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Divided
If we read the words of Jesus carefully, the last days of time will include the spirit of division and separation. This divide is meant to disrupt the work of the Kingdom and is framed as a tool of the devil. If possible, the enemy would love to segregate us from each other by whatever means he can. I am convinced that we are living in the moment of perversion and confusion; both of which are intentional measures to thwart the Gospel. The Church must be careful not to be influenced by the world’s view of what is appropriate or…
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Agape
Agape Upon the resurrection, and after dinner, Jesus began the process of restoring Peter. The shame of denial hung heavy, and yet, mercy had its way. Jesus asked a very similar question three times to Peter: “Lovest thou me?” Some assume this to be the pathway to reconcile Peter’s three denials, though it seems unlikely that Jesus would press the issue in this fashion. The response was the same, but the questions were different. Our English language does not offer the appropriate insight. The first two questions include the word “love” which comes from the agapao, ag-ap-ah’-o; which means devoted…
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He Sees Me
Gen 16:13 And she called the name of the LORD that spake unto her, Thou God seest me: for she said, Have I also here looked after him that seeth me? When Abraham left Mount Moriah, he called God, Jehovah -Jireh, The Lord will provide. Gideon built an altar and named God, Jehovah Shalom. These are considered the progressive names of God, leading us to Gabriel’s deliverance of the name Jesus. However, the first person to name God was Hagar. When Abraham and Sarah failed at producing a child, Sarah thought it good for Hagar to have a son on…
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Beauty For Ashes
In Northern Ireland remains the remnants of a major volcanic eruption. While the volcano itself has long since passed, the massive molten basalt rocks stand quietly in the water’s bay. There are an estimated 37,000 polygon columns perfectly measured as if they were handcrafted by human intent. It’s called The Giant’s Causeway; the scene is breathtaking. Early travelers did not know the origin of these beautiful rocks. They wrote that something happened, but could not determine that cause. Many of the stones have been weathered by the crashing sea, making them smooth to the touch. We know that a violent…
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See Something, Say Something
Case study is an interesting field. For many years these courses devoured my time. The subject usually revolves around precedent. One particular court ruling often determines future findings. Thus, laws are built upon prior rulings as long as they adhere to the Constitution and conditions presented. In one case, a horrible crime was being committed against a person in a local bar. A man stood by watching it unfold. The criminal was caught and prosecuted. However, the state determined that the bystander had it in his power to stop the crime, or at least intervene, but did not. After some…
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Character
In a tragic report, a small sailboat drifted in the night into a turbulent storm. The young sailors unknowingly did not remember to cast their anchor and fell asleep without preparation to the drift. The boat drifted into the unknown. More experienced seaman stated that without the anchor, it is easy to be carried away, especially in the night. The darkness and the natural rocking of the waves caused the vessel to roam far into the coming storm. They drifted off course and it cost them their lives. There is a beautiful white granite statue located on Independence Avenue in…
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One Day
I am reminded of the word of Alan Oggs: “The difference a Day Makes.” He spoke of his own life and new doors opening up to him. In a single day, the world changed for him. This word also speaks to the exodus of the Children of Israel. Moses was born into chaos. Moses was 80 years old when he confronted Pharaoh, which means that for eight decades the people struggled under the heavy hand of an oppressive empire. Egypt was cruel and ruthless as they enslaved the Hebrew people. We are only privy to a few of their degrading…
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The End
I have lived long enough to know that while the beginning of a thing is celebrated, the ending is what really matters. Old movies depicted as much. The characters waved goodbye and the credits rolled through. A final screen with the words “The End” appeared. Whatever the casts’ displayed; musical score or director’s intent, the time had come and the tape raced to separate from the spindle. In a whisper both words and talents are forgotten. Only the sentimental voice cries at their loss. So many breathtaking moments vanish like dust in the wind. Preachers, singers, leaders, actors, songs…. Some…
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Call For Commitment
Luke 2 records the early life of the Lord Jesus; His earthly father, Joseph, and Mary His mother. In keeping with the Law, Mary and Joseph bring Jesus to the Temple to be presented (Lev.12:3). Upon entering the Temple, they meet Simeon who had been waiting for the “consolation of Israel.” When he saw Jesus and took him in his arms, he knew he was holding the Messiah. Simeon’s reply is considered a song, “Nunc Dimittis” – Latin for “now I may depart.” Luke 2:29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word. The waiting…
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He’s Coming
In consideration of our secular society, it should be noted that agnostic scientists allow for a theoretical “World Clock” depicting the end of time. It began in earnest in 1947 and has been maintained with warnings concerning nuclear proliferation and other global catastrophes. While this school of thought is neither scientifically proven, and may include some conspiracy theorists, the idea that mankind will destroy itself has always been a common thread in the realm of possibilities. In January 2020, before the pandemic, the clock was set at 1 minute and 40 seconds to midnight, i.e., the world was on the…