1 Corinthians 13 ~ love

1 Corinthians 13

¹ If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. ² If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. ³ If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship [or to flames] that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

⁴ Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. ⁵ It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. ⁶ Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

⁸ Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. ⁹ For we know in part and we prophesy in part, ¹⁰ but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. ¹¹ When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. ¹² For now we see only a 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.

¹³ And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.

This week our family is gathering to see a cousin of our's marry. Many years ago this 32 year old man was in a school carpool with our 3 year old son, when our cousin was a teenager. He is a terrific man - has worked for several years in a Christian camp as a counselor and helping to run the camp. Now he is in the green building industry. He is Christian, personable, handsome, muscular and has been without a significant love interest for most of his life. One day some one asked him to fill in one of the Christian dating sites. He did - a little listlessly - not even filling in a lot of the questions. His first date was love at first sight and she is like his female bookend, it almost every way. She didn't answer the questions completely either. She is beautiful as he is handsome.

In the middle of all the things in life that are bothersome, troublesome, disturbing - here are two people pledging themselves together for life. For love. God is Good. And there are so many people rushing to give these good people a party, Christmas is going to look very slow in comparison.

Father God, bless our cousin and his bride with many years of Your favor and grace as they walk through their years together. Thank You for Your many blessings for this family who have gathered together for generations and decades. In the name of Jesus, I ask. Amen.


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Matthew 17:24-27 ~ give it to them for me and for yourself

Matthew 17:24-27

English Standard Version, David Cochran Audio Bible

²⁴ When they came to Capernaum, the collectors of the two-drachma tax went up to Peter and said, "Does your teacher not pay the tax?" ²⁵ He said, "Yes." And when he came into the house, Jesus spoke to him first, saying, "What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tax? From their sons or from others?" ²⁶ And when he said, "From others," Jesus said to him, "Then the sons are free.

²⁷ However, not to give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook and take the first fish that comes up, and when you open its mouth you will find a shekel. Take that and give it to them for me and for yourself."

This passage amazed me when I discovered it the first time. I had to read it again. God meeting Jesus' financial need. And Jesus needed money. A really prime example of Jesus as a man. It wasn't until many years later I saw Jesus sharing what He received with Peter. Rarely done in the world of taxation. It has to be right up there with the blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the good news is preached to the poor.

Isaiah 29:18
In that day the deaf shall hear the words of a book, and out of their gloom and darkness the eyes of the blind shall see.

So, Peter was saved financial expense. It wasn't what kept Peter's heart.

Peter ran from Jesus during His time of greatest need. And Peter hid himself for days thereafter.

When Peter saw Jesus several times after His Resurrection, Peter was the first one (not to walk on water to Jesus, Peter was done trusting in his own righteousness) to swim to Jesus. Why? Jesus was willing to forgive Peter. Peter knew he would be forgiven.

Forgiveness expands our lives in all directions. And possibilities. God works all things towards good.

John 21:7
Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water.

John 21:12
Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord.





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Prayer Request

On Wednesday my husband and I took our Springer Spaniel, Merit, to Texas A&M Veterinarian Small Animal Clinic to see a Dermatologist. Merit was diagnosed with skin Lymphoma. The wonderful veterinarian was so touchingly kind, saying Dermatologist Vets rarely see death and it was sad to her to give her diagnosis to such a good dog and kind people.

We would like your prayers for healing for our 13 year old Spaniel. The diagnosis is terminal in just a few weeks to months. Merit is 13 and we are so fortunate to have had So Many Good Years with this stellar, good boy, Dog. The Vet agreed that at Merit's age - he could still have something like a cataclysmic event (like heart attack) and go to God's heaven for loved and loving animals of His creation.

Of course 13 is like 90 people years, so your prayers are for peaceful passing for this wonderful, wonderful dog. We've met with our Church Couples Group for 11 years now. Merit is known as the dog who would stand on his hind legs to put his front paws into the holding hands praying group. He is just that kind of dog.

I am hopeful. And today thinking of Elijah being picked up in a chariot to go to Heaven pulled by horses sent by God. Someday I hope to be with Merit and see Elijah's horses. And when I get to one of the 12 gates of Heaven, each with a Pearl Gate, I want to see a very particular dog with his beautiful gated run. Betcha I will.

Thanks for your prayers. Much appreciated.


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11/26 Merit continues to be the bouncy, happy dog he has always been. Still cartwheeling around when the leash is in sight. Loves to walk. For the last two days - he has not needed his medication. Really great quality of life unless a bread product is eaten. Edward & I feel like he is prayed for and doing well. Sometimes he is tired or less than mobile than before. I continue to pray for him each time he is medicated, fed or just needs some loving. So, Lord, Father God - thank You. Amen.

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1/12/12 We are continuing to thank Father God. Merit has been healed. We were told his wounds would turn in to tumors. They did. We were told he would and could take up to 6 steroid tablets a day. He did. We were asked how many of these tablets we would purchase and I suggested 100. Our wonderful and caring Vet looked doubtful. I asked how long. And she replied between 3 weeks and several months. The Vet said no healing would occur because this is cancer. The tumors are gone and Merit continues to be healthy and happy. It has been several months now since he required any steroid tablet. His tumors are gone. He does not have an open wound on him any where.

Thank You, Father God. Thank You, for the people who prayed for Merit. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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May 7th, 2012

A Continued Thank You, Father God! Thank You, for the people who prayed for Merit. In Jesus' name. Amen.

About a month ago Merit had an abscess in his front canine causing his muzzle to swell up very considerably. He went to a new, local Vet and that Vet was rather incredulous that Merit is 13.5 years old. He asked me if I was sure. Yes, Merit was born in September of 1998. He healed very well with one round of antibiotics and has his teeth scrubbed with a wash cloth with canine toothpaste. He is doing marvelously well and runs and jumps like a dog at least 10 years younger.  God has blessed me with a very wonderful dog. And I thank HIM!


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Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital
Texas A&M University
(979) 845-2351
www.cvm.tamu.edu

Dermatology Discharge Summary

Owner:
Anne Gardere


Patient: #201135, Merit
DOB: 00/00/98
Weight: 42.55 lb, 19.3 kg

Referring Veterinarian:
Angels Pet Hospital
24734 Kuykendahl Rd.
Tomball, TX 77375
Phone: 281-290-0360
Fax: 281-255-3829
Admission Date: August 2011

Discharge Date: October 19, 2011

Recheck Date- As needed

Clinician: Alison D DVM

Student: Cami W, 4VM


Thank you for entrusting us with Merit's veterinary care. Please read this letter carefully. Parts of this letter are written for your own understanding with other areas reserved for your primary care veterinarian.

Merit, a Castrated Male, Black/white, English Springer Spaniel Canine was admitted to the Texas A&M University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital on October 19, 2011 .

Reason for Visit / Problems - Steroid-responsive pruritus and scaling of 2 months duration

History - Merit is an indoor dog that receives monthly Heartgard and Frontline. He has not had skin issues his entire life until the age of 11 when he had two hot spots that healed spontaneously. In August of 2011 on a drive to Dallas, Merit excoriated and lacerated his axillary and chest area. He was taken to his primary care veterinarian who prescribed prednisone and 500mg of Cephalexin. Merit only got one dose of prednisone but finished his 2 week course of antibiotics. His pruritus completely stopped within 24 hours of taking the medication and for 1 week after they were finished. The lesions healed some but not completely. One week after finishing the antibiotics, the pruritus and self mutilation returned. Merit was put on another 2 week course Cephalexin with no steroids. This time the pruritus remained. Merit has been on Science Diet all his life but was recently switched to gluten free Taste of the Wild Salmon and Lamb. He is current on his vaccinations and his only surgeries to date were his neuter and sebaceous cyst removal. He lives with 1 healthy cat.

Physical Examination - T= 101.6F, P= 160bpm, RR= pant, CRT<2s, MM=pink/moist
On physical examination Merit was bright, alert, and responsive. His heart sounds were strong and regular with no murmurs ausculted. His lungs were clear bilaterally. He had moderate dental calculus on both arcades.

Dermatological Examination -
Merit's skin had generalized marked exfoliative scaling, especially apparent over the dorsum and shoulder area. He had a large crust with matted hair behind his left ear, and a small scab behind his right ear. He had multifocal large erythematous plaques with crusts and severe exfoliative dermatitis located over his chest, lateral limbs, axillary regions, and ventrum. His perineal area was inflamed and matted with a large crust located ventrally. The rest of the mucous membranes however did not appear to be affected. There were several areas of depigmentation on the paw pads (all four feet, multiple pads affected); uncertain whether normal for the dog or depigmentation change in skin.

Diagnostic Tests & Procedures -

Skin scrapings- Negative for demodex mites
Skin impression cytology- Skin cytology revealed abundant, round lymphocytes, mostly uniform in appearance with a moderately abundant cytoplasm. His rectal area showed numerous cocci and neutrophilic streaming.
Skin biopsy- Declined at this time
CBC-
Test Result Reference Unit
WBC 5.8 6.0 - 17.0 ul
Red Blood Cell Count 6.08 5.50 - 8.50 M/ul
Hemoglobin 14.6 10.0 - 20.0 g/dl
Packed Cell Volume 41.7 31.0 - 56.0 %
Mean Corpuscular Volume 68.5 60.0 - 77.0 fl.
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration 34.9 32.0 - 36.0 g/dl
Plasma Protein 8.0 6 - 8 TS-g/dl
Platelet Count (Automated) clumped 200000 - 500000 /ul
Segmented Neutrophils 69 60 - 77 %
Absolute Neutrophil 4002 3000 - 11500
Lymphocytes 16 12 - 30 %
Absolute Lymphocyte 928 1000 - 4800
Monocytes 11 3 - 10 %
Absolute Monocyte 638 150 - 1250
Eosinophil 4 2 - 10 %
Absolute Eosinophil 232 100 - 1250
Test Interpretation: Within normal limits

Panel Interpretation Result
RBC Morphology Poikilocytosis 1+
RBC Morphology Rouleaux slight
RBC Morphology Anisocytosis slight
Platelets Estimated Count appear adeq
Platelets Platelet Morphology clumped
Neutrophil Morphology Normal X
Neutrophil Morphology Reactive Lymphocytes few
Sample Notations - Integrity of Sample Hemolysis 2+
Sample Notations - Integrity of Sample Disclaimer: Sample <1/2 full, excess EDTA can result in decreased MCV and increased MCHC.

Chemistry-
Test Result Reference Unit
Glucose 84. 60 - 135 mg/dl
Lactic Acid 32.3 9.9 - 46.8 mg/dl
Cholesterol 450. 120 - 247 mg/dl
Blood Urea Nitrogen 27. 5 - 29 mg/dl
Creatinine 1.04 .3 - 2 mg/dl
Magnesium 1.9 1.7 - 2.1 mg/dl
Calcium 11.0 9.3 - 11.8 mg/dl
Phosphorus 5.9 2.9 - 6.2 mg/dl
Total Protein 7.6 5.7 - 7.8 g/dl
Albumin 3.2 2.4 - 3.6 g/dl
Globulin 4.4 1.7 - 3.8 g/dl
Alanine Aminotransferase 43. 10 - 130 U/L
Alkaline Phosphatase 378. 24 - 147 U/L
Gamma Glutamyltransferase 26. 0 - 25 U/L
Total Bilirubin .4 0 - .8 mg/dl
Sodium 147. 139 - 147 mmol/L
Potassium 4.8 3.3 - 4.6 mmol/L
Chloride 116. 107 - 116 mmol/L
Enzymatic Carbon Dioxide 19. 21 - 28 mmol/L
Anion Gap (Calculated) 17. 10 - 18 mmol/L

Test Interpretation: Within normal limits
Panel Interpretation Result
Special Notes and Comments Lipemia 2+

Diagnosis/Differential Diagnoses - Cutaneous lymphoma (highly suspicious based on finding of large lymphocytes on cytology)

Therapy -

Medication
Generic (trade) Class or
Indication Administration Directions
Trimeprazine Tartrate And Prednisolone, Tablet Antihistamine and steroid Give 1 tablet by mouth every 12 hours as needed. You can alter this dosage as you see fit to keep Merit comfortable, with a limit of 6 total/day.

Radiation and chemotherapy- Discussed treatment options for cutaneous lymphoma with owners; declined at this time

Call if you note - Merit becomes uncomfortable (too itchy, painful, stops eating, extremely lethargic) or has an acute worsening of signs that worries you.

Client Instructions -
Cutaneous (epitheliotrophic) lymphoma is an aggressive form of cancer that arises from cells known as lymphocytes. It can, but does not usually affect the internal organs. Cutaneous lymphoma is usually diagnosed by biopsy, however Merit's skin cytology was extremely convincing for a diagnosis of cutaneous lymphoma; the cells noted were neoplastic in appearance just from the impression alone.

Unfortunately, the prognosis for dogs with cutaneous lymphoma is poor, even with treatment. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy with CCNU are available therapies, and generally only extend the lifespan by a few months. It's hard to say exactly what Merit's life will be like in the next few months. Our hope however is that the Temaril-P will provide some degree of comfort for him. You can vary the amount you give him as his symptoms change to keep him comfortable, giving him up to 6 tablets daily if necessary. You know Merit better than anyone, and he will let you know when it is time to say goodbye.

We are terribly sorry to be the bearer of such bad news and wish we could have given Merit something easy like a skin infection. He is a very sweet dog and we know that he has been an important part of your lives for a very long time. Take comfort in knowing that you have given Merit a long and fulfilling life. He is an "old man" in dogs years and has been extremely healthy up until this point. We are available to talk to you if you have any questions in the upcoming months, so please don't hesitate to call.


__________________________________ __________________________________
Alison D, DVM Cami W, DVM
Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Dermatology Senior Veterinary Medicine Student
Prescription refills are normally to be filled by the veterinarian who is reassessing your pet’s medical condition. Please contact your primary local veterinarian for prescription refills if he or she is performing follow-up care/rechecks of your pet’s dermatological condition. Routinely allow 1-3 business days for prescription refills submitted through the TAMU-VMTH pharmacy (979-845-9118). The Dermatology Department is not open after business hours, on weekends, or on holidays. Emergency care is available 24/7 through the TAMU-VMTH Emergency Service (979-845-2351).

Please see note in the middle of the page dated 1/12/12


11/21/12
Merit, our Springer Spaniel, celebrated his 14th Birthday September 23, 2012. His intake of Prednisone increased from occasional to 5 or 6 tablets a day in November. On November 21st, we noticed Merit was having trouble standing and sitting down. We took him to the veterinarian who said his life was not comfortable and he was not having quality of life, my husband, the veterinarian and I decided the humane thing would be euthanasia. We stayed with Merit and as the sun was going to set, Merit went home to be with his Maker.

The day before Thanksgiving was Merit's last day in our home and that seems very appropriate for a dog who gave such love and service making sure I was never in a room alone. Thank You, Father God for an exemplary dog living such a great life of love.  Some the things I will always be grateful for in Merit, as a puppy he never cried for his litter, he never attempted to run away and if left too long in the back yard he would sit by the front door window. The day we bought our second home, he pirouetted through the larger rooms with me. The day the burglar just opened the front door one morning, before I had changed out of pajamas and Merit stood on both hind legs and growled like a bear making the man flee. And the day we discovered the fake snake in the pool, I jumped over the patio furniture carrying 41 pound Merit. I promised him when he was 3 months old he would gradually enjoy our long walks and I was fortunate he was still doing cartwheels over our walk just 3 days ago.

Thank You, Father God, for Merit. We give You thanks Father God for describing Heaven as the lion and the lamb, as well as the horses You sent from Heaven for Elijah. Creation waits longingly for the sons of men and we wait upon the LORD. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Psalm 84 ~ even the sparrow finds a home

Psalm 84

English Standard Version, David Cochran Audio Bible

¹ How lovely is your dwelling place, O LORD of hosts!
² My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the LORD;
my heart and flesh sing for joy to the living God.

³ Even the sparrow finds a home,
and the swallow a nest for herself,
where she may lay her young,
at your altars, O LORD of hosts,
my King and my God.
⁴ Blessed are those who dwell in your house,
ever singing your praise!
Selah

⁵ Blessed are those whose strength is in you,
in whose heart are the highways to Zion.
⁶ As they go through the Valley of Baca
they make it a place of springs;
the early rain also covers it with pools.
⁷ They go from strength to strength;
each one appears before God in Zion.

⁸ O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer;
give ear, O God of Jacob!
Selah

⁹ Behold our shield, O God;
look on the face of your anointed!

¹⁰ For a day in your courts is better
than a thousand elsewhere.
I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God
than dwell in the tents of wickedness.
¹¹ For the LORD God is a sun and shield;
the LORD bestows favor and honor.
No good thing does he withhold
from those who walk uprightly.
¹² O LORD of hosts,
blessed is the one who trusts in you!

We have a little Carolina Wren who lives, as the weather gets cooler, in our front door wreath. It isn't uncommon in our area; a Carolina Wren lives in my friend's flower pot near her backdoor. Our Pastor's wife routinely moves her front door grapevine wreath because they like to nest near people by their doors. I couldn't tell you why. So, right now, I have a prayer request - our 3rd or 4th generation Carolina Wren is in our house flying from room to room - pretty sure it has found the tent wickedness. And ignoring the open door and window. This has happened before and we've discovered they make an amazingly loud chirping in the morning. Except the one time our freshmen geriatric cat found the bird right away. She flew away, but feathers were lost and she looked a little stunned and hurt as if surprised her trip indoors had resulted in a incredible, and astonishing, attack. Prayers for the kitty to stay in the bedroom where he is now.

I love Psalm 84. It is the way we can look to Father God when the wild winds of life howl. God holds our cares like the little nest the Wren burrows into as winter approaches. The nest is just large enough with plenty of nesting materials. Sometimes it holds more than one of them. Mostly they sit quietly together as the door opens and closes. Snug little birds. Until they take a wild hair to dart into their own path. Then prayers are required for God's creature to find the path God intends for the His little creature.

Father God, be with this little bird as this little one hops from room to room looking for the exit. Make the way clear, calm and soothe this one until freedom is found. Thank You, Father God, You care for us and for Your creation. In the name of Jesus. Amen.

Matthew 10:29-30
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.


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Matthew 10:5-15 ~ acquire no gold nor silver nor copper for your belts

Matthew 10:5-15

⁵ These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, "Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans, ⁶ but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. ⁷ And proclaim as you go, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand.' ⁸ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay.

⁹ Acquire no gold nor silver nor copper for your belts, ¹⁰ no bag for your journey, nor two tunics nor sandals nor a staff, for the laborer deserves his food. ¹¹ And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it and stay there until you depart. ¹² As you enter the house, greet it. ¹³ And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it, but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. ¹⁴ And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town. ¹⁵ Truly, I say to you, it will be more bearable on the day of judgment for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that town.

Painting by James Tissot, Jesus Teaching from a Ship

This is Jesus sending His disciples out. Immediately. After making them His disciples. Chapter 12 is when they are reunited. Jesus went on to preach and teach in other cities, evidently, without the disciples in Chapter 11.

Matthew's 10th Chapter goes on to say, as Jesus sends them out to be who they are and to preach the Good News in the power of the Holy Spirit, He says:

Matthew 10:24
"A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master. ²⁵ It is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master.

Very similar, would be these words and the meaning of God:

John 15:15
No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.

Can you imagine Jesus sent these raw recruits on their way? To do ... God's work. Jesus trusts them to go to it.

~ 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons.

The very next statement is Jesus repeating twice. The healing is a gift of God. Do not seek pay. Human nature is to find advantage in every situation. Jesus says be a gift. The grace of God is a gift. He doesn't say in this passage to travel to foreign lands and be a missionary. He says God expects us, as untrained theologians, if we believe in Him to do Kingdom work and not to look for the advantage for ourselves.

Okay. The word of God is for us. Today.

Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.

Look around. This is the mission field.

Father God, here are my hands. Here I am. You will send opportunity, You will send Your Holy Spirit. It is not all up to me. You. Send me as You would like. You do not promise we will have miracles in all of our endeavors to bring forth Kingdom work. You promise You are with us through it all. You help us to shake off the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune and go forward, in hope of You. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

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Psalm 100 ~ His gates with thanksgiving

Psalm 100

¹ 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.

October has arrived. Summer weeding and watering is over. The harvest is arriving. Getting photos from the little town we used to live in - Emporium, Pennsylvania. Photos of a piebald doe, near where piebald deer arrive from time to time. The photo shot on top of the mountain where our house was at the slope of its beginning. So many nights looking up at the sky and that mountain. The last photo reminds me of my grandmother's Mississippi backyard for no reason in particular. Times behind us, blessings ahead.

October is the time to enjoy what is around you. Thanksgiving will be busy. Christmas more so. Time to appreciate the gifts around you. My joyful noise is "Thank You, Father God".



Nicole C. Mullen live in Cincinnati. Beautiful, such praise brings tears to my eyes. She knows. She knows.





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Matthew 11:7-15 ~ what did you go out to see?

Matthew 11:7-15

English Standard Version, David Cochran Audio Bible


7 As they [John's disciples who had not already followed Jesus and were asking for John, from prison, for confirmation Jesus is the Messiah] went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds concerning John: "What did you go out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken by the wind? 8 What then did you go out to see? A man dressed in soft clothing? Behold, those who wear soft clothing are in kings’ houses. 9 What then did you go out to see [Some manuscripts Why then did you go out? To see a prophet?] ? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. 10 This is he of whom it is written,

"'Behold, I send my messenger before your face, who will prepare your way before you.' [Malachi 3:1]

11 Truly, I say to you, among those born of women there has arisen no one greater than John the Baptist. Yet the one who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. 12 From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force. 13 For all the Prophets and the Law prophesied until John, 14 and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come. 15 He who has ears to hear, let him hear."


Jesus is speaking to human expectations. And because of this, Jesus is expressing several layers of expectation.

When we plan a journey, we have a reason for the journey. Jesus is speaking about life in being a spiritual journey. Sometimes we are growing, sometimes we are falling back. Why the falling back?

Why have the people turned out to see Jesus as they did John? Some came to John because the tide was moving in favor of running out to the wilderness to repent. In doing what the crowd was doing, real repentance and real spiritual growth took place. Some came to John because they went away from their daily lives seeking to be more intimately joined with Father God.

People, Jesus was known to say, came to Jesus to be fed. Fed physically. Fed in healing. Fed in site seeing. People came to experience Jesus because of the rewards.

John the Baptist has stood in the prophecies of the Old Testament as Elijah - telling and crying out to make the way straight for the coming Messiah. Jesus has skipped telling the crowd about the Transfiguration, written of by Peter and alluded to by John (beloved disciple, Gospel writer), about the physical arrival of Elijah, himself....

Jesus is saying that expectations can be limiting. Jesus is saying we shouldn't 100% feel repressed by being limited. He is so understanding of the physical and, therefore, the mental limitations Are Part of Life.

We all hope to go forward, to get ahead. That isn't bad in and of itself. God plans for us to go forward. A tree grows slowly and then sometimes quickly, but then spends time filling out.

John the Baptist is being proclaimed he is the 'greatest'. People are interested in greatest - people are interested in Jesus Christ proclaiming greatest. Jesus is using the moment of weakness of John being afraid in jail to say - John's doubts limit him. He is limited on earth. In Heaven, there is no doubt. Having doubt limits us. Jesus isn't putting John down, Jesus is talking about the difference of Heaven and of earth. Jesus is telling us, He has compassion on John and the place he is in. Spiritually.

John the Baptist, with his fear of prison and death, is being held by His Savior as an example of God's compassion. Jesus also realized John is still sending men to Him. The disciples of John will have heard Jesus. John is still doing the work of the Lord as well. John is also asking Jesus to proclaim publicly that He is the Messiah. John probably hoped for Jesus to rise up immediately. Not to be saved, physically, John knows (it is written) Jesus' ministry surpasses his own. John was prepared for what was coming, but as a confirmation of John's efforts for God. God works in God's ways. His unseen ways are better than our best day.

Jesus saw people were grasping, annoying, demanding and needy. Yet He did not shake them away. Jesus was wise and gracious in His explanations. Kindly spoken. Sweet. Gentle. The truth of Jesus is spoken with mercy. In Jesus' love and mercy - the blind receive their sight and the lame walk, lepers are cleansed and the deaf hear, and the dead are raised up, and the poor have good news preached to them. And blessed is the one who is not offended by Jesus.

Jesus is saying the fruit of His ministry is righteousness, love and comfort. To grow in Him. To lean to Jesus for understanding like a tree to the light.

Jesus is telling us, in the best aspects of life, the aspects of love and higher road - there will be trouble. Jesus tells us to have good expectations. To Love Him, trust Him and put our faith in Him.


Jesus is for You. God is Love.



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Luke 10:17-24 ~ to see what you see, and hear what you hear

Mary and her Son, exchange a laugh and conversation. 'Passion of the Christ'


Luke 10:17-24

English Standard Version, David Cochran Audio Bible

17 The seventy-two returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!" 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."

21 In that same hour he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. 22 All things have been handed over to me by my Father, and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, or who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him."

23 Then turning to the disciples he said privately, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see! 24 For I tell you that many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it."


Joy. To see what they saw and to hear what they heard. The seventy-two returned with joy. What would draw us to Father God? The joy He brings in His steadfast love. The joy of His holiness making us all complete. Just as a small child runs to the parent, so does God reach for us. Jesus Christ dwelling with mankind as grace and truth offering His Holy Spirit to dwell with us, today.


Luke 15:20
So he got up and went to his father. "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him."






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Psalm 39 ~ For I am a sojourner with you, a guest, like all my fathers. Look away from me, that I may smile again, before I depart and am no more

Exodus 19:18
Mount Sinai was covered with smoke, because the LORD descended on it in fire. The smoke billowed up from it like smoke from a furnace, the whole mountain trembled violently


Psalm 39

English Standard Version, David Cochran Audio Bible


To the choirmaster: to Jeduthun. A Psalm of David.

1 I said, "I will guard my ways,
that I may not sin with my tongue;
I will guard my mouth with a muzzle,
so long as the wicked are in my presence."
2 I was mute and silent;
I held my peace to no avail,
and my distress grew worse.
3 My heart became hot within me.
As I mused, the fire burned;
then I spoke with my tongue:

4 "O LORD, make me know my end
and what is the measure of my days;
let me know how fleeting I am!
5 Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths,
and my lifetime is as nothing before you.
Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath!
Selah

6 Surely a man goes about as a shadow!
Surely for nothing they are in turmoil;
man heaps up wealth and does not know who will gather!

7 "And now, O Lord, for what do I wait?
My hope is in you.
8 Deliver me from all my transgressions.
Do not make me the scorn of the fool!
9 I am mute; I do not open my mouth,
for it is you who have done it.
10 Remove your stroke from me;
I am spent by the hostility of your hand.
11 When you discipline a man
with rebukes for sin,
you consume like a moth what is dear to him;
surely all mankind is a mere breath!
Selah

12 "Hear my prayer, O LORD,
and give ear to my cry;
hold not your peace at my tears!
For I am a sojourner with you,
a guest, like all my fathers.
13 Look away from me, that I may smile again,
before I depart and am no more!"


What would it have been like to walk down the roads with Jesus? The blind see, the deaf hear, the lame leap, the leper cleansed - the 70 and the 12 disciples saw. Isaiah and Peter had the same reaction David did in this Psalm.

Isaiah 6:5
And I said: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!”

Luke 5:8
But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.”

Yet David, Isaiah, and Simon Peter all continued with God. God did not bend down for them.

Isaiah 55:8
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.

Jesus once asked Peter if he was going to leave.

John 6:68
Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life."

All these people God called, remained with Him.

Psalm 103:12
as far as the east is from the west, so far does he remove our transgressions from us

Psalm 131:3
O Israel, hope in the LORD
from this time forth and forevermore



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Ezekiel 38 ~ then they will know that I am the LORD

Hesiod, ''the father of Greek didactic poetry,'' identified Magog with the Scythians and southern Russia in the 7th century B.C.


Ezekiel 38




¹ The word of the LORD came to me: ² "Son of man, set your face toward Gog, of the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal, and prophesy against him ³ and say, Thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I am against you, O Gog, chief prince of Meshech and Tubal. ⁴ And I will turn you about and put hooks into your jaws, and I will bring you out, and all your army, horses and horsemen, all of them clothed in full armor, a great host, all of them with buckler and shield, wielding swords. ⁵ Persia, Cush, and Put are with them, all of them with shield and helmet; ⁶ Gomer and all his hordes; Beth-togarmah from the uttermost parts of the north with all his hordes— many peoples are with you.
 

⁷ "Be ready and keep ready, you and all your hosts that are assembled about you, and be a guard for them. ⁸ After many days you will be mustered. In the latter years you will go against the land that is restored from war, the land whose people were gathered from many peoples upon the mountains of Israel, which had been a continual waste. Its people were brought out from the peoples and now dwell securely, all of them. ⁹ You will advance, coming on like a storm. You will be like a cloud covering the land, you and all your hordes, and many peoples with you.

¹⁰ "Thus says the Lord GOD: On that day, thoughts will come into your mind, and you will devise an evil scheme ¹¹ and say, 'I will go up against the land of unwalled villages. I will fall upon the quiet people who dwell securely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having no bars or gates,' ¹² to seize spoil and carry off plunder, to turn your hand against the waste places that are now inhabited, and the people who were gathered from the nations, who have acquired livestock and goods, who dwell at the center of the earth. ¹³ Sheba and Dedan and the merchants of Tarshish and all its leaders will say to you, 'Have you come to seize spoil? Have you assembled your hosts to carry off plunder, to carry away silver and gold, to take away livestock and goods, to seize great spoil?'

¹⁴ "Therefore, son of man, prophesy, and say to Gog, Thus says the Lord GOD: On that day when my people Israel are dwelling securely, will you not know it? ¹⁵ You will come from your place out of the uttermost parts of the north, you and many peoples with you, all of them riding on horses, a great host, a mighty army. ¹⁶ You will come up against my people Israel, like a cloud covering the land. In the latter days I will bring you against my land, that the nations may know me, when through you, O Gog, I vindicate my holiness before their eyes.

¹⁷ "Thus says the Lord GOD: Are you he of whom I spoke in former days by my servants the prophets of Israel, who in those days prophesied for years that I would bring you against them? ¹⁸ But on that day, the day that Gog shall come against the land of Israel, declares the Lord GOD, my wrath will be roused in my anger. ¹⁹ For in my jealousy and in my blazing wrath I declare, On that day there shall be a great earthquake in the land of Israel. ²⁰ The fish of the sea and the birds of the heavens and the beasts of the field and all creeping things that creep on the ground, and all the people who are on the face of the earth, shall quake at my presence. And the mountains shall be thrown down, and the cliffs shall fall, and every wall shall tumble to the ground. ²¹ I will summon a sword against Gog on all my mountains, declares the Lord GOD. Every man’s sword will be against his brother. ²² With pestilence and bloodshed I will enter into judgment with him, and I will rain upon him and his hordes and the many peoples who are with him torrential rains and hailstones, fire and sulfur. ²³ So I will show my greatness and my holiness and make myself known in the eyes of many nations.

Then they will know that I am the LORD.

Theologians wonder if this attack Ezekiel was speaking of was after the return from the second Exodus. It is not recorded.

 Matthew Henry and other theologians believe this war will occur in the last days of Revelation.

(In the 'Anne of Green Gables' series, I loved as a tween, the grown Anne has Chinese book ends on her mantle she names Gog and Magog. I never understood the reference, but it is like Abraham, the enemies - troubles of life will be defeated in the blessing of God's favor.)

TROUBLE is part of life. We can all be interested in the cause and outcome of Trouble.

What is the cause of trouble?

James 4:1
What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you? You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask. 

Proverbs 27:4 
Wrath is cruel, anger is overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?

 A nation, with vast resources behind them, with elaborate plans. The outcome?  

Proverbs 16:9 
The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps James 1:20 for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God

 Psalm 37:8 
Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper--it only leads to harm.

We can also see plotting in anger and letting anger get a way from us as a destructive force, with the victim being the instigator.  

Luke 12:58  
As you go with your accuser before the magistrate, make an effort to settle with him on the way, lest he drag you to the judge, and the judge hand you over to the officer, and the officer put you in prison.  


Psalm 141:3
Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips.

 Psalm 37:8-9 
Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil. For the evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait for the Lord shall inherit the land.

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Psalm 3 ~ you, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head

Psalm 3

English Standard Version, David Cochran Audio Bible


O LORD, how many are my foes!
Many are rising against me;
² many are saying of my soul,
there is no salvation for him in God.
Selah

³ But you, O LORD, are a shield about me,
my glory, and the lifter of my head.
⁴ I cried aloud to the LORD,
and he answered me from his holy hill.
Selah

⁵ I lay down and slept;
I woke again, for the LORD sustained me.
⁶ I will not be afraid of many thousands of people
who have set themselves against me all around.

⁷ Arise, O LORD!
Save me, O my God!
For you strike all my enemies on the cheek;
you break the teeth of the wicked.

⁸ Salvation belongs to the LORD;
your blessing be on your people!
Selah

Psalm 3 has an unusual meaning for me. The day I gave birth to our daughter, we knew she had a life ending medical condition called Trisomy 13. And as week 33 began, labor began. We arrived at the hospital and I could feel Isabelle kicking. But as we waited in the labor room, an ultra-sound revealed, an hour later, no heartbeat for tiny 3 pound Isabelle.

Psalm 3 reminds me of the friends from Church who waited with us in the labor room, as I was heavily medicated, for her birth. I slept soundly and was so very sad, but not worried. I had my loving, caring husband and friends to watch with me to see Isabelle. And as she was born, we knew from the smile on tiny, beautiful Isabelle's face - the utter peace. Isabelle had the Lord to be the lifter of her head. Salvation came that day. Not as her parents hoped, but an eternal salvation of joy and peace for Isabelle. Selah.


Hebrews 2:14-15
Because God's children are human beings--made of flesh and blood--the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. And deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.


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Luke 11:29-32 ~ Rise up

Abstract of the painting Pierro Della Francesca did of the Meeting of Solomon and the Queen of Sheba in 1466.


Luke 11:29-32

English Standard Version, David Cochran Audio Bible

²⁹ When the crowds were increasing, he began to say, "This generation is an evil generation. It seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah. ³⁰ For as Jonah became a sign to the people of Nineveh, so will the Son of Man be to this generation.

³¹ The queen of the South will rise up at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here. ³² The men of Nineveh will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here.


Jonah and the Queen of Sheba. What did God call them to do in their lives? Jonah, prophet and man of God, was determined to use his free will and to escape the will of God to preach repentance to his enemy Assyria. The Queen of the Sheba was determined to meet Solomon and learn of his wisdom in ruling. Jonah was running from and the Queen of Sheba was working at her job - ruling. The Scriptures say her agenda book said learn everything you can from King Solomon.

Jonah was swept up by the Holy Spirit and put on the correct path. The Queen of Sheba was swept past the glories of the kingdom and the king - to understanding the real power of God.

People fear the Lord will send them around the world to be a missionary in horrible circumstance. Jonah. It is the Fear. And the best case scenario is the Queen of Sheba. We know Jonah's name, but not the Queen. God says the difference wasn't their occupation - it was internal.

The world has many legends of the Queen of Sheba. The Scripture says it was religious revival. The history of Ethiopia has a hidden Ark of the Covenant, today, and the Hebrew language was the official language of Ethiopia during the same time gold was being mined in Ethiopia in copious amounts.

For both of these people - the power of the LORD caused them to rise up. Beyond their moment to moment desires and to see, with awe and renewal, what the Power of God is. Jonah was still a man of God, continuing to work for the LORD, but more willing to allow His choices. The Queen of Sheba was still a queen, but more willing to be open to God's decisions for her.

God did not change them from their path, or their walk, He asked them to be open to being a child of God. To rise up to seeing, help work towards, the Higher Good. Using their God-given talents, repenting of wrong/selfish desires, and walk in the paths He gave them. Their lives changed in more depth - reaching to eternity - than in the course of what they were doing. An enormous change, soul deep. Such deep, soul deep changes within them, Jesus would speak of Jonah and the Queen of Sheba a millennium later.


Mark 12:24
Jesus replied, "Are you not in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God?

1 Corinthians 1:18
For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.


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Psalm 101 ~ sing of steadfast love and justice

Our lives should walk with Jesus.


Psalm 101


English Standard Version, David Cochran Audio Bible


¹ I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
to you, O LORD, I will make music.
² I will ponder the way that is blameless.
Oh when will you come to me?
I will walk with integrity of heart
within my house;
³ I will not set before my eyes
anything that is worthless.
I hate the work of those who fall away;
it shall not cling to me.
⁴ A perverse heart shall be far from me;
I will know nothing of evil.

⁵ Whoever slanders his neighbor secretly
I will destroy.
Whoever has a haughty look and an arrogant heart
I will not endure.

⁶I will look with favor on the faithful in the land,
that they may dwell with me;
he who walks in the way that is blameless
shall minister to me.

⁷ No one who practices deceit
shall dwell in my house;
no one who utters lies
shall continue before my eyes.

⁸ Morning by morning I will destroy
all the wicked in the land,
cutting off all the evildoers
from the city of the LORD.

Just as the life of Abraham was remembered to be faithful, we remember Abraham thought fulfilling God's plan was up to his own efforts. Isaac knew God would name all of Abraham's offspring through him, but he planned to bless only one son. Jacob would be renamed Israel, but Jacob was a worrier and a plotter. Joseph was a bragger as well as blessed one. Moses was a murderer and a stutterer, not just the man, the adopted child, who received God's name. Rahab was immoral. And faithful as David's great-grandmother. Gideon was poor, brave, courageous and foolish in old age. Samson was a deceiver and a destroyer as well as a Judge of Israel. Peter was impulsive and loving. Martha a worrier. The woman at the well was ashamed and eager to find the Lord.

Hebrews 11:1-3
1 Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. 2 For by it the people of old received their commendation. 3 By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.


Ephesians 2:8
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,


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Jeremiah 35 ~ living in Jerusalem

Jeremiah 35

English Standard Version, David Cochran Audio Bible


1 The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD in the days of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah, king of Judah: 2 "Go to the house of the Rechabites and speak with them and bring them to the house of the LORD, into one of the chambers; then offer them wine to drink." 3 So I took Jaazaniah the son of Jeremiah, son of Habazziniah and his brothers and all his sons and the whole house of the Rechabites. 4 I brought them to the house of the LORD into the chamber of the sons of Hanan the son of Igdaliah, the man of God, which was near the chamber of the officials, above the chamber of Maaseiah the son of Shallum, keeper of the threshold. 5 Then I set before the Rechabites pitchers full of wine, and cups, and I said to them, "Drink wine." 6 But they answered, "We will drink no wine, for Jonadab the son of Rechab, our father, commanded us, 'You shall not drink wine, neither you nor your sons forever. 7 You shall not build a house; you shall not sow seed; you shall not plant or have a vineyard; but you shall live in tents all your days, that you may live many days in the land where you sojourn.' 8 We have obeyed the voice of Jonadab the son of Rechab, our father, in all that he commanded us, to drink no wine all our days, ourselves, our wives, our sons, or our daughters, 9 and not to build houses to dwell in. We have no vineyard or field or seed, 10 but we have lived in tents and have obeyed and done all that Jonadab our father commanded us. 11 But when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up against the land, we said, 'Come, and let us go to Jerusalem for fear of the army of the Chaldeans and the army of the Syrians.' So we are living in Jerusalem."

12 Then the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah: 13 "Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Go and say to the people of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem, Will you not receive instruction and listen to my words? declares the LORD. 14 The command that Jonadab the son of Rechab gave to his sons, to drink no wine, has been kept, and they drink none to this day, for they have obeyed their father’s command. I have spoken to you persistently, but you have not listened to me. 15 I have sent to you all my servants the prophets, sending them persistently, saying, 'Turn now every one of you from his evil way, and amend your deeds, and do not go after other gods to serve them, and then you shall dwell in the land that I gave to you and your fathers.' But you did not incline your ear or listen to me. 16 The sons of Jonadab the son of Rechab have kept the command that their father gave them, but this people has not obeyed me. 17 Therefore, thus says the LORD, the God of hosts, the God of Israel: Behold, I am bringing upon Judah and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem all the disaster that I have pronounced against them, because I have spoken to them and they have not listened, I have called to them and they have not answered."

18 But to the house of the Rechabites Jeremiah said, "Thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Because you have obeyed the command of Jonadab your father and kept all his precepts and done all that he commanded you, 19 therefore thus says the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel: Jonadab the son of Rechab shall never lack a man to stand before me."


One of the things the nation of Israel says today - that all the religions of Jews, Muslims and Christians - all are welcome in Israel to worship God, see and make pilgrimages to the historical sites of the Scriptures. Jerusalem is open to all faiths. And they are correct. Traveling the Nile is being changed, in Egypt, to becoming a pilgrimage of Muslims only. Not all Muslim countries allow pilgrimages of other faiths.

How would the house of Rechabites know whether to listen to Jeremiah in the house of God telling them to drink wine or to remember their oath. It would be confusing living during those moments. Coming war had driven them from a nomadic state to the city. The oath to the father, to be pure, is more important than the invitation to live for the moment or to sympathize with a prophet of God in the Lord's house.

Adversity is as defining as blessing. Solomon wrote the day of adversity is as from the Lord as well.

The way wasn't clearly cut, but the Rechabites listened not to the moment or the political environment or an unpopular prophet or to merely dismissed his offer for political gain. They didn't curry favor with a man of God and they did not work against him by declining his offer to appeal more to the king - who disfavored Jeremiah. God weighted the hearts and minds of the Rechabites and found their motives to be to His liking.

I like this passage. It is not always easy to determine what is the best path in given circumstance swiftly moving. But prayer for guidance and relying upon the Lord directs one to the next step.

Matthew 25:23
"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master's happiness!'

2 Timothy 4:7
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.


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