Good Morning “Stone Shields.” Today we are in John 8.

In an effort to once again trap Jesus and have a reason to kill Him, the Teachers of the Law and the Pharisees bring in a women caught in adultery.  It’s interesting that they did not bring in the man as well.  Nevertheless they attempt to test Jesus.  They remind Him that the law of Moses says that adulterers are to be stoned so they ask Him, “What do You say?”

Jesus bends down and starts writing on the ground - perhaps the name of the man?  Perhaps He’s writing their sins?  We don’t really know but…“When they kept on questioning Him, He straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”” John‬ ‭8‬:‭7‬ ‭NIV‬‬

One by one they start leaving -

“Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.””
‭‭John‬ ‭8‬:‭10‬-‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

What do we get out of this passage?  

- We are quick to pass judgment on others… be careful, we are not without sin.  “For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”  Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬  This deal was a set up from the beginning, evidenced by the fact they only brought the woman.  Jesus saw right through it!  In Matthew, Jesus tells us “First take the plank out of our own eye so we can see clearly to point out that speck of dust…”

- How should we respond to His Mercy and Grace?  Jesus doesn’t stop at simply putting His life in harms way for this woman… He finishes with His expectation for her.  …Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”  John‬ ‭8‬:‭11‬ ‭NIV‬‬

It’s reasonable that - because He gave His life for ours, we should present ourselves to Him as a living sacrifice, holy, pure and pleasing to God.  (Romans 12:1 paraphrase.)

That is only possible through Jesus, and His Blood shed on the cross for our sins.  If you read on, Jesus explains this point.  “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John‬ ‭8‬:‭12‬ ‭NIV‬‬

In this chapter we see once again they were trying to trap Jesus, yet no one seized Him.  Why?  Why couldn’t they seize Him?  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!  There’s more good stuff in this chapter.

Good Morning “From the Word of God Learners and Teachers.”  Today we are in John 7.

Jesus made it clear that He was not teaching His own ideas.  

“My teaching is not my own. It comes from the one who sent me. Anyone who chooses to do the will of God will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own. Whoever speaks on their own does so to gain personal glory, but he who seeks the glory of the one who sent him is a man of truth; there is nothing false about him.”
‭‭John‬ ‭7‬:‭16‬-‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Where does your teaching come from?  Is the teaching you are receiving founded in Scripture?  Or is it twisted?  What about when you share with others?  Are you Biblically grounded in the “Truth” you share, or do you find yourself babbling?

There is tremendous responsibility when it comes to handling the Word of God.  We don’t get to make it what we want it to be to advance our own agenda.  “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” 2 Timothy‬ ‭2‬:‭15‬ ‭NIV‬‬

James 3:1 reminds us to be careful.  “Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.”

“Ok… so I won’t share then.” NO, that’s not the answer either.  God created you to glorify Him, to make disciples, to be His witnesses!  The answer isn’t don’t do it.  Biblically the answer is, make sure you know what you’re talking about before you speak - that’s all!  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Bread of Life Eaters”… wait what?  Dig into John 6 and see what I mean.

A couple things from John 6 to note.  When we talk about the feeding of the 5,000 we are always careful to point out a couple things.  

They only counted men first of all, so… with their families Jesus likely fed 15, maybe even 20,000 people or more.  They had big families then.  

2nd, I believe one of the coolest applications from this miracle comes from the boy.  Consider this, there were tons of people - with no food.  A boy happened to have brought some - maybe his mom packed him a lunch.  In a sea of hungry people he was willing to give ALL he had and possibly go hungry himself.  Scripture DOESN’T say the Disciples took it from him by force, so we assume he willingly gave.  Look what Jesus can do with so little when we willingly offer all we have!  “Even more than we could ever ask or imagine.”  

This miracle ends up fostering a conversation in which Jesus is trying to get everyone to understand - quit worrying about your flesh.  Matt 6 reminds us - if we seek Him first He’ll take care of our needs.  Here He’s trying to get them / us to understand drink Him in, soak Him up… the language sounds crazy… eat His flesh.  He’s not suggesting that they become cannibals - but that they become one with Him, He in them and them in He.  Him first - quit worrying about the physical - it’s only temporal.  Focus on your spiritual relationship with Jesus.

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “For Jesus Workers”. Today we are in John 5.

Healing, Loving on people, prophecy regarding His return, sharing the Good News - Jesus is all about it!  

It’s easy to get caught up in “doing”.  We know we are to produce good works.  We know we are supposed to daily die to our flesh and offer ourselves to Jesus as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1). But if we’re honest we struggle to know how and what that looks like, and we kind of run over the horses with the cart.  What I mean is this… we try to be “better”, “do more good”.  So we dream something up, and then we want God to bless it.  That’s out of order.  There is a much easier more fruitful way.  He’s already at work all around us.  

He offers a relationship in which He wants to use us in work He’s already doing (Ephesians 2:8-10). He doesn’t need us, but when we allow Him to use our hands and feet and mouth by choice - He is glorified.  How do we do that?  

We first have to know The Word, so that we can KNOW Him and thus recognize Him and His work (Joshua 1:8). Then we must reject the flesh feeding things of the world so our eyes and heart can see where He’s working (James 4:4-8).  When He reveals where He is already working that IS our invitation to get involved.  

Thats how Jesus worked.  Check it out:

“Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.”
‭‭John‬ ‭5‬:‭19‬ ‭NIV‬‬

If Jesus could only jump in where He saw the Father already working then definitely the same applies to us.  

Has God shown you someone who needs a listening ear or a friend who really cares?  Has He shown you a ministry that is really doing it right and needs laborers?  A neighbor that needs a hand?  Someone who needs mentored?  A ministry that needs founded?  An opportunity to stand for what’s right?  No one seeks these good things without being prompted by the Holy Spirit (Romans 3:10).  Get involved - Gods revelation is your invitation.  Let Him use you (Isaiah 6:8)!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Cross Cultural”. Today we are in John 4.

When Jesus went to the well to minister to the Samaritan woman - He broke all kinds of cultural norms.  

First, Jews didn’t associate with Samaritans.  Second, the only women who would go to the well in the middle of the day, were those already ostracized from their villages.  They were “those” women.  Everyone else who was “respectable” and accepted would go in the cool of the morning to get water for their families.  Third, it went against norms for Him even to be there alone talking to a woman.  Imagine what the Disciples were thinking when Jesus wanted to take a little detour.

When Jesus ministers in love - He does it like no one else.  “When the Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, “Will you give me a drink?”” John‬ ‭4‬:‭7‬ ‭ Notice He doesn’t lead by pointing out her sin.  He literally humbles Himself and places Himself in a position of perceived need.  

This opens the door to more conversation.  Less than 20% of communication is verbal.  The rest is body language, tone, expression on your face.  Somehow, Jesus is able to discuss her life of sin with her without offense.  How do we know she wasn’t offended?  Read the rest of her story and see what happens when she goes back to her village.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “In the Light.”  Today we are in John 3.  

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John‬ ‭3‬:‭16‬

Because of sin our default destination is Hell.  It’s not harsh - it’s just a fact.  God provided the way out - Jesus.  Jesus is the only way - John 14:6.  

John explains that those who BELIEVE in Him are no longer condemned, but those who reject Him stand condemned already.  He then goes on to say…

“This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.”
‭‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭19‬-‭20‬ ‭NIV‬‬

I wonder… is that maybe what’s keeping you from going all in?  We know that sin brings conviction, and the feeling of conviction stinks.  Adam and Eve pulled away and separated themselves from God when they sinned.  God did not leave them.  They sinned, their eyes were opened, and then they hid from God in the bushes when He came for their daily stroll in the garden.  He knew they had sinned, but He still came.  They hid.  Genesis 3

Are you afraid to fully give your life to Jesus because you’ve got sin you’re dealing with?  We’ve all sinned.  Rom 3:23   That’s the reason Jesus did what He did.  Go all in and let Him purify you from the inside out.  It’s what He does. (1 John 1:9; Philippians 1:6)

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Mother and Father Honor-ers.” Today we are in John 2.

Jesus first miracle is recorded here.  It demonstrates His power yes, but there is so much more here.  Check out the dialogue between Jesus’ and His mother.  

When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.” “Woman, why do you involve me?” Jesus replied. “My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” John‬ ‭2‬:‭3‬-‭5‬ ‭NIV‬‬  Spoiler alert… He changes water to wine.  Not just cheap wine, good wine.  

How could this possibly have application for us?  Do you know what that 5th Commandment is?  Honor your father and mother.  It appears to be a pretty big deal to God that we do that.  God does everything in an orderly fashion!  Notice the 6th commandment - Do not murder.   In Gods order of things honoring your mother and father comes before don’t murder.  Sounds like a it’s a big deal to God.

Some things to note from Jesus first miracle:

1.  Jesus’ mom asks Him for a miracle - Jesus says it’s not time yet.

2.  His mom is so confident He will honor her, she instructs the servants to do what He says.  She knew her Son, and knew He would honor her wishes.

3.  He does what His mom asks with excellence!  He turns the water into the best wine.

Jesus came not just to go to the cross, to pay for our sin that we might have eternal life.  He came to show us how to live.  Get this, if Jesus who was God, and who was perfect could honor His mother - so can we.  

Be sure to check out the rest of the chapter.  Check out Warrior Jesus purging the Temple of those taking advantage of others. Remember Jesus was “meek”.  Meekness (strength under control) is not weakness!  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning both “Children of God”, and “Doubters of It All.”  Today we start John with chapter 1.  

John declares that he wrote this book so that through its words we might believe that Jesus IS the Messiah, The Son of God, and that by believing we might have life in His name.   It’s been said that one cannot possibly read through the entire book of John and NOT give their life to Jesus.  Its Truths are THAT powerful.  To that end, I throw down the challenge.  Read and see.

It’s all Jesus!  He always was and always will be!  In the beginning He was with God.  The beginning of what?  The beginning of ALL of creation.  He was God.  All things were created through Him. He is the true light that gives life.  Darkness cannot overcome His light!

He came first to the Jewish people but they did not receive Him.  One day He will judge all people, apart from Him we have no hope.  “Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God— children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.”  John‬ ‭1‬:‭12‬-‭13‬ ‭NIV‬‬

His children!  

“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” Romans‬ ‭8‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬
 
How will you spend eternity? God loves mankind so much that He let’s us choose.  Away from Him, or as children of God co-heirs with Christ.  You choose.  

He is the light of the world and the darkness CANNOT overcome Him.  There is no REAL battle between dark and Light!  Who wins in the end?  It’s easy to see… watch the sun rise and dispel the darkness.  Need a quicker illustration?  Flip on a light switch!  There are only 2 sides.  Pick one.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning With Jesus Walkers.  Today we are in Luke 24.

Jesus was crucified for your sins and mine.  Then, He was placed in a tomb and a stone (Boulder) rolled across the opening.  On the third day He rose conquering sin and death.  The women go and see that that tomb is empty.  They go back and tell the others - but they don’t believe. Others go as well, and return - but the others don’t believe.

The same day a couple Disciples were walking the 7 mile road to Emmaus.  Jesus decides to stroll up and join them.  7 miles they walk to together and the men don’t recognize Him.  Why?  Because there were lessons to be learned first.  “but they were kept from recognizing him.” Luke‬ ‭24‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

They proceed to tell Jesus about the empty tomb, but because it was now the third day and Israel had not yet been redeemed, they seem to doubt.

These two are in fact kept from recognizing Jesus until they sit down and share a meal.  Fellowship with The Savior is what’s required for us really to see.  Head knowledge or belief becomes heart level BELIEF when we enter into fellowship with Jesus.  It’s an about a relationship not simply learning facts as we would in History class.  We learn and live - not learn and forget.

Did in.  Get to “know” Him through His Word, then allow Him to use you and really get to “KNOW” Him.

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Sharers in Paradise”.  Today we are in Luke 23.

If you have asked forgiveness and received Jesus payment for your sins, asked Him to be your Lord and Savior and demonstrated that BELIEF by repenting of your sins your fate is sealed by the blood of Jesus.  

Your good works can’t save you but they can offer demonstration you are saved. Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, It’s by grace you have been saved, through faith, this is not of yourselves so that no one can boast.

You can’t do it on your own.  You can only submit.  The two other men on the crosses that day hurled insults at Jesus according to Matthew. But one man came around.  Maybe because he witnessed Jesus pleading for forgiveness for the men who nailed Him to the cross.  Can you imagine a Love that deep?  Maybe it was that depth of Love that convinced the thief?

One of the criminals mocked Jesus, the other criminal rebuked the mocker. “Don’t you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”” Luke‬ ‭23‬:‭39‬-‭43‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Don’t miss this!  The thief had no time to produce good works under his new faith.  There were none.  He was not a “good” person.  He was not baptized.  He didn’t even walk the isle.  He did not serve in his church or volunteer in the Nursery.

His BELIEF, however; did affect his heart and that brought about observable change.

It’s all Grace!  It’s only through Jesus.  Your good stuff can’t save you, but it can demonstrate you’re saved, and shows a lost and hurting world there is a way better Way!  

Love you all.  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Mind Blown at The Cross.”  Today we are in Luke 22.

“Then Satan entered Judas, called Iscariot, one of the Twelve.” Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭3‬ ‭Judas agrees to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.  We all know the story… but have you considered this?  Judas took care of his business then joined the others in the Upper Room for the Passover.  Judas ate too!  Jesus broke bread with Judas knowing he had betrayed Him.  What’s more, Jesus washed the Disciples feet that night.  The Bible does NOT say He washed them all except Judas’ feet.  We are left to believe He washed Judas nasty betraying feet that night, knowing He was about to be betrayed by him.

Equally as mind blowing to me is that all of the disciples were about to disown Jesus and scatter.  Peter would deny Him 3 times before morning, yet He demonstrates His Love in service to them by washing all their feet as well.

He predicts it:
“You will all fall away,” Jesus told them, “for it is written: “ ‘I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep will be scattered.’”
‭‭Mark‬ ‭14‬:‭27‬ ‭

Then as soon as He’s arrested they scatter:
“Then everyone deserted him and fled.” Mark‬ ‭14‬:‭50‬ ‭

But first He spends time praying earnestly.  So heavy was the attack from the evil one, combined with His anguish knowing He was about to bare the sin of the entire world, that He sweat blood.  What?  The text says like drops of blood…

“And being in anguish, he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was like drops of blood falling to the ground.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭22‬:‭44‬

Yes, it does say “like” in our text, however; many commentators and theologians argue that given that the original Greek word hósei, translated “like” here, can mean “as it were”, that likely it WAS drops of blood.  Some argue that this would explain the value placed on His clothes as the Roman Soldiers cast lots for them at the cross.  They were soaked in His blood. Furthermore we know Biologically this is a thing.  Under extreme stress our blood pressure can reach the point where our capillaries burst and blood drips from our pores like sweat.  This kind of thing happens when a skydivers parachute doesn’t open. They’re covered in blood before they hit the ground.  

All powerful stuff - demonstrating just how much anguish the cross brought Jesus.   Yet He went! That is a depth of Love I can’t wrap my mind around.  That’s the love of God.  Don’t miss out on it.

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Prophecy Observers”.  Today we are in Luke 21

Luke 21 begins with a reminder that we should offer all we have back to God.  It’s all His.  He blesses us with all we have and know.  We are simply stewards and should not love our stuff so tightly we are unwilling to let go of it - for His glory.

Luke records Jesus’ prophetic warning regarding the destruction of Jerusalem.  Matthew records a few more specifics in Matt. 24.  Wait… is this simply prophecy regarding Jerusalem, or prophecy regarding the “end end”?  Answer… YES.  

Spurgeon said it like this,
“We must regard the siege of Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple as being a kind of rehearsal of what is yet to be.”

Jesus prophecy came true, just 40 years later Jerusalem, and the temple were completely wiped out by Rome.  The destruction was so complete that today it’s difficult to determine the exact location of the former temple.  

What do we get from all this prophecy?  What’s the application for us?  I like to grab a couple things from this:

1.  Jesus knows what He’s talking about.  What He says has either already happened or soon will!  BELIEVE it!  He’s proven Himself, and Scripture has been proven to be accurate over and over and over.  In fact, no part has EVER successfully been refuted!  That’s a teaching worth BELIEVING!  Furthermore you can see the Word of God unfolding all around you if you care to look.

2.  Heed it, and act accordingly.  Remember if you BELIEVE it your life should reflect it!  It’s not just to be known but to be lived.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Those who “Get It””. Today - Luke 20.

It’s all Jesus.  It always has been - all about Jesus.  The story of Jesus, and redemption through His blood shed on the cross is woven all through Scripture.

The religious leaders are fired up.  Jesus is exposing their darkened hearts a preaching the Gospel of Grace.  They scheme and plot, in an attempt to back Him into a corner with His teaching.  Funny think about Truth - there is no worthy argument against it!  It stands alone!   Truth always wins… eventually!  

This chapter is packed with reminders that it’s all about Jesus.  “ ‘The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’ ?” Luke‬ ‭20‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬ His own rejected Him.  Thus Grace is for the Gentile (us) also (Romans 11:11; Romans 1:16).

“He said to them, “Then give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” Luke‬ ‭20‬:‭25‬ ‭NIV‬‬.  We spend most of our time worried about the things of “This World”.  Why?  We KNOW there is only emptiness offered in them.  What is it we are supposed to give to God?  EVERYTHING.  Our very lives.  Daily.  Romans 12:1, Matthew 16:24-25, Galatians 2:20.  

Daily we die to ourselves - it’s not about us, it’s about Him!  He in us willing and acting according to His good purpose.  

Make yourself available today.  Dig in.  Get to know Him.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Faithful”.  Today we are in Luke 19.  

In this chapter Luke includes the Parable of Ten Minas as told by Jesus.  The parable describes a future King who has to go away to a far off land.  He leaves 10 servants each in charge of a sum of money and instructs them to put their money to work.  When he returns he finds some who increased the money he had given them and one in particular that protected it and kept it safe, but did not increase it.  With this one He is furious.  

What on earth is Jesus talking about here?  This is simply a parable describing His expectation of us.  Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”  He puts us where He wants us and equips us with talents, and spiritual gifts to accomplish the work He prepared for us.  1 Cor. 12

So simply put, He saves us by Grace with Good work prepared for us to do and gives us all we need to do it (Ephesians 2:8-10). He simply expects us to use it specifically for the furtherance of His Kingdom.  How blessed will we be in heaven (Matthew 16:27; Colossians 3:23-24). What have we done with what He has blessed us with?  That’s the question.

Salvation is a free gift to be sure… but His mercy and Grace does come with expectation.  Expectation that we’ll grow up and be productive for Him.  It all starts with the growing up part.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Humble Repenters.”  Today we are in Luke 18.

Where’s your heart?  Jesus presents that question through today’s stories.  

2 men, both offering prayers.  One very thankful he’s not like the rest of the horrible people he sees around him.  It’s good to be thankful right?  By this man’s prayer, it’s obvious he believes he’s different than the dirty rotten sinners.  That’s an ok thing to be thankful for… don’t you agree?  Sure!  If it were true.  

However, sin is sin… and we’re all guilty.  “We’ve all sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God.” Romans 3:23  His Glory - Perfection!  That’s the bar.  That’s the mark to hit if we are going to do it on our own.   Anything short of perfection places us all in the same position.  In need of forgiveness, and a Savior.

The other man praying was a Tax Collector.  Tax Collectors were the worst - often extorting way more than the required tax to pad their own pockets!  He was clearly a dirty rotten sinner.  “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” Luke‬ ‭18‬:‭13‬-‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God requires humility.  A humble heart is like softened clay - you can work with it (Isaiah 64:8).  Hard clay is unworkable.  You can’t do anything with it.  Which are you?

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Good Ambassadors”. Check out Luke 17.  

Someone is always watching.  These days, especially with social media, our lives are on display for all to see.  What are we showing others by the way we live and the things we are about?  What do others feel permitted to do because they see us (Christian’s ) doing it?  Are we an encouragement for others to press into Jesus or do we lead them further away?  Do our lives contradict, divide, Gods people or unite?  It’s really something we should be conscious of.  Jesus takes our witness seriously even if we don’t.  

“Jesus said to his disciples: “Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. It would be better for them to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around their neck than to cause one of these little ones to stumble.”
‭‭Luke‬ ‭17‬:‭1‬-‭2‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We are considered His children (John 1:12).  True children of God will spend eternity with Him.  Amen!  We like that part!  As children of God we should look and act like it!  He should be reflected in us!  In fact that’s the expectation (2 Corinthians 5:11-20). We don’t like that part quite as much.  

As children of God we are called to shine in this dark world to be a beacon of light - an ambassador of Jesus as though He were making His plea through us.

How are we doing?  How are you doing?  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Changed.”  Today we are in Luke 16

The Word of God taught by the Spirit of God ought to guide us, leads us, shape us, change us (Romans 12:2).  If we TRULY believe It, why wouldn’t It? So, does our life reflect Scripture?  

It’s easy to “fake” it in many areas, but when it comes to ALL God has blessed us with, well… that’s often another story.  “Look Pastor, I’m all in, but when it comes to my money… back off”.  

Except it’s not our money.  In this chapter Jesus hits many of us where it hurts.  How we view “our money”, and frankly all the gifts He’s given - tells the story of our heart.  

There are some that would have us believe that the way we look at, value, steward our money and all that He’s given - is no reflection on our faith. FALSE! In fact it may be one of the most accurate definers.  Jesus has much to say regarding the way we handle our money, our generosity and stewardship.  In fact faithfulness with what we have been blessed with seems to be tied to further continued blessing (Luke‬ ‭16‬:‭11‬-‭13‬).  

We are His chosen method with which to bless others.  When we are stingy with His blessing we miss out on opportunity to be a part of His work in that way.  We also miss out on the “complete joy” that comes from being united in Him - in all that He’s doing (John 15:5-11).  He freely gives so we can give it back (2 Corinthians 9:6-11). Nothing should ever be put before Him!  

He owns it all!  The cattle on 1000 hills - all His (Psalm 50:10-12).  He’s the source of it ALL, the provider of all things!  He provides the gifts, talents, skills and even the ability to earn wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18; James 1:17; Acts 17:25; 1 Corinthians 4:7).

Don’t miss it!  He gives and He takes away (Job 1:21)!  Honor Him with it all!  “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭21‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Once Lost, but now Found!” Today we are in Luke 15.  

Jesus shares multiple parables to show the value He puts on a single lost person.  We may look at someone who has totally spun out, off the tracks, wrong road… and shrug our shoulders.  Not my circus, not my monkeys.  But get a load of the words of Jesus here!  

Leave the 99 to go find the one lost sheep.  Sweep the entire house looking for one lost coin.  The Father stands eagerly awaiting the return of his son - the prodigal.  

The one who wanted his inheritance so that he might spend it on pleasure is now beat down, broken, and
humbled.  However he’s returned - to his father who has been waiting, longing, looking off into the distance for his return.  

Upon his return there is a great celebration!  This is the heart of our God, and aren’t we thankful.  If you’re the lost one, there is great news.  He’s longing for you to turn back to Him!  

He’s our example - our model.  We’ve got work to do.  Would you go looking for the lost sheep?

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Those Who’ve Made God #1”.  Today we are in Luke 14.

Towards the end of Chapter 13 Jesus talked about how narrow the door to Heaven is.  There is One Way to Heaven - Jesus. Maybe you’re left kind of wondering how you can be assured a ticket to Heaven.  We are really easily deceived; and there will be those that think they’re secure but find out they’re not (Matthew 7:21-23).  How can I be sure which one I am?  

Jesus takes opportunity here to lay it out for the Disciples as well as the Pharisees.  “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” Luke‬ ‭14‬:‭26‬-‭27‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Remember the cross symbolizes death.  He’s suggesting we must die to ourselves daily.  It’s all Him.  We were bought and paid for at The Cross.  It’s therefore reasonable that we give ourselves fully to Him (Romans 12:1), Loving Him and Loving others like ourselves (Matthew 22:37-38).  Notice we are to love others “like” ourselves.  He doesn’t command us to love ourselves… It’s understood we already do.  

“Self Love” is among the latest movements in our culture.  Problem is… theres nothing in Scripture that jives with that concept.  Loving one’s self is assumed - “Love your neighbor as yourself”.  “No one ever hated his own body…” (Ephesians 5:29).  Love comes from God because He is Love (1 John 4:7-8).  “Self Love” is simply man’s latest attempt to manufacture something for himself - that truly only comes from God.  Press into Jesus and His love overflows through us providing enough Love for Him, for us, and anyone else (1 John 4:7-11, 19).  But, loving ourselves, or anyone else for that matter CANNOT come without Jesus!  That’s it!  He IS Love!  Apart from Him there is no REAL love.  

You must HATE your family, your own life even… that’s a pretty harsh word.  It sounds harsh because we have a tendency to prioritize our relationships incorrectly.  Jesus explains the concept further in Matthew 10:34-39.

There it is!  He must truly be your #1.  Those aren’t just words - they must be reflected in actions!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Narrow Door Enterers”. Today we dig into Luke 13.

Jesus continues to spread The Word!  Repent and turn to God for the Kingdom of God is near.  Using parables He explains the incredible spreading of the Gospel.  The Good News spread fast.  Jesus was on the scene and about to go to the Cross, suffer, and die in our place.  Our sin requires a payment (Romans 6:23).  It’s a payment that could never be satisfied by us -  even if for eternity.  Jesus blood shed on The Cross is the only sufficient payment.  Receiving His payment for our sins, acknowledging and receiving Him as Lord, and repenting of our sin is the only way into heaven… period (John 14:6; Acts 3:19).

It begins with humbly admitting we need saving.  We CAN’T do it on our own.  We can’t earn it (Ephesians 2:1-9).  Heaven isn’t universal.  Wanting to go there simply isn’t enough.  Knowledge of Jesus isn’t BELIEF.  True BELIEF results in action.  Our good works can’t save us, but they can demonstrate we’re saved (Luke 6:43; Matthew 7:18).  If we TRULY BELIEVE we should look like it!  

“Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.’ “But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’” Luke‬ ‭13‬:‭24‬-‭25‬ ‭NIV‬‬

We cannot be “good enough”! “Better than the next guy” doesn’t cut it.  Even obeying, going through the motions alone gets us nothing if our heart isn’t in the right place.  It’s about a real relationship (Matthew 7:21-23).  Following rules was what the Pharisees were all about.  Jesus was reminding those around Him that following Him was the only way through the gate.  He was and is broken hearted over those that don’t “get it”.  

Know Him!  The gate is narrow, but not impossible to get through!  Everything is possible through Jesus (Philippians 4:13).  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “God Fearer’s”. Today we are in Luke 12.

What are you most afraid of?  The Bible tells us fear not.  In some form or other we are told not to fear more than 200 times.  Literally we’re not supposed to fear anything… well except one thing.  Proverbs tells us that Fear of The Lord is the beginning of Wisdom (Proverbs 9:10).  We know wisdom is knowledge applied.  If we don’t apply what we learn to our lives it’s just information bouncing around in our minds - useless to us.  We never grow up in our faith.  We never mature.  No fear - No maturity.  Perhaps that’s why at times we as “the church” seem stagnant, immature, even ineffective at times.

Some 278 times we’re told to fear God.  In each case, the word used in the original language (Yihrah in OT, Phobos in NT) speaks to trembling, pants wetting, fall like a dead man fear.  That seems weird… to actually be afraid of God.  Yes He is full of Grace and Mercy… but He is also perfect Justice - and we sin.  Did you ever get in trouble as a kid and mom said, “Wait until your dad gets home?”  It’s kind of like that.  Because of our sin there is Hell to pay… literally!  However He loves us enough to offer us forgiveness, redemption and reconciliation through Jesus’ blood shed on the Cross.  Simply open your heart and receive Him.

Review Luke‬ ‭12‬:‭4‬-‭7‬ ‭

Often when I touch on this subject someone will respond with 1 John 4:18… but Pastor Jason “Perfect love drives out fear.”  Yes… don’t forget the rest of the verse, “… because fear has to do with punishment.” Punishment comes from disobedience and disobedience from lack of real love… ours not His!  Now review John 14:15,21.  We can’t pick and choose just the parts of Scripture we like.  We must know, apply and live it all.

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning Light Shine-ers!  Today were in Luke 11

Jesus begins by telling us how to pray.  In reality He’s showing us 5 aspects of prayer.  Confession, Adoration, Praise, Petition or Supplication, and Intercession.  Our prayers should include them all.  We get a bit more detail in Matthew 6:9-13.  

What do those words mean?  Maybe you remember my praying hands explanation.  When we put our hands together to pray - the thumb points back at us reminding us to confess our sins as we begin to pray.  The index finger points heavenward - we love and adore Him. The middle finger is the longest of all and reminds us He is Lord over ALL.  We ought praise Him for ALL He is and does.  The ring finger reminds us of those we love, who are close to us… so we petition Him with our needs.  The pinky is the smallest, it reminds us to pray for the “least of these”, others in need - that’s intercession.  Look back over the first of this chapter as well as Matthew 6:9-13 to see that Jesus points out each aspect.

He fills us with the Holy Spirit at the time of salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14).  His light shines through us when we are in step with Him through His Word (2 Corinthians 3:7-9; Matthew 5:16).  As we use the gifts and talents He’s given us for His Glory, His light is elevated for all to see (Luke‬ ‭11‬:‭33‬-‭36‬)!

See to it that you don’t let darkness dim your light!  Use those gifts and talents to shine for Jesus!  Don’t let sin hinder your shine.  There is a world of darkness out there - light it up!  They need to see Jesus - let them see the Jesus in you!

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Lambs Among Wolves”. Today we are in Luke 10.

 “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” ‭‭Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭27‬ ‭NIV‬‬  So… who is my neighbor?  The question was asked of Jesus.  

“In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead.” Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭30‬ ‭NIV‬‬

A Priest and a Levite both passed by and did nothing.  “But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’”  ‭‭Luke‬ ‭10‬:‭33‬-‭35‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Samaritans and Jews didn’t associate.  Samaritans were considered less than - so it’s even more of a statement that Jesus chose a Samaritan to make His point to the “expert in the law”.  Once again Jesus smashes cultural norms, and shows He’s concerned with the heart!  

Who’s your neighbor?  Even and especially, those you wouldn’t choose!  Isn’t he the one you can help… but don’t want to?  

Jesus told him to go and do likewise. What’s the application for us? Go and do likewise.  Dig in, there is much more in this chapter.

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Self Deniers”.  Today we are in Luke 9

“Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it. What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit their very self?” Luke‬ ‭9‬:‭23‬-‭25‬ ‭NIV‬‬

The process Jesus is speaking of here requires saying no to your flesh - your desires.  The shiny things of this world ultimately leave us wanting and empty. It’s why we move from one thing to the next.  What do the wealthy want more anything else?  More money.   What about a national champion?  Another championship.  When is it ever enough?

Answer -  NEVER!  That’s why we live in a world full of addiction.  Drugs, alcohol, sex, adrenaline, money, achievement, food, shopping - think of just about any way we can indulge ourselves and likely you can associate it with addiction.  That’s because nothing in this world can provide lasting satisfaction.  The satisfaction this world provides is short lived - then we need more.  Jesus is simply saying if we want to follow Him we have to put all our fleshly desires aside. He needs to be the Person, The Thing we desire, seek, and long for most!

He takes it even further.  An instrument of death, the cross was so much more than the romanticized piece of jewelry we wear today.  He’s using it here to symbolize the death to self and self gratification that He’s talking about.  Galatians 2:20 says “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”  Paul in Romans reminds us, that because Jesus gave His life for our salvation it makes sense we give Him ours everyday. “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭1‬ ‭NIV‬‬‭‭. The KJV says this is your REASONABLE act of worship.  It’s reasonable to think that in light of Jesus giving us eternity in heaven we give Him our lives while we’re here.  

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!

Good Morning “Shining Lights”! Today we’re in Luke 8.

“No one lights a lamp and hides it in a clay jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, they put it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.”  ‭‭Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

God created you with incredible talents and gave you spiritual gifts at the time of salvation - for His purpose and Glory.  Not only does He give us every breath we take, and every beat of our heart; He also gives us the desire to seek “good things”.  No one seeks God or righteousness - He puts that in us (Romans 3:10-17).  He even determined where we will live and who our parents would be etc (Acts 17:26).  What does all that mean?   It means we fit into an amazing plan. He has good works which He prepared in advance for to do (Ephesians 3:10).  

The gifts and talents He blessed us with are designed for His glory, and benefit of the Kingdom.  In this passage He speaks of the light we have been given, through Jesus.  The Holy Spirit living in us makes us look different - or at least it should.  We quench the Spirits fire when we turn from the things of God and soak up the things the world offers (1 Thessalonians 5:19).  Gods design… let the light of Jesus shine through us, and use those gifts and talents as a platform to elevate His light. Gifts and talents are our lamp stand!   Consider your gifts and talents and how God would have you use them to further the kingdom!

Use it or lose it is the principle that follows.  Develop your gifts and talents for His glory not yours… or lose them.  “Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what they think they have will be taken from them.””
‭‭Luke‬ ‭8‬:‭18‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Where and how does God want to use you?  What are you naturally good at?  Consider all the ways He’s blessed you and how you might use that blessing.  Be careful not to simply put a God stamp on things you really,
just want to do for your glory.  He can’t be fooled.  Make sure your heart is right!  A right heart comes from a right relationship with Jesus.  Here’s a tip… you’re not routinely hearing the voice of God when you have no relationship with Him.  “My sheep know my voice.” John 10:27

Love you all!  Dig in and live it out!