Friday, October 29, 2010

John 5 DEVO: Curiosity Turns to Hostility

Chapter 5:
As Jesus presented Himself to be God in the previous chapters, the reactions were somewhat reserved. Over the next three chapters that reservation turns into rage and into plans to kill Jesus.
To begin, Jesus finds a guy next to this pool who is lame and who has been superstitiously trying for 38 years to get healed. Jesus asks him if he wants to get healed, and even though he doesn’t answer Jesus’ question, Jesus says “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk." And, as always, he is healed. This upsets the Jews because it happened on the Sabbath, a holy day of rest, so, as a result, they persecuted Jesus. Jesus said to them, "My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working." For this reason the Jews tried all the harder to kill him; not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God.”
Jesus goes on to explain further His oneness with God the Father: “For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it.” Then comes one of the most profound statements summarizing the Gospel: “I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.” What an amazing verse on what happens when someone truly believes!
Jesus then gives testimony to His claims. In the old testament, all claims had to be substantiated by 2 or more witnesses, so Jesus give these proofs:
1 – John the Baptizer (32-35)
2 – Jesus’ Works (35-36)
3 – The Father (37-38)
4 – OT Scriptures (39-47)
Our chapter then finishes with these two verses: “You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.”
SO WHAT?!
*Myths, superstitions, fables, false beliefs will never lead us to the Jesus of the Bible who is God. There is only one way to come to God!
*Memorize verse 24 – it will be a blessing to us if we do AND to those whom we come into contact! Eternal life begins the moment we believe & receive! It is at that point when we cross over from death to life – whoohoo!!!
*Verses 39-40 are sobering. They warn us not to be so involved in religion that we miss the relationship with Jesus! Which would define your Christian life: Rules & Doing? Or Relationship & Being? The first two will drive you nuts and far away, the second ones will draw you near and give peace.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

John 4 DEVO: Living Water

Chapter 4:
The accounts in this chapter again point to Jesus being the Christ (26).
Jesus’ run in with the Samaritan woman at the well requires a bit of context. First, Jews did not associate with “half-breed” Samaritans, and a woman at that. Second, women would come twice a day (morning & evening) to get water. Her coming at noon is out of place, maybe to avoid those who knew her reputation. BUT because Jesus is the ultimate transformer & none of these things were the biggest issue to Him, He asked her for a drink. She is taken back that He would even come to her & then He offers her “living water.” Notice the next exchange: "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water." Jesus then begins to tell her about her life. I’ve always assumed that this shows the all-knowing power of Jesus (which is certainly a possiblity), but maybe Jesus had a heightened sense of observation? Just a thought. Regardless, her sinful lifestyle is exposed, the need for a forgiving Messiah is shown and Jesus reveals His identity: “The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he." The result? Tons of people believe in Jesus! And we are reminded to open our spiritual eyes because many more (the harvest) are ready to believe!
The chapter concludes with Jesus’ second miracle in Cana. Jesus’ response to those who had heard about the water into wine thing He did, showed they were not interested in WHO Jesus was but just wanted His miracles: “Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders," Jesus told him, "you will never believe." But in His great mercy and love, Jesus, just by speaking, heals this man’s son, resulting in his whole house believing!
SO WHAT?!
*When Jesus went up to the Samaritan woman at the well, He made a powerful statement: Neither race, nor economics, nor social status, etc… can separate us from the love of God in Jesus! We are called to reach out to ALL types & kinds of peeps. So……who is it hardest for you to reach out to for Christ? Do this – commit them to daily prayer over the next 30 days and see if God works on your heart!
*Water represents life. Without it, you and I will die. When Jesus offers Himself as living water, He is stating that without Him we will die spiritually. What do you thirst for? Anything you & I thirst for other than Jesus will leave us thirsting for more. Lord, give us a deep thirst for You above all other things!
*Lord, let us never forget that YOU ARE THE MESSIAH, THE CHRIST!

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

John 3 DEVO: For God So Loved The World…

Chapter 3:
Without question, the most known Bible verse in all the world is John 3:16 – and it’s a great one! But do you know what vs 15 says? Vs 17? The context has to do with what it means to be born again. (This is actually one of those verses that CAN be pulled out of context because it describes so much of God’s heart.) Nicodemus, curious about Jesus, comes to Him one night with a compliment towards all Jesus had done. Jesus tells him “no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again.” Nic doesn’t get it and so Jesus explains that it is not about religiosity. It’s not about DOing. It’s not about keeping “the rules.” It’s about a totally new relationship – a spiritual one! How does this occur? “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.” Why? “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.” What an awesome invitation! And He did this to SAVE us not condemn us! But what about those who don’t believe? “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because he has not believed in the name of God's one and only Son.” Jesus is Light and Light exposes evil and some people will sadly love evil more than Light.
The chapter finishes with John the Baptizer describing his position in regards to Jesus. John is a friend, not the Savior. “He must become greater; I must become less.” – was JTB’s disposition!
SO WHAT?!
*Memorize John 3:16 if you haven’t already!
*We all must be “born again” to have eternal life, there is no in between. “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on him." To remain neutral to Jesus is still a form of rejection. Lets continue to lovingly pray for our friends who tell us “Jesus is good for you”, because they truly just don’t understand!
*Who is increasing in your life? Jesus or You? Lord, help it to be Jesus!!!

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

John 2 DEVO: Power & Passion

Chapter 2:
The two events that take place in this chapter both point to the deity (God-ness) of Jesus.
First, we find Jesus, His family and His disciples at a wedding. Apparently it was a pretty good party because the wine runs out. And who else do you look to in a crisis like this but Jesus. He then gives some perspective: "Dear woman, why do you involve me?" Jesus replied, "My time has not yet come." Often times what we may see as a crisis, may fade when compared to eternity. Jesus was on a mission and he wanted others to know that everything He did was to fulfill that mission. So He has them get the wash basins, fill ‘em with water and then scoop some out for the host. The host tastes it and is blown away because it is the best wine yet – and at the end of the party!~ What was the result? “He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in Him.”
The second event is one that tics Jesus off! He comes into His Dad’s house (the temple) and it was like a flea market with tons of dishonesty. “So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple area, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables………”Get these out of here! How dare you turn my Father's house into a market!" The religious peeps question Jesus’ authority in doing this and He baffles them with His answer. Jesus doesn’t need “their permission” to use His authority because “He knew what was in a man.”
SO WHAT?!
*In providing wine for a wedding, Jesus was not emphasizing celebrations (though not necessarily bad). Jesus saw all of life as an occasion to reveal Himself and in providing wine for this wedding He revealed His deity to all who saw it. Often times we can make evangelism a “project” when it’s meant to be a missional lifestyle. Is going on missions trips and going to the mall to share Christ wrong? Not necessarily. But we are called to make disciples “as we go” – in the circles where God already has us. Who are those in your circles of influence? Why not take a moment and write down their names and ask God to daily remind you to be concerned for them?!
*What tics you off? Trust me - there’s plenty of stuff that can tic us all off! But are we most upset by the things that upset God such as: Our own sin? Mockery towards the Bible? Lack of love? Etc…. Lord, break our hearts with the things that break yours!

Monday, October 25, 2010

John 1 DEVO: Jesus - THE Word

Introduction:
The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John all describe the life of Jesus from different eyewitness accounts. Matthew, Mark & Luke are often called the “synoptic” gospels because of their “common view.” The Gospel of John differs quite a bit in content as it focuses on Jesus being God from the very beginning. John’s purpose for this book is clearly defined in 20:31: “But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.”
This book was written by the apostle John in approximately 85-90 AD and is one of the last books written in the Bible. The author does not mention himself by name, but instead refers to himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved.” Love is a key theme in all of John’s writings. “Signs”, “Believe” and “Life” are three additional key words as well. John’s Gospel is an excellent book for a new believer to read to get a grip on who Jesus is and what new life in Christ is like.

Chapter 1:
This chapter totally rocks! As a new believer, I was challenged to memorize it and I can’t tell you how many times God has brought these verses up as I’ve shared Jesus with others since October of 1982!
The first five verses explain that Jesus is God (deity). “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” Only God has been around since the beginning, so “the Word” has to be God. This is confirmed by saying that “the Word” created all things and is the source of life and light.
Next comes two amazing statements. The first is a sobering one: “He (Jesus) came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.” The Jews in Jesus day rejected Him and many still do that today. The second statement offers incredible hope: “Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” How amazing is that? ALL who believe & receive now enter into God’s family!!! Then comes “the Christmas verse” (14): “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.” This is exactly what we celebrate at Christmas – that God became a man in the form of Jesus! So when you include verse 14, the mathematical solution goes something like this:
The Word is God.
Jesus is the Word.
Therefore, Jesus is God!
The rest of the chapter has to do with John the Baptizer. (He wasn’t “Baptist” or “Methodist”, etc…he baptized people) Basically, he denies being Jesus (because people were wanting to follow him) and instead points people TO Jesus!
Finally, I love Andrew’s response when finding Jesus: “Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, "We have found the Messiah" (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus."
SO WHAT?!
*Either Jesus IS God or he’s a liar or a lunatic, because He claimed to be God. How should this truth impact you & me? It should lead us to both Know Jesus & Make Him Known to others!
*Have you believed in and received Jesus yet? If so, then you are the King’s kid – Royalty! To think that God would adopt us into His family – whoohoo!!! Are we privileged or what?! Take some time to thank Him today!
*Finally, when was the last time you “brought someone to Jesus?” You don’t have to know much, you just have to WANT others to know Jesus. Bring people to Jesus by sharing the Gospel, bringing them to church & student ministry, etc….

Friday, October 22, 2010

Jude DEVO: Danger & Snatching

JUDE
Ever bite into a jalapeño or worse yet, a habanero? Those things are so small but carry a powerful punch! I think of the same when I come to this letter from Jude. Only 25 verses but wowsa – what a punch!
This was written by Jesus’ brother, Jude, around AD 65 to warn his readers of false teaching. In many ways, this letter parallels with 2 Peter. The first 16 verses have to do with the danger of false teaching and the remaining 9 verses are a call to stand for God’s truth.
One of the problems was that these false teachers had “slipped in”. In other words, they may have looked & acted much like real believers for a while. But in time, their hearts came out: “They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord.” You can’t be a believer and continually live a life of immorality. You also can’t be a believer, with the Holy Spirit of God living in you, and truly deny Christ! Those who do so will - like unbelievers in the desert & fallen angels & those in Sodom & Gomorrah - be punished (7).
We are to therefore “build our faith….pray….keep in God’s love…be merciful…and snatch others from the fire and save them.” As false teaching comes we are to, with gentleness and respect, stand against it. Why? Because it builds our faith. Because it draws us closer to God. And because it keeps our friends (who believe) from going to hell. Jalapeños and Habaneros won’t even compare to the burn your friends and mine will receive for eternity if they don’t believe & receive!
SO WHAT?!
*Are you a believer? If so, are you involved in immorality? Maybe you’re sensually and/or sexually involved with your boyfriend or girlfriend. Maybe you’ve been watching stuff on the internet you shouldn’t and you think no one knows. God knows - and He wants you to stop. These cravings can become addictions that lead into a downward spiral of sin. Get someone today - either your parents, a student pastor or a spiritual mentor – and ask them to hold you accountable. It will be the best thing for both you and for your testimony for Jesus!
*When was the last time you begged God to save a friend or family member? I mean you cried out for them to God? And then, because you care for them, you shared Jesus with them? Shouldn’t this be one of our utmost concerns? Come on, let’s do it this weekend! Take the 48 hour challenge with me to share Jesus with someone in the next 2 days – I DOUBLE-DOG DARE US!!!

Thursday, October 21, 2010

2 Peter 3 DEVO: The Lord’s Day & Our Response

Chapter 3:
The Word of God helps us think differently (1). And when we think differently, we then act differently. This is Peter’s second letter and he is reminding his readers of the Bible truths. He begins by saying, “in the last days scoffers will come……They will say, "Where is this 'coming' he promised?” Some day every prophecy of God will be fulfilled, but right now we are still waiting on the remaining ones and that can bring out the skeptics.
It’s all about God’s mercy & grace. It’s not as though God has forgotten: “With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” We are confined to time, and often, to our generation – God is not. Why then has He waited almost 2000 years since Jesus died & rose again? Mercy & Grace! “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” God is giving people time to turn to Him. One day that time will end and He WILL return and everything He said WILL happen.
How are we to live in this “in between” time? “Holy and godly lives….spotless, blameless, at peace with Him…..be on guard…..grow in grace and Knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Well, that ought to keep us busy for a while!
SO WHAT?!
*Ever pray to God and feel like you’re getting nothing? Yeah, me too. But the Bible reminds us that God hears our prayers and is answering each one of them. We just always like them to be yes & now, instead of no & wait! What requests are you regularly bringing to God that you haven’t seen answered yet? I believe God is saying “Bring It”. We just need to persevere and trust. I prayed for God to bring a ton of junior highers to reFuel last Sunday night to hear the Gospel and He did – highest attendance of the year! I also prayed for over 25 years for God to save my dad. He passed away in 2005 and I won’t know ‘til heaven if that one happened!
*When was the last time you thanked God for His mercy (not getting sentenced to eternal punishment for my sins) and His grace (getting eternal life in heaven instead because of my trust in Jesus)??? You and I are better off than we deserve and we must never forget it!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

2 Peter 2 DEVO: False Teachers

Chapter 2:
Deception – It began in the Garden of Eden when the serpent deceived Eve and continues to be around us today. Jesus told his disciples false teachers would come (Matt 24:11, Mark 13:22-23). Peter heard these words and was seeing this come true. People were saying things like Jesus was not God, that the resurrection wasn’t true, that Jesus’ work on the cross was insignificant and so on. Sound familiar? Peter warns against them and I notice three things:
First, their teaching leads people away from Jesus: “Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute.”
Second, their description is not “neutral” – they didn’t accidentally teach lies. They have an agenda and Peter doesn’t speak lightly of them: “unrighteous…bold and arrogant….brute beasts, creatures of instinct…eyes full of adultery…experts in greed, an accursed brood…” These are not descriptions of innocent people who accidentally teach wrong.
Third, false teachers WILL be punished! “The Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment…they will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done….blackest darkness is reserved for them.”
SO WHAT?!
*Have you been deceived lately regarding the truths in the Bible? Because the claims of Scripture go against our culture, if your faith hasn’t yet been challenged, it will be. So what is the best way to combat this? Know both WHAT you believe and WHY you believe it. Those who detect counterfeit currency don’t study counterfeit currency. They study hard the real thing so they can spot fakes! The same should be true of believers. We must read & study our Bible. The more you & I are in the Word of God, the more we will be able to spot teaching that is contrary!
*We must not think that the teachings of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons, Islam, Hinduism, etc… are harmless. These teachings go against the biblical teaching that Jesus is the ONLY way to be made right with God, they are deceiving many and they all have some kind of problem with the claims of Jesus. Yes, these people are sinners for whom Jesus died and we need to pray they will believe! But we must stand up against what they teach. A few months back, some JW’s came to my door. It was kinda’ funny, we remembered each other from when they came by my home in old Katy. I again sat down with them and showed them in the Bible that Jesus is God. They continually denied it. I then asked them kindly not to go to any more of my neighbors, to which they said they had the freedom to do so. So, I grabbed my Bible and followed them around to each of my neighbors homes. After they would finish, I would kindly say to my neighbors (who all know me), “These people are telling you lies about Jesus. I would love to sit down anytime with you and explain what the Bible really says and answer any questions you have about Jesus and God.” Each of these neighbors was soooo appreciative for me to talk with them. Finally, the JW’s decided to leave, but they first asked me, “Why I was doing this?” I told them that if I knew someone was giving poison to my friends, I’d do what ever I could to stop them and y’all are trying to poison my friends with your false teaching about Jesus. I was kind, I was gentle, but I was truthful and offered them a chance to believe in the True Jesus. God knows, and hey, maybe, someday, Barbara and her friends will believe!

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

2 Peter 1 DEVO: Everything We Need

Introduction:
This letter was written by the apostle Peter (1) in approximately AD 67. Peter knew his life was coming to an end (13-14) so He wrote to warn about false teachers and to remind believers of the eternal, unchanging truth of the Gospel.

Chapter 1:
“Consumer” is a good word for us people types. Seems like we are always wanting something: clothes, a new phone, the latest computer, new shoes, bigger vacations, more money, nicer truck, yadda, yadda, yadda…..
I need to hear verse 3: “His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.” These are amazing words we all need to hear! Promises from God like this exist so that “through them we may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.” Good stuff!
Next Peter lines out what faith looks like: learning to know God better, developing perseverance, doing God’s will and loving others. These actions require work and they overlap each other. We must practice them because “they will keep us from being ineffective and unproductive in our knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Only then we can get a “way to go” from God on the day we arrive in heaven!
Finally, Peter was an eyewitness of Jesus, specifically the transfiguration (17-18). He didn’t make up this stuff about Jesus. As a matter of fact, none of the writers of the Bible did: “Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
SO WHAT?!
*What is it you are “wanting” these days? The latest phone so you can keep up with your friends? More money? Bigger muscles? Cooler wheels? Whatever it is, we need to never forget that this earth is just our temporary living place. Everything we need to live this life for Jesus He has already given us. We just need to live it.
*Are you having an impact on your friends for Jesus or are they impacting you towards worldliness? I learned early in my Christian life, that if I don’t see myself as a missionary, it won’t be long before I’m the mission field! How about you? In what tangible ways are you being an ambassador for Really, who wants to live an ineffective and unproductive life!?~! Just sayin’…
*This chapter teaches us that the Bible was written by GOD. Yes, He used people, but HE is the author and He gave them what to write. This is why we call it “God’s Word.” Think about this the next time we get busy and blow off reading it. When we do that, we put off the most impactful and powerful words we could ever receive for the day. Ouch. Lets read!

Monday, October 18, 2010

1 Peter 5 DEVO: Ten Commands

Chapter 5:
Ok, so this is a cool chapter in which I find 10 commands. The first four commands are to leaders, the fifth to youth and the rest to everyone. Paul begins with an appeal and by putting himself on the same level as the other leaders in the church. Real leaders are those who serve alongside us not over us and real leaders keep their priorities in check!
1. BE Shepherds: (2a) The first & foremost responsibility of a pastor/shepherd is to care for his flock. This is an AWESOME responsibility!
2. BE Willing: (2b) God calls those who WANT to shepherd, not people who feel they “have” to. Don’t sign up for stuff at church just because no one else is. Sign up because you WANT to and God will bless you!
3. BE Eager to Serve: (2c) Ok, if you’re in ministry for the money, you’re an idiot! I’m a pastor (yes, youth pastors are REAL pastors) because I can’t do anything else! I don’t mean I’m unskilled to do anything else, what I mean is I can’t because deep down I know God wants me pastoring students and I’d be miserable doing anything else because it would be outside God’s will for me!
4. BE Examples: (3) No one likes to serve a boss who gives them all the cruddy jobs. Jesus never asked His disciples to do anything He had not already done or was about to do with them. The same should be true of shepherds/pastors. We are to serve alongside as examples.
5. BE Submissive: (5a) Pride keeps young people from listening to older and older from trying to understand the young. Period.
6. BE Humble: (5b-6) God’s mighty hand is big enough to trust our lives with!
7. BE Worry-Free: (7) We are to give God all our anxiety because we are His personal concern (Phillips translation). Then we can truly have “hakunna matatta”!~
8. BE Self-Controlled: (8) God’s people are to exercise both restraint and discipline. “For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age…” – Titus 2:11-12
9. BE Alert: (8) Throughout the Bible we are continually reminded to be ready, not caught off guard and to stand firm. The enemy Satan is constantly trying to catch us!
10. BE Intimate: (14) Ok, this doesn’t necessarily mean we’re to go around kissing everyone! It was a cultural sign of affection, intimacy & love for another. The Bible says unbelievers will know we are Christians by our LOVE for one another. This Love is what ought to attract people to Jesus!
SO WHAT?!
*As a pastor/shepherd, caring for students & families at Redeemer is an enormous responsibility that I do not take lightly. It’s also one I need help doing. As a result, every student in our ministry is prayed for daily and has both a student shepherd as well as a parental shepherd. I’m not the parent, but I will have to give an account to God some day for the students He put under my care, and I want to do that well. How about you? Who are you in charge of caring for?
*I’m cool with sign up lists – every church has them. But you won’t get a guilt trip from me if you don’t sign up. Those who WANT to serve are so much more pleasant to work with. Maybe, if people don’t sign up for something, could it be that God is saying not to do it?!~! Novel thought huh?!~!
*Finally, vs 7 was one of the first verses I memorized as a new believer. It has been such a comfort to know I can release all my “crud” to God and trust Him with it. I believe it has saved me many an ulcer! I encourage you to do the same right now! We ARE God’s personal concern!

Friday, October 15, 2010

COOL GOD STUFF REGARDING THE CHILEAN MINERS!!!

This is Totally Cool God Stuff regarding the Chilean Miners!!
http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2010/10/14/the-story-behind-the-chilean-miners-jesus-t-shirts/?hpt=C2
Makes me think of Psalm 139:7-8

Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
If I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

The story behind the Chilean miners' Jesus T-Shirts
As miners were being pulled from Chile's San Jose mine Wednesday, most were wearing tan T-shirts over their coveralls. The Chilean government told reporters the green coveralls were designed to help absorb the sweat as they ascended to the top.
But Wes Little, a CNN editor/producer in Atlanta, wondered why the miners were wearing the T-shirt over their coveralls. He noticed a logo on the T-shirt's left sleeve for the Jesus Film Project.
Here's what we found:

The Jesus Film Project is a ministry of Campus Crusade for Christ International, the massive Orlando, Florida-based evangelical ministry.
The Jesus Film Project tells us they have translated the film into 1,105 languages and that it has been seen in every country. You can watch or listen to over a 1,000 of the translations here.
The main goal of TJFP's ministry is to create and distribute effective media in every language, says Berry Fiess, the group's director of field information services.
Seventeen days into the mine accident, CCCI country director for Chile, Christian Maureira, started contacting public officials to see if they could send the miners a copy of the film. Fiess said Maureira was able to reach a daughter and a brother of miner Jose Henriquez.
Through that family contact, the group was able to send an MP3 audio version of the Jesus film and an MP3 audio version of the New Testament in Spanish to Henriquez down in the mine.
The Jesus film explains that the New Testament tells how Jesus is laid in a tomb-like cave after his crucifixion. Three days later, Jesus is said to have risen from the dead. In the Jesus film, women come to the tomb and find the stone that blocked the entrance has been rolled away, the cave empty.
It is unclear if the miners saw the resurrection story as a parallel for their hoped-for rescue, but Jose Henriquez passed along a letter to CCCI's Maureira from inside the mine. Fiess shared the English translation with CNN:
Thank you for this tremendous blessing for me and my coworkers. It will be good for our spiritual edification. I am fine because Christ lives in me.
We have prayer services at 12 noon and 6 pm.
"At the end of the letter," Fiess said, "(Henriquez) said goodbye with Psalm 95:4, which says, 'In His hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to Him.'"
A few days later, Henriquez asked Maureira to get them special T-shirts.
"The T-shirts were a gift from Campus Crusade for Christ Chile," Fiess said. "In the front you can read, 'Gracias Senor' – 'Thank you Lord.'"
And on the back, Psalm 95:4.
"Apparently, all the miners liked them," Fiess said. "It kind of solidified them."

GOD IS WORKING IN THERE AND HERE IN KATY!!!
It's been awesome to hear from so many students about how they are "Making Jesus Known" with their friends!!!!

1 Peter 4 DEVO: Living & Suffering

Chapter 4:
Jesus said in John 16:33, “In this world you will have trouble.” Trials, persecution & suffering will always be a part of our lives. It’s HOW we face them that makes the difference.
In the first 6 verses, Peter describes how a radically transformed life will impact others. Having a Christ-like attitude, not living for ourselves but instead living for God will not only baffle them (“they think it strange”) but also cause them to “heap abuse on you.” Yeah – he’s saying these things are to be expected, but take heart, Jesus has overcome the world!
In the midst of tough times, we are to “be clear minded and self-controlled so that we can pray, love each other deeply, offer hospitality to one another without grumbling and use whatever gift we have received to serve others…” Why? “So that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ.” Nothing is better, when we are suffering, than to know others are in it with us!
Finally, Peter once again reminds us that suffering should not surprise us. And here’s the attitude we are to have “rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed, praise God that you bear His name…… So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.”
SO WHAT?!
*What are you facing right now that is just plain not fun? How are you handling it? Why not take some time right now and ask God to help you put into practice the attitudes listed in this chapter?!
*Ever feel like you’re doing all the right things but suffering even more? The believers Peter was writing to of his day must have felt the same way because he told them to “commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.” In spite of the temporary, earthly results, be encouraged, you’re doing the right thing!
*Do you feel alone in your suffering? That’s no fun! Hey, the Texas Freund’s have been tossed a lot lately and have felt pretty alone. Maybe this is how you’re feeling. Let me encourage you not to slouch into “loneliness pity” but instead to seek out a close friend or two who will pray with you through these times. You will be blessed if you do!

Thursday, October 14, 2010

1 Peter 3 DEVO: Dedication, Preparation, Conversation, Cooperation

Chapter 3:
With a rhyming title like this, I should be Baptist!
Anyway, Peter continues describing submission and here what it should look like between husbands & wives. I find it interesting that he equates submission with inner beauty. In a world that focuses on the external, Peter explains to women that even an unbelieving husband can get saved “when they see the purity and reverence of your lives.” Not only that, but a woman’s beauty “should not come from outward adornment, such as braided hair and the wearing of gold jewelry and fine clothes. Instead, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight.” This is good stuff ladies.
Guys – live with your wife in an understanding way. Yes, that means things like listening more, telling her regularly you love her, maybe even shopping with her!
The rest of the chapter returns back to Peter’s theme of suffering. I believe the key is found in four phrases:
Dedication: We are to “in our hearts set apart Christ as Lord.” Our commitment to Jesus is to be the foundation for suffering.
Preparation: We are also to “Always be prepared…” The Christian life requires discipline!
Conversation: “…to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” As we prepare, we begin to know what we believe and why we believe it so we can share that good news with others: “For Christ died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, to bring you to God.”
Cooperation: “But do so with gentleness and respect…” You and I can’t MAKE anyone believe in Jesus, the Holy Spirit must draw them. Trust me, if we could, I would! But what we can do is BE Jesus to peeps and invite them into a loving, caring community of Jesus-centeredness!
SO WHAT?!
*Are you married? If so, in what way can you this week be more understanding of your spouse? If you’re not married yet, make this a good time of preparation, learning to be understanding!
*What gets you through tough times? I can honestly say for me it’s JESUS! I wasn’t doing very well before I knew Him! Now it can be Jesus in another person, or Jesus in the Word of God or Jesus in actions – but it’s still Jesus! What are you going through right now that you need Jesus to help you through? He can AND HE WANTS TO HELP! Call on Him today!
*Are you prepared to tell someone how they can know Jesus? Can you explain the points of the Gospel? If not, memorize them today! Here is a good resource: http://www.dare2share.org/gospeljourney/

Wednesday, October 13, 2010

1 Peter 2 DEVO: Therefore, Living Legos, Royalty & Submission

Chapter 2:
I love building things. And for me, growing up it was Lincoln Logs. Brown notched out logs, red roof beams & green slats all together to form buildings. Then came Legos – colorful, multi-shaped pieces which transformed every 8 year old boy into a building machine! Yeah…..even though they were “after my time” as a kid, I still keep a box in my office to help with creativity!
In this chapter, Jesus is referred to as the “prime Lego” of a spiritual building in which all of us are a part. Before we get there though, we’re reminded to put into practice chapter 1.
1-3: “Therefore” – because God has given believers new birth into a living hope, with an incredible inheritance, we are to live differently. We are to “rid” ourselves of old ways of living and instead “crave” the things of God!
4-8: Living Legos: The cornerstone was an important stone that held two rows of stones together in a corner. Once it was in place, the rest of the building was determined. The capstone is the most important part of the building. It completes, strengthens and unifies the walls. Without it, the walls would be weak. Jesus is THE Living Stone (Lego). Unbelievers are the builders. Believers are living stones as well – chosen, precious and at times, rejected.
9-10: These verses say believers are royalty! How awesome to be the King’s kid!~ And with a purpose, “that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”
11-12: Our loyalty to God is seen in our actions, how we live this life God has given us. By doing so, it silences the critics and points people to God.
13-21: Submission is one of life’s paradoxes. The sin nature in all of us battles to do what we want, yet it is in submission that we can truly live! Here, Peter says that as we submit to authorities and suffer, we are commended by God!
22-25: There is no greater example of submission & suffering that that of our Lord! To be totally innocent and say nothing requires incredible restraint and trust in God – all of which Jesus demonstrated.
SO WHAT?!
*This passage teaches us that we are part of spiritual building. Where do you see yourself: A wall? The roof? How is your role in the body helping “hold things together”?
*We also read that God has “called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” In what dark rooms of your life has God “turned on a light”? What will you do about it?
*Of all the authorities in your life, which ones do you have the hardest time submitting to? Will you ask God for humility & strength to obey?
*Finally, take out that box of Legos & build something today with this passage in mind! A cheerful heart is good medicine!

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

1 Peter 1 DEVO: Salvation & Grace Living

Introduction:
The book was written by the apostle Peter around 64ish AD to both Jewish (vs 1: scattered) & Gentile (vs 14: ignorance) Christians. It was written to offer encouragement to suffering Christians in the midst of a society that was ignorant of the true God. “Christ/Jesus/Lord” is used 46 times – indicating the key to persevering in suffering is to focus on Christ!
There is no other disciple whom Jesus was closer to than Peter. During the three years they spent together, Jesus showed & taught Peter a lot of lessons. As stubborn as Peter was, this book reveals that he learned those lessons!
• Submission – Matthew 17:24 - $ in mouth of fish, pay taxes. He got it = 1 Peter 2:13ff
• Restraint – John 18 – Peter cut off the guards ear w/ his sword (frankly, I think he was going for his head!). Jesus told him “Live by the sword, die by the sword” – Mathew 26:52. He got it = 1 Peter 2:23
• Humility – “I’ll never leave you Jesus….. all others but not me” He got it = 1 Peter 5:5
• Sacrifice – John 21:19 – “You are gonna’ be a martyr Peter” – He got it = 1 Peter 4:19
• Love – Easy as a leader to get “task oriented” rather than “people oriented!” – John 21 – “Do you LOVE me Peter?” – (maybe this is why he hooked up with John)….. He got it = 1 Peter 4:8

Chapter 1:
The first two verses show us the Trinity at work in saving us: God the FATHER, by His grace, CHOOSES people. God the SON, by His blood, SAVES those who believe. The HOLY SPIRIT then SANCTIFIES believers. What an amazing demonstration of God’s grace! The purpose of all this: “for obedience to Jesus Christ.” God’s Word was never just meant to be known but to also be obeyed!~
So what are we given once we are saved? A whole boatload of stuff! Specifically mentioned here is:
- Inheritance & Security (3-5)
- Faith & Joy (6-9)
- Grace & Guidance (10-12)
What then are the bi-products of being saved? Holiness (13-16), Reverence (17-21) and Love (22-25). In our next chapter we will be told how then to live as a result! COOL GOD STUFF!
SO WHAT?!
*What are you going through right now that seems overwhelming? 46 times Pete4r reminds us the focus is JESUS not our circumstances. Why not take a moment right now to give that circumstance to Him and focus on all the great things you have IN Him!?~
*According to this chapter, what % of your salvation are you responsible for? The answer is ZIP, nadda, zero, nothing. You & I can never earn our acceptance before God. It’s all based on what Jesus did for us that we could never do. Now that’s worth giving thanks for!
*Finally, “prepare your minds for action, be self-controlled, set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance, be holy in all you do…”

Monday, October 11, 2010

Mark 16 DEVO: JESUS IS ALIVE!!!

Chapter 16:
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is pivotal to our Christian life. Paul wrote, “if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” But 3 verses later he also wrote, “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead.” It’s true – Jesus is Alive!
The chapter begins with three discouraged ladies, heading faithfully to Jesus’ tomb with no idea of how they’re gonna’ get in. Their wondering soon ended as they met an angel who said, “"Don't be alarmed," he said. "You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.' " This had to have been AWESOME as they ran off to tell the others!
Next we read that Jesus appeared to many, including the disciples, whom He rebuked for their lack of faith.
Then Jesus gives them “THE Cause” of all causes = to make disciples who make disciples = to preach the good news! Finally, we read this: “Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them.” From the very beginning, Jesus had a plan (follow me) that led to His purpose (I will make you fishers of men). What an incredible Savior we have that desires we be part of His-Story, His plan!
SO WHAT?!
*In just three short weeks, we’ve looked at the true story of Jesus. Take a moment today and write down 2-3 things that stood out the most to you in your reading of the Gospel of Mark and then thank the Lord for them.
*Knowing Jesus and Making Him Known (THE Cause) is the greatest cause in life because the eternity of people’s souls is at stake! Are you actively involved in both living the Gospel (showing) and speaking the Gospel (sharing)? If not, why not? In heaven, believers will have fellowship with God, we will have THE living Word of God with us, we will pray directly to God, etc…. The one thing we won’t do is witness. That task is for here and NOW. So – will you take the 48 hour challenge with me to verbally share the good news of Jesus with someone within the next 2 days?! Go ahead, I Double-Dog Dare Ya’! And let me know how it went!

Friday, October 8, 2010

Mark 15 DEVO: The Journey to the Cross is Lonely

Chapter 15:
We continue on this journey of Jesus’ last week on earth by looking at what he went through:
Before Pilate“Very early in the morning…” – The “Holy Hefty’s” held an illegal trial of Jesus in the middle of the night and determined He was guilty. They brought Him to Pilate and even though Pilate saw no crime, he handed Jesus over to be crucified. Jesus said nothing.
Mocking – They stripped Jesus, made fun of him, spit on Him, mocked Him and hated Him so much that they would lead our innocent Lord away to be crucified! Passers by hurled insults and the chief priests & teachers of the law mocked as well.
Jesus’ Death & Burial – For the first time in Jesus life, he felt loneliness. God His Father had turned His back on Him and for the first time ever there was a tremble in the Trinity as Jesus took on the sins of the world! The moment Jesus died an amazing & symbolic event occurred: “The curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” This was to show that all people, now through Jesus, can have instant access to God!
SO WHAT?!
*How do you react when being unfairly treated? Usually we argue or loudly plead our case or try to “prove” we’re right or maybe even get into a scuffle! We can learn a lot (again) from Jesus on this one. Was Jesus right? Yep! Were his accusers wrong? Yep! But Jesus let the results up to God. Peter puts it best: “When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to him who judges justly.” (1 Peter 2:23)
*Loneliness is a terrible feeling. No one likes to feel alone or likes feeling like no one cares. Jesus felt it too and what did He do? He cried out to God! He had to go thru an excruciating experience but God came to Him, resurrected Him and exalted Him! Usually when God doesn’t immediately answer us in our lonely times, we can become offended. Let’s resist that temptation and continually go to God! Maybe even grab someone else who will pray with you – that’s a good start to combat loneliness!

Thursday, October 7, 2010

Mark 14 DEVO: The Journey to the Cross is Painful

Chapter 14:
In this chapter we read of the events that led up to the crucifixion of Jesus. As we read it and take it in, we gain an ever-increasing thankfulness for what Jesus went through for us! Here is how the events lined up:
• Jesus Anointed – A lady dumps a really expensive jar of perfume on Jesus and everyone watching sees it as a waste. Not Jesus, He is honored so much that He states, “wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."
• Jesus’ Last Meal with the 12 – Gotta’ love the instructions Jesus gives about the dinner place! But as Jesus reveals “one of you will betray me” they are all sickened and each begin to wonder if it is them! Judas was soon to turn on Him. Jesus’ main concern – remember Me!
• Peter’s Pride – He thought he was better than other people who would ditch Him!
• The REAL Lord’s Prayer – Jesus gets away with his closest buddies to pray about the upcoming events because He knows He will need His Father’s strength. He is disappointed to find that His closest buddies couldn’t even stay awake to pray at His most crucial moment.
• Judas the Betrayer - He now hands Jesus over to be arrested. It’s one thing to have a friend turn on you, it’s another to have them attempt to be intimate while doing it. The kiss of Judas had to be terribly painful for Jesus!
• An Unfair Trial – “Some stood up and gave this false testimony against him: Yet even then their testimony did not agree.” The only thing they could accuse Jesus of was His claim that He was God – which He was and is!
• Peter Disowns Jesus – Just like Jesus told him, Peter ditches Jesus. Jesus is always right and Peter realized it “and he broke down and wept.”
SO WHAT?!
*What are you willing to give as a love offering to God? This lady poured out on Jesus the equivalent of a years wages. What about you? What are you lovingly willing to sacrifice for Jesus? Kind David said, “I will not give to the Lord that which costs me nothing.” How about you? How about me?
*Ever had a friend turn their back on you? If you have, you know the shock and the pain it brings. No one knew that more than Jesus and we can learn a lot from how He continued to treat that person. Jesus loved Judas and continued to show him mercy & grace until the very end. Oh Lord, only through YOU can we do the same to those who hurt us most!

Wednesday, October 6, 2010

Mark 13 DEVO: Keep Watch

Chapter 13:
In this chapter we are told 4 times to “watch”, 3 times to “be on our guard” and another time to “be alert.” Jesus, through Mark, wants his readers to be ready! For what you say? For future stuff – specifically in this chapter, the tribulation and Jesus’ second coming.
The disciples were much like you & me, impressed with human accomplishments. Jesus shocks them by saying, "Do you see all these great buildings?" Not one stone here will be left on another; every one will be thrown down." A bit taken back, finally, one of them asks Jesus later, “Tell us, when will these things happen?” This begins a quite lengthy answer by Jesus.
Mark records the description of a future period known as the tribulation, which appropriately describes what it will be like. False prophets, wars, deception, earthquakes & famines are just a few of the “birth pains” or indicators that we’re getting close. And we totally see this stuff today, so hey, we’re close!
Other things that will happen is believers will be persecuted but through this persecution “the Gospel will be preached to all nations.” Unheard of abominations (a pig – unclean - was sacrificed on the altar) will occur, the biggest being someone else claiming to be the Messiah. This will be followed by dreadful times of murders, pain and “days of distress unequaled from the beginning, when God created the world, until now—and never to be equaled again.” Will believers go through all of this? Some theologians think so, some don’t. What we DO know is that it WILL happen just like God says and we are to be ready!
Then, some time after the tribulation (23-32), there will be some kind of disintegration of the universe just before we “see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens.”
SO WHAT?!
*When you hear of the events described in this chapter, what reaction do you have?
• It can cause confusion – whenever we read of future things the details seem foggy.
• We may also react with some fears, I mean who can endure the things listed?
• It may also bring concerns for friends, family and neighbors we love.
*SO – HOW THEN SHALL WE LIVE?
• First and most important, we need to be sure we are right with God. Have you put your trust & faith in Jesus alone for the forgiveness of your sin that HE paid with His life in your place? If you’ve done this, your eternity is secure!
• Persevere: Ask God for strength for each day to overcome.
• Finally, “What I say to you I say to everyone: ‘Watch.’” (vs37)

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

Simply Youth ministry Inside Track Team Summit - Day 1

75 of us from around the country & world are here brainstorming student ministry and helping plan the SYMC for March. I've enjoyed getting to talk with so many YM studs and learning from them. SYM & Group is totally schmoozing us as well. The flipped the bill for this whole thing (less airfare), had limos pick us up for dinner last night and surprised us with an AMAZING worship time with Shane & Shane! Lord, help us to follow YOUR leading so we can help more & more students Know Jesus & Make Him Known!
Here are some pics

Mark 12 DEVO: Stories & Answers That Offend

Chapter 12:
There is a line in the movie, “A Few Good Men”, that states, “You want the truth? You can’t handle the truth!” That could easily be the title for this chapter. The beginning story and all of Jesus’ answers afterwards cut to the heart, because truth is like that!
Picture the first scene: The religious peeps are listening intently to the story Jesus is telling and agreeing with what the owner of the vineyard does until it got personal. “Then they looked for a way to arrest him (Jesus) because they knew he had spoken the parable against them.”
Moving on to taxes, the religious peeps were again trying to outwit Jesus & catch Him (futile). But since money means very little to Jesus, he answers so wisely: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.” Ching-Ching!
Next – who’s gonna be married to who in the resurrection. This is somewhat of an ironic question when you consider it is coming from the Sadducees who don’t believe in the resurrection (that’s why they’re “sad-you-see”….hehe). But Jesus answers it anyway. We must always remember that, even though earth is all we have to compare with, we can’t compare heaven to here!
Next – Which is the greatest commandment? First = Love God, Second = Love People! I’m intrigued with Jesus’ reply to the teacher of the law: "You are not far from the kingdom of God." In this short reply, Jesus both complimented him and challenged him. He acknowledged his mention of the importance of love, but let him know that love needs to be shown, obeyed and accepted as well!!
Next – Who’s son is Jesus? Ummmm = God’s!
Next – Jesus makes it clear that giving has more to with sacrifice than amount! This certainly offended the big givers who made sure their giving was noticed!
SO WHAT?!
*Can you handle the truth? How are you doing as a student? A spouse? A parent? A friend? Etc…. Want to really know? Then ask the ones who count: teachers, spouses, children, peers, etc… But be ready to take the truth. I asked my son Drew how I was doing as a dad and he told me “ok”. Then I said, “If there were one thing (I limited him) I could do better what would it be?” About 30 minutes later he came back & told me, “I don’t like it when you & mom argue.” It was truth, and like a knife, it cut deep! That night, Jean & I talked and we prayed and asked God to help us to handle the stress better in our home. I believe Drew would tell you we’ve done better. But it took a stab of truth to change us. How about you asking someone for some truth?! Then…………………swallow hard, take it and change to be more like Jesus!
*The Bible talks a lot about finances. God knows they often become an issue in this life, but remember, they won’t be an issue in eternity, so don’t make a bigger deal of them than they truly are. We are managers of all God gives us. Let’s just manage it, not own it.

Monday, October 4, 2010

Mark 11 DEVO: Beginning of the End

Chapter 11:
Starting in this chapter, we begin to look at the last week of Jesus’ earthly life. It begins with what has been know as “The Triumphal Entry.” This is Sunday of the week Jesus will be crucified. Jesus sends 2 disciples to a village with very specific instructions to get a donkey for Jesus to ride and it goes just as they were told. The put blankets on the donkey and Jesus rides it into Jerusalem. As he does, people are laying palm branches & clothing on the path and shouting “Hosanna” – which means “save us.” They recognized that He was fulfilling Zechariah 9:9. Whether they believed or not is up for grabs, because by Thursday, many of these same were shouting “crucify him.”
Jesus first act of business – curse a tree (because it wasn’t fulfilling it’s purpose) and then address the money-making schemes going on in the “temple’ = church! People were getting scammed and in God’s house! This ticked off Jesus and “He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves, and would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts.” Ohhh, and as they go by the fig tree later the notice it had withered. Jesus basically tells asks them they just need faith to believe!
Finally, Jesus’ authority is again questioned and, again, Jesus answers their question with a question: "I will ask you one question. Answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. John's baptism—was it from heaven, or from men? Tell me!" Duph – the religious peeps had to be thinking “He’s got us! “If we say, ‘From heaven, he will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ But if we say, ‘From men…” (They feared the people, for everyone held that John was a prophet.) So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Jesus’s reply? “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things."
SO WHAT?!
*The temple in Jesus day represented the dwelling place of the Lord. Today, God lives in people by His Holy Spirit because WE are now His temple! With that said, how are we treating God’s temple? Whenever we live for anything other than God, we too abuse His temple. We can also abuse it by not taking care of it: overeating, not exercising, smoking, drug abuse, etc… What are you doing to take care of God’s dwelling? Are we feeding ourselves spiritually as much as physically? Make time to take care of His temple!
*PS – after reading this chapter, it would be wise to never try to outwit Jesus!

Friday, October 1, 2010

Mark 10 DEVO: Hard Lessons

Chapter 10:
In the three years the disciples spent with Jesus, they got to hear Him teach amazing stuff! They also got to hear Him teach some hard & unpopular things. This chapter has some of those. First off, Jesus is asked by the Pharisees, who were always looking for loopholes and a chance to get Him to stumble,, "Is it lawful for a man to divorce his wife?" Jesus addresses “lawful” vs “permitted.” Jesus replies, “God 'made them male and female. For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate." And if you divorce your spouse and remarry – you commit adultery because God doesn’t recognize the divorce. Go ahead and try to tell couples who get divorced that they can’t remarry. NOT popular.
Next, Jesus is asked by a rich man what it takes to inherit eternal life. Jesus tells him he must keep the commandments and the rich dude says he has – since he was a boy! I find this hard to believe, but Jesus doesn’t address it. He instead goes straight for the heart because he knows that where your heart is, your treasure is! "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." The rich man left sad. Why? He loved his wealth more than God and his keeping of all the commandments was for the wrong reasons! It is hard for a rich man to enter heaven! NOT popular!
Following this, Jesus predicts his death for the third time and then is asked by James & John ( or maybe their mom) if they can sit on Jesus right & left in heaven. Guess they forgot the humility lesson from the last chapter! Anyway, as Jesus usually does, he answers their question with a question that in essence means “can you do & go thru what I will?” Ummmm no, but they answer yes. And in some ways they can because Jesus knows James will be beheaded for his faith and John will be exiled for his! NOT Popular! Jesus basically ends up telling them it’s not up to Him but God.
SO WHAT?!
*USA statistics on divorce mean that most of those reading this devo come from a divorced family. I did. My wife Jean did. It’s always a hard experience for all involved. But YOU AND I can get off the divorce train in our generation! Make sure both of you place GOD at the center of your marriage, KNOW the person whom you are marrying and finally, how about KEEPING your promise no matter what! You made it to God and to your spouse – just keep it! Jean & I have now been married over 19 years and we aren’t gonna’ divorce – we promised! And by the way, we LOVE being married to each other and WORK at keeping it that way! You too can make this decision right now, even if you’re not married yet!
*If world statistics are true, then ALL of us reading this (and the one writing it) are rich! Come on, we live in the US, in TEXAS, in KATY and next to CINCO RANCH………and we have JESUS! We’re rich. So let’s not let our riches be the treasure of our hearts, that’s where Jesus needs to be!