Luke 1 ~ “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

Luke 1

26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.”

29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. 31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

A Several Part History

Let's study what God has recorded about the woman He picked to be pregnant with God.

Was Mary a worrier?
It appears perhaps she was. Courage is not the absence of fear. Endurance with unfailing perseverance is courage.

34 “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

35 The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called[b] the Son of God. 36 Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. 37 For no word from God will ever fail.”

38 “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her.


Mary has courage and pluck. Smart. God requires belief and effort and work in this life.
With a dad named Heli, she had a fight on her hands. Her parents are not recorded except by the Pharisees. She is called a descendant of David. In a society where women are unrecognized, Mary is considered. And the Pharisees slandered Mary and Her Son, to their own discredit.

14 generations - these people lived to be OLD. Like John the disciple. Fair thee well Billy Joel!

Mary is recorded to be pledged. Solemn promise and undertaking giving a word of honor. Assurance, oath, guarantee, something of charitable nature. Payment of a debt, liable of forfeiture for in-completion. Love, favor, loyalty. And in the midst of her honor, she is found to be pregnant with God. God does not hand a neon sign over her. Mary's halo is not evident.

In implication, her parents do not necessarily believe her. Although she is not stoned to death. And later her sister would support them at the foot of the cross of Jesus.

Luke 1
39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!”


Mark 13:11
Whenever you are arrested and brought to trial, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit.

This would be the Power of the Holy Spirit. Generally this would be quite loud. And the person is somewhat amazed the words poured forth from them and a little pleased and bewildered. No plan was ever formed in the brain to speak. Daniel experienced this blessing as he found favor with mankind. People in their sleep have spoken of what they could not know.

Mary really needed Elizabeth to assure her. Mary fully understands this is a message from God echoing and reassuring her the message Gabriel had given her. Her faith is bolstered!!! Message of God received with full faith.

Mary’s Song

46 And Mary said:

“My soul glorifies the Lord
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant!

From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name!


50 His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.

51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.

54 He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55 to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”

How do we know life was rough for Mary at home to do God's will?

Luke 1:56
Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.

We know from Scripture that the families lived about 70 miles apart, yet Jesus went across the Sea of Galilee's 16 miles three times a day.So her family was not showing her a lot of support. And still - upon mercy shown, her companion - Joseph - is given more Spiritual ability. This drew them closer. And they ived together being married but separate.









 

Part Two

Matthew 2:11

Mary is sitting beside Jesus, who is worshiped by the Magi. She proves she is far more able than King Herod and does not claim her authority, nor take away any worship from Her Son. Mary is content to be Jesus' Mother.

Her lack of demand for worship continues as Joseph dreams and directs their safety upon his decision to move them to Egypt.

Years later. Years indicate Joseph is still deciding their fate. Scriptures record that Joseph returns them to Nazareth.

Matthew 13:55
“Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas?
 
Years continue to show Joseph was not a whim of Mary's. And she is still considered.

Mary was surrounded by events so much larger than herself. An undertaking of the Holy Spirit.

Did Mary look like a stunning example of virtuous halo in her reactions? Can we find common ground with the Mother of God?

Jesus knew, as God His mother might be worshiped. As God would know this. And Jesus declared, "More blessed are those who DO the will of God." God is not for the worship of anything other than God. The Gospels open with Matthew telling more of Joseph than Mary.

And yet when John and James were interested in the seat right next to Jesus in Heaven for themselves, who would be more likely that the ones who tried to save Jesus from this death in Love and not just power for themselves?

Mary is betrothed and yet her priority is God. Luke sees more of the story unfolding around Mary as Elizabeth is her cousin making Zechariah more family.


This is what we know of the real woman - chosen of God

~ She was greatly troubled
~ Tried to discern
~ “Do not be afraid, Mary"
~ For nothing will be impossible with God.”And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.”
~And Mary said,“My soul magnifies the Lord,and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.

~He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
 as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”

~ wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

~ Shepherds made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.

~ Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart.

~ and a sword will pierce through your own soul also, so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

~ when his parents saw Him, they were astonished.

~ His mother said to him, “Son, why...

~ And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them.

~ And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart.


~ When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”

~ 12 After this he went down to Capernaum, with his mother and his brothers and his disciples, and they stayed there for a few days.


To read God's written Word about Mary chosen to be pregnant with God is to see a real woman. She is not supernaturally fixed to be without fear.The Scriptures plainly say she is Not without wonder about what was going on around her. This wonder causes her to not always understand. An admission we all don't know what God has wrought. God's Way is not our way. The disciples mainly had awe, wonder and trepidation. God works with regular people with His Overwhelming Way and His Plan.

Mary wasn't always sure what God was doing - 

Luke 2:52
And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.

God was in relationship with Mary, the longer she knew God the more she knew to trust Him. Mary told Jesus get the show on the road for His Ministry. She knew He was ready.

God didn't expect Mary to be perfect, just as Jesus gave His brothers time, Jesus allowed Mary time to grow into their relationship too.  Much of their relationship is told in few words. The way God recorded them gives us the richness of them in the Words used.

This is a pattern of God's! He points the direction and makes a path and fully expects like a Parent sending a child off to college that we are equipped to go the distance. And just as Jesus went to see Mary after He was an adult for the Wedding in Cana - God as Father expects to welcome us to the 12 open Gates of Heaven - Running to Greet us.

Remember with me, God says He equips us to do this Plan! And provides a cherished Mother to point out to us to the concept, regular people Please Father God!!!

God Bless Us All!!! Because HE does! Amen.





Part Three

Good Friday was evident to Mary when she arrived with Jesus' brothers to reclaim him away from the trouble - seeking a way to save His life. Not like Peter for Glory, but as His Mother.

Matthew 12

46 While he was still speaking to the people, behold, his mother and his brothers stood outside, asking to speak to him.a 48 But he replied to the man who told him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?” 4 9And stretching out his hand toward his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! 50 For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”

This sounds harsh, and probably felt harsh to them at the time. When we look at this after the Victor over Death - we see Jesus spoke Prophetically.

Jesus owned a garment we are all aware of His seamless Chiton, a coat. Seamless, made carefully with a stitch called circular knitting.

The Scriptures tell us who supported Jesus financially. Which tells us even more about Jesus' seamless Chiton.

Luke 8

The Twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; 3 Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.

Yet, it's important to see that when Jesus was on the cross He witnessed prophetic fulfillment of His garment being cast lots for His Garment, under the Roman Governor's sign proclaiming Him King of the Jews.

John 19

Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews. 20 Many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek. 21 The chief priests of the Jews protested to Pilate, “Do not write ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that this man claimed to be King of the Jews.”

22 Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.”

23 When the soldiers crucified Jesus, they took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom.

24 “Let’s not tear it,” they said to one another. “Let’s decide by lot who will get it.”

This happened that the scripture might be fulfilled that said,

“They divided my clothes among them

and cast lots for my garment.”

So this is what the soldiers did.

25 Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. 26 When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” 27 and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.

Jesus thought of His Mother as that coat was prophetically fulfilled. There is no doubt Jesus emphatically knew the Word of God. And what Jesus saw as the garment was taken - He saw Mary.

Mary is recorded again.

Matthew 27:61

Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb.

Mary continued welcoming people to Jesus. Proving again Mary united people In the midst of crisis. When it would have far been easier to be in self mode.

Matthew 28:1
After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.

Mary continues to be diligent. Perhaps Mary remembered her parents were embarrassed by her pregnancy and she was not going to be pushed back by infamy. Imagine how jarring her day had been, this time for Mary. Her Son was beaten and ruined for the blind seeing, the deaf hearing. Surely she felt completely slain by a sword to her heart. And rose to do for Him. This was probably so extreme that she physically struggled.

Many people would never survive seeing their Son reach fame for the blind seeing and the deaf hearing. Mayo Clinic doctor's report the manifestations of His suffering on the cross where emotional - the heart of Jesus was broken and died from the excruciating shame and horror of the event with the physical beating and the weight of the cross.
.
Acts 1:13-14

When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. 14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.

The prophetic Words of Jesus came to be fulfilled. His Family was united. Mary is again placed with Scripture about casting lots. This time this is about hearts being revealed. As Simon during the Presentation of the Infant Jesus to the Temple had said. To bear witness to the Resurrection of Jesus.

Paul spoke of the uniting of the Family of Jesus - something for us today.

Hebrews 2:10-18

10 In bringing many sons and daughters to glory, it was fitting that God, for whom and through whom everything exists, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through what he suffered. 11 Both the one who makes people holy and those who are made holy are of the same family. So Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers and sisters. 12 He says,

“I will declare your name to my brothers and sisters;

in the assembly I will sing your praises.”

13 And again,

“I will put my trust in him.”

And again he says,

“Here am I, and the children God has given me.”

14 Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil— 15 and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death. 16 For surely it is not angels he helps, but Abraham’s descendants. 17 For this reason he had to be made like them, fully human in every way, in order that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in service to God, and that he might make atonement for the sins of the people. 18 Because he himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.

Mary saw a division in her family. And in Jesus, she lived to see them united again. Jesus had been patient with Mary to grow with Him. Jesus continued to provide for Mary's family and expanding this family in His Victory over Death.

Paul in the Power of the Holy Spirit was good to record the Family of God expanding and going forth in Jesus Christ the Lord.

1 Corinthians 9

5 Do we not have a right to take along a believing wife, even as the rest of the apostles and the brothers of the Lord and Cephas ?


Early Church History records Mary went on to live to be old and in peace. Jesus provided for Mary. As Jesus provides for His Family today.

John 5:17

In his defense Jesus said to them, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working."



A day to God is millions of years, Peter wrote in the Power of the Holy Spirit. God tells us His desire is to save the World through Jesus Christ. Jesus is our Salvation and we are the Family of God. God is that Vast and that Loving.

Jesus is the God who said , "How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wing."

Father God, 
You are Vast and Loving.  The Source of Every Blessing we have received. 

Let us bask and be warmed in Your Love and reflect this to others. 

Help us each day to bring Your Love to those we would ask You to Gather to You. 

Teach us, guide us, lead us, to be on Your Path. Protect us and give us Your wisdom. Courage is not the absence of fear. Endurance with unfailing perseverance is courage.  Give us Your strength to accomplish Your Good Will for our lives. Rejoicing in our opportunities for You.

We ask this in the Name of Jesus - patient with His Mother, Brothers and His family for millenniums. The Exact Image of Father God.

 In Jesus. Amen.

♔ Lord Jesus Saves †

1 John 4:7 ~ Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.

1 John 4:7
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.

1 John 4:4-21

4 Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. 5 They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error.

7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 

9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him.

 10 In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 11 Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. 12 No one has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us.

13 By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world.

15 Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 16 So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. 

17 By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. 18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. 

19 We love because he first loved us. 20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot[a] love God whom he has not seen. 21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.



Constant, dedicated, devoted, devout, good, loyal, steady, true, dependable, dutiful, reliable, responsible, solid, tried, tried-and-true, trustworthy, trusty; unfaltering, unhesitating, unwavering; determined, intent, resolute; confirmed, inveterate, sworn, ardent, avid, enthusiastic, fervent, fervid, gung ho, impassioned, passionate, serious, abiding, unflinching, unswerving, allegiant, changeless, constant, dependabl.

Enduring, firm, fixed, immovable, inexorable, never-failing, persevering, sure, unbending, unfaltering, unmovable, wholehearted

What did God do for Adam? Brought him a wife. Adam brought support to his wife in trouble.

What did did Abraham do for Isaac? Prayed for a wife. God did provide.

What did the men of the Old Testament do? Found a wife and established a life. Usually the men who came from polygamy lived in monogamy. And by the time Joseph married Mary, society had found favor with the David and his one lamb analogy.

Jesus worked to improve marriage.

His Gospels open reflecting many marriages to bring forth a destiny for themselves and children.

Usually people in all circumstances improve when they know the person they love and rely upon will work to be there for them. Bringing new meaning to the words "Love and Cherish."

Stanley Marcus famously said give gifts not that you want to give, but that they want to receive.

Some people want Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Gifts, Quality Time and Physical Touch. And we need to know what is needed. To delete any would cause suffering.

Today we see people do not marry for fear the wedding would look skimpy or unloved. Jane Austin, one of the best and most able commentators of life, love and marriage knew better in her 1700's. A wedding could occur after the Church Service. The Wedding Party could be sandwiches, bbq or a Sunday Lunch. The consistent part was the idea the person you marry is your best friend. You are committed; their problems are your concern. Their goals your goals. The idea is to talk and to love. To commit the heart to stay in fair weather and in the waves life would give you.

Jesus spoke of a Narrow Path. Surely He meant, a life of meaning.  Ephesians 5:20-33

Faith, Hope and Love. Faith your words and actions reflect who you aspire to be and are. Hope God will bring blessings. Hope when times are challenging, what is good, noble, pure will be sought to upbuild again - work believing in blessings. Love. To be valued as we are. Love - to be forgiven. Love - to believe we can be more and look up. Love - to be held accountable. Love - to give deeply of yourself out side of your own interests. Love - what makes life worth living to see His mercies renew each day.


Father God, let me rely upon You to bring my life, heart and path to You. And believe You provide guidance, support, Love, Joy and Peace for me and those I love

. For the places I work, worship and rejoice.  

We pray for our nation and those who love Jesus to be able to bring forth this Love for Jesus well. I ask daily in expectation of You. 

 Thank You profoundly, for our blessings. Bless those, we pray, who are a blessing. Amen in Jesus.

♔ Lord Jesus Saves †

Hebrews 10:11-25 ~ Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.

Creation is said to Groan for the revealing of the Sons of Men. We think of the earth in creation. And John records Jesus telling about this from  life on earth point of view.

John 9:4
As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me.
Night is coming, when no one can work.

Hebrews 10:11-25

11 And every priest stands daily at his service, offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins. 

12 But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God, 13 waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet.

 14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.

15 And the Holy Spirit also bears witness to us; for after saying,

16
“This is the covenant that I will make with them
after those days, declares the Lord:
I will put my laws on their hearts,
and write them on their minds,”

17 then he adds,

“I will remember their sins and their lawless deeds no more.”

18 Where there is forgiveness of these, there is no longer any offering for sin.


19 Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the holy places by the blood of Jesus, 20 by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain, that is, through his flesh, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. 

23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 

24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Creation waits for the revealing of the Sons of Men. This happens on the Side of Heaven, God's Eternal Kingdom.

~ encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near


Have you ever thought of Father God waiting for us, glad for His Book of Life and we are greeted as the Prodigal Son. Jesus and Father God long for us.


Let's take this further back to the old Testament. In the Book of Job, we read about the Old Heaven - Sheol - the Hades equivalent - a place for all that have died. Including Satan. In Job, Satan is death and has a right to the place of the Dead. He just asks God for favors and because God shows equal, equal, equal mercy to all - Satan is in overcompensation - bold as can be.

Judgement. We are asked not to be Judgmental. Yet, we all need judgments and opinions and wisdom to proceed with our lives. God had opted for mercy without sacrifice. All have sinned - all in Sheol - the Old Testament.

There is one bright spot in this gray Sheol - Jesus is Life. In the place of the dead, Sheol - Jesus has laughed while in creation the deep had circles drawn upon the waters.

In this grey equality - where black and white blend - is Jesus. LIGHT OF GOD.

The true Light that gives Light to all of mankind was coming into the world.

In Him was Life, and that Life was the Light of all mankind. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. Jesus was bringing HIS Light forth to Honor God.

Jesus tells us He if filled with Joy and He speaks right to His Father and ours. This is how Jesus sacrifice changed Heaven and the earth.


Luke 10
18 And he said to them, “I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven. 19 Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. 20 Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

A new Heaven and a new earth. We can tell this did happen on earth - the name of Jesus caused Roman Emperors to make wars for almost 400 years. Jesus did not count equality as something to be grasped, Jesus became obedient to God to show Love. Earth changed.

And in this Great Love, Jesus cleared up Heaven. Heaven was new. 
His Father's House was new. 

The Holy Trinity? Jesus was working and  today is working. And doing HIS Father's Purpose. 

Jesus being God - His Promises and His Word are faithful. Jesus' effective change for Heaven is for us -

Once

and for

ALL. 

When we believe God's Promises - Change happens.


Hebrews 10:10
And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.

The balance is - we want to Please Father God.

We encourage each other in truth. Old truth is useful and is truth. We do not change what is wrong to be good or what is acceptable to be dire. We encourage each other to do Good Works for God. And we see what is Good and we applaud that and encourage more Goodness. Build up Goodness.

Jesus told us to be centered, to be salt - to be frank and honest and earnest. Let Love be Genuine.
And to be Light - bring forth news that is Joy, Peace, Love, Hope.

God works to overcome Darkness. We try to do all we can to encourage places were Light is looked for and appreciated, noticed and Encouraged.



Father God,
We Thank You. As a result of Your Works and Your Promises, You have compassion on Your faithful followers.

We will keep from being discouraged, in Trust and Faith. And You will be Glad.

We will apologize for wrongs that are not in keeping with Pleasing God. And in confidence fully anticipate and belong in Jesus' Profound Grace. Never trying to treat Father God and His Beloved Son, Jesus, as our waiter.

In the Joy, you have declared You have, we lift up our loved ones and the People You have given us. This Nation in Renewal and New Hope in Jesus. And the people of the world. Because the Kingdom, the Glory and the Power - are Yours. Your Works are for All. We encourage ourselves and others to see the Light of Jesus.

In Jesus, Amen.

♔ Lord Jesus Saves †

Luke 1:45-56 ~ And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.

1 Timothy 2: 3-5

This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 
4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 
5 For there is one God, and one mediator also between God and men,
 the man Christ Jesus

What Blessing closes the millenniums of these Holy Days before God? What draws us near to our Abba God? Knowing His tremendous purpose is to gather our hearts to Him.



The Blessing of God's Living Word. Living and Active.

Jeremiah 23:29
29"Is not My word like fire?" declares the LORD.

2 Corinthians 10:5
We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.





God Blesses us and  His Words Live

Luke 1:45-56

45 And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.”

46 And Mary said,

“My soul magnifies the Lord,
47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48 for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
49 for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
50 And his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
51 He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
52 he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
53 he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
54 He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
55 as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”

56 And Mary remained with her about three months and returned to her home.

Luke 8
19 Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him because of the crowd. 20 And he was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, desiring to see you.” 21 But he answered them, “My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.”






 

The Blessing of Faith.


Acts 16:31
And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”

Romans 10:17
So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.

Psalm 28:7
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.

In the Beginning

The Blessing of Jesus arriving as Grace and Truth to this life is described by Jesus as being filled with Joy. This blessing begins where? The Temple where God remembers His Sabbath day of worship, gratitude, peace and Joy.

Luke 2
27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

29
“Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
30
for my eyes have seen your salvation
31
that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
32
a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and for glory to your people Israel.”

And with His beloved John the Baptist - telling us set the path straight for God.Like Joshua, The taming of the wilderness, subduing the earth just like Genesis.








Today
How close are our Prayers to Father God in this Joy? Jesus tells us - the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand.
How close does God make us? Families live together in Heaven and on earth.

Father God, help me not to be a hearer of Your Word, but let me have actions pleasing to You.

We pray this for our loved ones and the People You have given us. Our Churches in Jesus Christ. For our Nation and all the people of Your earth who want to please You, Father GOD.

In the Highest Name of Jesus. Amen.

♔ Lord Jesus Saves †

Genesis 27 ~ He said, “Are you really my son Esau?” He answered, “I am.”

Jacob Deceives Isaac,  painted by James Tissot

Genesis 27

When Isaac was old and his eyes were dim so that he could not see, he called Esau his older son and said to him, “My son”; and he answered, “Here I am.” 2 He said, “Behold, I am old; I do not know the day of my death. 3 Now then, take your weapons, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field and hunt game for me, 4 and prepare for me delicious food, such as I love, and bring it to me so that I may eat, that my soul may bless you before I die.”

5 Now Rebekah was listening when Isaac spoke to his son Esau. So when Esau went to the field to hunt for game and bring it, 6 Rebekah said to her son Jacob, “I heard your father speak to your brother Esau, 7 ‘Bring me game and prepare for me delicious food, that I may eat it and bless you before the Lord before I die.’ 8 Now therefore, my son, obey my voice as I command you. 9 Go to the flock and bring me two good young goats, so that I may prepare from them delicious food for your father, such as he loves. 10 And you shall bring it to your father to eat, so that he may bless you before he dies.” 11 But Jacob said to Rebekah his mother, “Behold, my brother Esau is a hairy man, and I am a smooth man. 12 Perhaps my father will feel me, and I shall seem to be mocking him and bring a curse upon myself and not a blessing.” 13 His mother said to him, “Let your curse be on me, my son; only obey my voice, and go, bring them to me.”

14 So he went and took them and brought them to his mother, and his mother prepared delicious food, such as his father loved. 15 Then Rebekah took the best garments of Esau her older son, which were with her in the house, and put them on Jacob her younger son. 16 And the skins of the young goats she put on his hands and on the smooth part of his neck. 17 And she put the delicious food and the bread, which she had prepared, into the hand of her son Jacob.

18 So he went in to his father and said, “My father.” And he said, “Here I am. Who are you, my son?” 19 Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your firstborn. I have done as you told me; now sit up and eat of my game, that your soul may bless me.” 20 But Isaac said to his son, “How is it that you have found it so quickly, my son?” He answered, “Because the Lord your God granted me success.” 21 Then Isaac said to Jacob, “Please come near, that I may feel you, my son, to know whether you are really my son Esau or not.” 22 So Jacob went near to Isaac his father, who felt him and said, “The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau.” 23 And he did not recognize him, because his hands were hairy like his brother Esau's hands. So he blessed him. 24 He said, “Are you really my son Esau?” He answered, “I am.” 25 Then he said, “Bring it near to me, that I may eat of my son's game and bless you.” So he brought it near to him, and he ate; and he brought him wine, and he drank.

26 Then his father Isaac said to him, “Come near and kiss me, my son.” 27 So he came near and kissed him. And Isaac smelled the smell of his garments and blessed him and said,

“See, the smell of my son
is as the smell of a field that the Lord has blessed!
28 May God give you of the dew of heaven
and of the fatness of the earth
and plenty of grain and wine.
29 Let peoples serve you,
and nations bow down to you.
Be lord over your brothers,
and may your mother's sons bow down to you.
Cursed be everyone who curses you,
and blessed be everyone who blesses you!”

30 As soon as Isaac had finished blessing Jacob, when Jacob had scarcely gone out from the presence of Isaac his father, Esau his brother came in from his hunting. 31 He also prepared delicious food and brought it to his father. And he said to his father, “Let my father arise and eat of his son's game, that you may bless me.” 32 His father Isaac said to him, “Who are you?” He answered, “I am your son, your firstborn, Esau.” 33 Then Isaac trembled very violently and said, “Who was it then that hunted game and brought it to me, and I ate it all before you came, and I have blessed him? Yes, and he shall be blessed.” 34 As soon as Esau heard the words of his father, he cried out with an exceedingly great and bitter cry and said to his father, “Bless me, even me also, O my father!” 35 But he said, “Your brother came deceitfully, and he has taken away your blessing.” 36 Esau said, “Is he not rightly named Jacob?[a] For he has cheated me these two times. He took away my birthright, and behold, now he has taken away my blessing.” Then he said, “Have you not reserved a blessing for me?” 37 Isaac answered and said to Esau, “Behold, I have made him lord over you, and all his brothers I have given to him for servants, and with grain and wine I have sustained him. What then can I do for you, my son?” 38 Esau said to his father, “Have you but one blessing, my father? Bless me, even me also, O my father.” And Esau lifted up his voice and wept.

39 Then Isaac his father answered and said to him:

“Behold, away from the fatness of the earth shall your dwelling be,
and away from the dew of heaven on high.
40 By your sword you shall live,
and you shall serve your brother;
but when you grow restless
you shall break his yoke from your neck.”

41 Now Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing with which his father had blessed him, and Esau said to himself, “The days of mourning for my father are approaching; then I will kill my brother Jacob.” 42 But the words of Esau her older son were told to Rebekah. So she sent and called Jacob her younger son and said to him, “Behold, your brother Esau comforts himself about you by planning to kill you. 43 Now therefore, my son, obey my voice. Arise, flee to Laban my brother in Haran 44 and stay with him a while, until your brother's fury turns away— 45 until your brother's anger turns away from you, and he forgets what you have done to him. Then I will send and bring you from there. Why should I be bereft of you both in one day?”

46 Then Rebekah said to Isaac, “I loathe my life because of the Hittite women.^{[daughters of Heth]} If Jacob marries one of the Hittite women like these, one of the women of the land, what good will my life be to me?”




Jesus said:

John 2:25
He did not need man's testimony about man, for he knew what was in a man.


David says in the presence of his enemies, he is determined his life will still give goodness and mercy.

If life is problem solving, 
Isaac is having a heck of a time.

 He knows and believes he is the Keeper of Abraham's Blessing "Cursed be everyone who curses you, and blessed be everyone who blesses you." And he knows he is surrounded by Rebecca, who is his love, yet is a self-interested, chess player. And Jacob, the shifty son who already has Esau's birthright for a bowl of stew. You'd think Isaac would have put a caveat saying if you're Jacob, no dice on the blessing. However, Isaac did think he was dying, but held on for Jacob to grow up and return with his 12 sons. And Rebecca did herself in, that daughter in law was a long time in coming and then, oi vay, the bickering of two of them. More sibling rivalry. 

We know from the Scriptures Rebekah and Isaac will have troubles in life; the Scriptures tell us are part of life. In the midst of signs, births, prosperity, betrayal, all trouble and stages of life; we learn from Isaac’s life, forgiveness allows the Holy Spirit to help Isaac to end well. We can almost hear Father God say to Isaac, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Is this a love story? Yes, we know it. We all root for Rebekah to complete the sign and become Isaac’s wife. We all want the signs of God’s approval in our life. We know Rebekah will place her son’s prosperity over her husband’s peaceful illness and anticipated death. We know Isaac will still have Rebekah as his wife when a life-time of years pass before the family is reunited in forgiveness. We know this miracle only can come from God.

Just as we know what Rebekah’s human nature will cause and allow, God knew what was in Rebekah’s heart and chose her to be part of His plan in fulfilling His promise to Abraham. In Jesus, we are heirs of Abraham, we are grafted into God’s tree of life. God chose Rebekah and God chooses us, asks us, wants us to be part of His plan in this life and heirs to His eternal kingdom.




You would think the Scriptures would be more like Dick and Jane go to summer camp, meet and marry. Instead you see life does strange things to families trying to get by. The one thing you can say for this Biblical family, they are still together after Lamon gets finished decades later working out his own issues on his son-in-law.

Romans 8:38
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers,nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 5:8
But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us

Ephesians 3:19
and to know this love that surpasses knowledge--that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

1 Corinthians 15:58
So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.



Today we are kidding ourselves about Christian persecution. 80% of Americans pray and they are thrilled if they have a need and you say, "I'm going to pray for you." We just hunker down and hide. EIGHTY PERCENT OF AMERICANS PRAY BELIEVING GOD WILL HEAR THEM.

If you are told not to have a Christmas tree in your office, and others have menorahs and things like that. You are not valued. But the law supports you. You can write HR and the people in the company around you. You will win. That Law Suit is going to smell badly. Stand up for what you believe. I've seen that done in Corporate America. The truth is a boss who brings a law suit like that to the company over a Christmas Tree - is going to be fired.

I once told a man bragging in a corporate office meeting about his sister banging a famous singer while he was in town. I said that man is married. Not when in this town. I said it's called Adultery and it's not called banging. The boss said, "Let's start this meeting, now we are all uncomfortable."

10 people came in later and thanked me. People want their ability to speak up. This is why the cemetery in Arlington is filled.

The thing is, we have to speak up when the ability comes upon us to speak up.

Father God, help us to have the ability to speak up for one another. Help us to speak up courageously when we understand how to. Give us ability and heart. Let us celebrate what is still really good today and have the wisdom to be grateful for the blessings of today.

Let us not suffer what we need not suffer. Let us be in God's Plan and ask Him each day to live in our heart. Let us love what we can love, help what we can help and let us help others help themselves to strengthen them. Let us believe that a stronger body of believers is good, let us build each other up.

Father, I am trusting You for what I cannot do. For the people I love. For the people in my life You've given me. In Jesus. I am grateful. Amen.

♔ Lord Jesus Saves †

1 Samuel 2:1-10 ~ The Lord

1 Samuel 2:1-10

And Hannah prayed and said,

“My heart exults in the Lord;
my horn is exalted in the Lord.
My mouth derides my enemies,
because I rejoice in your salvation.

2
“There is none holy like the Lord:
for there is none besides you;
there is no rock like our God.
3
Talk no more so very proudly,
let not arrogance come from your mouth;
for the Lord is a God of knowledge,
and by him actions are weighed.
4
The bows of the mighty are broken,
but the feeble bind on strength.
5
Those who were full have hired themselves out for bread,
but those who were hungry have ceased to hunger.
The barren has borne seven,
but she who has many children is forlorn.
6
The Lord kills and brings to life;
he brings down to Sheol and raises up.
7
The Lord makes poor and makes rich;
he brings low and he exalts.
8
He raises up the poor from the dust;
he lifts the needy from the ash heap
to make them sit with princes
and inherit a seat of honor.
For the pillars of the earth are the Lord's,
and on them he has set the world.

9
“He will guard the feet of his faithful ones,
but the wicked shall be cut off in darkness,
for not by might shall a man prevail.
10
The adversaries of the Lord shall be broken to pieces;
against them he will thunder in heaven.
The Lord will judge the ends of the earth;
he will give strength to his king
and exalt the horn of his anointed.”

Hannah and the Good News are still there in the Holy Spirit, because Jesus is LORD.

In Jesus, Hannah cried out, was heard and had new life. Life abundant. Her story is not just a story of long ago. Her story is today. For us to know the exact nature of Father God..

Her son, Samuel had many times in life with our Father.

Father God, continue to speak to the hearts of those who look to You, we hear and we act for You, Father God.

You are the Lord, we trust those we love to You in Your mercy and goodness. Praying their hearts know Your goodness and Love to comfort and help their days. That You will remain with us and we celebrate Your Glory.

You will be with us and never forsake us. In Jesus we will be strong and courageous, we will not turn to the right nor the left, we will not be frightened or dismayed and will keep reading the Word of God, Your Good News in Jesus Christ the Lord.

We ask You to cover us in the name of Jesus and Your mercy when we sin and fall in error. We ask You anoint the people who would follow Jesus to know His Word and live and move and have their being in Jesus and His Promises and Blessings. Help our attitudes, words and opinions be witness to You, Jesus.

We do not turn aside from following the Lord, but serve the Lord with all our heart. For the Lord will not forsake his people, for his great name's sake, because it has pleased the Lord to make you a people for himself. We will not cease to pray for you, and give us hearts turned to You and You will instruct us in the good and the right way. We will Love the Lord and serve him faithfully with all our heart. For consider what great things You, Father God, has done for us.

Thank You, Father God, in Jesus the Lord. You Will is Good. Amen.

♔ Lord Jesus Saves †