Judea

John 3:22-36
After leaving Jerusalem Jesus and His disciples travel northward into the countryside of Judea and begin baptizing.  John (the baptist) was also baptizing in the area near Salim.  When a dispute arose between John and Jesus' disciples regarding baptism John's disciples came to him disturbed that people where beginning to follow Jesus now and leaving John.  John graciously clarifies to his disciples his own ministry that has been given to him by God and helps them to understand that his time is coming to an end.  John gives us a perfect illustration of humility and a true walk with the Lord.  It is Jesus who is to be exalted not ourselves...if we glory in anything let it be as in Jeremiah 9:24, "...That he understands and knows Me, that I am the Lord, exercising lovingkindness, judgment and righteousness in the earth.  For in these I delight", says the Lord.

Darkness or Light?

John 3:19:-21
Jesus ends His discussion with Nicodemus explaining that God's condemnation is automatically upon us if we do not believe in His Son.  The Son is our light...the lampstand in the tabernacle...the knowledge of the truth of life to our minds and hearts.  If we do not accept the truth that Jesus is the Son of God who saved mankind from sin our minds...our souls...remain in darkness.  He says the reason some people remain in darkness is because they are unwilling to change, they love their evil selfish and prideful ways and are not willing to give them up.  Nicodemus came to Jesus during the nightime...at the darkest time of day so he wouldn't be seen by other men...I believe Jesus is telling Nicodemus that he (as we all are ) is condemned by God and that if  he wants to dispell the confusion in his mind and be right with God he needs the light of knowledge and must come to believe in who He (Jesus) is.  If Nicodemus had initially believed Jesus was the Messiah...the true Son of God...he wouldn't have come to him in the dark but rather openly in the light of day.  That alone revealed something about Nicodemus however later he does become a believer in the light of day and wasn't afraid of men but rather was freed by the "fear of God".

New heart

John 3:1:-21
"Are you the teacher of Israel and do not know these things?"  "Are we going to church and following religious events and do not know these things?"  The former is the statement Jesus made to Nicodemus, the latter is what He is saying to us today.  Ezekiel 36:26 and other passages in the Old Testament are a foreshadowing of the change that takes place at salvation.  As the teacher of Israel Nicodemus should have known but failed to understand the true meaning of Gods plan throughout the scriptures, even so he is earnestly seeking and later becomes a public follower of Christ.  Jesus brings this single message to all who encountered Him along the way...God sent His Son, not to condemn the world but that the world through Him might be saved and all who believe in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.  Nicodemus received a new heart,  not because he was a religious person but because he came to believe in the one who was lifted up as a ransom for many...the one he spoke to in the dark.  May we also believe in Him.

'I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.".-Ezek 36:26

Nicodemus

John 3:1:-21
Jesus knows what is in the heart of man...I guess that is the best explanation there is for now as to why He answered Nicodemus with a discourse on being born again.  Nicodemus, as a Pharisee, was looking for the Messiah to come and that would mean reigning with God in His Kingdom...had it come?...Nicodemus was wondering.  Yes, but not in the way Nicodemus had perceived it would, nor anyone perceived it would.  Jesus is making it clear what it would take to be a part of the Kingdom of God.  You must be born again!   Born of the Spirit.  You must have a new heart, the old life of the the flesh must die.  Nicodemus marvels at this and sounds more confused than ever but continues to be open and tries to understand what Jesus is telling him.  Jesus goes onto explain that He is the only one who knows this witness is true since He has come from heaven and knows the mysteries of Heavenly matters, no mere man could do that.   I'll work more on this passage tomorrow.

There was a man...

John 3:1:-21
This is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful conversations recorded between Jesus and someone seeking truth regarding his own standing before God.   Nicodemus was a ruler of the Jews, intellectually asute in the scriptures yet lacking in the full understanding of what they meant.  He had seen "signs" that God was with Jesus...now his heart compelled him to come to Christ under the cloak of darkness seeking to unravel the swirling confusion in his mind.  Nicodemus addresses Jesus as Rabbi, which meant Great Teacher, so he showed respectful humility and an honest desire to learn from the Lord.  However, I am still not able to figure out how Jesus came up with the reply that he did based on the initial greeting from Nicodemus.  I'm pondering that today and am following this discourse for a few days.

Passover and First Temple Cleansing

John 2:13-18
Jesus didn't stay in Capernaum long but left for Jerusalem because the time for the Passover was near.  Once in Jerusalem Jesus drove the money changers from the Temple overturning their tables and money boxes.  These men were polluting what was sacred by extorting money from the poor in exchange for sacrifical animals.  This was not the intent or Spirit of the law, peoples hearts were far from wanting to do what was right and Jesus was determined to rid God's house of prayer from all that defiled it.  I'm sure this took His followers, the money changers and the Priests by surprise but it began a force of change that no one could deny.  We need to beware ourselves that our Worship doesn't become merely ritualistic and empty, going through the motions for appearance sake but hollow before God...for He sees the heart,.

Capernaum

John 2:12
Jesus went to Capernaum with His mother and brothers although he didn't stay there long.  Jesus will later come back to this city and settle here for a time performing many miracles and preaching a message of repentence.  For now though He heads to Jerusalem for the Passover.

The Wedding and The Wine

John 2:1-11
Jesus and His disciples returned to Galilee where they were invited to a wedding in Cana.  Mary, Jesus' mother was present.  During the feast a crisis occured--the wine ran out --so Mary had the servants seek out Jesus for a solution to the problem.  Reluctant to reveal His Messiahship but happy to accomadate the needs of His people Jesus turned water (meant for purificaton) into 120-180 gallons of the finest wine.  This is the first recorded miracle Jesus performed.  The significance of this first miracle is worth pondering today as is this quote from E.G. White in The Desire of the Ages:

"The gift of Christ to the marriage feast was a symbol. The water represented baptism into His death; the wine, the shedding of His blood for the sins of the world. The water to fill the jars was brought by human hands, but the word of Christ alone could impart to it life-giving virtue. So with the rites which point to the Savior's death. It is only by the power of Christ, working through faith, that they have efficacy to nourish the soul."

The first miracle...a transformation at a wedding feast...to God be the Glory!

The First Disciples

John 1:36-50
Jesus initially chose five men to follow him, these same men were followers of John the Baptist and some of them knew Jesus to be the Messiah.  John the apostle, brothers Andrew & Simon Peter, Philip, and Nathanael were asked by Jesus to follow him.  Jesus, along with his new disciples returned to Galilee.  Below is a map that shows the area of Jesus' early travels. 

http://www.ccel.org/bible/phillips/CN160-TRAVELS.htm 

Christ Begins His Ministry

Matthew 3:13 - 4:12
Jesus was baptised in the River Jordan near Bethany by John the Baptist in the fall of A.D. 26 and began His ministry in the region of Galilee during the Spring of A.D. 27 when He was about 30 years old.  Immediately following His baptism Jesus compelled by the Holy Spirit, consciously decided to enter the Judean dessert thus replicating the Israelites wilderness experience.  Through forty days in the wilderness, withstanding wild animals, hunger, thirst, and relentless attacks by Satan, Jesus remained firm in righteousness and faith in God unlike Israel who fell to sin and unbelief.  This begins this years' 40 day Spiritual Spring Training, a look at the early ministry of Jesus. When and where He traveled during the early part of His ministry.  How He lived, loved, and cared for others.  What instruction and examples He gave to those who want to follow Him. Jesus determined it was time to leave His hometown of Nazareth, possibly after His father Joseph died He now felt it time to set out to fulfill Gods plan.  His baptism was an act of public consecration, a dedication and anointing to obey God's will.  His wilderness testing demonstrated the strength and power of God to live righteously by faith as an example to us as to how to walk in the Spirit and not fulfill the lust of the flesh.

Buried

Matthew 27:57-66, Mark 15:42-47, Luke 23:50-56, John 19:38-42

Jesus was buried honorably, Joseph of Arimathea, a wealthy member of the Sanhedrin, gathered his courage and went to Pilot to ask for His body.  Joseph was waiting for the Kingdom of God and had become a follower of Jesus.  He purchased a linen cloth to wrap Jesus naked body in, preparing Him for burial.  Nicodemus, a Pharisee who had earlier sought out Jesus privately to question Him about the Kingdom, also came with Joseph.  Nicodemus purchased large quantities of oil for Jesus' burial.  Together they removed Jesus lifeless body from the cross and took Him to a nearby tomb that belonged to Joseph.  Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses watched the men bury Jesus and close up the tomb with a large stone.  It was becoming dark now so the women left to prepare more ointment in order to return on Sunday morning.  The Passover day of preparation began at sundown Friday night and no work was allowed until Sunday.  They would have to wait to come back and complete burial rituals, apparently not anticipating His resurrection.  Fearing that the disciples may steal Jesus' body, the Pharisees arranged for Pilot to order a Roman military guard to seal and guard the tomb.  Where Jesus was while in the grave, before He rose from the dead, is unclear but we do know that when the women returned Sunday morning they discovered His grave empty.  An Angel who was at the tomb told the women to go and tell the disciples, “He is not here; He has risen, just as He said". 

Thank you to any who have read this blog, this devotion ends our 40 days together, we have journeyed throughout Perea, Judea, Galilee and into Jerusalem following Jesus each step of the way.  It has been fun for me, and hopefully you as well, to learn more about the route He took in His last three months.  It has helped me to understand His teachings better and the people whose lives He touched along the way.  Tomorrow we celebrate Jesus' resurrection from the dead and our redemption from sin for, "This is how God showed His love among us: He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him".  Have a Blessed Resurrection Morning! 

Arrested-Tried-Murdered

Matthew  26 & 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, John 19
Just as Jesus received the peace and strength from God that He needed to continue the betrayer Judas, leading a large crowd of Jewish leaders and Roman soldiers through the Garden of Gethsemane, approached Jesus and arrested Him.  Jesus withstood six trials before Jewish and Roman leaders throughout the night and early morning, all a travesty of justice.  Three Jewish trials were held during the night while still dark; at the break of day three Roman trials began continuing until He was crucified around 9:00 am.  During the trials both Jews and Romans repeatedly tortured Jesus beating Him in the face and body, spitting on Him, and pulling out His beard.  He was mocked and ridiculed, flogged, and forced to wear a crown of thorns jammed into His head.  Jesus was barely alive when made to carry the heavy beam the half mile to Golgotha.  His death on the cross took six hours.  During the first three hours, the words He spoke were directed to the benefit of others, asking the Father to forgive the soldiers for unknowingly crucifying Him, to the criminal next to Him stating that the thief would also be with Him in Paradise this very day, and to His mother and John, giving John charge of His mother's care.  In the last three hours of His crucifixion, from noon to three o'clock, darkness fell over all the land, an indication of God's judgment against sin in the person of His Son.  Jesus now bore the full weight of our sin and endured the wrath of the just God.  He spoke to the Father four times towards the end, just before He died.  His final two comments, "It is finished" and "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit" show the completeness of His sacrifice and its acceptance by God.  He paid the debt for our sin, we are now set free.  Thank you Jesus...Glory to God!

The Meal & The Garden

Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, John 13
It is time for the Passover meal, Jesus sends His disciples ahead to an upper room in Jerusalem to prepare the meal.  Jesus begins the meal by washing the feet of the disciples teaching them intimately of the daily spiritual cleansing and humility that is needed in serving one another in His name.  Making their way through the traditional Passover meal Jesus used this time to bring to life the true meaning and significance of this particular meal ending with the replacement of the Mosaic covenant for the new covenant of the Lord's Supper.  Jesus institutes a new way to worship, the broken bread represents His body given in sacrifice, and the cup represents His blood, the blood of the new covenant. Sometime during the meal, Judas Iscariot was identified as the one who would betray Jesus and left the meal. Judas had already met with the Sadducee Chief Priests and arranged the betrayal now he is going to carry it out.  Following the meal Jesus talked about His leaving and His promise to return.  He goes on to assure them of His resurrection and peace in all their trials.  As they leave the Upper Room and make their way through Jerusalem across the Kidron valley towards the Mount of Olives, they come to a garden that lies at the base of the mountain, the garden of Gethsemane.  Gethsemane means "oil press", it is here the oil is pressed from the olives on the mountain, a fitting place for the pressing that Jesus endures as He agonizes over receiving the wrath of God for sin and His physical suffering that lies ahead.  His anguish was so great that He prayed with loud cries and tears, the angels came to minister to Him during His distress.  Although Jesus struggled with His impending suffering, He did not turn away from His duty or reliance on God but rather prayed, "Not my will, but yours be done", a perfect example to us of utter surrender.

Olivet Discourse

Matthew 24 & 25, Mark 13, Luke 21:5-38
After teaching in the temple all day, Jesus led the disciples up the Mount of Olives.  The afternoon sun would have reflected off the golden temple dome, combined with the marble buildings the suns rays would have gleamed with magnificent brilliance.  Seeing this inspiring view and the great foundation stones from King Solomon's temple courts lying across the Kidron Valley gave rise to His end time's talk called the Olivet Discourse.  The sobering end times discourse first involved Jesus explaining the nature of this time period.  I am no end time's scholar by any means but I can see four things here to take note of.  First their will be false Christ's proclaiming the end; secondly a great intensity of wars, commotions, disaster, famines, diseases, and earthquakes; third there will be persecution for His disciples; and lastly the Gospel will be preached in the whole world. Through a series of parables He emphasized being watchful and faithful until He returns in the same manner He left, appearing in the clouds on the Mount of Olives.  The emphasis here is BE PREPARED!  We do not know the day or the hour of His return but we do know that He is coming and we need to be ready and... helping others do the same.

Being Genuine

Matthew 21:20-22, Mark 11:20-26  / Withered Fig Tree
Matthew 21:23-23:36, Mark 11:27-12:40, Luke 20:1-20:47 / Authority Challenged
Mark 12:41-44, Luke 21:1-4 / Widow's Offering
Heading back into Jerusalem the next day Jesus and the disciples passed the fig tree that Jesus cursed the day before, it was withered and dead.  Peter and the others were astonished, Jesus' reply is, I believe, with equal amazement towards their lack of faith and responded that this and more, even this mountain, will submit to them (and us) if you believe. Have faith from a pure heart He says, do not harbor hate in your heart, which causes doubt, but rather stand before God forgiving others.  Wise words as they were descending from the Mounts of Olives into the city below.  Jesus was about to be confronted by hordes of Jewish priests, scribes, lawyers, teachers, and elders as He was teaching in the temple. They challenged His authority throughout the day and tried to entrap Him by posing a series of debates and questions of various kinds about temple operations, taxes, the resurrection, and the commandments.  Jesus responded with parables and questions of His own, finally Jesus harshly pronounced judgment on them and denounced their practices in scorching condemnation.  Following His wrathful discourse towards them He is filled with pity for the nation and the destruction that He knows they will face.  Then the highlight of His day...as He is sitting back observing the people putting money into the treasury He spots a poor widow quietly giving to God all the money she has to offer. Yes, there is a righteous remnant in Israel!  People whose hearts are fixed on God and not trying to please man. He beckons the disciples to take note of this act of genuine piety and continues today to beckon us as well.  Have faith in Him, believe in God and give all that we have in genuine love. 

Cleaning House

Matthew 21:12-17, Mark 11:15-19, Luke 19:45-48
"MY HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED A HOUSE OF PRAYER FOR ALL THE NATIONS"
As Jesus once again drove out religious thieves from the temple He echoed the words of the prophet Isaiah who made it very clear that God would not reject anyone who wanted to join themselves to Him, who loved His name and would hold to His ways.  His house of prayer was to be joyful and acceptable for all people.  It had become a ROBBERS' DEN, preying on the weaknesses of others.  Greedy lecherous deceitful charlatans found evil ways to use God's sacrificial laws to serve their own purposes within the temple walls.  Jesus was setting them straight, reforming their ways...they hated Him for it. This portion of scripture says the Jewish leaders heard about what He was doing and sought ways to further destroy Him because "they were afraid of Him".  Not the kind of fear we read about in Proverbs that tells us the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom but the type of fear that came out of their own decadence and depravity.  Fearfully that is something we are all capable of apart from God.  How important it is to draw near to Him and openly allow Him to clean our hearts and lives.  May our PASSION for Him this week be as strong for Him as His is for us.

"For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God"

Jesus Weeps

Luke 19: 41-44
Following His entry into Jerusalem as the Messiah Jesus entered the temple and looked around at everything then left for Bethany, he would postpone the temple cleansing until tomorrow.  The next day He approached Jerusalem and viewed the city from the Mount of Olives.  As He was looking down over the beloved city and it's inhabitants He began to deeply mourn and lament over Jerusalem saying how He longed for them to know the way of peace but it was to late now, they had rejected Him as Messiah and would be judged.  They did not realize that God had visited upon them His Son. About this time, Jesus sees a fig tree without edible fruit and symbolically curses it showing the coming judgment on Israel. This is a time of deep emotion for Jesus, the beginning birth pangs of coming agony.  I can remember several times in my life when God visited upon me the opportunity to receive His Son and obey His truth but I rejected Him too.  As I look back over my life now I can see that I fell deeper into sin each time I turned away from Him.  How grateful I am that He mercifully brought me back and didn't utterly reject me and I wish that I had surrendered to His will sooner.  My hope now is that others will join with the great cloud of witnesses that hails Jesus as the Son of God.  Have a blessed Palm Sunday celebration in your fellowship with Jesus.

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem,...how often would I have gathered thy children together,

 even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!



Hosanna!

Matthew 21:1-11, Mark 11:1-11, Luke 19:28-40, John 12:12-19
"Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!  The King of Israel!"  The growing crowd following Jesus surged as He approached Jerusalem mingling with those in the city hearing of His arrival.  Jesus would at last accept the adulation of the crowd as their King...fulfilling all scripture.  Laying palm branches and clothing ahead of Jesus as He rode on the colt of a donkey, the people shouted and praised Him, hailing Him as the Messiah.  The Jewish leaders, incensed at hearing this called to Jesus to rebuke His worshippers but Jesus denied them knowing it would be a futile effort, even if they were to stop the stones would raise their voices in praise this day as this was the moment long waited for, the formal presentation of the Messiah to Israel, the savior God had promised. Jesus will now spend the last week of His life in and around Jerusalem, the first part of the week He will demonstrate His office by cleansing the temple and confronting the Jewish nation's religious leadership. The second part of the week He retires with His disciples and friends sharing further information about His death, their responsibilities, and the future of the Jewish nation. Hosanna!  Hosanna! Hosanna to the King!

The Anointing

John 12: 1-8
Jesus entry into Jerusalem is imminent, six days before the Passover He stops in Bethany once again at the home of His dear friends Lazarus, Mary, and Martha.  While Lazarus reclines at the table and Martha dutifully serves Jesus supper Mary enters with a costly alabaster jar filled with pure nard, a rich aromatic perfume oil.  (Being a lavender grower myself, I like to think of it as lavender oil :)  The cost of the ointment was as much as a year's wage of a laboring man.  Mary must have given a great deal for this perfume or perhaps it was a precious gift that had been given to her.  Mary was a special woman, she loved people more than things and she loved Jesus more than she loved herself.  Despite the customs of the day in regards to women displaying such unseemly behavior as perfuming someone’s feet or allowing her hair to flow freely, all signs of a “wanton” woman, Mary pours out her affection and adoration for her Lord in the midst of a crowd.  She had sat at His feet on many occasions, listening to Him speak of His Heavenly Father and His Kingdom in Heaven.  She observed His manner with those He loved, His gentle tone of compassion and yet authority when He spoke.  She heard Him share eternal truths and stories time and time again, each time lovingly filling her heart and soul with life.  Now, by tending to His feet, she has an opportunity to bless Him and give Him comfort from His journeys. She is aware of the growing hostility towards Him and has heard that He speaks of His impending death, fearing for Him she longs to express herself.  Her pure love and devotion freely flow and mingle with the beautiful aroma of the oil that she has kept in a jar for just such a special occasion.  The wonderful fragrance diffuses throughout the whole house and blesses others as does our good deeds done towards the Lord with a pure heart.  She was chided by one of the disciples for her extravagance but the Lord quickly comes to her defense as He does for us when our ways please Him.  We do not need to fear what others think when we show our devotion for our Lord, He is near and will protect.

Nobleman's Parable

Luke 19: 11-27
While Jesus was still talking to Zaccheus He knew the disciples who were listening thought He was going to Jerusalem to establish the Kingdom of God in a temporal way.  They envisioned that Jesus would very soon set up His throne and begin His reign.  With this in mind, Jesus told them a parable about a nobleman who went to a far country to have himself appointed king and then return.  Before he left he gave three workers each some money to use while he was gone.  They were expected to use it for the kingdom and serve him until he came back. The rebellious city where he journeyed to rejected him and was destroyed.  When he returned from his trip he called for the workers to see how they handled the money in his absence.  The workers who served him while he was gone were rewarded with more authority but the servant who did not work was denied any reward. Jesus continues to prepare his disciples for when he will leave them, they must occupy until He returns again as we must also, using the gifts that He gives to serve Him and produce fruit for the Kingdom. 

Zaccheus

Luke 19: 1-10
Jesus met Bartemaeus and restored his sight as He approached Jericho. Now as Jesus is going through this same city a small man named Zaccheus heard that Jesus was coming and is so excited to see Him he climbs a tree to get a better look.  I'm sure he never dreamed Jesus would ever stop and single him out of the crowd.  Zaccheus was a chief tax collector, meaning he managed other tax collectors.  He was very wealthy and here Jesus shows that even though someone is rich, with God salvation is still possible.  Jesus had recently been teaching on this, what a divine example of the transformation process that can take place.  Zaccheus went from someone who trusted in his wealth to someone who trusted in God.  When we completely place our faith in God He changes our hearts, which begins to transform our lives.  There is no better example regarding salvation and the changes it can make in your life than Zaccheus, his heart is open to Jesus, he seeks after him, Jesus calls him by name and Jesus signifies his acceptance into the Kingdom by inviting Himself into Zaccheus' home to eat.  Then here is the transformation and it was immediate...Zaccheus determines to give to the poor half of all his possessions and immediately desires to repay those he has stolen from.  He also pays back to them four times as much in interest as he has stolen.  Jesus affirms his salvation and calls him a son of Abraham. Zaccheus didn't allow his money or position to keep him from Jesus and because of his faith, which was evident by giving to the poor and making restitution for his wrong doings (not easy things to do) Jesus welcomed him into the Kingdom.

"For by grace you have been saved through faith; and not of yourselves, it is the gift of God." 
Eph 2:8
 "He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward him for what he has done."  Proverbs 19:17

Blind Bartemaeus

Matthew 20:29-34, Mark 10:46-52, Luke 18:35-43
Jesus is now approaching Jericho, which was about 12 miles northeast of Jerusalem.  As He was nearing the city, a man began calling out for Jesus to have mercy on him.  It was Bartemaeus, a blind beggar who desperately wanted to see.  Blind and poor, this is a wonderful example of why Jesus came to the world, to give light to those in darkness not just physical sight but spiritual sight.  I believe He delighted in giving Bartemaeus sight, in showing His mercy not just to Bartemaeus but also to all who were there.  The disciples had tried to stop the blind man as He was calling out for the Lord, as people will do to us as we seek Him.  Nevertheless, Bartemaeus would not be held back, it did not matter what anyone else thought he wanted to see beyond all costs.  That is what Jesus is looking for, to come to Him at all costs so that He can show us mercy.  Mercy is a lovely word, getting something we do not deserve. The Bible says mercy goes before truth and this quote from the Merchant of Venice is a beautiful literary quote, which describes mercies strength.

The quality of mercy is not strained.

It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven

Upon the place beneath. It is twice blest:

It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.

Tis mightiest in the mightiest; it becomes

The throned monarch better than his crown.

His scepter shows the force of temporal power,

The attribute to awe and majesty,

Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings.

But mercy is above this sceptered sway;

It is enthroned in the hearts of kings;

It is an attribute of God himself;

And earthly power doth then show like God's

When mercy seasons justice.

Heavenly Ambition

Matthew 20:20-28, Mark 10:35-45
I have been looking forward to studying this story, having two sons of my own (and a beautiful daughter); I related somewhat to this mother's ambition for her children, missed placed as it was.  What I discovered about her was interesting.  Her name was Salome (some believe her to be a sister to Jesus mother Mary but that is questionable); she had followed Jesus all throughout His ministry with other women of the day.  Their family was wealthier than most seeing they had servants and since there is no record of the boy’s father resisting Jesus’ call, it appears he was supportive. I would imagine their family was one of religious devotion and harmony, Salome had undoubtedly prayed much over the years for her sons and now as they have traveled with Jesus, seen astonishing miracles, and witnessed His power she felt the time was right to establish her son's future in the new Kingdom.  She, along with her sons, approached Jesus as they neared Jerusalem, making a request for the highest-ranking positions.  Jesus, rather than to rebuke simply redirects their aspirations.  In the Father's Kingdom He says service to one another is the mark of greatness not lording over others with authority.  He makes them think about what they are willing to give for this lofty position, asking if they can bear the same cup as He.  These men boldly proclaim their dedication, I am sure not fully understanding at the time what was to come, but they nonetheless felt they were ready to do whatever was needed in order to receive the honor of their request. In the end they would go on to suffer for the Kingdom, James was the first to die a martyr's death by beheading and John was the last of the apostles to die, living well into his 90's.  They did both serve the Kingdom faithfully but we will have to wait and see whom God has placed on either side of Jesus.

Coming Trials

Matthew 20:17-19, Mark 10:32, Luke 18:31-34
Jesus, along with His disciples and others on the pilgrimage, had come down from Galilee passing once again for a short time through Perea and is now on His way to the Passover in Jerusalem for the last time.  He has been walking along talking to those who have followed and now at this point He pulls His disciples aside and continues to prepare them for the coming trials.  This is the third time Jesus predicted His death and the disciples, who it says were astonished, could see that He was resolved to face death but could not completely grasp the implications of what He was telling them.  The disciples needed to know what was about to happen since they were in peril too so Jesus is more specific than at any other time regarding His arrest and suffering.  He will be delivered to the Chief Jewish leaders, condemned to die, beaten and crucified by the Gentile then raise from the dead three days later. This is the first time He mentions being crucified.  This time Jesus adds His resurrection ending with a message of hope.  The disciples couldn't understand why God's chosen vessel would have to suffer and die.  This is the greatest mystery of the Kingdom.  Jesus wasn't just setting the Jews free from Roman oppression He was setting all of mankind free from sin.  After His resurrection they would come to understand though and as we step out in faith, believing in His sacrifice and resurrection, we understand too.

Landowner's Sovereignty

Matthew 20: 1-16
"But many who are first will be last, and the last first."  Jesus begins and ends the parable of the landowner with this seemingly contradictory statement.  Here Jesus sheds light on one of the great mysteries of the gospel; that God in His sovereignty chose to admit the Gentiles into His Kingdom and give us equal privileges with the Jews.  He is revealing that even though the Jews were called first God is sovereign in salvation, and we all receive much more than we deserve. The prominent feature that should mark the worker in His vineyard is one of grateful humility for even being called...for many are called but few are chosen. But that was not the response Jesus received. Human nature or the flesh, as the Bible calls it, has a way of twisting and perverting what is right.  This parable still speaks to us today about God's sovereignty and our acceptance of His right to rule in any manner He chooses.  Do we accept His ways or do we grumble and complain thinking we are treated unfairly.  Of course it helps to understand that He is good and that all things work together for good to those that love Him and are called for His purposes.  So today instead of being angry and upset that we were treated unfairly, lets humbly rejoice for someone else that they received a blessing or we may go last.

Rich Young Ruler

Matthew 19:16-30, Mark 10:17-31, Luke 18:18-30
The rich young ruler asked, "What shall I do to inherit eternal life?"  I overheard two women having a conversation the other day about a man who was ill and at the point of death.  They couldn't understand why he was terribly afraid to die. "He has led a good life", one of them said, "Why would he be scared to die?"  My heart broke for this man and for them.  They didn't understand what it meant to have eternal life in Christ?  This young ruler had led a good life and followed God's commandments yet he too, I believe, was afraid too die still lacking the assurance of eternal life. Why?  Because there was something still standing between this rich ruler and God, his own wealth.  Jesus put His finger on the very thing that stood between him and God, the idol that meant more to him than anything else. "One thing you still lack", Jesus said, "sell all...and distribute to the poor".  Turn over to Me the one thing that is more important to you than I am.  Love Me first.  Give me ALL your heart.  That is what Jesus is saying...to the ruler, His disciples, and to us.  It could be something other than money but money in this world has incredible power in our lives.  And although it is very hard to let go of the power money has with God it is not impossible. Jesus expresses that it is never impossible—no matter how hopeless it may seem— for someone to find eternal life through Him.  That has been God’s plan before the foundations of the earth were even laid and is still His plan today.   As Jesus spends the last days of His ministry with the disciples, He reinforces belief in God and not just a halfhearted belief but a belief that believes above all else that God can save anyone.  He is saying to His disciples as you proclaim the Kingdom of God to the world, you will encounter people who act as if they desire to know God but will turn away...don’t give up on them, because nothing is too hard for God.  And when you leave all to serve me your reward will be greater than any worldly riches could ever bring.

Blessing Children

Matthew 19:13-15, Mark 10:13-16, Luke 18:15-17
Jesus loved children, the disciples saw them as a bother but Jesus was refreshed by their innocence and genuine love.  What a contrast they were to the arrogant Pharisees who challenged Him daily.  Children are drawn to goodness which explains why they flocked around Jesus.  I remember hearing of Him as a child my self and longed for the day He would come for me.  My heart was open which is how Jesus explains to the disciples that this is the way of the Kingdom, they must come to God as a child would, open, willing to believe and to do whatever is asked of them.  Again, how simple the instruction.  Jesus blessed the children then as He still does today.  I love the words…”He took them up in His arms, put His hands upon them, and blessed them”.  How comforting to be loved in the arms of the Savior and to have His hand of blessing upon your head.  The beautiful thing is that in Christ we are all His children.  He longs to comfort, He longs to bless, He longs to care for and tend His flock of children.  Rejoice in His arms!

Divorce

Matthew 19:3-12, Mark 10:1-12, Luke 16:18
Jesus was tested over and over again on many issues, this question on marriage and divorce was just another opportunity for the Pharisees to try and turn the people against Him.  The Jews were divided on the matter of divorce, some said a man could divorce for very trifle reasons, others felt it only allowable for uncleanness.  Trying to trap Jesus they posed this question, rather than to be pulled into that debate Jesus drew them back to the truth in Genesis concerning God's original design for marriage.  God made men and women for one another, when they join together in marriage two people in essence become as one.  They complete each other and should never separate.  This was and still is God's plan for the human race.  Marriage then should be entered into with a great deal of thought and commitment but human nature does not always take that course.  So many times we become selfish and self-centered concerning our needs and rather than to put God first in our marriages we allow our hearts to harden and look for a way out.  Jesus goes on to talk about the ability for some to remain single for the sake of serving God, but those who are not prepared for the sacrifices of single life should marry.  It is rather straight forward simple instruction but my how mankind has complicated this aspect of human relationships. 

Humble Prayer

Luke 18:9-14
God's nature is to resist the proud and give grace to the humble.  The battle between Jesus and those who are self-righteous continues here in this parable.  We are told that they trust in themselves that they are righteous and also that they view others with contempt.  Years ago I did a Bible study called The Mind of Christ, excellent study by the way and I highly recommend it, one thing has stood out to me all these years from that study.  It described a puritanical attitude, an attitude that is marked by seeing yourself as good or righteous and comparing others with yourself rather than to Jesus.  This attitude is at the heart of this parable. How do we really approach God?  Do we think God should be impressed with all we have done; do we want others to admire and applaud our activities?  Do we trust in our own moral efforts to bring us favor before God? Do we exalt our self rather than others?  It is clear that Jesus is condemning these actions and instead reminds us that humility is what God is looking for.  Finally, is there anyone that we are looking on with contempt?  Maybe we are comparing them to ourselves rather than to Jesus. 

"Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering." Col. 3:12 

Persistent Prayer

Luke 18:1-8
Pray, Pray, Pray...and never tire of praying.  That is the admonition we find here in Jesus words to His disciples and to us.  I love the persistence of this widow before a Judge known for his self-centeredness.  Many of us, I believe, see God in this same self-centered way; uncaring about our real needs, indifferent, egotistical, callous, the list goes on and on.  I've learned that our view and understanding of God's true nature has a direct bearing on our prayer life.  I have often wondered why Jesus used a bad example for the Judge here; I mean why not use an example of a good and righteous Judge?  As I thought about it today, I'm wondering if it wasn't to confront our wrong ideas of what our Heavenly Father is truly like.  Primarily of course, Jesus is illustrating for us to be persistent in our prayers to God.  Don't give up, press on, keep knocking and God will show Himself faithful to us.  But, I also think Jesus is saying understand what your Heavenly Father is like because it is your wrong idea of Him that keeps you from coming to Him in prayer.
So...know that your Father in Heaven cares (He wouldn't have sent Jesus to die if He didn't) and....P.U.S.H.  Pray Until Something Happens.  Now that's persistence!

Thy Kingdom Come

Luke 17: 20-37
"When is the Kingdom of God coming?" the Pharisees asked, wanting to see a physical manifestation of a Kingdom that would elevate the Jewish nation.  Jesus continued to correct their attitude, it isn't with pomp and circumstance that the Kingdom of God reveals itself; it is a spiritual Kingdom, a Kingdom that changes the heart and transforms lives.  Being born into this world and raised in this physical realm, it is hard to imagine the type of Kingdom Jesus speaks of; we are use to seeing great fanfare were governments are concerned. In order to prepare them, Jesus told the disciples here about the conditions that will prevail at His second coming.  It is not the usual scene displayed when you think of the Kingdom of God but that is the point, Jesus is changing the thinking of the day and shifting the focus to a spiritual Kingdom of love and obedience to God.  One thing was evident to me as I read this section of scripture, when Jesus returns again it will be sudden and without warning, be prepared. As it says in verse 33, "Whoever seeks to keep his life will lose it, and whoever loses {his life} will preserve it." 

Ten Lepers

Luke 17:11-19
Jesus, knowing His death at Passover is imminent, withdraws from northern Judea and travels north through Samaria and part of Galilee. He then joined the pilgrims there traveling to Jerusalem for Passover. Historically the normal route from Galilee was to cross the Jordan River and travel south through Perea, avoiding Samaria. Jesus apparently followed this route. From southern Perea He then crossed back across the Jordan to Jericho, and walked from there up to Jerusalem. While passing through a village Jesus meets a group of ten lepers who remained at a distance.  Leprosy is an infectious disease that is characterized by disfiguring skin sores, nerve damage, and progressive debilitation.  In Biblical times people with leprosy were forbidden to live among the healthy community and were forced to live in isolation outside the camp. Many would form colonies as we see in this portion of scripture. As Jesus approached the lepers they cried out loudly to Him for mercy, calling Him "Master".  They must have been able to tell who Jesus was even from a distance and they desperately needed help!  They didn't even ask for healing, their suffering had gone on for so long all they could ask for was that He show some compassion towards them.  I think Jesus purposely went this way; He seeks those who do not seek Him and goes out of His way to reach them.  Jesus doesn't say anything to the lepers about healing but tells them to go show themselves to the priest, the law stated that the priest decides who has leprosy and who was clean and could enter the community once again.  It is evident that Jesus valued and followed the Old Testament laws here and as the ten lepers obediently followed God's Word themselves and went to see the priests, they were healed of their leprosy on the way.  Obedience produces wonderful things in our lives.  Only one came back to thank Him though, Jesus noticed the ingratitude of the others too, He knows how important it is to acknowledge the blessings we receive from Him.  The first chapter of Romans reminds us of what happens when we continue on our merry way without acknowledging His mercy in our lives..."because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were they thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened".  One leper did return, prostrating himself and glorifying God.  Jesus continued to have mercy on Him, not just physically but spiritually... and now Jesus said, "Your faith has made you whole".  Not just healed but WHOLE!
 ...and in Him you have been made complete, and He is the head over all rule and authority.  Col 2:10

The Evil Plot Thickens

John 11:45-54

Humanly speaking bringing Lazarus back to life was the main reason the chief priests and Pharisees plotted to kill Jesus.  Jesus had already been wanted for arrest in Jerusalem but this event sealed His death.  Directly after Lazarus was raised the priestly council met to determine what could be done to stop the one who dare speak against them and capture the heart of the nation.  The evil intentions of the Jewish leaders is made evident during the council, they were not as concerned about His blasphemy as they were about losing their position and authority.  During the council the high priest Caiaphas unknowingly prophesied a message from God that one man should die for the people and not that the whole nation should perish. From God's perspective things were right on schedule, His plan for the death of His Son was not only to die for the nation but that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad (the Gentiles).  Jesus was sent to die for all mankind, but not quite yet.  He would withdraw from public life until the Passover and head to a village called Ephraim in northern Judea.  There and on His final journey to Jerusalem for the Passover several events and teachings occur, we will look at those over the next two weeks starting with the ten lepers tomorrow.

Raising Lazarus

John 11:1-44
It is about a month before Passover and time now for Jesus to travel from Perea back to Bethany. As you hopefully recall Jesus was summoned to heal His friend Lazarus, who had suddenly fallen ill.  Jesus however, delayed going in order to fully demonstrate the power of God over death, meanwhile He continued teaching. Earlier He manifested His divinity to the disciples through His transfiguration and spoke to them of His own resurrection.  It was important for them to grasp His power over death if they were to carry on Gods message and withstand the evil forces that would come against them in the days and years ahead.  When Jesus and the disciples arrived on the scene in Bethany a funeral was in progress.  His friend Lazarus died four days earlier, his body lay in a sealed tomb, and many Jewish leaders, offering comfort, surrounded the grieving family. The timing was perfect, the stage was set, a dramatic demonstration of His power was about to unfold and yet the most tender words that are written in all of scripture (in my opinion) reveal the compassionate nature of Jesus.  He wept.  I can't even begin to imagine what all He was thinking and feeling. I can understand though that His heart was so moved in that moment that He was overwhelmed with deep human emotion.  John also records for us that Jesus groaned in the spirit and was troubled, undoubtedly internally talking with the Father.  Then in that moment He orders the stone sealing the tomb to be taken away.  Now Jesus looks toward heaven and speaks audibly to God, not for the sake of bringing Lazarus to life which could have been done without a spoken word.  It was in order that everyone there would know that He wasn't there by or for Himself but rather for them to know and believe He was sent by the Father...only God could resurrect from the dead.  Lazarus, come forth was the command....and he did, still wrapped in grave clothes Jesus instructed those nearby to loose him, and let him go.  How astonishing it must have been in that moment to all those witnessing Lazarus coming back to life.  There was no mistaking his death, he had been dead for days and yet here...now...he stood before them, alive and well!  This miracle accomplished great things for it says that many of the Jews who saw what Jesus did, believed in Him.  It also accomplished something dreadfully unthinkable, which we will look at tomorrow.

Humility

Luke 17: 7-10
Jesus finishes His lessons to the disciples with the illustration of a master and his servant.  Something they could really relate to since it was a common practice in the culture they lived in.  The servant wouldn't think of coming in and expect his master to take care of him (the servant) even if he did have a long hard day in the field, after all he is a servant. The servant shouldn't think he is going to get special treatment just because he did what was his duty to do.  In contrast, the Jewish leaders had become so important in their own eyes that they expected to be treated with fanfare...like royalty I suppose.  They saw themselves as the servants of the Most High God, which in their minds meant they were superior to all others.  But Jesus is squelching this type of attitude right here...if you are going to be my servant just do what I ask of you, faithfully serve and don't think yourself more important than you really are. Jesus was setting a tone of humility for His faithful ones which is so important when you are serving and see enormous changes begin to happen as a result of all that faith you will be exercising because you have been challenged beyond measure what you know you can do yourself and need the Lord to empower you to overcome sin, forgive others and not cause others to stumble.  Hope that makes sense...if not read the lesson backwards, that might help.

Increasing Faith

Luke 17:5-6

The disciples find themselves utterly unable to measure up to the standards Jesus is requiring of them.  They have lived with Him day and night for nearly three years.  They have seen unbelievable supernatural miracles time and time again.  Thousands of people fed in the desert by food that just suddenly multiplied, lame & sick people healed, demonically tormented people set free, horrific destructive weather instantly changed, Jesus Himself walking on water.  Jesus teaches truths of life that touch their hearts and changes their lives....transforms them...brings together in friendship arch enemies.  They desperately want to serve Him but find themselves sorely lacking when it comes to their inner man.  They realize they must have more faith if they are ever going to please and faithfully serve Him.  "Lord, increase our faith!" What an encouragement Jesus is to them,  he tells them, "you know even if you only have a teeny tiny little itty bitty teensy weensy bit of faith you can do huge miracles in the Kingdom of God", (my paraphrasing again). I mean you almost need a magnifying glass to see a mustard seed.  He is telling them you don't need a whole lot of faith, just even a little bit of faith is something to start with.  Just step out and see what grows and develops...start with what you do have faith to believe for and it will increase as you begin to serve me. 

Never-ending Forgiveness

Luke 17:3-4
As my disciples really think about what you are doing, I want you to help your fellow disciples do what is right by telling them the hard truth and if they sin against you personally forgive them....again and again and again and again, keep on forgiving them!  Never stop forgiving them!  Just make forgiving others a way of life.  This is my paraphrase of what Jesus is saying to the disciples in these verses. I can't say someone has ever offended me seven times in one day, if they did I don't think I would have the grace to keep forgiving them as many times as the Lord requires.  As I was preparing to write this devotion I sat here thinking about someone offending me over and over again in the same way each time. I could see me politely forgiving at first but after a time or two rage, anger, resentment, and bitterness would have me rip into them.  Forgive the same offense over and over again? I have trouble forgiving my husband for using my dish towel to dry his hands how am I ever going to master this seven times a day thing or harder yet seven times seventy. I can imagine at this point the disciples sitting there absorbing all of what Jesus is saying, which prompted their next response..."Lord, increase our faith"!  I'm with you guys, my only hope is that with God NOTHING is impossible. 

Offenses

Luke 17:1-10
Before heading to raise Lazarus Jesus concludes His time with the disciples in Perea with four lessons.  They need to be careful that they do not lead others astray (v 1-2), to mercifully forgive those who sin against them (v 3-4), to put into practice their faith (v 5-6), and not to think they should be treated in a special way by God but realize they are merely His slaves and should expect to serve Him (v 7-10).

Luke 17:1-2
"It is impossible that offenses will not come", Jesus stated the obvious to the disciples, and to us, yet how many times are we surprised when an offense happens toward us.  Jesus was reminding them that we live in a fallen world, it is inevitable that someone will sin against or hurt us in someway, either knowingly or unknowingly.  Then He went on to tell them what was expected of their behavior as His followers...be very careful not to offend or lead others astray yourselves.  I'm sure He had the Jewish leaders in mind with this instruction.  Many were being lost to the true way of faith because the Pharisees and other types of spiritual leaders were ambitiously following their own truth not Gods, in many ways it still happens today.  As true followers let's be especially mindful of how our actions affect others, remember that His burden is light because all we really need to do is love others in the same way He loves us.  Love never fails.

Rich Man

Luke 16: 19-31
Jesus continues to share with His disciples the true value of the Kingdom by telling them the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus.  (I think it is interesting to note that He used the name Lazarus in this story just as He is preparing to go to Bethany, to His friend Lazarus, who He would raise from the dead in just a few short days.)  This, to me, is just one of those scary parables.  It really lays it on the line as far as the reality of hell and the consequences of not following God's ways.  No matter how much the rich man begged it could not change the fact that while he was alive he held no belief in Moses, the prophets, or the Messiah, he lived his life lavishly for himself with no compassion for others, his fate was sealed.  In contrast, the beggar Lazarus was comforted and found peace...a beautiful picture of the eternal fellowship awaiting those who trust in the one who would soon be resurrected.  Money, we see the effects every day of the corruption greed causes.  As with the rich man in this story, money blinds and ensnares so subtly we barely recognize its hold on us.  Take for example tithe, giving to the Lord's Kingdom work, checkbooks don't lie and is a great litmus test for the heart.  Do we say to the Lord, "Lord, I offer to you first, for the work of the Kingdom, what I made this week ", or do we say to ourselves, "God surely knows I barely have enough to get by as it is and will understand I can't afford to give anything right now, maybe later?"  We can't serve God and money.

Shrewd Steward

Luke 16:1-13
John Battle, in his outline Christ in the Gospels says, "Jesus required His diciples to follow God, and not to love the world, especially money.  The parable of the rich man's shrewd manager illustrated how money should be made subservient to fostering human relationships...".  There it is, the reason the shrewd manager was commended, I always wondered about that and why he was commended for what seemed like mismanagement at best or thievery at it's worst.  The steward though, seeking future relationship with other businessmen, didn't allow money to rule the day, as did the Pharisees who were "lovers of money".  Some commentaries say the steward may have even lessened his own commission in order to ensure himself future dealings after he was fired, yes, how shrewd. The next parable that follows regarding the rich man and Lazarus, John Battle goes on to say, concerns how the love of money can blind people to the real needs of themselves and others. It is clear that in this portion of scripture Jesus is emphasizing the famous command, "You cannot serve both God and Money".  He instructs us to be faithful in small things and we will be entrusted with more...the true riches (of a heavenly nature)!