So sucky weather outside right now!! It is storming something fierce!! It's so nasty and dark the street lights are still on! And I have been out twice in it so far! LOL And now I have to get ready for work and go out yet again. Nastiness!!
So I just met with Pastor Hersch and discussed the ever growing youth as well as other church stuff. Good meeting. Good ideas he has. Hopefully the people will be as accepting as we throw a wrench into their tightly knit worlds. >:}
Tomorrow I will be reviewing the Partholon books. I read them and wow! They are phenomenal reads!!
Till then...
Shelly
And Abraham stretched out his hand and took the knife to slay his son. Genesis 22:10
Do you face a test of faith today? Is God calling you to leap into the unknown, into uncertain, perhaps even treacherous waters? If so, maybe Abraham’s story will inspire you.
God’s familiar voice rang out, “Abraham.” And Abraham responded, “Here I am, Lord.” The Lord gave Abraham instructions: “Take now your son…and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering…”
Perhaps no more painful words have ever been heard. All of Abraham’s joy disappeared in a flash. However, Abraham did not question; he simply obeyed.
First thing the next morning, he prepared for the journey to the mountains. No questions, just obedience. For three long days he walked with Isaac at his side, Isaac who knew nothing of his father’s mission. Only God and Abraham knew what lay at the end of this journey. Silently, Abraham and Isaac climbed to the top of Mount Moriah.
Once there, father and son erected an altar together. Then Abraham bound his son and, summoning all of his strength, laid Isaac upon the altar. With his heart about to break, Abraham lifted the knife above Isaac’s chest. As Abraham began to plunge the knife downward, he again heard that familiar voice, “Abraham, Abraham…Do not lay your hand on the lad.” God intervened and provided a ram in Isaac’s place.
God didn’t want Abraham to sacrifice his son. God wanted obedience. Through this incident, God tested Abraham’s faith. He wanted to know which would win out: a father’s love for his child or his obedience to his God.
When we truly have faith in God, we will trust Him and do whatever He asks of us. Abraham was a man of tremendous faith—he trusted God with his son’s life, believing that God could raise the dead Hebrews 11:17–19. Faith trusts that whatever God commands must be done, and what God has promised He will perform in His own time.
So, back to you and your test of faith. Ask God to show you clearly what He wants you to do. And when He does, follow Him without question or dispute.
He can and did raise the dead; He can surely work good through your obedience.
Pastor Hersch
Monday, April 26, 2010
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
sometimes....
Life just sucks! Being broke all the time sucks! Someday we won't be living paycheck to paycheck. I hope... OH and did I mention that my mp3 player no longer works?! So mad about that!!!!
Anyway, it is gorgeous out still. So hard to believe we have had such a great winter/spring season. I fear summer will be a nightmare!
Hatcher kept me on my toes yesterday. I miss having little ones around. They are such a breath of freshness! So innocent and so easily amused. Work wasn't too bad. One of the regulars kept me company for about 40minutes. That guy can talk lol.
Well off to make muffins.
Shelly
Jesus answered and said to him, ’Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God’ John 3:3
Being born again by the Spirit is an unmistakable work of God, as mysterious as the wind, and as surprising as God Himself. We don’t know where it begins— it is hidden away in the depths of our soul. Being born again from above is an enduring, perpetual, and eternal beginning. It provides a freshness all the time in thinking, talking, and living— a continual surprise of the life of God.
Staleness is an indication that something in our lives is out of step with God. We say to ourselves, "I have to do this thing or it will never get done."
That is the first sign of staleness. Do we feel fresh this very moment or are we stale, frantically searching our minds for something to do? Freshness is not the result of obedience; it comes from the Holy Spirit. Obedience keeps us "in the light as He is in the light . . ." 1st John 1:7
Being born of the Spirit means much more than we usually think. It gives us new vision and keeps us absolutely fresh for everything through the never-ending supply of the life of God.
Pastor Hersch
Anyway, it is gorgeous out still. So hard to believe we have had such a great winter/spring season. I fear summer will be a nightmare!
Hatcher kept me on my toes yesterday. I miss having little ones around. They are such a breath of freshness! So innocent and so easily amused. Work wasn't too bad. One of the regulars kept me company for about 40minutes. That guy can talk lol.
Well off to make muffins.
Shelly
Jesus answered and said to him, ’Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God’ John 3:3
Being born again by the Spirit is an unmistakable work of God, as mysterious as the wind, and as surprising as God Himself. We don’t know where it begins— it is hidden away in the depths of our soul. Being born again from above is an enduring, perpetual, and eternal beginning. It provides a freshness all the time in thinking, talking, and living— a continual surprise of the life of God.
Staleness is an indication that something in our lives is out of step with God. We say to ourselves, "I have to do this thing or it will never get done."
That is the first sign of staleness. Do we feel fresh this very moment or are we stale, frantically searching our minds for something to do? Freshness is not the result of obedience; it comes from the Holy Spirit. Obedience keeps us "in the light as He is in the light . . ." 1st John 1:7
Being born of the Spirit means much more than we usually think. It gives us new vision and keeps us absolutely fresh for everything through the never-ending supply of the life of God.
Pastor Hersch
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Tuesday...
I hate exercising! But I know in the end it is what's best. But I hate it! ☺
So today I get Hatcher while his mom goes to work. He is so stinkin cute. Then at 4 I have to go to work. Our stupid government passed that stupid law from what I have heard. So now begins the fight to save head shops in Florida. I could understand passing the law if it was based on fact but alas it wasn't. Oh well...
Shelly
"Exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." Hebrews 3:13
In "Character Counts" Michael Josephson shares how the students at Sandy's high school were badly shaken by the news that a classmate had just committed suicide. He left a note saying, "It's hard to live when nobody cares if you die." Realizing this was both a traumatic event that needed to be confronted and a teachable moment, a teacher talked to the students about how important it is that people feel valued. So, he told them to imagine they were about to die. Then he gave an assignment: "Write a note to tell someone how important he or she is to you."
Sandy, who had a rocky relationship with her mother, was especially moved by the idea that she might die without telling her mom how important she was, so she wrote a note: "We've had some rough times and I know I haven't been a very good daughter but I know I'm blest to have you in my life. You are the best person I've ever known. Thanks for not giving up on me." She told her mom about the assignment and gave her the note. Her mom cried and hugged Sandy but said little.
The next morning Sandy found a note on her mirror. "Dearest daughter," it said, "I want you to know how much you are valued. Being your mother is the most important thing in my life. The truth is I've felt like such a failure I was seriously considering ending it all. I thought you'd be better off without me. Your appreciation makes my life worth living."
Be careful not to underestimate the power of expressed appreciation.
As Sandy learned, it can make a big difference.
Need I say more?
Pastor Hersch
So today I get Hatcher while his mom goes to work. He is so stinkin cute. Then at 4 I have to go to work. Our stupid government passed that stupid law from what I have heard. So now begins the fight to save head shops in Florida. I could understand passing the law if it was based on fact but alas it wasn't. Oh well...
Shelly
"Exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today," lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin." Hebrews 3:13
In "Character Counts" Michael Josephson shares how the students at Sandy's high school were badly shaken by the news that a classmate had just committed suicide. He left a note saying, "It's hard to live when nobody cares if you die." Realizing this was both a traumatic event that needed to be confronted and a teachable moment, a teacher talked to the students about how important it is that people feel valued. So, he told them to imagine they were about to die. Then he gave an assignment: "Write a note to tell someone how important he or she is to you."
Sandy, who had a rocky relationship with her mother, was especially moved by the idea that she might die without telling her mom how important she was, so she wrote a note: "We've had some rough times and I know I haven't been a very good daughter but I know I'm blest to have you in my life. You are the best person I've ever known. Thanks for not giving up on me." She told her mom about the assignment and gave her the note. Her mom cried and hugged Sandy but said little.
The next morning Sandy found a note on her mirror. "Dearest daughter," it said, "I want you to know how much you are valued. Being your mother is the most important thing in my life. The truth is I've felt like such a failure I was seriously considering ending it all. I thought you'd be better off without me. Your appreciation makes my life worth living."
Be careful not to underestimate the power of expressed appreciation.
As Sandy learned, it can make a big difference.
Need I say more?
Pastor Hersch
Monday, April 19, 2010
ok well...
I couldn't put the books down! I'm about to start book 4 of PC Cast's Partholon series. And wow! They are so good! I love that Cast kept the story going with the children of the first book, and the grandchildren, and the great grandchildren. And even though I was right on 1 thing happening, I was totally blown away by the rest of the book. Once I finish 4 and 5 I will do reviews of each.
So right now I'm listening to Billy Burke's (Charlie Swan) single Removed. Very different from what I normally listen to but I'm liking it. It's an unmastered version that he put out for his fans. He has a great voice and ya'll know I have an ear for that. LOL
Shelly
But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Philippians 3:7
When you become a Christian, one of the more notable changes is that you will give up many of the things you once did. Of course, this depends on your lifestyle prior to your conversion. But for many of us, a dramatic change will take place.
I have heard people share their stories of how they came to Christ and the great sacrifices they made to follow Him, saying things like, “I had a great life... I went to parties... I had so much fun... But I gave it all up for Jesus Christ, hallelujah! I left it all for the glory of God!”
When I hear statements like that, I feel like asking, “What are you talking about? You gave it all up? What did you give up?”
If they were to look at those things honestly and realistically, they would come to the same conclusion that Paul did. He said, “But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ . . ” Philippians 4:7–8
Paul was saying that the stuff that used to be so important, the stuff he once valued so highly, meant nothing to him now in relation to the excellence of the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
It’s a good idea to periodically ask ourselves, “Is this thing that I am doing slowing me down or speeding me along? Is it building me up spiritually or is it tearing me down?” If it is a weight, then we should lay it aside.
Pastor Hersch
So right now I'm listening to Billy Burke's (Charlie Swan) single Removed. Very different from what I normally listen to but I'm liking it. It's an unmastered version that he put out for his fans. He has a great voice and ya'll know I have an ear for that. LOL
Shelly
But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Philippians 3:7
When you become a Christian, one of the more notable changes is that you will give up many of the things you once did. Of course, this depends on your lifestyle prior to your conversion. But for many of us, a dramatic change will take place.
I have heard people share their stories of how they came to Christ and the great sacrifices they made to follow Him, saying things like, “I had a great life... I went to parties... I had so much fun... But I gave it all up for Jesus Christ, hallelujah! I left it all for the glory of God!”
When I hear statements like that, I feel like asking, “What are you talking about? You gave it all up? What did you give up?”
If they were to look at those things honestly and realistically, they would come to the same conclusion that Paul did. He said, “But what things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ. Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ . . ” Philippians 4:7–8
Paul was saying that the stuff that used to be so important, the stuff he once valued so highly, meant nothing to him now in relation to the excellence of the knowledge of Jesus Christ.
It’s a good idea to periodically ask ourselves, “Is this thing that I am doing slowing me down or speeding me along? Is it building me up spiritually or is it tearing me down?” If it is a weight, then we should lay it aside.
Pastor Hersch
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Divine by Mistake
So I finished the first Partholon novel and holy cow! What a fantastic read! As I said before I loved the House of Night series and can't wait to get Burned in a couple weeks. However, the Divine series is a new favorite. The story without giving away too much is this: Shannon Parker is a high school English teacher in Oklahoma and is friends with many. She is a series shopaholic as is her friends. She's a red head, laid back funny 35 year old. Then she gets transported to another world full of mythological creatures both good and evil. PC Cast has written the books full of humor and sadness. The book kept me enthralled and guessing at the outcome. The 2nd book, Divine by Choice isn't as hard to figure out yet. Of course I'm very early into it but it seems predictable. I hope to change my opinion soon.
The only thing I don't care for is the whole goddess thing she puts in her books. I simply translate it in my mind to the God I believe in as I read.
☺
Shelly
I am counted with those who go down to the pit; I am like a man who has no strength, Adrift among the dead, Like the slain who lie in the grave, Whom You remember no more, And who are cut off from Your hand. Psalm 88:4, 5
Annette sat with red-rimmed eyes. She had been crying for quite some time. Everything in her life felt like it was going wrong. She called herself a Christian, but she kept doing things she knew were wrong. She asked forgiveness, but she felt like a liar and a hypocrite. She wanted God to love her, but she kept being so unlovable.
One of her friends told her that she was going to hell, because God would judge her for all the lies she told and all the sins she committed. Now, she sat sobbing, not knowing what to do.
It is hard to be good when we are so weak. Even the great apostle, Paul, spoke of doing things he knew he should not do. No one ever rises completely above sin.
God wants His people to try and who will strive to do better, even when they know they can't be perfect. We cannot separate ourselves from God's love as long as we desire in our hearts to be reconciled to Him. He loves us that much.
Pastor Hersch
The only thing I don't care for is the whole goddess thing she puts in her books. I simply translate it in my mind to the God I believe in as I read.
☺
Shelly
I am counted with those who go down to the pit; I am like a man who has no strength, Adrift among the dead, Like the slain who lie in the grave, Whom You remember no more, And who are cut off from Your hand. Psalm 88:4, 5
Annette sat with red-rimmed eyes. She had been crying for quite some time. Everything in her life felt like it was going wrong. She called herself a Christian, but she kept doing things she knew were wrong. She asked forgiveness, but she felt like a liar and a hypocrite. She wanted God to love her, but she kept being so unlovable.
One of her friends told her that she was going to hell, because God would judge her for all the lies she told and all the sins she committed. Now, she sat sobbing, not knowing what to do.
It is hard to be good when we are so weak. Even the great apostle, Paul, spoke of doing things he knew he should not do. No one ever rises completely above sin.
God wants His people to try and who will strive to do better, even when they know they can't be perfect. We cannot separate ourselves from God's love as long as we desire in our hearts to be reconciled to Him. He loves us that much.
Pastor Hersch
Friday, April 16, 2010
Friday :)
Well PC Cast has been updating her blog quite regularly lately. She put on there that some new jewelry is out. Well it's in the pre-order stage. Burned comes out this month! YAY! Also the new Elm Street movie is this month. The gorgeous Kellan Lutz is in it. He is Emmett Cullen for you TwiHards.
Well off to see that fabulous baby this morning. I haven't seen him yet and Kristin is yelling at me lol. I don't understand these moms today. How can they WANT company so soon after having a baby?? I wanted to be left alone. I was tired! lol
Shelly
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
Matthew 6:34
Traditionally, the Navajos of the Southwest do not engage in long-term planning. They are a people with a real awareness that we have only the day that is given us. They believe that we should attend to the activities and responsibilities of today without thought for tomorrow, next month, or next year. If an activity is not completed today, it can be continued tomorrow if, in fact, a tomorrow is granted to us.
In Western culture we find it very difficult to comprehend such a way of being. We are driven by results and results occur through planning and action. The abundance of personal organizers and PDAs are a testament to our commitment to living a life that is mapped out for the next year and beyond.
It's not uncommon to hear someone say, "My whole life is in my Palm Pilot or my cell phone. I'd be lost if something happened to it!" The faster the pace picks up, the more critical our organizers become.
And yet, at a deep level within, where the breath moves through our heart and lungs, we know we have only this day—this moment—in which to live. Today is filled with its own chances, changes, and challenges. That is enough to handle for today.
Tomorrow will bring something else, something new, something different, something that requires our attention in other ways. If we're consumed with tomorrow, our chance at life today is diminished—even lost.
TODAY-Open up to the wonder of now—this is the moment in which to savor life.
Pastor Hersch
Well off to see that fabulous baby this morning. I haven't seen him yet and Kristin is yelling at me lol. I don't understand these moms today. How can they WANT company so soon after having a baby?? I wanted to be left alone. I was tired! lol
Shelly
"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.”
Matthew 6:34
Traditionally, the Navajos of the Southwest do not engage in long-term planning. They are a people with a real awareness that we have only the day that is given us. They believe that we should attend to the activities and responsibilities of today without thought for tomorrow, next month, or next year. If an activity is not completed today, it can be continued tomorrow if, in fact, a tomorrow is granted to us.
In Western culture we find it very difficult to comprehend such a way of being. We are driven by results and results occur through planning and action. The abundance of personal organizers and PDAs are a testament to our commitment to living a life that is mapped out for the next year and beyond.
It's not uncommon to hear someone say, "My whole life is in my Palm Pilot or my cell phone. I'd be lost if something happened to it!" The faster the pace picks up, the more critical our organizers become.
And yet, at a deep level within, where the breath moves through our heart and lungs, we know we have only this day—this moment—in which to live. Today is filled with its own chances, changes, and challenges. That is enough to handle for today.
Tomorrow will bring something else, something new, something different, something that requires our attention in other ways. If we're consumed with tomorrow, our chance at life today is diminished—even lost.
TODAY-Open up to the wonder of now—this is the moment in which to savor life.
Pastor Hersch
Thursday, April 15, 2010
whew....
Been a busy week! Jennie and the boys and I redid the kids room at church yesterday. I had gone in Monday and stripped most of the teddy bear wall paper off. Yesterday the twins stripped the rest (they love my shark steamer lol) while the older two read (lazy bums). Then Jennie and I painted. We aren't done (ran out of paint) but so far it is super cute. Much better than the nursery bears!
Shelly
For this is the will of God, your sanctification. 1st Thessalonians 4:3
In a personal sense, God's will for our lives is that we conform to the image of God, something the apostle Paul makes clear in 1st Thessalonians 4:3: "For this is the will of God, your sanctification." In his letter to Roman Christians, Paul writes in Romans 8:29, "For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son" and adds in 1st Timothy 1:5, "The goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." As Christians one our goal should be first and foremost, conforming to the image of God.
There is no instruction in the Bible concerning career choice, where we live, or who we should marry. There is, however, an abundance of instruction on how we're to relate to our employer and behave on the job we already have (Colossians 3:22-25). There is much about how to relate with one another (Colossians 3:10-14) and live with our families (Colossians 3:18-21).
The Bible overwhelmingly instructs that to do God's will means living in harmony with God and man: "'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the great and foremost commandment. And a second is like it, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets" Matthew 22:37-40.
The Bible teaches us how to have a relationship with our God and live in harmony with one another. We do this by assuming our responsibilities for today and trusting God for everyday of our lives.
I'm not sure the Lord cares primarily whether you are a carpenter, teacher or housewife. But He does care what kind of carpenter, teacher or doctor you are. Determine to be the person He has called you to be.
No one can prevent you from being God's person except you.
Pastor Hersch
Shelly
For this is the will of God, your sanctification. 1st Thessalonians 4:3
In a personal sense, God's will for our lives is that we conform to the image of God, something the apostle Paul makes clear in 1st Thessalonians 4:3: "For this is the will of God, your sanctification." In his letter to Roman Christians, Paul writes in Romans 8:29, "For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son" and adds in 1st Timothy 1:5, "The goal of our instruction is love from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith." As Christians one our goal should be first and foremost, conforming to the image of God.
There is no instruction in the Bible concerning career choice, where we live, or who we should marry. There is, however, an abundance of instruction on how we're to relate to our employer and behave on the job we already have (Colossians 3:22-25). There is much about how to relate with one another (Colossians 3:10-14) and live with our families (Colossians 3:18-21).
The Bible overwhelmingly instructs that to do God's will means living in harmony with God and man: "'You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.' This is the great and foremost commandment. And a second is like it, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets" Matthew 22:37-40.
The Bible teaches us how to have a relationship with our God and live in harmony with one another. We do this by assuming our responsibilities for today and trusting God for everyday of our lives.
I'm not sure the Lord cares primarily whether you are a carpenter, teacher or housewife. But He does care what kind of carpenter, teacher or doctor you are. Determine to be the person He has called you to be.
No one can prevent you from being God's person except you.
Pastor Hersch
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Lots To Say....
First I can't even tell you how shocked I was by the ending of Thirst NO.2 by Christopher Pike. If you like vampires and shocking endings get his books Thirst NO.1 and NO.2. Having said that, Divine by Mistake by P.C. Cast is impossible to put down! I enjoy her HON books but I think I may like this series more. She put so much humor into this book that I find myself laughing....at a book...ok that just doesn't happen very often. I must add the Divine series is not for children. I will post more as I read more. OH and the tour dates have been set for the newest HON novel. http://pccast.blogspot.com for all the info!
Today I start watching that adorable baby I used to watch. His mama is working part time and I get him one day a week and his grandparents get him the other 2 days she works. He is such a joy to have. But he's gonna keep me on my toes. He is all boy and always on the move lol.
And lastly before I put in Pastor's devotional, TwiHards listen up! Did you know Michael Welch claims to have coined "twihards"? It's true. But that's not what I wanna tell ya. Mr Cute Butt, Billy Burke has his website live now AND he's has a cd coming out soon! YAY! He is also giving away a free single to those who sign up at his website http://www.billyburke.net.
Later!
Shelly
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. 1st John 2:15-16
Ask yourself these questions: What is the purpose of my life? What am I going after? What are my pleasures? What are my practices? What kind of places do I frequent? Could I invite God to look with approval on all that I do and seek for?
Worldliness in its final analysis is an attitude of heart toward things and persons. It is the old-nature attitude and can affect every phase of our lives.
The word "lust" does not necessarily mean something evil. The context helps to determine whether it is used in a good sense or a bad one. The word itself means a passionate desire or a craving after something.
In this passage it is used in a bad sense, and we are warned first of all to not have a passionate craving for, or a reaching after, things of the flesh, which is the old nature.
The eyes must be carefully guarded. We are warned concerning the lust of the eyes, or the strong, passionate desires that arise because of what the eyes see. A great deal of our present-day advertising is built on eye appeal and is designed to stimulate our baser passions.
The pride of life incorporates the idea of one who claims credit and glory for something that is not really his. We can see it very clearly in the person who constantly brags about his own resources and possessions.
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
Pastor Hersch
Today I start watching that adorable baby I used to watch. His mama is working part time and I get him one day a week and his grandparents get him the other 2 days she works. He is such a joy to have. But he's gonna keep me on my toes. He is all boy and always on the move lol.
And lastly before I put in Pastor's devotional, TwiHards listen up! Did you know Michael Welch claims to have coined "twihards"? It's true. But that's not what I wanna tell ya. Mr Cute Butt, Billy Burke has his website live now AND he's has a cd coming out soon! YAY! He is also giving away a free single to those who sign up at his website http://www.billyburke.net.
Later!
Shelly
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. 1st John 2:15-16
Ask yourself these questions: What is the purpose of my life? What am I going after? What are my pleasures? What are my practices? What kind of places do I frequent? Could I invite God to look with approval on all that I do and seek for?
Worldliness in its final analysis is an attitude of heart toward things and persons. It is the old-nature attitude and can affect every phase of our lives.
The word "lust" does not necessarily mean something evil. The context helps to determine whether it is used in a good sense or a bad one. The word itself means a passionate desire or a craving after something.
In this passage it is used in a bad sense, and we are warned first of all to not have a passionate craving for, or a reaching after, things of the flesh, which is the old nature.
The eyes must be carefully guarded. We are warned concerning the lust of the eyes, or the strong, passionate desires that arise because of what the eyes see. A great deal of our present-day advertising is built on eye appeal and is designed to stimulate our baser passions.
The pride of life incorporates the idea of one who claims credit and glory for something that is not really his. We can see it very clearly in the person who constantly brags about his own resources and possessions.
Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
Pastor Hersch
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Entertainment
So Friday night I went to the movies with Joyce. We saw "The Last Song" and let me just tell you, don't go see that if you have just lost someone you love. Was a great movie up till the end. I don't like movies that hit close to home. Life is hard enough and if I didn't have Jesus to rely on it would be impossible. However, I like my movies and books and tv shows to be way out there! I like to get lost in the impossible for just a short while before getting back to life. Am I crazy? *SHRUG*
Shelly
"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:17
Shame is similar to false guilt in that it is caused largely by someone who "shamed us" especially when we were young. That is, whenever we did something wrong, we got the message (verbal or non-verbal), "Shame on you." "You are a bad person." "You are a disappointment to me!" "I am so ashamed of you," etc., etc.
Such criticisms are psychologically damaging. As the old saying goes, "Give a dog a name and he will live up to it." People will too—especially if a person was constantly ridiculed, put down and shamed as a child.
True guilt says you have DONE badly but shame says you ARE bad. If a person comes to believe that he or she is a bad person, they will act badly.
In real life we don't always act consistently with what we profess, but we always act consistently with what we believe. So if we believe we are a bad person, that's the way we will act.
When dealing with anyone, including ourselves when they or we have acted "badly," we need to always remember to "condemn" the deed NOT the person! Example: "I love you but what you have done [name it] makes me feel angry and/or very disappointed."
We need God's help so we will learn to treat others the way God treats us. While he hates our sin because it destroys those whom he loves (us), he loves the sinner and doesn't condemn or shame us. Shame and false guilt never come from God. They are man-induced.
Blessedly with God, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
When we confess our sins to God and ask for his forgiveness, and ask God's Son, Jesus Christ, to come into our heart and life as personal Lord and Savior, God forgives us fully and loves us totally. Again, false guilt and shame never come from God.
Pastor Hersch
Shelly
"For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” John 3:17
Shame is similar to false guilt in that it is caused largely by someone who "shamed us" especially when we were young. That is, whenever we did something wrong, we got the message (verbal or non-verbal), "Shame on you." "You are a bad person." "You are a disappointment to me!" "I am so ashamed of you," etc., etc.
Such criticisms are psychologically damaging. As the old saying goes, "Give a dog a name and he will live up to it." People will too—especially if a person was constantly ridiculed, put down and shamed as a child.
True guilt says you have DONE badly but shame says you ARE bad. If a person comes to believe that he or she is a bad person, they will act badly.
In real life we don't always act consistently with what we profess, but we always act consistently with what we believe. So if we believe we are a bad person, that's the way we will act.
When dealing with anyone, including ourselves when they or we have acted "badly," we need to always remember to "condemn" the deed NOT the person! Example: "I love you but what you have done [name it] makes me feel angry and/or very disappointed."
We need God's help so we will learn to treat others the way God treats us. While he hates our sin because it destroys those whom he loves (us), he loves the sinner and doesn't condemn or shame us. Shame and false guilt never come from God. They are man-induced.
Blessedly with God, "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
When we confess our sins to God and ask for his forgiveness, and ask God's Son, Jesus Christ, to come into our heart and life as personal Lord and Savior, God forgives us fully and loves us totally. Again, false guilt and shame never come from God.
Pastor Hersch
Friday, April 9, 2010
:)
Kristin had her baby. He looks just like his brother. Which means hide your daughters cause they are gorgeous boys. So happy for her. Oh and Dean too. :)
I have decided to start exercising at home since the gym I loved closed...last fall. Yeah, I have no motivation lol. I hate to sweat! But anywho, since I really can't afford the gym fee it was kinda a blessing it closed. $50 a month is a lot. Now pray I find a motive. Also thanks to Jennie I think I'm gonna look into a local theater group. Ever since my senior year when I discovered I actually had a little talent I have loved doing what I can at church but never took it further. I'm gonna now. We'll see what happens.
Well off to play Westward IV. I love big fish games! ---->
Shelly
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled. Matthew 5:6
As children, most of us were probably cautioned not to eat snacks too close to mealtime. "You'll ruin your appetite," our parents might have told us. And sometimes they were right. On other occasions, though, we found that just a little taste can actually make us want more--particularly if that "taste" is a chocolate chip cookie, tortilla chip, or handful of salted nuts. The more we have, the more we crave.
A central paradox in our relationship with God is that while this experience satisfies a deep need, it simultaneously creates an insatiable desire for more. How can this be?
Imagine that there is a "God space" in our lives waiting to be filled with the Divine. As it expands, so does its capacity; the larger it becomes, the greater the yearning for God. That's simplifying things, of course, but the principle remains nonetheless.
Hunger and thirst can be slaked temporarily, but sooner than we imagine, our body is sending us a signal that it's time to eat and drink again. In the spiritual life, our longing for God is the same.
We may imagine that meeting God once will be enough to keep us satisfied for the rest of our lives, but once we meet Jesus and are saved, all that changes. From that point on, when we are quiet enough to hear, our heart tells us, that we can never get enough of Him.
Pastor Hersch
P.S. I am a grandfather again!
My daughter Kristin and husband Dean are the proud parents of a new baby boy named Noah!
Congrats!! Thanx again Lord !!!!!
I have decided to start exercising at home since the gym I loved closed...last fall. Yeah, I have no motivation lol. I hate to sweat! But anywho, since I really can't afford the gym fee it was kinda a blessing it closed. $50 a month is a lot. Now pray I find a motive. Also thanks to Jennie I think I'm gonna look into a local theater group. Ever since my senior year when I discovered I actually had a little talent I have loved doing what I can at church but never took it further. I'm gonna now. We'll see what happens.
Well off to play Westward IV. I love big fish games! ---->
Shelly
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, For they shall be filled. Matthew 5:6
As children, most of us were probably cautioned not to eat snacks too close to mealtime. "You'll ruin your appetite," our parents might have told us. And sometimes they were right. On other occasions, though, we found that just a little taste can actually make us want more--particularly if that "taste" is a chocolate chip cookie, tortilla chip, or handful of salted nuts. The more we have, the more we crave.
A central paradox in our relationship with God is that while this experience satisfies a deep need, it simultaneously creates an insatiable desire for more. How can this be?
Imagine that there is a "God space" in our lives waiting to be filled with the Divine. As it expands, so does its capacity; the larger it becomes, the greater the yearning for God. That's simplifying things, of course, but the principle remains nonetheless.
Hunger and thirst can be slaked temporarily, but sooner than we imagine, our body is sending us a signal that it's time to eat and drink again. In the spiritual life, our longing for God is the same.
We may imagine that meeting God once will be enough to keep us satisfied for the rest of our lives, but once we meet Jesus and are saved, all that changes. From that point on, when we are quiet enough to hear, our heart tells us, that we can never get enough of Him.
Pastor Hersch
P.S. I am a grandfather again!
My daughter Kristin and husband Dean are the proud parents of a new baby boy named Noah!
Congrats!! Thanx again Lord !!!!!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
It's Baby Day!
My girlfriend Kristin is having her baby today. YAY! I can't wait to hold him!! Or maybe she already had him, she went in at 4. So exciting!! I would have a zillion if they stayed small and easy to care for and inexpensive oh and there was no labor involved! I love my boys but I couldn't do that again.
Well today I take the girls costume shopping. I switched up the schedule a little since one will be gone next week. Should be fun!!
Shelly
"But I [Jesus] say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." Matthew 5:44
Bob Lewis relates the story of a Christian woman who owned two prize-winning chickens. One afternoon, the chickens worked their way out of her yard and into her neighbor's garden. The neighbor, known for his hot temper, captured both birds, wrung their necks and then threw their lifeless carcasses across the fence into the Christian's yard.
The woman was understandably hurt and considered giving her neighbor a piece of her mind. Instead, she took the chickens home and prepared two chicken pot pies. Whereupon she took one to her neighbor and then apologized for not being more watchful of her chickens. The man was speechless. The chicken pot pie coupled with an apology filled him with such a sense of burning shame that his whole life began to change."
Need I say more?
"Dear God, I find it real easy to love those who are lovable but it seems so hard to love my enemies and those who would mistreat me. Please help me to grow in love so that I will always be 'as Jesus' to everyone—friend or foe. Thank you Lord for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."
Pastor Hersch
Well today I take the girls costume shopping. I switched up the schedule a little since one will be gone next week. Should be fun!!
Shelly
"But I [Jesus] say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you." Matthew 5:44
Bob Lewis relates the story of a Christian woman who owned two prize-winning chickens. One afternoon, the chickens worked their way out of her yard and into her neighbor's garden. The neighbor, known for his hot temper, captured both birds, wrung their necks and then threw their lifeless carcasses across the fence into the Christian's yard.
The woman was understandably hurt and considered giving her neighbor a piece of her mind. Instead, she took the chickens home and prepared two chicken pot pies. Whereupon she took one to her neighbor and then apologized for not being more watchful of her chickens. The man was speechless. The chicken pot pie coupled with an apology filled him with such a sense of burning shame that his whole life began to change."
Need I say more?
"Dear God, I find it real easy to love those who are lovable but it seems so hard to love my enemies and those who would mistreat me. Please help me to grow in love so that I will always be 'as Jesus' to everyone—friend or foe. Thank you Lord for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."
Pastor Hersch
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
:)
So last night I went to my monthly Tupperware meeting and boy am I glad! I got one of the on time drawing awards as well one of the highest sales awards. The latter I only got because whoever beat me was a no show but who cares! Actually it shows how much God loves me. I wanted to order more of our sponges and Dave said not right now and I got 2 sponges last night!! Thank you Lord. :)
We are gearing up for Tupperware's birthday in May and the gifts are sooo good right now! If you ever wanted to host a party NOW is the time! Call me at 954-934-8598
Another update on the kitchen too. Haakon came over and installed the microwave and WOW! I love my kitchen. It's looking soo nice! I'll post a pic eventually lol.
Here's Pastor Hersch.
Shelly
He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it. 1st Thessalonians 5:24
Maybe someone has let you down recently. Or maybe you’ve let yourself down. Take heart! God is faithful. He will do what He says He will do.
And not only is God faithful and reliable, but He is committed to your spiritual growth and maturity.
1st Thessalonians 5:23-24 says, “Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.”
I love that! Because it promises you and me that God is constantly working on us… creatively, constructively, and continually. The Spirit of God is working in your body and in your soul. And His purpose is to make you more like Him!
Remember when you were a teenager and you couldn’t wait to grow up? That’s how we feel sometimes as Christians. When will we ever grow up? When will we ever be responsible in the Christian life? When will we ever be obedient in the Christian life? It’s so easy to become frustrated with ourselves!
But we need to remember that God is patient… and that God is persevering. And according to Philippians 1:6, “that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;”
And when God gets through with you, you’re going to stand complete, perfect in the glory of Jesus Christ. You shall arise in His likeness. You will be like Jesus. That’s God’s goal in your life and mine… and He will be faithful to perform it!
Pastor Hersch
We are gearing up for Tupperware's birthday in May and the gifts are sooo good right now! If you ever wanted to host a party NOW is the time! Call me at 954-934-8598
Another update on the kitchen too. Haakon came over and installed the microwave and WOW! I love my kitchen. It's looking soo nice! I'll post a pic eventually lol.
Here's Pastor Hersch.
Shelly
He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it. 1st Thessalonians 5:24
Maybe someone has let you down recently. Or maybe you’ve let yourself down. Take heart! God is faithful. He will do what He says He will do.
And not only is God faithful and reliable, but He is committed to your spiritual growth and maturity.
1st Thessalonians 5:23-24 says, “Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.”
I love that! Because it promises you and me that God is constantly working on us… creatively, constructively, and continually. The Spirit of God is working in your body and in your soul. And His purpose is to make you more like Him!
Remember when you were a teenager and you couldn’t wait to grow up? That’s how we feel sometimes as Christians. When will we ever grow up? When will we ever be responsible in the Christian life? When will we ever be obedient in the Christian life? It’s so easy to become frustrated with ourselves!
But we need to remember that God is patient… and that God is persevering. And according to Philippians 1:6, “that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;”
And when God gets through with you, you’re going to stand complete, perfect in the glory of Jesus Christ. You shall arise in His likeness. You will be like Jesus. That’s God’s goal in your life and mine… and He will be faithful to perform it!
Pastor Hersch
Monday, April 5, 2010
Monday
I hate Mondays...though I did sleep till noon. Sorta. Dave always takes the Monday after Easter off because we're always wiped out. So he let me sleep even tho I was up at 7am feeding the cats. Tonight I have a Tupperware meeting and other than the trip I just took to Wal-Mart, it's a laze kinda day.
I shared a week or so ago about the chance I was given to review some books by P.C. Cast. Well, said books arrived today. Soon as I finish Thirst NO.2 by Christopher Pike I will begin the Goddess of Partholon Series by Cast. Thanks again Felicity!
Pastor Hersch to follow :)
Shelly
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. Psalm 19:1
'How can you prove if God is real?' Have you ever been asked that question? My response has been, ‘How can you prove He doesn’t exist?’
For a simple but excellent answer allow me to quote the following poem:
There was a little boy,
On the week's first day,
Coming home from Sunday School
And wandering on the way.
He scuffed his shoes into the grass
And found a caterpillar.
He found a fluffy milkweed pod
And blew out all the filler.
A bird's nest in a tree above,
So wisely placed on high,
Was just another wonder
That caught his eager eye.
A neighbor watched his crooked course
And hailed him from the lawn.
He asked him where he'd been that day
And what was going on.
"I've been to Sunday School," he said
As he turned a piece of sod,
And picking up a worm, he smiled,
"I've learned a lot from God!"
"That's a fine way," the neighbor said,
"For a boy to spend his time.
Now if you can tell me where God is,
I'll give you a brand new dime."
Quick as a flash the answer came,
The boy said without complaint,
"I'll give you a dollar, Mister,
If you can tell me where God ain't!"
Pastor Hersch
I shared a week or so ago about the chance I was given to review some books by P.C. Cast. Well, said books arrived today. Soon as I finish Thirst NO.2 by Christopher Pike I will begin the Goddess of Partholon Series by Cast. Thanks again Felicity!
Pastor Hersch to follow :)
Shelly
The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament shows His handiwork. Psalm 19:1
'How can you prove if God is real?' Have you ever been asked that question? My response has been, ‘How can you prove He doesn’t exist?’
For a simple but excellent answer allow me to quote the following poem:
There was a little boy,
On the week's first day,
Coming home from Sunday School
And wandering on the way.
He scuffed his shoes into the grass
And found a caterpillar.
He found a fluffy milkweed pod
And blew out all the filler.
A bird's nest in a tree above,
So wisely placed on high,
Was just another wonder
That caught his eager eye.
A neighbor watched his crooked course
And hailed him from the lawn.
He asked him where he'd been that day
And what was going on.
"I've been to Sunday School," he said
As he turned a piece of sod,
And picking up a worm, he smiled,
"I've learned a lot from God!"
"That's a fine way," the neighbor said,
"For a boy to spend his time.
Now if you can tell me where God is,
I'll give you a brand new dime."
Quick as a flash the answer came,
The boy said without complaint,
"I'll give you a dollar, Mister,
If you can tell me where God ain't!"
Pastor Hersch
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Saturday, April 3, 2010
How do you celebrate Easter?
I love the song listed in Pastor's devotional today. Such a moving hymn. Tomorrow is Easter. I love the day even though it means getting up at an unreasonable hour and working till dawn. If just 1 soul is saved it is all worth it in my book.
Shelly
"Take my life and let it be, consecrated, Lord to Thee"--a classic song of the church proclaiming the Lordship of Jesus Christ in our lives.
Jesus was the prime example of a life given to God. He came to earth with the cross in view; His life would be given as a ransom for all. He served mankind with a whole heart. He formed for us an example to follow. He laid down His life that we might live.
And what do we do with this Life so freely given? We embrace it as our own; then we entrust our own lives back to Him. He gave so that we might give. And until we know the full surrender of a life totally dedicated to Jesus Christ, we will never truly be able to praise this Lord of Life.
He demands "our life, our love, our all." Can we do less than praise Him with our entire being--mind, soul, body, spirit? He is worthy of an all-encompassing praise from the people He loves. And to that end, we lay our lives at His feet, ready for the Master's use, an offering of eternal praise to Him whom we love and worship forevermore!
And so how do you celebrate Easter? Go ahead and enjoy your family traditions--pose with the Easter bunny, parade off a new outfit, dye those Easter eggs and dine with that hefty ham dinner--but remember, THAT'S not really Easter!
Easter is the Resurrection of our Lord--the Lord of Love, the Lord of Light and the Lord of Life. To Him we bring our praise forevermore--the eternal praise of Easter!
Pastor Hersch
Shelly
"Take my life and let it be, consecrated, Lord to Thee"--a classic song of the church proclaiming the Lordship of Jesus Christ in our lives.
Jesus was the prime example of a life given to God. He came to earth with the cross in view; His life would be given as a ransom for all. He served mankind with a whole heart. He formed for us an example to follow. He laid down His life that we might live.
And what do we do with this Life so freely given? We embrace it as our own; then we entrust our own lives back to Him. He gave so that we might give. And until we know the full surrender of a life totally dedicated to Jesus Christ, we will never truly be able to praise this Lord of Life.
He demands "our life, our love, our all." Can we do less than praise Him with our entire being--mind, soul, body, spirit? He is worthy of an all-encompassing praise from the people He loves. And to that end, we lay our lives at His feet, ready for the Master's use, an offering of eternal praise to Him whom we love and worship forevermore!
And so how do you celebrate Easter? Go ahead and enjoy your family traditions--pose with the Easter bunny, parade off a new outfit, dye those Easter eggs and dine with that hefty ham dinner--but remember, THAT'S not really Easter!
Easter is the Resurrection of our Lord--the Lord of Love, the Lord of Light and the Lord of Life. To Him we bring our praise forevermore--the eternal praise of Easter!
Pastor Hersch
Friday, April 2, 2010
God's Friday
Today in the secular world is good Friday. In the Christian world it's God's Friday. Jesus died on the cross on a this day many, many years ago. He died for you and for me. Take Him at His word today and you won't regret it. I personally have had 3 answered prayers just this week alone! On Sunday I put in a request for my brother Mike to be returned to days. He hates working the graveyard shift. I just found out this morning that he has been switched back. (pray it lasts plz)
On Monday I emailed friends & family and asked for prayer regarding our roof that leaked for the first time. Tuesday Justin's dad looked at it and said it's a super easy fix and he is charging us a very, very reasonable fee to fix it, almost nothing!
On Wednesday the boys and Rox-Anne and I put out the signs for our service Sunday. I forgot to put power steering fluid in and ran into Goodyear while the sign was being put on the corner. They filled the tires, checked the oil and filled the very low power steering fluid for me. For free! I asked them twice how much and was shocked both times with their response. God is good! :)
Shelly
Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John:19:30
Good Friday, a day of great solemnity,
Good Friday calls us to do what the disciples could not.
Good Friday calls us to join Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Jesus and John at the foot of the cross.
Good Friday invites us to enter that most excruciating moment of standing in our own impotence, unable to stop the dying. This day calls us to the steadiness of being present with Jesus and with one another in those harrowing moments of suffering and death.
It is always a “both/and”—we are called this day to wait for the moment when Jesus bows his head and gives up his spirit. And we are called every day to be present in that way to one another.
Some will discover a gift for nursing or visitation work. Others will have the innate ability to be with others whose lives are torn to ragged shreds by violence or war or natural disaster. Still others will discover that deep-rooted compassion that comes with living through grief and tragedy, seeing anew the suffering that surrounds us at every minute, though hidden by the glitz of our culture.
A mystery is revealed to us this day—the mystery of divine love, the love of Jesus, that permeates every moment of human life and experience. This day we are brought to the foot of the cross . The face of divine Love shines through Jesus’ dying flesh, and God’s own life, in Jesus, is united to ours.
“The Word became flesh and lived among us,” as the Gospel of John declares. John 1:14. In a way far beyond our human capacity to know or to understand, God is in Christ, knowing our sufferings from the inside out, hallowing the blood, the sweat and the tears, converting the cross from an instrument of death to a tree of life.
Truly, today is God’s Friday
May God grant us the grace to stand at the foot of the cross, to realize what it means and what it cost to redeem.
I love you Jesus. Help me to reflect Your love in this lost world I live in.
Amen.
Pastor Hersch
On Monday I emailed friends & family and asked for prayer regarding our roof that leaked for the first time. Tuesday Justin's dad looked at it and said it's a super easy fix and he is charging us a very, very reasonable fee to fix it, almost nothing!
On Wednesday the boys and Rox-Anne and I put out the signs for our service Sunday. I forgot to put power steering fluid in and ran into Goodyear while the sign was being put on the corner. They filled the tires, checked the oil and filled the very low power steering fluid for me. For free! I asked them twice how much and was shocked both times with their response. God is good! :)
Shelly
Then he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John:19:30
Good Friday, a day of great solemnity,
Good Friday calls us to do what the disciples could not.
Good Friday calls us to join Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Jesus and John at the foot of the cross.
Good Friday invites us to enter that most excruciating moment of standing in our own impotence, unable to stop the dying. This day calls us to the steadiness of being present with Jesus and with one another in those harrowing moments of suffering and death.
It is always a “both/and”—we are called this day to wait for the moment when Jesus bows his head and gives up his spirit. And we are called every day to be present in that way to one another.
Some will discover a gift for nursing or visitation work. Others will have the innate ability to be with others whose lives are torn to ragged shreds by violence or war or natural disaster. Still others will discover that deep-rooted compassion that comes with living through grief and tragedy, seeing anew the suffering that surrounds us at every minute, though hidden by the glitz of our culture.
A mystery is revealed to us this day—the mystery of divine love, the love of Jesus, that permeates every moment of human life and experience. This day we are brought to the foot of the cross . The face of divine Love shines through Jesus’ dying flesh, and God’s own life, in Jesus, is united to ours.
“The Word became flesh and lived among us,” as the Gospel of John declares. John 1:14. In a way far beyond our human capacity to know or to understand, God is in Christ, knowing our sufferings from the inside out, hallowing the blood, the sweat and the tears, converting the cross from an instrument of death to a tree of life.
Truly, today is God’s Friday
May God grant us the grace to stand at the foot of the cross, to realize what it means and what it cost to redeem.
I love you Jesus. Help me to reflect Your love in this lost world I live in.
Amen.
Pastor Hersch
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Maunday Thursday
Truly a sad day in history but one with a very happy ending! Tonight we will have our Maunday Thursday service. It's always just terribly emotional time so I will have to remember the tissues! I am so grateful that God did in fact send His Son to die for my sins. So thankful that He loved me that much!
Shelly
Then Jesus brought them to an olive grove called Gethsemane, and he said, “Sit here while I go on ahead to pray.” He took Peter and Zebedee’s two sons, James and John, and he began to be filled with anguish and deep distress. Matthew 26:36–37
If I had the opportunity to know my entire future from today on, I think I would pass. I would rather not know. But Jesus, being God, knew everything about His future down to the smallest detail.
As He agonized in the Garden of Gethsemane, He knew that in just a few short hours, He would be nailed to a Roman cross and crucified. He knew that He would be humiliated. He would be beaten. He would go through a horrendous whipping. He knew the great anguish that was ahead.
The Bible tells us Jesus was “a man of sorrows, acquainted with bitterest grief” Isaiah 53:3. The Bible also says in Hebrews, “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” 4:15-16.
In other words, God knows what you’re going through. You have a High Priest—that is, Jesus—who has faced the challenges you presently face.
Jesus was in this horrendous, difficult time, experiencing deep loneliness and abandonment by His friends. Yet He went through it.
The next time you face difficulty, the next time you face hardship, the next time you feel misunderstood and abandoned, remember that Jesus already has experienced those things. You have someone who understands you, sympathizes with you, and is there to strengthen you.
Tomorrow is God’s Friday. Please read from the Gospel of John, chapters 18 and 19.
Pastor Hersch
Shelly
Then Jesus brought them to an olive grove called Gethsemane, and he said, “Sit here while I go on ahead to pray.” He took Peter and Zebedee’s two sons, James and John, and he began to be filled with anguish and deep distress. Matthew 26:36–37
If I had the opportunity to know my entire future from today on, I think I would pass. I would rather not know. But Jesus, being God, knew everything about His future down to the smallest detail.
As He agonized in the Garden of Gethsemane, He knew that in just a few short hours, He would be nailed to a Roman cross and crucified. He knew that He would be humiliated. He would be beaten. He would go through a horrendous whipping. He knew the great anguish that was ahead.
The Bible tells us Jesus was “a man of sorrows, acquainted with bitterest grief” Isaiah 53:3. The Bible also says in Hebrews, “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” 4:15-16.
In other words, God knows what you’re going through. You have a High Priest—that is, Jesus—who has faced the challenges you presently face.
Jesus was in this horrendous, difficult time, experiencing deep loneliness and abandonment by His friends. Yet He went through it.
The next time you face difficulty, the next time you face hardship, the next time you feel misunderstood and abandoned, remember that Jesus already has experienced those things. You have someone who understands you, sympathizes with you, and is there to strengthen you.
Tomorrow is God’s Friday. Please read from the Gospel of John, chapters 18 and 19.
Pastor Hersch
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)