Viewing the Future...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 21:33-22:15 / NT - John 8:42-59

"Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad." - John 8:56

Some years ago I received a pair of binoculars as a birthday gift. As a result I no longer needed to pay a fee to use the ones at the park and seaside. It is always a joy to have a closer look at God's creation and these simple optical aids make that possible. 

When we consider the great patriarchs of the Older Testament, we often wonder what they understood about God's future plan. Were they only aware of a few details that needed to be connected over time? Or were they given spiritual optical aids to see the future more clearly? This passage tells us that they knew a great deal about the future and it brought them reason to rejoice.

Through faithful study of the Scriptures you too can have a view of the future my friend. God has provided spiritual optical aid through a vast number of prophetic writings. Why is it important that we read them you might ask? Consider the joy that Abraham had when he saw the future coming of Messiah. This joy can also be yours when you envision His second coming and Kingdom reign.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 22:16-23:9  / NT - John 9:1-17

Light Up your life!

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 21:7-32 / NT - John 8:12-41

"Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” ~ John 8:12

I own more flashlights than most. I'm not afraid of the dark, but I want to see where I'm walking and be able to read my books during a power failure. I prefer battery-operated flashlights. Some people have been sold on the "shake it to light it" type. The interesting fact is, whether the light is run by battery, shaking or even cranking ... the light finally goes out. You will eventually walk in darkness.

So it is with every man-made source of light for the soul. We live in darkness and we will die in darkness because our self-powered lights will always go out. The only hope for lasting light is to find the true "Eveready" or "Diehard" source of light, and it's not the Energizer Bunny!

The truth is, that Jesus is the light that never fails. He doesn't need shaking, cranking or new and better batteries. He alone will light the way of every soul that follows Him. You don't need to walk in darkness today. Come to Jesus and He will ... "light up your life" ...  forever!

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 21:33-22:15  / NT - John 8:42-59

Greater Wisdom...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 20:22-21:6 / NT - John 7:53-8:11

"And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, 'Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.' And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before." - John 8:7-9 

Old puritan Ralf Venning once wrote, "Seek that your last days be your best days, and so you may die in a good old age, which may be best done when you die good in old age." It might also be said that age is only beneficial when, like a great redwood tree, it grows deeper and stronger in quality.

While the above occasion was meant to challenge the credibility of our Lord's teaching, it opened a door of unexpected revelation. When presented with a heart searching question that cut to motive, the accusers slowly backed away, but who responded first? "...they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones" In this case, greater age brought greater wisdom.

When you celebrate your next birthday my friend, why not take a moment and ask yourself, "Have I improved with age?" This ought to be a question that cuts to the very soul of your spirituality. As the years slip by, you can either be filled with simple memories or spiritual maturity... it's your choice.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 21:7-32  / NT - John 8:12-41

Thirsty?

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 20:1-21 / NT - John 7:25-52

"On the last and greatest day of the Feast, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.” By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified." - John 7:37-39

Have you ever watched a stray dog drink stagnant water from a gutter, to quench his thirst? Did you ever think, "How sad; is there no fresh water for this thirsty animal?" Then there are some family dogs, who won't drink any water unless it is fresh water. Where do you go to quench your thirst?

Every soul thirsts. On the day that Jesus spoke, the Jewish community celebrated the promise of Isaiah 55:1 "Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters..." as they brought their great feast to a joyful conclusion. Jesus invited the people to move from ceremony to reality ... "If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink." Where do you go to quench your thirst?

As believers in Jesus Christ, we have been given the very presence of the Spirit of God. He is always fresh and ever flowing within the depths of our souls. In trusting Christ to be your Savior, your thirst can finally be quenched. In daily walking with Christ, "streams of living water will flow from within". Where will you go today to quench your thirst?

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 20:22-21:6  / NT - John 7:53-8:11

Right Directions...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 19 / NT - John 7:1-24

"If anyone's will is to do God's will, he will know whether the teaching is from God or whether I am speaking on my own authority." -- John 7:17

Has someone ever given you wrong directions? Or has your GPS ever miscalculated and landed you into a local creek? Well, no matter how sincere we may be, wrong directions will get us in trouble every time. While this maxim may be true with worldly resources, when we genuinely desire the Lord's direction, we will always find the right way.

Jesus spoke to those that questioned his teaching. He revealed this truth; that when you're willing to do God's will you will know His leading. His path will open before you like a wide open country road. Those who might worry about missing the way as they seek the Lord's leading should take this to heart and move forward with utmost confidence.

Are you seeking the will of God in your daily walk? Is His leading first and foremost in your mind? But, do you fear that you might lose your way my friend? Have no fear; God will never lead astray those who have a willing heart to do His will. "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you." - Psalm 32:8

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 20:1-21 / NT - John 7:25-52

Are you lost?

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 18 / NT - John 6:60-71

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

It has been said that real men never ask directions. As a real man I can attest to the truth of that statement. There seems to be a deep sense of determination within every man's heart that drives him forward, lost or not. To seek directions from a credible source would bring his very manhood into question. Therefore, the world is full of real men who are lost.

After a vast number of followers have turned back from walking with Jesus, the Lord asks the twelve, "Do you want to go away as well?" To this question, Peter responds as no other real man would, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life." Peter was tired of being a real man who was lost. He believed that it was time to be a smart man and seek directions as he moved toward eternity.

Are you lost my friend? I mean really lost? Are you determined to find your own way without assistance from anyone else? Man or woman, are you so self assured that you don't need help on the journey toward eternity? Rather than being lost, be smart and turn to the only one who has the words of eternal life!

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 19 / NT - John 7:1-24

WHY?

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 17 / NT - John 6:25-59

"Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, you are looking for me, not because you saw miraculous signs but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.”"  - John 6:26-27 

Why? Why do we do what we do at any time in life? Why do we pursue an education? Why do we marry that certain someone? Why do we choose one job over another? Why do we drive one car rather than another? Why, Why, Why. The most important of all the whys should be ... Why do you seek Jesus?

Little has changed over the years since Jesus fed the five thousand. People still seek Jesus for strictly temporal reasons. Feed me, bless me, enrich me ... give me stuff, stuff and more stuff. Is this all there is my friend? The answer is not found blowing in the wind ... the answer is found in the words of Jesus ... seek the "food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you."

Why will you seek Jesus today? Will you seek him for eternal life? Will you seek Him for eternal values in the hours ahead? Will you seek Him for ... HIM? Missionary Jim Elliot said it best when he wrote, "He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose."

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 18 / NT - John 6:60-71

Questions...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 16 / NT - John 6:1-24

"He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do." -- John 6:6

Have you ever asked someone a question just to hear what they would say? You already knew the answer, but you were interested in knowing the thoughts of the other person. At times such answers will reveal more than just thoughts; they might open the door to their entire belief system... or unbelief.

Jesus wanted to test the faith and vision of Philip with his question. The Lord will also press our hearts with questions that rise from our time in the Word and prayer. He has already decided what He will do and how He will do it, but He probes our hearts. This is a time for deeper faith and spiritual growth.

Don't just passively read and pray my friend. Pay close attention to the questions that rise and allow time to open your heart to the Lord. Make room for God to do greater things than you have seen before and never place limits through unbelief. Remember... they gathered twelve baskets of fragments from the five barley loaves.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 17 / NT - John 6:25-59

Life for the Day...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 15:22-27 / NT - John 5:31-47

"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life. " - John 5:39-40

How many Bibles do you own? How many "study" Bibles, "family" Bibles and various translations do you have around the house? How often do you read and reread your many Bibles ... daily, weekly or ... ? What do you find when you thoughtfully and prayerfully search those well worn pages? The more important query should be, who do you find within those precious pages of timeless truth?

As you enter this day, the joys, sorrows, hopes, fears, pleasures or pains of life are dancing in your head and heart. You turn to the Scriptures for a moment of counsel, comfort or courage. You find a verse or a phrase that hits the spot. You launch into the day prepared for the best and the worst.

Something is missing. Or should we say, someone is missing. As a popular devotional has been entitled, "Encounter with God", we really need an encounter with Jesus, not just a factual and inspiring word. It is Jesus that waits for you on every page to bring you fresh life for every day. "These are the Scriptures that testify about me ..." Slow down, and seek the face, voice and touch of Jesus in your Bible reading and find life for the day.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 16 / NT - John 6:1-24

No Middle Ground...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 15:1-21 / NT - John 5:16-30

“Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned." -- John 5:28-29

We go through school and receive grades according to our academic performance. The more we study, the better our grade. Then comes that frightful day when we take the road test for our driver's license. We don't get a better grade if we study more. We don't get an "A", "B" or "C" license; we either pass or fail by our actions. It's one way or the other, there's no middle ground.

Eternity is one of those tests that one either passes or fails. It's all a matter of choice in this life. If we choose life in Jesus and are changed into righteous people, we will pass into eternal life. On the other hand, should we choose to embrace evil throughout life, we will fail into eternal condemnation. It's one way or the other, there's no middle ground.

There are many people who expect their eternal destiny to be determined on a graded scale. You may figure that enough good works will bring a good grade and a well deserved place in heaven.  But the simple truth is, we pass or fail by our action of choice. Jesus is the only way, there's no middle ground. How will you choose?

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 15:22-27 / NT - John 5:31-47

Lasting Change...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 14 / NT - John 4:46-5:15

One man was there who had been an invalid for thirty-eight years... Jesus said to him, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.” And at once the man was healed, and he took up his bed and walked." -- John 5:5, 8-9

There are many charlatans who offer great change for your life. They put on a great show and often include amazing examples. But when the dust settles very little has changed and we seek someone else who might have that special answer for our need.

As we consider the above passage we notice that when the Lord enters the picture there is great change. No one could just rise up and walk after thirty-eight years of inactivity... except someone who is touched by the Son of God. When Jesus brings change, it overcomes all obstacles and lasts forever.

Why seek change from those who are limited at best and are powerless to bring lasting change to meet your need. Turn to Jesus my friend and discover what it means to experience change "at once" that lasts forever.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 15:1-21 / NT - John 5:16-30

The Ever Present Harvest...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 13 / NT - John 4:27-45

“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest." -- John 4:34-35 

Having lived in old houses all our married life has given our family an appreciation for the ongoing work that is needed. The list of jobs is never-ending and it keeps you going from one spare moment to the next. At times you might think the work is finished, but then you open your eyes and there is much more to be done. Some responsibilities take a lifetime and more.

Jesus was focused on a pressing task and all other pursuits came afterward. He was totally committed to finish the task assigned by the Father. At the same time he points out the ever present harvest of souls standing before us, if we will only open our eyes. The responsibility of reaching the lost and helpless multitude with the gospel is never truly finished. The task will take a lifetime, only to be passed on to the next generation.

Open your eyes my friend, and what do you see? Is it your neighbor, friend, fellow worker, classmate or family member? Do you see the crowds on your way to work or while you're shopping? How many of them are lost and helpless, in need of the Savior? The harvest will take a lifetime, and must be passed on to the next generation. Stay the course and never give up!

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 14 / NT - John 4:46-5:15

Lonely Souls...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 12:33-51 / NT - John 4:1-26

"Jacob’s well was there; so Jesus, wearied as he was from his journey, was sitting beside the well. It was about the sixth hour. A woman from Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her..." - John 4:6-7

Among the many popular family restaurants that popped up over the years, there was "T.G.F. Fridays". The acronym highlighted the relief found at the end of a busy week when one is thankful it's finally Friday. Weariness comes at the end of a long trip, stressful week or a demanding season of life. Are you tired from your journey today? Are you weary of the demands of others and the pressures of life? Do you seek a place to just sit and rest, away from the din of the crowd?

Take a moment and consider the Lord as He sits by the well; hot, dry, hungry and quite worn out from travel. The disciples have gone into town for food, so the moment is now quiet and restful. Suddenly, but most providentially, a lonely soul slips into sight and "Jesus said to her ...". So begins a wonderful exchange that leads to a woman's quenched thirst and a great harvest of souls.

In your weariness, will you make time today to greet the lonely souls that God brings into your path. Will you, as our Lord, engage in just one more encounter for the sake of their unquenched thirst? Then, as suddenly as such moments come, so will your own soul be refreshed."  Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work." (John 4:34)

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 13  / NT - John 4:27-45

Light Changes Everything...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 12:29-32 / NT - John 3:16-36

"This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil." -- John 3:19

Studies tell us that one of the simplest steps of crime prevention is the flood light. As a result of that knowledge we have a number of floodlights installed around our home. I also have more flashlights than can be counted for the same reason. Light changes everything.

Criminals will always run from the light to hide their actions. Darkness hides evil from correction just as it hides vermin and insects from extermination. There are those who live in the dark purposely, so they can continue in their immoral or illegal ways. Other people choose the light of Jesus because they want to change their evil ways. Light changes everything.

Have you chosen to live in the dark, hiding your lifestyle from the light of the Lord? The verdict tells us why some make this choice, but it also tells us that Light has come to provide a way out. Will you make that choice? Remember, Light changes everything.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 12:33-51  / NT - John 4:1-26

You can't hide ...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 12:1-28 / NT - John 2:23-3:15

"But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people and needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man." - John 2:24-25

We are often misled by others to believe things about them that are just not true. No matter how much time we spend with them and how much we learn about them, we never really know them, do we? No one can know what is in another person... Really? No one?

From the very beginning of the Lord's ministry he gave evidence of his complete knowledge of the hearts and souls of people. He began with Nathaniel in chapter one and continued in this account. The Lord knows our every thought and every secret motive, even before we think them.(here and in Psalm 139:4) You can run... but you can't hide.

Never believe for a moment my friend, that your ways are hidden from the Lord. (John 1:48/Psalm 139:3) He knows your secret thoughts from afar and one day you will be stand accountable before him.(Romans 2:16) Remember, as you live every moment, that you live in the very presence of the Lord.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 12:29-32  / NT - John 3:16-36

More Amazing...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 10:21-11:10 / NT - John 2:1-22

"... Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.” -- John 2:9-10

You shop for a new car. The salesman treats you like a long lost brother and after your purchase you're lost again. The car you buy is absolutely amazing for a while, then time passes and it's not so amazing anymore. That's how life is: things seem to get less amazing every day. Is there anything that gets more amazing over time?

Our Lord's first miracle tells us so much about his future ministry in our lives. When we first come to the Lord it is so amazing. The sense of peace and joy is overwhelming and we wonder if the feelings will last. But as time passes the peace and joy only grows stronger and deeper. Far from the way of our world, when the Lord does his work, it only gets more amazing over time.

It was best said in Isaiah 55:2, "Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare." Choose wisely my friend and look to the Lord for his provision. When he blesses, it only gets more amazing over time. 

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 12:1-28  / NT - John 2:23-3:15

Share Your Joy...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 10:1-20 / NT - John 1:29-51

"Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus." -- John 1:40-42

I wanted to tell the world the day I got engaged. I also wanted to tell the world the two days that my sons were born. We all have exciting life changing moments that motivate us to tell the good news to as many people as possible. Why do we make such an effort to spread the news? It's because we want everyone to share in our joy. 

When Andrew found the Lord and spent time with him, the very first thing he did was tell his brother. He was excited about finding the long awaited Messiah and he wanted everyone to know. He was overjoyed with his discovery and couldn't keep it to himself. He wanted everyone to share his joy.

Since you came to the knowledge of the Lord how has your life changed? Has the Lord blessed you in tremendous ways? Who have you told about these wonderful things? Why not be an Andrew today and share your joy with everyone?

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 10:21-11:10  / NT - John 2:1-22

Be Amazed!

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 9:8-35 / NT - John 1:1-28

"And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." -- John 1:14

Be amazed my friend. Never take this for granted. Jesus, the Living Word, by whom all things were created (Colossians 1:16), in whom all things are held together (Colossians 1:17), became flesh.  The Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End (Revelation 22:13), the Bright Morning Star (Revelation 22:16) came to dwell among us.

He who made every tree, died upon a tree (1 Peter 2:24), for you and me. He who made every rock was placed in a tomb, cut in a rock, (Matthew 27:60) for you and me. He who made every lamb, became a sacrificial lamb (John 1:29) for you and me. He who made every blood cell, poured out his blood (John 19:34) for you and me. He who created the air that we breath, gave up his last breath (Luke 23:46) for you and me.

Be Amazed! In a world of technological sensationalism... Never, Never, Never take for granted that... "the Word became flesh and dwelt among us". Bow and worship... and give praise to the Living Word, Jesus!!

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 10:1-20  / NT - John1: 29-51

The Key...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 8:20-9:7 / NT - Luke 24:36-53

"He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures." - Luke 24:44-45

I recently discovered a store that sells language programs.  They promise to open a whole new world of foreign language quickly and easily. The material is supposed to provide the key that will bring instant understanding with very little effort. Well, many people find after much effort they still can’t find the promised "key" to instant understanding.

As Jesus shared with the disciples, he didn't offer them a secret combination or special academic program. He opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. As a result, as time passed we read, "When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus." (Acts 4:13) Jesus is the "key" to instant understanding.

Don't be afraid to open the pages of your Bible. Pray for understanding and read on. The Lord will give what you need and each day you will find new insight from him. Take the whole Bible from Genesis to Revelation and look for the Lord on every page and you will find the "key" to instant understanding.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 9:8-35  / NT - John 1:1-28

The Sincere invitation...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 8:1-19 / NT - Luke 24:13-35

"So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He acted as if he were going farther, but they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, for it is toward evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them." - Luke 24:28-29

"Stop by and visit sometime!" These words are heard quite often, but do they express a genuine invitation? For some people who live quite casually, the answer is yes. But for most, such words are just a social nicety. In most cases we only stop in and visit when there is a sincere request for our presence. We need to know that we are really wanted.

This is quite an interesting moment as the Lord travels on the road to Emmaus. We are told that "He acted as if he were going farther", but those with whom He conversed "urged Him strongly" to stay with them. They were quite serious about their invitation and the Lord responded accordingly, "So He went in to stay with them". The Lord is no different than we are in this matter; He needs to know that He is really wanted.

Each day brings a new opportunity for close fellowship with the Lord my friend. The question is, do you extend a sincere invitation and "urge Him strongly" to commune with your heart in the quiet hours? He said it best in Jeremiah 29:13, "You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart." He needs to know that He is really wanted.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 8:20-9:7  / NT - Luke 24:36-53

The Minority Report...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 7 / NT - Luke 23:50-24:12

"Now there was a man named Joseph, from the Jewish town of Arimathea. He was a member of the council, a good and righteous man, who had not consented to their decision and action; and he was looking for the kingdom of God." - Luke 23:50-51 

Have you ever considered the minority reports of the Bible? You will find Joshua and Caleb among the distressed spies, David among a frightened Saul and his army, Jeremiah among misleading prophets and Daniel among jealous peers. These were lone voices in an ocean of resistance when the easy road would choose passive agreement. Yet, we remember these men, not necessary for moving mountains, but for standing their ground in the face of opposition.

Joseph of Arimathea was one of those minority voices among the Jewish council members. He didn't have the sway or support to move the group away from crucifixion. But he wasn't about to be moved away from his personal convictions. He had not consented to the decision and he was now courageous enough to care for the dead body of Jesus. He couldn't move mountains, but he stood his ground and made a difference.

When you are pressed by the majority and still have strong convictions, what do you do my friend? Are you willing to speak up and sacrifice for what you know is right? Or do you cave under the pressure of the crowd? While you may never move mountains, you can certainly stand your ground for Jesus; and that will make all the difference in the world. 

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 8:1-19  / NT - Luke 24:13-35

Simplicity...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 6:14-30 / NT - Luke 23:26-49

"Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.”" - Luke 23:42-43

In 1969 I worked in a computer office with a system that filled the room. It was complex and huge. Today I carry a small, very thin smart phone that has more memory and storage than that massive system. Technology has come a long way to simplify things for the end user. Religion, on the other hand, has complicated matters of the soul continually throughout the centuries. Getting to heaven has become a real complex trip.

In the last hour of our Lord's earthly life he encountered a repentant criminal. In this exchange we discover the truth about forgiveness and eternity. The simplicity of "touching" Christ with a heart of faith opened the world of heaven without complexity. As a result of trusting Jesus, this man was transported to glory that day, and not a moment later. Getting to heaven was a real simple trip.

Walking with God in this life and into the next life has always been quite simple. Adding to the picture just makes things more confusing and less achievable. Jesus said, the life of faith is easy to live and small enough to carry anywhere; "For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:30) and at the end of the journey... getting to heaven will be a real quick trip.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 7  / NT - Luke 23:50-24:12

Lasting Peace ...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 6:1-13 / NT - Luke 23:1-25

"And Herod and Pilate became friends with each other that very day, for before this they had been at enmity with each other." - Luke 23:12

Such events as the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami in 2011 or Hurricane Sandy in 2012 often lead to the most interesting alliances. Political, religious and business adversaries became allies overnight. A tragic occasion breaks down walls of separation and brings opposing parties together. But such union is short lived.

The Lord Jesus brought two adversaries together as allies. Their animosity was set aside for the goal of persecuting the Savior. Throughout the years Jesus has brought peace to a great many. For some this tranquility has been life changing, but for others it has been short lived.

The difference between lasting peace and short lived peace is found in why we seek Jesus. If we seek Him as the very Prince of peace we will find eternal blessing. But, if we seek Him as just a piece of the puzzle, we will come up empty. Have you found peace with God through the risen Redeemer my friend? Only then will you find lasting peace. 

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 6:14-30  / NT - Luke 23:26-49

"The Look"...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 5 / NT - Luke 22:54-71

"Peter replied, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Just as he was speaking, the rooster crowed. The Lord turned and looked straight at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word the Lord had spoken to him: “Before the rooster crows today, you will disown me three times.” And he went outside and wept bitterly." - Luke 22:60-62 

When I was a little guy, life was pretty simple. I knew all was well, or not, by the look in my mother's eyes. If I was behaving as I should, her look was pleasant and assured me that all was well. But if I was getting into mischief, mom could look across a crowded room and I knew I was in trouble. I never wanted to see "the look".

On most days, Peter enjoyed pleasant looks from Jesus, as they walked and talked along the road. But this was not one of those days. Peter had been so sure of himself, and then he denied the Lord, not just once, but three times. Fear and doubt had gotten the best of him and he distanced himself from the Lord. But the distance was not enough to escape "the look". 

I believe the look Peter received that day was one of disappointment. When we disobey the Lord, Paul says we grieve his Spirit. (Ephesians 4:30) Simply put, when we fail the Lord... we break his heart. As you turn to the Lord today, will you be met with a look that is pleasant and assures you that all is well? Or will you sense the Lord's disappointment as you're met with "the look"? 

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 6:1-13  / NT - Luke 23:1-25

He Cares for you...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 4:18-31 / NT - Luke 22:31-53

"But Jesus said, “No more of this!” And he touched his ear and healed him." - Luke 22:51

Would you ask a grieving widow who just lost her husband yesterday to drive you to a doctor's appointment? Or would you ask someone who just lost their home in a tornado to make an encouraging  nursing home visit? In most cases the answer to both questions would be an emphatic no. Moments of personal pain and sorrow are rarely occasions to show concern for others.

As you read this passage in Luke 22, take time to consider the Lord's emotions and personal trauma. He has been betrayed, turned over to be beaten and crucified, soon to be completely abandoned by His closest friends. And yet, He stops everything to reach out and heal a servant's injured ear. Nothing in His life would deter Him from caring for others.

Have you ever refrained from pouring your heart out to the Lord my friend? Did you think that He might be too busy or that your problem was much too insignificant for His involvement? Learn from this event in the passion of our Lord that there is never a day or hour that He doesn't tremendously care for you and every problem in your life.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 5  / NT - Luke 22:54-71

Gratitude...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 4:1-17 / NT - Luke 22:14-30

"And he took a cup, and when he had given thanks he said, 'Take this, and divide it among yourselves... And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.'" - Luke 22:17, 19

We are inundated with ways to find happiness. The path to "good times" is wide and well traveled by more than one can count. When any occasion comes to express gratitude most people focus in on the bounty and blessings of life. Rarely is thanksgiving given for stressful and sorrowful days.

Jesus knew the path that He was taking and the suffering that He was about to experience. The pain would be excruciating and the darkness would be overwhelming. Yet, recognizing the approaching cross, He lifted the cup and bread and gave thanks. Our Lord knew the way to the crown passed through the cross, and He was grateful for both.

What are you grateful for today my friend? Can you only find happiness in sunshine and lollipops? Or have you found joy in Jesus as you experience the "good and the bad and the ugly"? Does your faith identify with God's orchestrating every event in life for your good? Isn't that what we embrace with the words of Romans 8:28? "And we know that for those who love God ALL THINGS work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose." Maybe this was on Paul's mind when he wrote 1 Thessalonians 5:18, "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 4:18-31  / NT - Luke 22:31-53

Prepared for the Unexpected?

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 2:23-3:22 / NT - Luke 21:29-22:13

“Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. For it will come upon all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man.” - Luke 21:34-36

 I always had fun with my Dad. He was one of those guys that would let life so preoccupy him that he walked around in his own world. How could I pass up the opportunities to jump out of his closet or from behind a bush in the garden and scare the daylights out of him? Thankfully, he would just laugh it off and drift back into his world of thought. Dad was always unprepared for the unexpected.

The Lord will come for his Church and then after a time of world-wide judgment he will return to set up his kingdom. Both occasions will occur unexpectedly for most. When people become preoccupied with the pleasures and anxieties of life, they tend to drift into their own little world. Thoughts of the Lord's coming slip away and they're unprepared for the unexpected.

In truth, the Lord's return is expected. The time of his coming is unknown, therefore unexpected. Are you living in light of his return? Or have you allowed the pursuits of this life to lead you into your own little world? Even a believer can drift and be embarrassed when the Lord returns. "Be always on the watch" and pray for the daily strength to be prepared for the unexpected.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 4:1-17  / NT - Luke 22:14-30

It's all about Love...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 2:1-22 / NT - Luke 21:1-28

"And he said, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on." - Luke 21:3-4

In the competitive world of politics every candidate is put under the magnifying glass. Whenever election year rolls around the public suddenly becomes concerned with integrity, morality and charitable generosity. One area of interest is the pattern of church donations made by such wealthy personalities. When their abundance is carefully considered, the size of their gifts often seem to fade.

Jesus gives us a clear lesson on sincere, selfless, spiritual stewardship. The gift is only as significant as the the heart that gives. It's not how much we share as how much we sacrifice. Giving should never be about appeasing our conscience, it should always be about loving the Lord. 

The IRS received an anonymous check some years ago with a note that read: "Enclosed is ten dollars of back taxes I failed to pay; if I still can't sleep, I'll send you the rest". Do you give to the Lord so you can sleep at night my friend? Try giving because you love Him with a heart of gratitude. Yes, your giving will go up till it hurts, but your joy will be even greater and God's blessings will be overwhelming... read Malachi 3:10 

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 2:23-3:22  / NT - Luke 21:29-22:13

All are Alive...

Today's Readings: OT - Exodus 1/ NT - Luke 20:27-47

"But in the account of the bush, even Moses showed that the dead rise, for he calls the Lord ‘the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.” - Luke 20:37-38

While speaking at a funeral service for a deceased deacon, the preacher wanted to emphasize the departure of the soul from the body. He said, "Only the shell remains, but the nut is gone". He meant one thing, but said something else as well. Life after death is a timeless truth found throughout the Bible. It is stated overtly by Jesus and subtly by Moses, but either way, to God... all are alive.

There will be a resurrection and Jesus spoke of this coming event regularly. Some have said that this doctrine is strictly found in the New Testament. But what we find in this passage is a clear reference by Jesus to the Old Testament belief in this truth. Moses meant one thing, but he said something else as well. We believe in the God of the living, and to him... all are alive.

There are two thoughts to consider today. Every soul will exist eternally. The question is; will you live eternally in heaven with Jesus, or will you live eternally in hell alone? The choice is yours to make, but only in this life. The second thought concerns your loved one who knew the Lord and has stepped into eternity ahead of you. You may be assured and comforted in the words of Paul in Philippians 1:23, "I desire to depart and be with Christ". Yes, they are with the Lord, because to him... all are alive. 

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 2:1-22 / NT - Luke 21:1-28

Biblical Citizenship...

Today's Readings: OT - Genesis 49:28-50:26 / NT - Luke 20:9-26

"He said to them, “Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” - Luke 20:25

Throughout history battles have been waged between religious communities and governments. America was founded by those who sought freedom to worship without state intervention. In our own day countries in the Middle East are torn apart because of religious differences with national leadership. Does the Bible have an answer for this timeless dilemma?

The answer to the above concern is a definitive yes. Jesus gave us a wise and irrefutable word of counsel in the above passage. While Caesar was a tyrant and madman, Jesus called for taxes to paid and respect given. The state was to be acknowledged with responsible citizenship. Yet, at the same time God was receive faithful worship and service from His people.

In your frustration with the government, are you still a responsible citizen my friend? Along with the above words, give careful thought to Romans 13:1-2, "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment." Honor God by being a good citizen and faithful believer.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Exodus 1 / NT - Luke 20:27-47

People...

Today's Readings: OT - Genesis 49:1-27 / NT - Luke 19:28-20:8

"As he approached Jerusalem and saw the city, he wept over it"  -  Luke 19:41 

In 1998 I moved from Williamsport, PA, a city of 31,000 to a bedroom community of New York City, which is the home of over 8 million people. There are over 20 million people living in the Metropolitan region. The adjustment to so many people in one small area was quite a challenge. Each time I crossed the bridge and looked at the city, I saw buildings that house the masses. I saw traffic congestion and streets crowded with a vast multitude. But then, I came to a traffic light and I saw the faces and was reminded that the city is people... and people need the Lord.

Watch the Lord as he approaches the city of Jerusalem. While others were rejoicing and praising the Lord, Jesus saw the city, and he wept over it. Think about the Lord of Glory, the Creator of the universe, the Ruler of nations, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords weeping over a city. In a city of rebellious and hard-hearted people who would hang him on a cross, Jesus saw lost people. If we will look at the city through the eyes of Jesus, we will see people and we too should weep because... people need the Lord.

Whether your city is small or large, it's filled with people. They are not there to make your life miserable; they are people in need,  just like you. Pray that you might see the city through the eyes of compassion and love them like Jesus.     --  Here's a song by Mike Otto to consider today:

"LOOKING THROUGH YOUR EYES"

"Let me see this world, dear Lord,

as though I were looking through your eyes.

A world of men who don't want you, Lord,

but a world for which you died.

Let me kneel with you in the garden.

Blur my eyes with tears of agony.

For if once, I could see this world the way you see,

I just know I'd serve you more faithfully".

Let me see this world, dear Lord,

through Your eyes when men mock your Holy Name.

When they beat You and spat upon You, Lord,

Let me love them as You loved them just the same.

Let me stand high above my petty problems,

And grieve for men, hell-bound eternally:

For if once I could see this world the way You see

I just know I'd serve you more faithfully.

Tomorrow's Readings: OT - Genesis 49:28-50:26 / NT - Luke 20:9-26