Jesus and Joshua in English. Similar names. In Greek, both names are “Iesous”. Joshua stands as the shepherd to Israel in this chapter. Like Jesus.

Joshua is told turn neither to the right or the left. Jesus was proclaimed to be the straight path to the Lord. Joshua, as shepherd of Israel, is to lead the way, the truth and the light. We should honor the advice given to Joshua, Jesus puts us as light being fed by His Holy Spirit, dwelling in us. We should all realize - we are called to be like Joshua - a light to the world. God's people are called to believe and act on the promises of the LORD. Our light brightens the dark parts of life. We have been called by God, God is with us wherever we may go.

Father God, be our guide and we will turn neither to the right nor the left. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Mark 1:14-28 ~ Quiet

Mark 1:14-28 ~ (New American Bible)

14

After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God:

15

"This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel."

16

As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen.

17

Jesus said to them, "Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men."

18

Then they abandoned their nets and followed him.

19

He walked along a little farther and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They too were in a boat mending their nets.

20

Then he called them. So they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him.

21

Then they came to Capernaum, and on the sabbath he entered the synagogue and taught.

22

The people were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority and not as the scribes.

23

In their synagogue was a man with an unclean spirit;

24

he cried out, "What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are--the Holy One of God!"

25

Jesus rebuked him and said, "Quiet! Come out of him!"

26

The unclean spirit convulsed him and with a loud cry came out of him.

27

All were amazed and asked one another, "What is this? A new teaching with authority. He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him."

28

His fame spread everywhere throughout the whole region of Galilee.

When people try to tell each other about a conversation, they frequently say - "it was the way it was said."

So, what lesson did Jesus teach..... no message was given. What persuasion did Jesus use to the apostles to get up & change their lives... no message was given. Why was Jesus allowed to teach in the synagogue in Capernaum? He got up and taught.

The scribes would have been culturally (no women, no invalids, no non-Jews), ethically (blind guide to Scripture acknowledging non-Jews, their heart was far from God while giving man-made rules), religiously (allow Herod to dictate priest position), politically correct (not mention Herod's adultery) challenged. The Essenes believed the status quo had smothered the Spirit.

What we learn from this passage. Jesus had authority. Not just any authority, or another authority, but his fame spread because of His authority. Jesus acted as God.

Father God, help us to give you our hearts. Let words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, our rock and redeemer. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Psalm 17 ~ keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings

Wilderness, painted by Ron di Cianni

Psalm 17

1 Hear a just cause, O Lord; attend to my cry!
Give ear to my prayer from lips free of deceit!
2 From your presence let my vindication come!
Let your eyes behold the right!

3 You have tried my heart, you have visited me by night,
you have tested me, and you will find nothing;
I have purposed that my mouth will not transgress.
4 With regard to the works of man, by the word of your lips
I have avoided the ways of the violent.
5 My steps have held fast to your paths;
my feet have not slipped.

6 I call upon you, for you will answer me, O God;
incline your ear to me; hear my words.
7 Wondrously show your steadfast love,
O Savior of those who seek refuge
from their adversaries at your right hand.

8 Keep me as the apple of your eye;
hide me in the shadow of your wings,
9 from the wicked who do me violence,
my deadly enemies who surround me.

10 They close their hearts to pity;
with their mouths they speak arrogantly.
11 They have now surrounded our steps;
they set their eyes to cast us to the ground.
12 He is like a lion eager to tear,
as a young lion lurking in ambush.

13 Arise, O Lord! Confront him, subdue him!
Deliver my soul from the wicked by your sword,
14 from men by your hand, O Lord,
from men of the world whose portion is in this life.
You fill their womb with treasure;
they are satisfied with children,
and they leave their abundance to their infants.

15 As for me, I shall behold your face in righteousness;
when I awake, I shall be satisfied with your likeness.

In our early years of marriage, with 2 young children, one of our treats was a rental movie. We lived in Dallas, at the time, and I had to return the rental movie that night. I was worried, it was night & my mom had always taught me females should be cautious at night. I began to pray for a parking place in front of the door. There was - I was so pleased, the rental place was located right off of a major highway. That very evening, a young nurse was taken from that parking lot after visiting the book store, next to the movie rental place. Her Blazer, truck, was found with a receipt in it from the bookstore, the news reports listed it as being at 9:15 - about the same time I was in the parking lot. Her blood was all over the vehicle, causing the driver to be pulled over by the police. Her body was later discovered in the Trinity River. Her murderer was tried and convicted.

My maternal grandmother was a prayer warrior - a believing Christian. Her worst vice was the perpetual worry in her life. If she heard I was sailing on a sunfish, she would call and ask me to stay home. She just knew I would drown. I have been worried about going out at night ever since I wasn't taken from that parking lot. Great reward to the Lord for His protection.

David had a lot to worry about. If Saul wasn't trying to kill him, other countries were raiding his band of followers- they would not only steal, but kidnap women and children. As a child, he was a shepherd in a region where there were lions and all types of dangers. We all have different types of dangers in life. David prayed about his fears and went on with his life, this Psalm is a prayer.

So many times when life has fear, we can read the Word and rely upon it. To remember the Scripture, Jesus asleep upon the cushions in the middle of the storm. We let the Word of God carry us like that ship.

Jesus Asleep in the Boat during Storm, painted by James Tissot

Mark 4:37-40
And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?”

Be with us Father God when we have fear, You are a God who has walked among us and lived our human state. Help us to leave our fears with You, to act with wisdom and live the courage David lived. We always ask for Your protection. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Psalm 80:1-3,14-15 ~ Look down from heaven, and see; have regard for this vine

John 15:5
I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.

Galatians 5:22-23
Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law

The botanical truth is that grapevines live 50 to 70 years depending on their variety. At age 3, they begin to provide fruit, as the grapevines age, they diminish - not producing as much fruit.

Rita Lotti was born in 1381 in Roccaporena, Italy. In the Province of Umbria, Italy. Rita had an amazing and difficult life. Thwarted Christian desires, poverty, arranged marriage, violence, murder and sarcasm from her sisters after she was amazingly allowed to join a convent in middle age, without a dowry.

Perhaps a little art history would reveal how long ago, she was born. The Convent, Saint Mary Magdalene at Cascia - has art from the era at the door:


Due to her age, the convent did not want her. A miracle foisted Rita upon them. So Rita was given a dead stick to water and care for. And plant the stick she did – and watered it every day for a year. Then the “stick” put forth leaves and became the most beautiful and bountiful grape vine in the convent garden. Today, almost 600 years later, that same grape vine remains bountiful and beautiful. Every year some of these grapes are sent to the Pope and used, today, for communion in the area were Rita lived 629 years ago.

A 600 year old grapevine, planted by Rita is a live today. The only other grapevine in the world to even come close to this amazing miracle is 400 years old and located in Yarra, Slovenia. Perhaps it would be a good time to tell you, Rita's Roses are also still alive and bloom in the garden. Yes, you know it, this woman is a Saint. Saint Rita of Cascia. Link - to her live of devotion and the fruit still alive today. Rita's life is too amazing to believe, but the proof is still alive. If you still feel a little sceptically, you can google the photos from the vine in Yarra, Slovenia and you will know Rita's vine is the real deal.

Rita's Grapevine grows from under her window and covers the convent.

Psalm 80:1-3

1 Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel,
you who lead Joseph like a flock!
You who are enthroned upon the cherubim, shine forth.
2 Before Ephraim and Benjamin and Manasseh,
stir up your might
and come to save us!

3 Restore us, O God;
let your face shine, that we may be saved!

Psalm 80:14-15

14 Turn again, O God of hosts!
Look down from heaven, and see;
have regard for this vine,
15 the stock that your right hand planted,
and for the son whom you made strong for yourself.

Remember yesterday we looked at David's Holy Spirit inspired Psalm 119. David, Joseph (v. 1) and Rita had something in common. Not just the Holy Spirit dwelling in them, but their lives held the actions & power of God.

1. Believed God specifically created them to live within His plan.
2. Believed in the success of their godly desires/lives, with insurmountable circumstances against them.
3. Wanted to give God's love, to shepherd the people around them. Give love and care.


Father God, each day, we put our hands out to You. Give us Your love to do the plan for us. In the power, love and glory of Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Psalm 119:73-80 ~ turn to me

Psalm 119:73-80

73 Your hands have made and fashioned me;
give me understanding that I may learn your commandments.
74 Those who fear you shall see me and rejoice,
because I have hoped in your word.
75 I know, O Lord, that your rules are righteous,
and that in faithfulness you have afflicted me.
76 Let your steadfast love comfort me
according to your promise to your servant.
77 Let your mercy come to me, that I may live;
for your law is my delight.
78 Let the insolent be put to shame,
because they have wronged me with falsehood;
as for me, I will meditate on your precepts.
79 Let those who fear you turn to me,
that they may know your testimonies.
80 May my heart be blameless in your statutes,
that I may not be put to shame!

Psalm 119:73-80 ~ (The Message)

With your very own hands you formed me; now breathe your wisdom over me so I can understand you. When they see me waiting, expecting your Word, those who fear you will take heart and be glad. I can see now, God, that your decisions are right; your testing has taught me what's true and right.Oh, love me - and right now! - hold me tight! just the way you promised. Now comfort me so I can live, really live; your revelation is the tune I dance to. Let the fast-talking tricksters be exposed as frauds; they tried to sell me a bill of goods, but I kept my mind fixed on your counsel. Let those who fear you turn to me for evidence of your wise guidance. And let me live whole and holy, soul and body, so I can always walk with my head held high.

There is a self-centeredness to these verses of Psalm 119. And I like it. So many times we fall short of the holiness pleasing to God, and it happens because we believe we never measure up - never measure up - and so why not give up and give in to what we want...

Where did David get his moxie? His mojo? Why could he pray with such confidence to get the Almighty's attention?

David had the full power of the Holy Spirit - He believed:

1. God made him; specifically made him as part of God's plan.

2. Believes in success as the result, because he relies upon God and God's glory.

3. Believes hardship would happen, also part of God's plan, to provide strength, endurance, learning.

4. Believes comfort from God is a promise, looks for it.

5. Believes his decision to follow God makes him an example to teach, comfort others around him.

6. Believes the responsibilities are beyond his own skill level, asks God for help in righteousness. (Renew a right Spirit within me!)

Too many times we feel not perfect enough. Humility is part of loving the Lord, but humility doesn't give in to wallowing in self-centered, false meekness. Humility levels the playing field and asks mercy of our behavior. David had a job to do, a life to lead and he plunged ahead looking at what God had to say.

Psalm 139:13-16
13 For you formed my inward parts;
you knitted me together in my mother's womb.
14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.
Wonderful are your works;
my soul knows it very well.
15 My frame was not hidden from you,
when I was being made in secret,
intricately woven in the depths of the earth.
16 Your eyes saw my unformed substance;
in your book were written, every one of them,
the days that were formed for me,
when as yet there was none of them.


Father God, let us unshackle doubt and despair to look with real faith at the promises & gifts You've given us. We want Your help to accomplish the plans You have for our lives. In the highest name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Psalm 82 ~ rescue the weak and the needy

Psalm 82

1 God has taken his place in the divine council;
in the midst of the gods he holds judgment:
2 “How long will you judge unjustly
and show partiality to the wicked? Selah
3 Give justice to the weak and the fatherless;
maintain the right of the afflicted and the destitute.
4 Rescue the weak and the needy;
deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”

5 They have neither knowledge nor understanding,
they walk about in darkness;
all the foundations of the earth are shaken.

6 I said, “You are gods,
sons of the Most High, all of you;
7 nevertheless, like men you shall die,
and fall like any prince.”

8 Arise, O God, judge the earth;
for you shall inherit all the nations!

Jesus said there would be days like this:

Matthew 9:37
Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few


When the waters are deeper than we like, O Lord, be with us, guide us and lead us. For the glory of your son, Jesus' name. Amen.

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Jeremiah 6:10-19 ~ look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it

Jeremiah 6:10-19

10 To whom shall I speak and give warning,
that they may hear?
Behold, their ears are uncircumcised,
they cannot listen;
behold, the word of the Lord is to them an object of scorn;
they take no pleasure in it.
11 Therefore I am full of the wrath of the Lord;
I am weary of holding it in.
“Pour it out upon the children in the street,
and upon the gatherings of young men, also;
both husband and wife shall be taken,
the elderly and the very aged.
12 Their houses shall be turned over to others,
their fields and wives together,
for I will stretch out my hand
against the inhabitants of the land,”
declares the Lord.
13 “For from the least to the greatest of them,
everyone is greedy for unjust gain;
and from prophet to priest,
everyone deals falsely.
14 They have healed the wound of my people lightly,
saying, ‘Peace, peace,’
when there is no peace.
15 Were they ashamed when they committed abomination?
No, they were not at all ashamed;
they did not know how to blush.
Therefore they shall fall among those who fall;
at the time that I punish them, they shall be overthrown,”
says the Lord.

16 Thus says the Lord:
“Stand by the roads, and look,
and ask for the ancient paths,
where the good way is; and walk in it,
and find rest for your souls.
But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.’
17 I set watchmen over you, saying,
‘Pay attention to the sound of the trumpet!’
But they said, ‘We will not pay attention.’
18 Therefore hear, O nations,
and know, O congregation, what will happen to them.
19 Hear, O earth; behold, I am bringing disaster upon this people,
the fruit of their devices,
because they have not paid attention to my words;
and as for my law, they have rejected it.

So what part of the world are you from? I'm from Texas, we currently have the oil spill crisis in the Gulf of Mexico and we've just had our first hurricane of the season. Texas is in recovery, in the larger cities, from the housing price fall. New homes aren't being build much. Maybe you are from New York and felt the 5.5 earthquake in Canada recently? The cars in front of our house, guests, were burglarized during my son's birthday party in our neighborhood which had no crime 5 years ago. We now have the first named "B" storm coming up in the Gulf.

Or maybe you are from Wadena, Minnesota where they had multiple tornadoes? Some were F-4. After the tornadoes went by, the churches were packed and overflowing. Why? Incredible devastation, but so many destroyed places had one thing still standing - the cross. Where a cross had been placed, the tornado left the place where the cross stood. So many places were utterly ruined, but no lives were lost.

Friday, before our Independence Holiday, Americans experienced the 11th day of the fall of the Nasdaq Stock Exchange - the recovery can't be predicted to be on when unemployment isn't showing improvement. Illinois' news is their new financial crisis. Hard to believe the state, where Chicago pulls people along, has trouble.

And war, we have two. Were you for them or against them when we last voted? Boys who have played hide & seek at my house (and video war games) have gone from our neighborhood and now are far away, looking to promote peace, really. One of the finest examples of good men, his body now resides in the Houston National Cemetery. He was 20 when he gave up his leave to his buddy to go home instead and see the buddy's newborn baby. But he is at home now, really. And there will be a fine homecoming for us all.

These are troubled times. Yet I believe. I believe God is still there for us. I am comforted our sons' fallen childhood friend - his family still prays for our country and has hope.

I am seeing yard signs around the United States asking us to pray for our country. I am so pleased. Aren't you. Let me also confess, I am glad because then I remember to pray.

I spent time really being interested in politics (moderate Republican), but really decided, when Isabelle was discovered to be so ill, that it doesn't matter a lot. We can have opinions and definitely vote, but it's too large an animal for our opinions to matter. I am for the middle class. Middle class for everyone - the right to work and be rewarded, the right to believe what we do matters to God and to each other. I am for our country to have good public schools, reasonable college costs, a health care system that people with grave illnesses approve of. Taxation needs to be fair to all classes.

Wouldn't it be great if we could respect each other (even politically again), be polite, defy false email campaigns and agree that majority rules without oppressing the minority opinion??? United we should stand in remembering there is NO place like home.

The soldier in the photo above? It is all of us, we are warriors when we pray:

1 Samuel 12:23
Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way

James 4:2
You lust, and have not: you kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: you fight and war, yet you have not, because you ask not.

1 Thessalonians 5:7
pray without ceasing

Luke 18:1
And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart.


Abba, bless the people who put out the signs asking us to pray for our country. Abba, thank You we live in a country where we can put these signs out. Abba, have mercy on us, draw us to You and bless us, we ask in Jesus' name. Amen.

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