Psalm 141 ~ let my prayer be counted as incense before You

Psalm 141 ~ (New Revised Standard Version)


I call upon you, O Lord; come quickly to me;
give ear to my voice when I call to you.
Let my prayer be counted as incense before you,
and the lifting up of my hands as an evening sacrifice.
Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord;
keep watch over the door of my lips.
Do not turn my heart to any evil,
to busy myself with wicked deeds
in company with those who work iniquity;
do not let me eat of their delicacies.

Let the righteous strike me;
let the faithful correct me.
Never let the oil of the wicked anoint my head,
for my prayer is continually against their wicked deeds.
When they are given over to those who shall condemn them,
then they shall learn that my words were pleasant.
Like a rock that one breaks apart and shatters on the land,
so shall their bones be strewn at the mouth of Sheol.

But my eyes are turned toward you, O God, my Lord;
in you I seek refuge; do not leave me defenseless.
Keep me from the trap that they have laid for me,
and from the snares of evildoers.
Let the wicked fall into their own nets,
while I alone escape.



Luke 18:1-8

1 And he told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not lose heart. 2 He said, “In a certain city there was a judge who neither feared God nor respected man. 3 And there was a widow in that city who kept coming to him and saying, ‘Give me justice against my adversary.’ 4 For a while he refused, but afterward he said to himself, ‘Though I neither fear God nor respect man, 5 yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will give her justice, so that she will not beat me down by her continual coming.’” 6 And the Lord said, “Hear what the unrighteous judge says. 7 And will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long over them? 8 I tell you, he will give justice to them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?”

Prayer is our conversations with the Lord.

Ephesians 6:18
praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints

Prayer helps us grow in the Lord.

Philippians 1:9
And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment

God honors people who have turned to Him, even as a last resort.

Psalm 102:17
he regards the prayer of the destitute and does not despise their prayer.

God is not the prosperity gospel, or fond of easy grace.

Proverbs 28:9
If one turns away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer is an abomination.

God expects us to care for each other in prayer. Jeremiah was directed not to pray for the Children of Israel, that is far from usual. Moses prayed for the people. Jesus spent a lot of time in prayer.

Jeremiah 7:16
As for you, do not pray for this people, or lift up a cry or prayer for them, and do not intercede with me, for I will not hear you.

Exodus 32:31-32
So Moses went back to the LORD and said, “Oh, what a great sin these people have committed! They have made themselves gods of gold. 32 But now, please forgive their sin—but if not, then blot me out of the book you have written.”

God wants you to pray for your Church.

Daniel 9:17
Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, make your face to shine upon your sanctuary, which is desolate.

In all and extreme situations, God wants your roller-coaster prayer.

Jonah 2:7
When my life was fainting away, I remembered the LORD, and my prayer came to you, into your holy temple.

God expects us to have conversations knowing He is God. To be His creation.

Matthew 6:5
And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.

For hopeless situations, God says:

Mark 9:29
And he said to them, "This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer."

The prayer of faith, expecting God to show up:

Mark 11:24
Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.

Letting God's will be done in our lives:

John 17:1
When Jesus had spoken these words, he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, "Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you

Praying in community:

Acts 1:14
All these with one accord were devoting themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brothers.

2 Corinthians 1:11
You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.


Father God, we thank You for hearing our prayers. Thank you for answering 'no' to some of them, in time we see Your blessing. Thank You for the gifts You've given us in blessing. I am grateful today for some of the no's. Thank You, Jesus Christ, Father and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Romans 12:12
Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.


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Ezekiel 39:21-40:4 ~ I will set my glory among the nations

One of the clay tablets revealing the presence of the Judean royal house as prisoners in Babylon. Excavated from an arched building near the Ishtar Gate of ancient Babylon. The cuneiform texts, 595 - 570 B.C., contain lists of rations of barley and oil issued to the captive princes and artisans, including "Yaukin, king of the land of Yahud." This is a direct reference to Jehoiachin (or Jeconiah). The other tablets mention his 5 sons accompanying him to Babylon. Staatliche Museum, Berlin

Ezekiel 39:21-40:4

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21 “And I will set my glory among the nations, and all the nations shall see my judgment that I have executed, and my hand that I have laid on them. 22 The house of Israel shall know that I am the Lord their God, from that day forward. 23 And the nations shall know that the house of Israel went into captivity for their iniquity, because they dealt so treacherously with me that I hid my face from them and gave them into the hand of their adversaries, and they all fell by the sword. 24 I dealt with them according to their uncleanness and their transgressions, and hid my face from them.

25 “Therefore thus says the Lord God: Now I will restore the fortunes of Jacob and have mercy on the whole house of Israel, and I will be jealous for my holy name. 26 They shall forget their shame and all the treachery they have practiced against me, when they dwell securely in their land with none to make them afraid, 27 when I have brought them back from the peoples and gathered them from their enemies' lands, and through them have vindicated my holiness in the sight of many nations. 28 Then they shall know that I am the Lord their God, because I sent them into exile among the nations and then assembled them into their own land. I will leave none of them remaining among the nations anymore. 29 And I will not hide my face anymore from them, when I pour out my Spirit upon the house of Israel, declares the Lord God.”


1 In the twenty-fifth year of our exile, at the beginning of the year, on the tenth day of the month, in the fourteenth year after the city was struck down, on that very day, the hand of the Lord was upon me, and he brought me to the city. [brought me there] 2 In visions of God he brought me to the land of Israel, and set me down on a very high mountain, on which was a structure like a city to the south. 3 When he brought me there, behold, there was a man whose appearance was like bronze, with a linen cord and a measuring reed in his hand. And he was standing in the gateway. 4 And the man said to me, “Son of man, look with your eyes, and hear with your ears, and set your heart upon all that I shall show you, for you were brought here in order that I might show it to you. Declare all that you see to the house of Israel.”


Ezekiel was in captivity with the King of Judah, Jeconiah, eleven years before Jerusalem was destroyed. Ezekiel never mentions Jeconiah's uncle, the successor Nebuchadnezzar put up as puppet king, Zedekiah. This is the 25th year of captivity for the first group of captives, they will not be released for 34 more years. 57 years from the 2nd Temple being built.

It is utterly astonishing the Babylonian Emperor, Darius, would give directions to free the slaves and build the Temple. Build with his funds and the original Temple tools, held in waiting through 3 different emperors. It defies anything else on earth. And, recently historically, the world saw this happen again - 1947 - Israel was re-established. Imagine a country not only in ruins, but obliterated - the people scattered & yet they return to their homeland. Does Archaeology agree this occurred. Yes. Scholars debate the timing by six months.

If we know Israel came back from being annihilated, several times; these amazing events set a pattern to believe God's Son would rise from the dead.

Blessed be the Lord God, our Redeemer. Amen.

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Psalm 100 ~ Serve the Lord with gladness

Psalm 100

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Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
2 Serve the Lord with gladness!
Come into his presence with singing!

3 Know that the Lord, he is God!
It is he who made us, and we are his; [and not we ourselves]
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!

5 For the Lord is good;
his steadfast love endures forever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 100, sung by the Cy-Ridge Varsity Treble Choir - sounds like Angels

We were blessed to have Andy Piercy recently come to our Church. He is the head of AMiA (Anglican Mission in America) worship, he is really talented. How talented? This man has his own Wikipedia site. Before he turned to Christian music, he was opening for Queen, ELO and Van Halen. Then he began to be on fire for Christian music, and began writing /recording many of the songs used on Alpha and produced records for Delirious, Matt Redman, Rita Springer, Soul Survivor and Graham Kendrick.

Andy made an off hand comment during his humble, down-to-earth sermon & said, in his lovely English accent, Worship is a bit like going to a party where everyone there is holding their breath waiting for the famous person who may or may not show up. That analogy is wonderful, perfect for Psalm 100.

Psalm 100 is about what we bring to the Lord. It is the expectation - the Lord IS going to show up. It's about going to Church, it's about opening our hands to ask Him to give us His daily works. It's about what we bring to this life, it's about the next life.

It's about making the decision to place ourselves in God's hands and let Him work His Plan. Rejoice! This is about putting anxiety down with our decision to trust.

We are the Lord's !

And the music today is from my childhood. It is like putting on the Holy Spirit - the Comforter. Andy Piercy read us terrible letters written to the minister saying how terrible, romantic, uninspiring the new hymns were. Of course the letters were written 140-300 years ago over songs like 'Amazing Grace', 'Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee', 'The Old Rugged Cross". We all have a different taste in music, Psalm 100 is a song sung with practice, with joy, with a decision to put down our interests and concerns, to take time to Praise God.

It is He who made us, and not we ourselves!!!

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Doxology of Psalm 100, always a blessing


O Praise Him, David Crowder Band

Psalm 96 ~ oh sing to the Lord a new song

Psalm 96

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1 Oh sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth!
2 Sing to the Lord, bless his name;
tell of his salvation from day to day.
3 Declare his glory among the nations,
his marvelous works among all the peoples!
4 For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised;
he is to be feared above all gods.
5 For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols,
but the Lord made the heavens.
6 Splendor and majesty are before him;
strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.

7 Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples,
ascribe to the Lord glory and strength!
8 Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;
bring an offering, and come into his courts!
9 Worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness; [of holy attire]
tremble before him, all the earth!

10 Say among the nations, “The Lord reigns!
Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved;
he will judge the peoples with equity.”

11 Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice;
let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
12 let the field exult, and everything in it!
Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy
13 before the Lord, for he comes,
for he comes to judge the earth.
He will judge the world in righteousness,
and the peoples in his faithfulness.

Our Church family small group had been studying Bill Hybels' (Pastor of Willow Creek) book, "Just Walk Across the Room." One of the things I've enjoyed about this reasonable study, looking for the opportunities to share God's love with others. We are studying the 5th week, the video was pretty hilarious and we laughed a lot.

The main theme today is being more clear on having a one minute personal story - how God's love changed our lives. The video gave rave performances - not to be too long, rambling. Avoid being fuzzy, unclear, wobbly. Not to be weird and give God stories best shared in a small group who love you and know you. No to lots of esoteric Religious speak - i.e. too many thee's and thou's are not easy or comfortable. And flee from giving holier than you, speak downs.

Years ago, I went to a Christian renewal weekend. During my time with this group, I realized they had a love for the Lord causing them to glow with joy. We were in the very rural country and it was so dark outside. We were in the Chapel, and the priest said the light in the lantern represented the Presence of Christ. We were asked to remember Jesus as the Light of the World. We were asked to decide, did we indeed believe or would this merely be a light. It was a question I had been asking myself. I knew I had a decision, I knew Jesus as Lord. Suddenly I was given a peace, a joy, a Love. I was filled with the Light of Christ. I'd never felt such love wash over me.

Over the years, as I've journeyed as a follower of Jesus Christ, I've felt the Light - the free gift of salvation - given to me - strengthen me in times of need. Lift me higher in joyful times. Giving me more compassion to others. Growing me to go home to the Lord. The Lord is my rock.


John 1:5
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.


!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


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Psalm 134 ~ may the Lord bless you from Zion, He who made Heaven and earth!

Evening Prayer, by Jean Francois Millet


Psalm 134

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Come, bless the Lord, all you servants of the Lord,
who stand by night in the house of the Lord!
2 Lift up your hands to the holy place
and bless the Lord!

3 May the Lord bless you from Zion,
he who made heaven and earth!


Years ago, the Roman Empire began to crumble when inner corruption, greed, overcame trade. Christ then began to be proclaimed as Son of God and propped the Roman Empire for another 200 years. Then cities became afraid again, we slid into the Middle Ages and major fortification was established as cities became walled in and lives became walled in. Distrust and starvation set in and the Churches, acting as stewards of Jesus Christ were the first to feed and to care for children of God and provide hospital care. At the end of the plagues, when people began to leave serfdom all over Europe, the Church was the first place built outside of the fortified walls. Churches were responsible for people beginning to trust their environment. People left the walled enclosures to attend evening prayer. The Evening Service is called Vespers, people would, and do, gather to give thanks. A blessing for the Lord.

Here is a sample of the prayers:

Jesus said "You are the light of the world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one lights a lamp to put it under a bucket, but on a lamp-stand where it gives light for everyone in the house. And you, like the lamp, must shed light among your fellow man, so that they may see the good you do, and give glory to your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16

Almighty God, we give you thanks for surrounding us, as daylight fades, with the brightness of the vesper light; and we implore you of your great mercy that, as you enfold us with the radiance of this light, so you would shine unto our heart the brightness of your Holy Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let my prayer be set forth in your sight as incense, the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. Psalm 141:2

Yours is the day, O God, yours also the night; you established the moon and the sun. You fixed all the boundaries of the earth, you made both summer and winter. Psalm 74:15-16

I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel; my heart teaches me, night after night. I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not fall. Psalm 16:7-8

If I say, “Surely the darkness shall cover me,
and the light about me be night,”
even the darkness is not dark to you;
the night is bright as the day,
for darkness is as light with you. Psalm 139:10-11

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. Romans 15:13




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Acts 28 ~ and welcomed all who came to him

Tomb of St. Paul

Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls (the Aurelian Walls, city walls built between 271-275 for Rome's seven hills. Unfortified area of Rome.)

Earlier this week we remembered the monuments to Paul, all over his travels. Here is Paul's current house, dedicated to His LORD. It was built with his tomb at the altar. The Basilica named for Paul was built in 354 by Constantine. It was fortified in the 9th century and burned by roof repairs in 1823. Rebuilt in 1840.



Acts 28

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1 After we were brought safely through, we then learned that the island was called Malta. 2 The native people [barbaroi that is, non–Greek speakers] showed us unusual kindness, for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because it had begun to rain and was cold. 3 When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened on his hand. 4 When the native people saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer. Though he has escaped from the sea, Justice [justice] has not allowed him to live.” 5 He, however, shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. 6 They were waiting for him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But when they had waited a long time and saw no misfortune come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.

7 Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us and entertained us hospitably for three days. 8 It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with fever and dysentery. And Paul visited him and prayed, and putting his hands on him healed him. 9 And when this had taken place, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases also came and were cured. 10 They also honored us greatly, [honored us with many honors] and when we were about to sail, they put on board whatever we needed.

11 After three months we set sail in a ship that had wintered in the island, a ship of Alexandria, with the twin gods [Greek gods Castor and Pollux] as a figurehead. 12 Putting in at Syracuse, we stayed there for three days. 13 And from there we made a circuit and arrived at Rhegium. And after one day a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli. 14 There we found brothers [brothers and sisters; also verses 15, 21] and were invited to stay with them for seven days. And so we came to Rome. 15 And the brothers there, when they heard about us, came as far as the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage. 16 And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier that guarded him.

17 After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. 19 But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar—though I had no charge to bring against my nation. 20 For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain.” 21 And they said to him, “We have received no letters from Judea about you, and none of the brothers coming here has reported or spoken any evil about you. 22 But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.”

23 When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. 24 And some were convinced by what he said, but others disbelieved. 25 And disagreeing among themselves, they departed after Paul had made one statement:
“The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet:

26 “‘Go to this people, and say,
You will indeed hear but never understand,
and you will indeed see but never perceive.
27 For this people's heart has grown dull,
and with their ears they can barely hear,
and their eyes they have closed;
lest they should see with their eyes
and hear with their ears
and understand with their heart
and turn, and I would heal them.’’

28 Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.”

30 He lived there two whole years at his own expense, [his own hired dwelling] and welcomed all who came to him, 31 proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.

Paul knew he was probably on the voyage ending his life.

Acts 21:11
And coming to us, he took Paul’s belt and bound his own feet and hands and said, "Thus says the Holy Spirit, 'This is how the Jews at Jerusalem will bind the man who owns this belt and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.'"

While shipwrecked he stayed with the crew. Healing along the way. In each stop, Paul meets brothers and sisters in Christ all along the long journey, just 26 years after Jesus rose again. Paul has been told he will meet his death at the hands of the Gentiles, yet Paul is here to proclaim to all ~ Jesus is the Messiah, the Savior.

Just as it was since 60 A.D., all are welcome at the house of Paul. Paul's house is always the home of the Holy Spirit.

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Philemon 1:7-20 ~ refresh my heart in Christ

Photo Compiled by Investigation Bureau of Germany. I'd think it would be the compilation of the numerous icons of St. Paul. Usually Paul looked more cheerful in the early Christian art.


Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the sake of the faith of God's elect and their knowledge of the truth, which accords with godliness, 2 in hope of eternal life, which God, who never lies, promised before the ages began 3 and at the proper time manifested in his word through the preaching with which I have been entrusted by the command of God our Savior
Titus 1:1-3




Philemon 1:7-20

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7 For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you. 8 Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, 9 yet for love's sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus— 10 I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, [Onesimus means useful or beneficial] whose father I became in my imprisonment. 11 (Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me.) 12 I am sending him back to you, sending my very heart. 13 I would have been glad to keep him with me, in order that he might serve me on your behalf during my imprisonment for the gospel, 14 but I preferred to do nothing without your consent in order that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord. 15 For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, 16 no longer as a slave [bondservant] but more than a slave, as a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.

17 So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me. 18 If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. 19 I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it—to say nothing of your owing me even your own self. 20 Yes, brother, I want some benefit from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ.

The Books of the Scriptures are not placed in date order in the Bible. When Paul wrote Philemon, with the Holy Spirit, there was more to be written: 1st & 2nd Timothy, Titus and Hebrews. There is so much we don't know of Paul. We don't know with certainty he completed his plan to travel to Spain. There are fragments of documents to guess Paul's plan was complete.

What we can know of Paul, the Holy Spirit has placed well within our hands, in the Scripture.

Paul is credited with affirmation of slavery. Really Paul was saying, to be content with our lives, knowing that in Jesus Christ, we live according to His Plan. When it is said Paul affirmed slavery, it sounds like we confuse St. Paul with Father John Newton, the British slave trader who converted to Christianity and wrote Amazing Grace.

Paul, again and again, is the living example of the Holy Spirit's words. Paul is in prison, yet he is speaking comfort, love, joy, freedom, free will, consent. Paul is sending Onesimus back into his slavery, to be freed. Paul doesn't charge Philemon to be a better slave owner, or bondservant master, he asks Onesimus be treated as a brother of the household. Paul's prison allows Paul to set others free - not just Onesimus from slavery - but today, us. We are to be set free from our fears, from our prejudices, from our circumstances. Not just to accept our "lot" in life, but to reach out with the compassion of God shown in Jesus Christ. To do all, in our own joy, to refresh the hearts of others, for the sake of Jesus Christ.

The next time you hear Paul accepted slavery, remember what an imprisoned Paul actually did for a slave. Remember we have earned death, but like Paul gave, today, we have been given life!!!!

Refresh our hearts in the truth of Jesus Christ.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Chains of St. Paul, found in Rome in St. Paul's Basilica.
June 2009 - Pope Benedict announced excavation results in the tomb of Paul, at the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls. The sarcophagus was not opened but examined by probe. It revealed pieces of incense and purple, blue linens and small bone fragments. The bone was radiocarbon dated to the 1st to 2nd century,confirming the tomb being Paul's.

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Acts 25 ~ let them bring charges against him

Marcus Julius Agrippa II, grandson of Herod the Great
Caesarea - aerial view


Acts 25

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1 Now three days after Festus had arrived in the province, he went up to Jerusalem from Caesarea. 2 And the chief priests and the principal men of the Jews laid out their case against Paul, and they urged him, 3 asking as a favor against Paul that he summon him to Jerusalem—because they were planning an ambush to kill him on the way. 4 Festus replied that Paul was being kept at Caesarea and that he himself intended to go there shortly. 5 “So,” said he, “let the men of authority among you go down with me, and if there is anything wrong about the man, let them bring charges against him.”

6 After he stayed among them not more than eight or ten days, he went down to Caesarea. And the next day he took his seat on the tribunal and ordered Paul to be brought. 7 When he had arrived, the Jews who had come down from Jerusalem stood around him, bringing many and serious charges against him that they could not prove. 8 Paul argued in his defense, “Neither against the law of the Jews, nor against the temple, nor against Caesar have I committed any offense.” 9 But Festus, wishing to do the Jews a favor, said to Paul, “Do you wish to go up to Jerusalem and there be tried on these charges before me?” 10 But Paul said, “I am standing before Caesar's tribunal, where I ought to be tried. To the Jews I have done no wrong, as you yourself know very well. 11 If then I am a wrongdoer and have committed anything for which I deserve to die, I do not seek to escape death. But if there is nothing to their charges against me, no one can give me up to them. I appeal to Caesar.” 12 Then Festus, when he had conferred with his council, answered, “To Caesar you have appealed; to Caesar you shall go.”


13 Now when some days had passed, Agrippa the king and Bernice arrived at Caesarea and greeted Festus. 14 And as they stayed there many days, Festus laid Paul's case before the king, saying, “There is a man left prisoner by Felix, 15 and when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews laid out their case against him, asking for a sentence of condemnation against him. 16 I answered them that it was not the custom of the Romans to give up anyone before the accused met the accusers face to face and had opportunity to make his defense concerning the charge laid against him. 17 So when they came together here, I made no delay, but on the next day took my seat on the tribunal and ordered the man to be brought. 18 When the accusers stood up, they brought no charge in his case of such evils as I supposed. 19 Rather they had certain points of dispute with him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive. 20 Being at a loss how to investigate these questions, I asked whether he wanted to go to Jerusalem and be tried there regarding them. 21 But when Paul had appealed to be kept in custody for the decision of the emperor, I ordered him to be held until I could send him to Caesar.” 22 Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I would like to hear the man myself.” “Tomorrow,” said he, “you will hear him.”

23 So on the next day Agrippa and Bernice came with great pomp, and they entered the audience hall with the military tribunes and the prominent men of the city. Then, at the command of Festus, Paul was brought in. 24 And Festus said, “King Agrippa and all who are present with us, you see this man about whom the whole Jewish people petitioned me, both in Jerusalem and here, shouting that he ought not to live any longer. 25 But I found that he had done nothing deserving death. And as he himself appealed to the emperor, I decided to go ahead and send him. 26 But I have nothing definite to write to my lord about him. Therefore I have brought him before you all, and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that, after we have examined him, I may have something to write. 27 For it seems to me unreasonable, in sending a prisoner, not to indicate the charges against him.”




3d Reconstruction of Caesaria - mostly the theater. The palace is undergoing actual partial reconstruction as a tourist path from the theater to a seaside walk ending at the Crusader Fortress Wall.

We know the story of Acts, perhaps too well. Paul wants to go to Rome, partially to avoid being killed by assassins who swore never to eat or drink until they'd killed Paul. One never hears of them dying of hunger or thirst. Paul also knew Jesus brought the disciples to Caesarea, Matthew 16, to hear Peter proclaim Jesus to be the Christ, the Messiah. Using Caesarea as a symbol of Rome, Jesus told Peter he was the rock upon which the Church would be built.

Charges are never brought formally to Paul. Instead 2 governors - Felix, later Festus, continue to keep Paul in prison for 2 years.

When we look along the routes Paul traveled, there are memorials all over his journey. What did Paul leave behind for his 2 years? We know Paul did not put aside his love for Jesus Christ, even when we hear Paul was in prison and in chains. Paul loved the LORD.

Let's briefly look at Bernice, granddaughter of Herod the Great. How can it be that a Queen of Judea (Israel) was so unaffected by the Holy City during the Second Temple? Bernice disappears from history after having an affair with the destroyer of Jerusalem, the soon to become, Emperor Titus. When Titus banishes Bernice, she becomes unknown to history, sinking into obscurity.

Agrippa II was known to Paul, in Acts 26, as a believer of the prophets. Jesus never had reason to say any Herod family were believers. Perhaps, accordingly, this Herod doesn't end his life poorly. Agrippa was recorded in history as being a believer. So much so, he incited Jewish revolt with the way he raised and exiled Priests in the Temple. Agrippa was exiled to Rome for dabbling with the Temple too many times.

Agrippa was a close friend of Josephus', the son of a priest, a military man capitulating to Roman historian, as they lived out their lives in Rome. While Agrippa lived to old age & never married, Josephus married four times, divorcing twice. Josephus kept two of the letters he received from Agrippa. For both men, the Scripture applies:

Mark 9:40
for whoever is not against us is for us

Matthew 12:30
He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters

The Scriptures apply because: Paul is not handed over to the assassins, Acts records Paul being called to speak to the Governor endlessly without a conversion written about, justice could have arrived at a solution there and then without Paul being in prison and in chains without clear charges. Paul's 2 year imprisonment instead of sending him off to Rome. Agrippa was the legal leader of the Temple, but vacillation appears to have been the leadership. As the born king of a client state, one would have hoped for more allegiance from both Bernice and Agrippa. While Josephus admires the Christians, he does not continue to write about their non-violent intentions. Paul is willing to wade into whatever fray occurs to promote love and mercy over sacrifice and mere rules. The others do not even add contributions to peace.

Paul fought the good fight. He finished his race. Greeted by the Lord Jesus, as well done, good and faithful servant. Paul's words, written with the Holy Spirit, are living and active.

Paul helped us to know more about the nature of God, Himself.

Love never fails.

Rejoice in the Lord always.

We live by faith, not by sight.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil.

If God is for us, who can be against us?

Do not be yoked together with unbelievers.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.

If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.

For God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness.

Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.

For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God.

For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord.

Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.

I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

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Romans 8:22-23 ~ For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now

Romans 8:22-23

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22 For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now. 23 And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.

The Scriptures are unique because we don't think of an entire letter, or chapter, and remember it in times of need. God just gives us a few words and we are comforted.

Gardeners know something my grandmother cherished and prayed. Camellias are unusual flowers, vibrant, they drop to the ground almost whole to be collected by The Gardener.

We see suffering in the world. It can be fierce. There is a Plan. And the One Who loves you most, will come to you in your suffering, your purpose will be fulfilled. The promises of the LORD are sure. One of the places of Sanctuary for you, look for the holiness of your Church, as you are still, pray for your Church.

1 Corinthians 13:12
Now we see but a poor reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

Isaiah 55:11

so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth;
it shall not return to me empty,
but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,
and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

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Psalm 24:1-6 ~ who shall ascend

Psalm 24:1-6

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The earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, [and all that fills it ]
the world and those who dwell therein,
2 for he has founded it upon the seas
and established it upon the rivers.

3 Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?
And who shall stand in his holy place?
4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
who does not lift up his soul to what is false
and does not swear deceitfully.
5 He will receive blessing from the Lord
and righteousness from the God of his salvation.
6 Such is the generation of those who seek him,
who seek the face of the God of Jacob. Selah

Gratitude would be the aspiration for the day. What can we give the LORD that He has not already given us. Thanks from our hearts.

Oh Lord, our rock and redeemer. Let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our heart be always acceptable in Your sight.

In the name of Your Son, Our Lord, Jesus Christ.

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Luke 20:27-38 ~ afterward

Luke 20:27-38

27 There came to him some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection, 28 and they asked him a question, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man's brother dies, having a wife but no children, the man [his brother] must take the widow and raise up offspring for his brother. 29 Now there were seven brothers. The first took a wife, and died without children. 30 And the second 31 and the third took her, and likewise all seven left no children and died. 32 Afterward the woman also died. 33 In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had her as wife.”

34 And Jesus said to them, “The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage, 35 but those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage, 36 for they cannot die anymore, because they are equal to angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection. 37 But that the dead are raised, even Moses showed, in the passage about the bush, where he calls the Lord the God of Abraham and the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob. 38 Now he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for all live to him.”

In our first Scripture paragraph -

Paul, yesterday we read in Acts 24, drew his summary point of his arrest to Felix being his belief in the resurrection. Paul said this is the reason the Jews wanted Paul arrested. This is a point Paul would know the most about having been a zealous Temple official and educated at the feet of Gamaliel.

In the second Scripture paragraph-
Jesus is called Lion of the tribe of Judah. This type of situation exists in His family. One of his women ancestors was Tamar, she had been given in marriage to a second son of Judah, Jacob/Israel 's grandsons, upon the death of her first husband. If the second husband had impregnated Tamar, their offspring would have been counted as the first husband's child. It was not an uncommon practice. This practice was biblically discontinued in:

Leviticus 20:21
21 If a man marries his brother's wife, it is an act of impurity; he has dishonored his brother. They will be childless.

Combing these -
Jesus could have addressed this issue with quoting Leviticus 20:21. Instead Jesus wanted to talk to them about new life. Why? With the New Covenant, Jesus created a new heaven and a new earth. He was giving them the Kingdom of Heaven. Not laws and all that is seen by the visible eye, but straight to the point of mercy, kindness, to walk humbly with the Lord. Jesus took their bickering and gave them the mercy of abundant life in Father God. He didn't promise life for all, He told them of the abundance and the reward of those looking to Father God.

When we are trouble by the details, the small irritants of life, remember Jesus refocuses attention away from the death we deserve and opens up a glimpse of God's Kingdom for those who look up to Father God.

Blessed are You, Father God, You are our redemption.

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Acts 24:10-21 ~ verify that

Marcus Antonius Felix

Acts 24:10-21

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10 And when the governor (Felix) had nodded to him to speak, Paul replied:

“Knowing that for many years you have been a judge over this nation, I cheerfully make my defense. 11 You can verify that it is not more than twelve days since I went up to worship in Jerusalem, 12 and they did not find me disputing with anyone or stirring up a crowd, either in the temple or in the synagogues or in the city. 13 Neither can they prove to you what they now bring up against me. 14 But this I confess to you, that according to the Way, which they call a sect, I worship the God of our fathers, believing everything laid down by the Law and written in the Prophets, 15 having a hope in God, which these men themselves accept, that there will be a resurrection of both the just and the unjust. 16 So I always take pains to have a clear conscience toward both God and man. 17 Now after several years I came to bring alms to my nation and to present offerings. 18 While I was doing this, they found me purified in the temple, without any crowd or tumult. But some Jews from Asia— 19 they ought to be here before you and to make an accusation, should they have anything against me. 20 Or else let these men themselves say what wrongdoing they found when I stood before the council, 21 other than this one thing that I cried out while standing among them: ‘It is with respect to the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial before you this day.’”

Felix (Marcus Antonius Felix) already heard of the plot to kill Paul in the Acts 23. He was aware of the tensions between Paul, the Jews, and an substantial increase of people following the Way. For two years, Felix kept Paul as prisoner and spoke with him on many occasions. Felix was known to be corrupt and sought bribes, but Paul was clearly not offering bribes. Paul was now a missionary, tent-maker, and former aspiring Temple official with a good Temple education and good Temple name.

Felix is a historical figure with a a lot of sway - the heroes people were interested in before mass media were the politicians. They were all people talked of in their day and were famous. Felix's father was a Greek slave to Emperor Claudius and his 1st wife, Antonia Minor (daughter of Mark Antony / Marcus Antonius). His father was freed, Felix and his brother held fantastic Empire jobs for sons of a slave/freedman.

Felix was a rock star on jet pack ice skates. Fame touched this man from all directions. Felix's first two wives were both named Drusilla and both were very exalted noble women politically. Drusilla, wife 1, was a cousin to Emperor Claudius. Emperor Claudius' 4th wife was Felix's niece Aggripina Minor (who had a little nephew named Nero that Emperor Claudius became very fond of and adopted.) Druscilla, wife 2, was the daughter of King of Judea Herod Agrippa. These are the faces that would have filled the grocery store glossy magazines, if that had existed. Instead they had coins. When Mount Vesuvius erupted, his second wife and child were about the only 'famous' people who died while visiting Pompeii. When Felix was hauled to Rome to face charges of bad government, he didn't have a lot to worry about - Felix's brother was the Emperor Nero's man.

The Scripture ideas and discussions between Acts 23 and Acts 25 are really pretty entertaining. False accusations near the Holy of Holies (where the Ark of the Covenant does not reside), murder plots, nephew saves Paul by telling Centurion, Centurion pulls out the big Calvary to save Paul, they all know of the plot to kill Paul along the road to Jerusalem. Everyone pretends not to know. Felix asks Paul if he'd like to go to Jerusalem, while moving Paul to extensive guard to Herod's praetorium.

If you aren't interested, clean out your ears, wipe the sleep from your eyes - this isn't just adventure, but huge politics, the beginnings of Jesus Christ sweeping the continents without the benefit of mass media - people are interested in this Jesus of Nazareth. In 16 years, the Emperors of Rome are going to be very uncomfortable - doing and saying foolish things.

It is already starting here... the Temple is getting ready to lawyer up with High Priests, the Governor, Lysias the tribune, just to name a few. Delay of judgment to avoid being the enemy of some important factions.

22 But Felix, having a rather accurate knowledge of the Way, put them off, saying, “When Lysias the tribune comes down, I will decide your case.” 23 Then he gave orders to the centurion that he should be kept in custody but have some liberty, and that none of his friends should be prevented from attending to his needs.

24 After some days Felix came with his wife Drusilla, who was Jewish, and he sent for Paul and heard him speak about faith in Christ Jesus. 25 And as he reasoned about righteousness and self-control and the coming judgment, Felix was alarmed and said, “Go away for the present. When I get an opportunity I will summon you.” 26 At the same time he hoped that money would be given him by Paul. So he sent for him often and conversed with him. 27 When two years had elapsed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And desiring to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison.

Not just the big doings - look at the people involved. 'Paul - would you like to go to Jerusalem?' 'Why no, I believe I will go in the opposite direction.' The tremendous will of God is being accomplished just as easily as a conversation.

What was this Felix up to? Felix' history involves governing, a vague reference to putting down another Egyptian messiah claim. Felix feels Paul can help him to control the factions swirling around this Middle East situation. Paul has worn some powerful hats and Felix wants to know what Paul knows.

Felix has plans, Paul has plans, but God's plan is moving forward.

Two Years of conversations........It's interesting to remember Felix and the important question. Paul speaks of it immediately. What becomes of the people who have so much to do, so many opportunities, what is the real meaning? The question of 2,000 years ago is the question we ask ourselves of the people we would like to know the saving love and salvation Jesus Christ offers today.

Acts 26:28-29
And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.”

Jesus also dealt with long-term problems of faith and belief with a lot of the truth and grace the Father bestowed upon His Son.

Mark 9:21-27

²¹ Jesus asked the boy’s father, “How long has he been like this?”

“From childhood,” he answered. 22 “It has often thrown him into fire or water to kill him. But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.”

23 “‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”

24 Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, “I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!”

25 When Jesus saw that a crowd was running to the scene, he rebuked the impure spirit. “You deaf and mute spirit,” he said, “I command you, come out of him and never enter him again.”

26 The spirit shrieked, convulsed him violently and came out. The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, “He’s dead.” 27 But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up.


Luke 18:1
1 Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.

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