Today's Bible reading is the 15th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%2015&version=NASB
Today's chapter of Mark includes the crucifixion of our Lord Jesus. Although not found in Mark's gospel, in Luke's we read that when Jesus was being crucified He said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." Mark does record the crucifixion and before its completion, the severe mistreatment and mocking that Jesus was subjected to. Such amazing words they would have been to anyone with a softened heart and such amazing words they are to the believer today; "Father, forgive them". Of course, in a sense, they knew exactly what they were doing. With great hatred and disdain for Jesus of Nazareth, the religious leaders were seeking His death and the Roman soldiers were carrying out His "sentence".
From the text it appears that the Roman Centurion, the one in charge of the soldiers, would not only supervise the crucifixion but also act as the "medical examiner" if you will. When Joseph of Arimathea comes to Pilate to ask for the body of Jesus, it is the centurion that Pilate consults with to confirm Jesus' death. And during the crucifixion itself we find the centurion "standing right in front of" Jesus. It seems clear that one of the reasons he is doing so is so that he can declare when death has occurred. I have no doubt that this centurion had witnessed many men die by crucifixion. Our text today tells us that when the centurion "saw the way He breathed His last", he declared of Jesus, "Truly this man was the Son of God!" What was so different? What was unique about the way He had breathed His last? As already indicated, I believe this centurion had witnessed many men breath their last breath as their life was taken from them. The difference? I suppose it may have been that he had never seen a man willingly give his life, willingly breath His last as Jesus had. That's all the difference in the world.
Friday, February 28, 2014
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 14th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+14&version=NASB
With 72 verses, Mark 14 is a difficult chapter to pull a brief thought from. In this chapter Mark records the account of Jesus praying in Gethsemane after sharing in the Passover meal with His disciples in the upper room. He had already told them that one of them would betray Him, that Peter would deny Him three times and that all of them would fall away from Him. After arriving at Gethsemane, He had some of the disciples sit while He took Peter, James and John away from the rest. And then telling the three to remain and keep watch, He went a little further by Himself and began to pray, asking the Father, that if it were possible that "the hour" might pass Him by. He then affirmed His desire to do the Father's will and not His own. When He returned He found the disciples sleeping. Three times Jesus would go to pray and upon His return find the three sleeping.
It is not the disciples sleeping and their inability to do what He asked of them that I wish to write about. It is, what I believe to be, the wonderful example given to us by our Lord regarding prayer. After His first prayer, the text tells us that during each subsequent prayer He was "saying the same words". Again, I so much appreciate His example. Remember, "the hour" was near and it would be His most trying one. He does not continue to pray the same thing because He lacks faith. He continues to pray the same thing because He is showing us the source of His strength and His desire to do His Father's will. When we struggle through "the hours" of this life, we should never be ashamed for going to our Father time and again. He bids us to boldly come to the throne of grace and find help in our time of need. The worst thing we can do is stop coming.
With 72 verses, Mark 14 is a difficult chapter to pull a brief thought from. In this chapter Mark records the account of Jesus praying in Gethsemane after sharing in the Passover meal with His disciples in the upper room. He had already told them that one of them would betray Him, that Peter would deny Him three times and that all of them would fall away from Him. After arriving at Gethsemane, He had some of the disciples sit while He took Peter, James and John away from the rest. And then telling the three to remain and keep watch, He went a little further by Himself and began to pray, asking the Father, that if it were possible that "the hour" might pass Him by. He then affirmed His desire to do the Father's will and not His own. When He returned He found the disciples sleeping. Three times Jesus would go to pray and upon His return find the three sleeping.
It is not the disciples sleeping and their inability to do what He asked of them that I wish to write about. It is, what I believe to be, the wonderful example given to us by our Lord regarding prayer. After His first prayer, the text tells us that during each subsequent prayer He was "saying the same words". Again, I so much appreciate His example. Remember, "the hour" was near and it would be His most trying one. He does not continue to pray the same thing because He lacks faith. He continues to pray the same thing because He is showing us the source of His strength and His desire to do His Father's will. When we struggle through "the hours" of this life, we should never be ashamed for going to our Father time and again. He bids us to boldly come to the throne of grace and find help in our time of need. The worst thing we can do is stop coming.
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 13th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+13&version=NASB
After speaking of the end times, describing signs that would be indicative of those times and warning of false prophets and false Christs, Jesus tells His disciples, "but of the day or hour no one knows". He goes on to explain that neither the angels in Heaven or even Himself knows the day or the hour but His Father alone. Because they do not know when these end times will come to pass, He instruction to them is to "keep on the alert". He says this in verses 33 and 35 and then in the final verse of the chapter He says, "What I say to you I say to all, 'Be on the alert!'"
Over the years it has seemed that Christians have often been more concerned with figuring out the "day or the hour" than they have been about being on the alert. God does all things well and there is no doubt in my mind that this includes His sovereign choice to not disclose these things to us. We ought to be well content with not knowing, knowing that He does what is best for His children. But we ought to heed the words of our Savior and endeavor to be alert. Spirit lead I believe we can "discern the signs of the times" as we remember the words of the Hebrew author who wrote, "For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay." Of this we are sure.
After speaking of the end times, describing signs that would be indicative of those times and warning of false prophets and false Christs, Jesus tells His disciples, "but of the day or hour no one knows". He goes on to explain that neither the angels in Heaven or even Himself knows the day or the hour but His Father alone. Because they do not know when these end times will come to pass, He instruction to them is to "keep on the alert". He says this in verses 33 and 35 and then in the final verse of the chapter He says, "What I say to you I say to all, 'Be on the alert!'"
Over the years it has seemed that Christians have often been more concerned with figuring out the "day or the hour" than they have been about being on the alert. God does all things well and there is no doubt in my mind that this includes His sovereign choice to not disclose these things to us. We ought to be well content with not knowing, knowing that He does what is best for His children. But we ought to heed the words of our Savior and endeavor to be alert. Spirit lead I believe we can "discern the signs of the times" as we remember the words of the Hebrew author who wrote, "For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay." Of this we are sure.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 12th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+12&version=NASB
Motive means much. We have two examples in today's passage of scripture where people engage Jesus in a conversation with impure motives. about things they really have no genuine interest in. We first see some men, described as Pharisees and Herodians, who had been sent to trap Jesus into saying something that could be used against Him. They call Him teacher, tell Him that He is truthful and say that He teaches the word of God in truth. But these words of praise were not from the heart and not prompted by their faith in Him. They were simply words used in their efforts to accuse Him. We then see some from the Sadducees come to Him, address Him as teacher and then ask Him questions about the resurrection. But they do not really consider Him their teacher and their question is intended to challenge the truth of the resurrection which they do not believe in.
Captured in scripture, the story of the "widow's mite" has endured through the ages. Mark records it in the final verses of today's chapter. It is a story of how God would use a "poor widow" to teach a lesson to those present at the time and to generations that would follow. In contrast to the above, it is no doubt an example of pure and heartfelt motive. The story begins with Jesus sitting down, "opposite the treasury", as He observes people putting money into the treasury. We read that "many rich people were putting in large sums." When Jesus observes a widow put two small copper coins into the treasury, He gathers His disciples and tells them that she had put in more than all of the others who had contributed. While they had "all put in of their surplus", this woman had given out of her poverty. She had given all that she had and not just everything that she had on her person at the time of her giving, but all she had to live on. It really was Christ-like giving. We don't know her name but her powerful story lives on. May we learn from her love for our God. May God grant us each some portion of this widow's heart for the giving of ourselves, our time, our possessions and all to the Lord.
Motive means much. We have two examples in today's passage of scripture where people engage Jesus in a conversation with impure motives. about things they really have no genuine interest in. We first see some men, described as Pharisees and Herodians, who had been sent to trap Jesus into saying something that could be used against Him. They call Him teacher, tell Him that He is truthful and say that He teaches the word of God in truth. But these words of praise were not from the heart and not prompted by their faith in Him. They were simply words used in their efforts to accuse Him. We then see some from the Sadducees come to Him, address Him as teacher and then ask Him questions about the resurrection. But they do not really consider Him their teacher and their question is intended to challenge the truth of the resurrection which they do not believe in.
Captured in scripture, the story of the "widow's mite" has endured through the ages. Mark records it in the final verses of today's chapter. It is a story of how God would use a "poor widow" to teach a lesson to those present at the time and to generations that would follow. In contrast to the above, it is no doubt an example of pure and heartfelt motive. The story begins with Jesus sitting down, "opposite the treasury", as He observes people putting money into the treasury. We read that "many rich people were putting in large sums." When Jesus observes a widow put two small copper coins into the treasury, He gathers His disciples and tells them that she had put in more than all of the others who had contributed. While they had "all put in of their surplus", this woman had given out of her poverty. She had given all that she had and not just everything that she had on her person at the time of her giving, but all she had to live on. It really was Christ-like giving. We don't know her name but her powerful story lives on. May we learn from her love for our God. May God grant us each some portion of this widow's heart for the giving of ourselves, our time, our possessions and all to the Lord.
Monday, February 24, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 11th chapter of the Book of Mark.You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+11&version=NASB
Only days before His arrest and crucifixion, Jesus entered the temple in Jerusalem "and began to drive out those who were buying and selling in the temple" we read in today's passage. I can only imagine that this must have been a most unusual event to have witnessed. After entering the temple we see Jesus overturning "the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves". His passion about the matter must have been evident to all as the tables and benches were being turned over. His displeasure is clearly towards all involved. The sellers, the buyers, and both those who approved of the activity and those who were indifferent to it. As He confronts them we see Him quoting the prophets, Isaiah and Jeremiah, when He says, "Is it not written, "MY HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED A HOUSE OF PRAYER FOR ALL THE NATIONS'? But you have made it a Robbers' Den."
Although I write the following with some hesitancy, as I read this portion of today's chapter of scripture, I couldn't help but wonder how the Lord feels about the commercialization of so much in the Church in our day. Music, books, arts and crafts, seminars, speaking engagements, and the list goes on and on. As indicated, my intent is not to render a verdict against all who have profited financially from matters related to our faith. I simply and honestly wonder what the Lord thinks of it all. I believe the He has been pleased with a portion of it, although perhaps that portion is small in comparison to the whole.
Although not limited to just these reasons, I say this, at least in part, in light of the life He lived and the things that He said to the twelve when He first sent them out to minister. Matthew records Jesus telling them, "Freely you received, freely give. Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two coats, or sandals, or a staff; for a worker is worthy of his support." No, He doesn't forbid them from earning money through ministry, but He seems concerned for their "support" in ministry and not their wealth. May the Lord help us to have a Christ-like perspective on ministry and the new and abundant life He has given.
Only days before His arrest and crucifixion, Jesus entered the temple in Jerusalem "and began to drive out those who were buying and selling in the temple" we read in today's passage. I can only imagine that this must have been a most unusual event to have witnessed. After entering the temple we see Jesus overturning "the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who were selling doves". His passion about the matter must have been evident to all as the tables and benches were being turned over. His displeasure is clearly towards all involved. The sellers, the buyers, and both those who approved of the activity and those who were indifferent to it. As He confronts them we see Him quoting the prophets, Isaiah and Jeremiah, when He says, "Is it not written, "MY HOUSE SHALL BE CALLED A HOUSE OF PRAYER FOR ALL THE NATIONS'? But you have made it a Robbers' Den."
Although I write the following with some hesitancy, as I read this portion of today's chapter of scripture, I couldn't help but wonder how the Lord feels about the commercialization of so much in the Church in our day. Music, books, arts and crafts, seminars, speaking engagements, and the list goes on and on. As indicated, my intent is not to render a verdict against all who have profited financially from matters related to our faith. I simply and honestly wonder what the Lord thinks of it all. I believe the He has been pleased with a portion of it, although perhaps that portion is small in comparison to the whole.
Although not limited to just these reasons, I say this, at least in part, in light of the life He lived and the things that He said to the twelve when He first sent them out to minister. Matthew records Jesus telling them, "Freely you received, freely give. Do not acquire gold, or silver, or copper for your money belts, or a bag for your journey, or even two coats, or sandals, or a staff; for a worker is worthy of his support." No, He doesn't forbid them from earning money through ministry, but He seems concerned for their "support" in ministry and not their wealth. May the Lord help us to have a Christ-like perspective on ministry and the new and abundant life He has given.
Friday, February 21, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 10th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+10&version=NASB
In this 10th chapter of the Book of Mark there are so many choices on which to write some short thoughts. Jesus' teaching concerning divorce and the hardness of men's hearts. The story of the rich young ruler and the difficulty presented by riches. Jesus telling His disciples of His coming arrest, death and resurrection. James' and John's request to sit next to Jesus in His glory, one on His right and one on His left. The healing of the blind beggar, Bartimaeus. But I was drawn to something that many would consider much simpler I suppose. In verses 13 through 16 we read that children were being brought to Jesus so that He might touch them. When Jesus saw His disciples rebuking those who were bringing the children to Him, we read that He became indignant with them. And then He is quoted as having said to His disciples, “Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” And then verse 16 tells us that He took the children into His arms and began blessing them. Perhaps in a different way, this seems so similar to what has occurred in my life and the lives of all others who find themselves in Christ. Jesus took me into His arms one day and began blessing me. And although that day has now been over thirty years ago, I remain in His arms and I remain in His blessings. Oh, how thankful we ought to be for being in the arms of Jesus.
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+10&version=NASB
In this 10th chapter of the Book of Mark there are so many choices on which to write some short thoughts. Jesus' teaching concerning divorce and the hardness of men's hearts. The story of the rich young ruler and the difficulty presented by riches. Jesus telling His disciples of His coming arrest, death and resurrection. James' and John's request to sit next to Jesus in His glory, one on His right and one on His left. The healing of the blind beggar, Bartimaeus. But I was drawn to something that many would consider much simpler I suppose. In verses 13 through 16 we read that children were being brought to Jesus so that He might touch them. When Jesus saw His disciples rebuking those who were bringing the children to Him, we read that He became indignant with them. And then He is quoted as having said to His disciples, “Permit the children to come to Me; do not hinder them; for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child will not enter it at all.” And then verse 16 tells us that He took the children into His arms and began blessing them. Perhaps in a different way, this seems so similar to what has occurred in my life and the lives of all others who find themselves in Christ. Jesus took me into His arms one day and began blessing me. And although that day has now been over thirty years ago, I remain in His arms and I remain in His blessings. Oh, how thankful we ought to be for being in the arms of Jesus.
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 9th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+9&version=NASB
The 9th chapter of Mark begins with Mark's account of the transfiguration of Jesus that took place as Peter, James and John were gazed on. They were the only invited guest to witness this event. Matthew and Luke also record this event in their Gospel accounts. As you may recall, Jesus is transfigured before the three apostles and Moses and Elijah also appear, both of them talking with Jesus. During the transfiguration Jesus' garments are described as being "radiant and exceedingly white, as no launderer on earth can whiten them." This statement reminds me, that as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, I stand before God clothed in the righteousness of Christ, a righteousness that far surpasses and cannot be attained by any plan or device of man on earth. During the transfiguration, the scripture tells us that a voice came out of a cloud saying, “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!” These are clearly words spoken by the Father, the God of all creation. Oh, how our lives would be ever changing if we would daily, "Listen to Him."
The 9th chapter of Mark begins with Mark's account of the transfiguration of Jesus that took place as Peter, James and John were gazed on. They were the only invited guest to witness this event. Matthew and Luke also record this event in their Gospel accounts. As you may recall, Jesus is transfigured before the three apostles and Moses and Elijah also appear, both of them talking with Jesus. During the transfiguration Jesus' garments are described as being "radiant and exceedingly white, as no launderer on earth can whiten them." This statement reminds me, that as a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, I stand before God clothed in the righteousness of Christ, a righteousness that far surpasses and cannot be attained by any plan or device of man on earth. During the transfiguration, the scripture tells us that a voice came out of a cloud saying, “This is My beloved Son, listen to Him!” These are clearly words spoken by the Father, the God of all creation. Oh, how our lives would be ever changing if we would daily, "Listen to Him."
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 8th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+8&version=NASB
We can be a hard lot to get through to. They had seen Him miraculously feed the five thousand on one occasion and four thousand on the other. And now, traveling in a boat with Jesus, He hears the disciples discussing among themselves that they have no bread. He then asks them a series of questions to challenge their thinking. He first asks them why they are even having this discussion about their lack of bread. He asks them if they have seen but don't understand. He asks them if they have hardened hearts. He asks them if they have eyes but do not see and have ears but do not hear. He asks them if they do not remember the feeding of the five thousand or the feeding of the four thousand and how there were baskets full of leftovers although He had fed so many with so little. His questions said it all and it appears that they were left speechless. Mark records no response from either of them to any of the questions.
We are often quick to second guess the actions of the disciples and even be critical of their lapses in faith. But we have the finished work of Christ on Calvary. We have a resurrected Savior. We have the indwelling Holy Spirit, our "Helper". We have the precious word of God. And yet despite all that we have in Christ, living by faith and not by sight is a challenge for each one of us. The Lord Jesus still asks us similar questions to those asked of His disciples in today's text. Through the questions He seems intent on telling us to believe Him, to trust Him and to live by faith in Him.
We can be a hard lot to get through to. They had seen Him miraculously feed the five thousand on one occasion and four thousand on the other. And now, traveling in a boat with Jesus, He hears the disciples discussing among themselves that they have no bread. He then asks them a series of questions to challenge their thinking. He first asks them why they are even having this discussion about their lack of bread. He asks them if they have seen but don't understand. He asks them if they have hardened hearts. He asks them if they have eyes but do not see and have ears but do not hear. He asks them if they do not remember the feeding of the five thousand or the feeding of the four thousand and how there were baskets full of leftovers although He had fed so many with so little. His questions said it all and it appears that they were left speechless. Mark records no response from either of them to any of the questions.
We are often quick to second guess the actions of the disciples and even be critical of their lapses in faith. But we have the finished work of Christ on Calvary. We have a resurrected Savior. We have the indwelling Holy Spirit, our "Helper". We have the precious word of God. And yet despite all that we have in Christ, living by faith and not by sight is a challenge for each one of us. The Lord Jesus still asks us similar questions to those asked of His disciples in today's text. Through the questions He seems intent on telling us to believe Him, to trust Him and to live by faith in Him.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 7th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+7&version=NASB
As Jesus responded to the scribes and Pharisees' accusations against His disciples; that they had been seen eating their bread with unclean hands, He quoted the following words from Isaiah the prophet. "This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far away from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men." There is no doubt that these words that Jesus spoke were applicable to those that He first said them too. But the truth of the words remain ever true. They seem as relevant today as they were a couple of thousand of years ago. There can be no doubt that in the day in which we live people continue to honor Him with their lips while their hearts stand afar off. Their is much "vain" or "empty" worship of God almighty. And yes, the precepts of men permeate much of the teaching and preaching that occurs in churches all over the country. May all who love the Lord Jesus honor Him with their hearts and their lips. May we only teach what His word supports. May we never hold the precepts of men up to be the doctrines of our glorious God.
As Jesus responded to the scribes and Pharisees' accusations against His disciples; that they had been seen eating their bread with unclean hands, He quoted the following words from Isaiah the prophet. "This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far away from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men." There is no doubt that these words that Jesus spoke were applicable to those that He first said them too. But the truth of the words remain ever true. They seem as relevant today as they were a couple of thousand of years ago. There can be no doubt that in the day in which we live people continue to honor Him with their lips while their hearts stand afar off. Their is much "vain" or "empty" worship of God almighty. And yes, the precepts of men permeate much of the teaching and preaching that occurs in churches all over the country. May all who love the Lord Jesus honor Him with their hearts and their lips. May we only teach what His word supports. May we never hold the precepts of men up to be the doctrines of our glorious God.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 6th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+6&version=NASB
While teaching in His home town of Nazareth, those who heard Him speaking in the Synagogue were astonished at His teaching. In their astonishment they posed three questions. "Where did this man get these things?" "What is this wisdom given to Him?"And what are "such miracles as these performed by His hands?" Their astonishment, at least in part, is because they think that they know who He is. He was a carpenter, they knew His parents and they knew His brothers and sisters. Although they knew Him in humanity, the answer to their questions lie in His divinity. The things that He taught, the wisdom He demonstrated and the miracles He performed were attributed to His being the divine Son of God. And of that truth they had no knowledge. One can only truly rejoice in the person of Christ when they "know" Him. Oh, what a privilege it is, by God's grace, to know Jesus.
Later on in the chapter Mark recalls the death of John the Baptist. It is a gruesome story and one that testifies to the sinfulness and depravity of men. You may remember that Herod had married his own brother's wife, Herodias. John had told Herod that his relationship with his brother's wife was unlawful. His boldness of speech had angered Herodias and we read that she held a grudge against him and wanted to kill him. When the daughter of Herodias had danced for Herod at his birthday celebration, she had pleased him and his guests so much that he offered to give her whatever she asked of him. It was a most generous offer. She could ask for anything, up to half of his kingdom. This was truly a spectacular offer. Her choices would have been countless. But she would consult with her mother before asking. The grudge the Herodias held against John for speaking the truth would be her guide as she advised her daughter on what to ask of Herod. The text suggests there was no hesitation for Herodias to advise her daughter to ask for the head of John the Baptist. Equally as startling, there appears to be no hesitation in her daughter's response as she immediately comes to Herod with the request for John's head to be given her on a platter. Oh, the sinful depravity of men. Oh, what a great need for a savior. Oh, so great the cross of Christ!
While teaching in His home town of Nazareth, those who heard Him speaking in the Synagogue were astonished at His teaching. In their astonishment they posed three questions. "Where did this man get these things?" "What is this wisdom given to Him?"And what are "such miracles as these performed by His hands?" Their astonishment, at least in part, is because they think that they know who He is. He was a carpenter, they knew His parents and they knew His brothers and sisters. Although they knew Him in humanity, the answer to their questions lie in His divinity. The things that He taught, the wisdom He demonstrated and the miracles He performed were attributed to His being the divine Son of God. And of that truth they had no knowledge. One can only truly rejoice in the person of Christ when they "know" Him. Oh, what a privilege it is, by God's grace, to know Jesus.
Later on in the chapter Mark recalls the death of John the Baptist. It is a gruesome story and one that testifies to the sinfulness and depravity of men. You may remember that Herod had married his own brother's wife, Herodias. John had told Herod that his relationship with his brother's wife was unlawful. His boldness of speech had angered Herodias and we read that she held a grudge against him and wanted to kill him. When the daughter of Herodias had danced for Herod at his birthday celebration, she had pleased him and his guests so much that he offered to give her whatever she asked of him. It was a most generous offer. She could ask for anything, up to half of his kingdom. This was truly a spectacular offer. Her choices would have been countless. But she would consult with her mother before asking. The grudge the Herodias held against John for speaking the truth would be her guide as she advised her daughter on what to ask of Herod. The text suggests there was no hesitation for Herodias to advise her daughter to ask for the head of John the Baptist. Equally as startling, there appears to be no hesitation in her daughter's response as she immediately comes to Herod with the request for John's head to be given her on a platter. Oh, the sinful depravity of men. Oh, what a great need for a savior. Oh, so great the cross of Christ!
Friday, February 14, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 5th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+5&version=NASB
The 5th chapter of the Book of Mark begins with his account of Jesus healing the Gerasene man. Mark describes him as a man "with an unclean spirit" who dwelt among the tombs. He possessed exceeding strength and although he had often been bound with shackles and chains, he could no longer be bound because of his strength. Upon his meeting Jesus it was discovered that he was not simply possessed by a demon but by so many demons that the demon declared his name to be "Legion". The context of the passage suggests that there were at least two thousand demons possessing this poor man. After Jesus caused the demons to come out of this man he would later be described as a man who was now "in his right mind".
Mark would then record the healing of a woman who had suffered a hemorrhage for 12 years after she simply touched the cloak that Jesus was wearing. The relief she must have experienced after so many years of affliction would have been life changing. And lastly Mark would record the healing of a young girl, the 12 year-old "little daughter" of a synagogue official named Jairus. Oh, the joy that must have filled the heart of this little girl's father and mother when was made well. A final thought about what Jesus did after she got up and began to walk.The final words of the chapter say that "He said that something should be given her to eat." What a great reminder that our Lord cares about our greatest of needs and the everyday needs of our lives.
The 5th chapter of the Book of Mark begins with his account of Jesus healing the Gerasene man. Mark describes him as a man "with an unclean spirit" who dwelt among the tombs. He possessed exceeding strength and although he had often been bound with shackles and chains, he could no longer be bound because of his strength. Upon his meeting Jesus it was discovered that he was not simply possessed by a demon but by so many demons that the demon declared his name to be "Legion". The context of the passage suggests that there were at least two thousand demons possessing this poor man. After Jesus caused the demons to come out of this man he would later be described as a man who was now "in his right mind".
Mark would then record the healing of a woman who had suffered a hemorrhage for 12 years after she simply touched the cloak that Jesus was wearing. The relief she must have experienced after so many years of affliction would have been life changing. And lastly Mark would record the healing of a young girl, the 12 year-old "little daughter" of a synagogue official named Jairus. Oh, the joy that must have filled the heart of this little girl's father and mother when was made well. A final thought about what Jesus did after she got up and began to walk.The final words of the chapter say that "He said that something should be given her to eat." What a great reminder that our Lord cares about our greatest of needs and the everyday needs of our lives.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 4th chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+4&version=NASB
In the final verse of today's chapter we read this question that is asked regarding the person of Jesus. "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?" It really is a great and incredible question. The disciples had just witness Jesus rebuke "a fierce gale of wind" to make it calm. And to a sea that was producing waves that were breaking over the boat and filling it with water, He said, "hush, be still" and it became perfectly calm. It must have been an unimaginable site to have seen. The wind and the sea did not simply gradually slow down and calm but at His word the obeyed in a moment. As incredible as the question was, the answer seems greater. The wind and the sea were compelled to obey Him because He was their creator. God the Son was in the boat that day. Praise the Lord that He still rebukes the winds and calms "our seas" today. "Who then is this"? He is "the Christ, the Son of the Living God."
In the final verse of today's chapter we read this question that is asked regarding the person of Jesus. "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?" It really is a great and incredible question. The disciples had just witness Jesus rebuke "a fierce gale of wind" to make it calm. And to a sea that was producing waves that were breaking over the boat and filling it with water, He said, "hush, be still" and it became perfectly calm. It must have been an unimaginable site to have seen. The wind and the sea did not simply gradually slow down and calm but at His word the obeyed in a moment. As incredible as the question was, the answer seems greater. The wind and the sea were compelled to obey Him because He was their creator. God the Son was in the boat that day. Praise the Lord that He still rebukes the winds and calms "our seas" today. "Who then is this"? He is "the Christ, the Son of the Living God."
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 3rd chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here on Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+3&version=NASB
Today's passage begins in the Synagogue where there is a man with a "withered hand". To those who were gathered in the Synagogue, Jesus asked the following question; "Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the Sabbath, to save life or to kill?" He proceeded to heal and restore the hand of the man. For this the Pharisees would conspire to destroy Him. How thankful we should be that Jesus did good on the Sabbath and every other day. Goodness was His nature and He was compelled to do good wherever He went. And praise the Lord that He continues to "save life" and give life. Mine was not a withered hand but a withered heart and soul. He was willing to "do good" for me. Praise the Lord.
Today's passage begins in the Synagogue where there is a man with a "withered hand". To those who were gathered in the Synagogue, Jesus asked the following question; "Is it lawful to do good or to do harm on the Sabbath, to save life or to kill?" He proceeded to heal and restore the hand of the man. For this the Pharisees would conspire to destroy Him. How thankful we should be that Jesus did good on the Sabbath and every other day. Goodness was His nature and He was compelled to do good wherever He went. And praise the Lord that He continues to "save life" and give life. Mine was not a withered hand but a withered heart and soul. He was willing to "do good" for me. Praise the Lord.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 2nd chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark+2&version=NASB
Such words were not supposed to come from a man's mouth. The scribes attributed the words to an act of blasphemy. I consider them to be some of the most treasured words ever spoken on earth. In this 2nd chapter of Mark's Gospel we read the words spoken by Jesus to the paralytic man who had been lowered down through a hole in the roof of the house where Jesus was. "Son, your sins are forgiven" were the few but powerful words spoken to the man. The scribes rightly reasoned in their hearts that God alone could forgive sins. What they didn't know was that they were in His presence and He was forgiving sin. In time Jesus would bear the sins of the world. The One who knew no sin would become sin for us. Yes, praise the Lord that He has authority to forgive sin. He has forgiven mine.
Such words were not supposed to come from a man's mouth. The scribes attributed the words to an act of blasphemy. I consider them to be some of the most treasured words ever spoken on earth. In this 2nd chapter of Mark's Gospel we read the words spoken by Jesus to the paralytic man who had been lowered down through a hole in the roof of the house where Jesus was. "Son, your sins are forgiven" were the few but powerful words spoken to the man. The scribes rightly reasoned in their hearts that God alone could forgive sins. What they didn't know was that they were in His presence and He was forgiving sin. In time Jesus would bear the sins of the world. The One who knew no sin would become sin for us. Yes, praise the Lord that He has authority to forgive sin. He has forgiven mine.
Monday, February 10, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 1st chapter of the Book of Mark. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%201&version=NASB
Mark begins his Gospel by making reference to the ministry of John the Baptist and quoting Isaiah he wrote, "BEHOLD, I SEND MY MESSENGER AHEAD OF YOU, WHO WILL PREPARE YOUR WAY; THE VOICE OF ONE CRYING IN THE WILDERNESS, 'MAKE READY THE WAY OF THE LORD, MAKE HIS PATHS STRAIGHT.'" He goes on to describe John as a man who was clothed with camel's hair and that he wore a leather belt around his waist. We are told that his diet consisted of locusts and wild honey as he ministered in the wilderness, baptizing those who came to him in the spirit of repentance. Matthew and Luke both record Jesus as saying that "among those born of women" that no one was greater than John. John graciously and joyously proclaimed that Jesus was mightier than he. John could only baptize with water but Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit.
In the latter verses of this first chapter we read of a series of events that occurred at the house of Simon (Peter) and Andrew. Much would happen at this house in less than 24 hours. Simon's mother in-law had been lying sick with a fever and Jesus healed her. Evening came, the sun set and "all who were ill and those who were demon-possessed" were being brought to Jesus for healing. Mark writes that "the whole city had gathered at the door". What a blessing it had been for Jesus to come to this house. I have not had the experience that Simon and Andrew had at their house that day. But in a sense I have something in common with them and with so many others. Jesus has blessed my house! He has done so since that first day He came into my life. I'm so thankful that He came into "my house".
Friday, February 7, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 28th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+28&version=NASB
In this 28th and final chapter of the Book of Matthew we read Matthew's account of our Lord's resurrection. The words spoken by the angel to "Mary Magdalene and the other Mary", when they had come to look at the grave where Jesus had been laid, has been the hope of all believers through the centuries. "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said." Yes, His prophetic words regarding His death, burial and resurrection had come to pass. The Apostle Paul is inspired to call these three truths the matters of "first importance". The angel directed the women to report Jesus' resurrection to His disciples and went on to promise them that they would see Him in Galilee. What wonderful news to their ears and hearts. They would see Him again. In the final verses of the passage we read that the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee where the promise was fulfilled. We read that when they saw Him, they worshiped Him. We know Him and we are privileged to "see Him" each day as He works in our lives and in the world in which we live. As a result of our seeing Him, may we also worship Him throughout our days until that day when we see Him, face to face.
In this 28th and final chapter of the Book of Matthew we read Matthew's account of our Lord's resurrection. The words spoken by the angel to "Mary Magdalene and the other Mary", when they had come to look at the grave where Jesus had been laid, has been the hope of all believers through the centuries. "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said." Yes, His prophetic words regarding His death, burial and resurrection had come to pass. The Apostle Paul is inspired to call these three truths the matters of "first importance". The angel directed the women to report Jesus' resurrection to His disciples and went on to promise them that they would see Him in Galilee. What wonderful news to their ears and hearts. They would see Him again. In the final verses of the passage we read that the eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee where the promise was fulfilled. We read that when they saw Him, they worshiped Him. We know Him and we are privileged to "see Him" each day as He works in our lives and in the world in which we live. As a result of our seeing Him, may we also worship Him throughout our days until that day when we see Him, face to face.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 27th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+27&version=NASB
The 27th chapter of Matthew is 66 verses long and includes the crucifixion of our Lord. This makes it very difficult for me to write a quick or short thought from the reading. Unwilling to make the decision on his own, I've often been intrigued at Pilate's attempt to have Jesus released prior to His crucifixion. Believing that the people had only sought Jesus' arrest because of envy, he felt that if he offered them a choice to release either Jesus or a notorious criminal, they would surely ask for Jesus' release. He knew neither the depth of their hatred for Him nor again that Calvary was the will of God. When his idea did not work as he had thought, he released Barabbas and handed Jesus over to be crucified.
We often make note that the moment that Jesus bore the sins of the world was the most egregious point of suffering He experienced that day. But one can hardly read the account of Jesus being humiliated and beaten without cringing at the picture in your mind. He suffered greatly while bearing our stripes. And of course, then there was the cry. "MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?" The One who knew no sin becoming sin for us. Following His death, Jesus would ultimately be laid in the tomb and the same people who thought they had overcome Him would now have the tomb guarded, "otherwise His disciples may come and steal Him away and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead,’ and the last deception will be worse than the first." The first was no deception and there would be no second. They could prevent His disciples from stealing His body but they could not prevent His Father from raising Him from the dead. To God be the glory.
The 27th chapter of Matthew is 66 verses long and includes the crucifixion of our Lord. This makes it very difficult for me to write a quick or short thought from the reading. Unwilling to make the decision on his own, I've often been intrigued at Pilate's attempt to have Jesus released prior to His crucifixion. Believing that the people had only sought Jesus' arrest because of envy, he felt that if he offered them a choice to release either Jesus or a notorious criminal, they would surely ask for Jesus' release. He knew neither the depth of their hatred for Him nor again that Calvary was the will of God. When his idea did not work as he had thought, he released Barabbas and handed Jesus over to be crucified.
We often make note that the moment that Jesus bore the sins of the world was the most egregious point of suffering He experienced that day. But one can hardly read the account of Jesus being humiliated and beaten without cringing at the picture in your mind. He suffered greatly while bearing our stripes. And of course, then there was the cry. "MY GOD, MY GOD, WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?" The One who knew no sin becoming sin for us. Following His death, Jesus would ultimately be laid in the tomb and the same people who thought they had overcome Him would now have the tomb guarded, "otherwise His disciples may come and steal Him away and say to the people, ‘He has risen from the dead,’ and the last deception will be worse than the first." The first was no deception and there would be no second. They could prevent His disciples from stealing His body but they could not prevent His Father from raising Him from the dead. To God be the glory.
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 26 chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here at Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+26&version=NASB
Today's scripture passage includes the account of the woman who came to Jesus with an alabaster vial of costly perfume and poured it on His head as He reclined at a table in the home of Simon the leper. When His disciple indignantly expressed their feelings that such an act was seen by them as a "waste", Jesus responded by saying that "she has done a good deed to Me." It must have been difficult for them to understand His meaning when He went on to say that "she did it to prepare Me for burial". He was very much alive at the time. It had been some time since He had first told His disciples that the Son of man would be delivered into the hands of men. That time was now at hand.
Early on in the chapter we read that the chief priests and elders had gathered together to plot how they might "seize Jesus by stealth and kill Him." The "stealth" of men would have nothing to do with what was about to happen. The swords and clubs that were in the hands of those who had come to arrest Jesus in Gethsemane would have no bearing on the events that would soon follow. This had been the purpose for His coming. It would be the perfect will of God that would take Jesus to Calvary's cross. Praise God!
Greg
Today's scripture passage includes the account of the woman who came to Jesus with an alabaster vial of costly perfume and poured it on His head as He reclined at a table in the home of Simon the leper. When His disciple indignantly expressed their feelings that such an act was seen by them as a "waste", Jesus responded by saying that "she has done a good deed to Me." It must have been difficult for them to understand His meaning when He went on to say that "she did it to prepare Me for burial". He was very much alive at the time. It had been some time since He had first told His disciples that the Son of man would be delivered into the hands of men. That time was now at hand.
Early on in the chapter we read that the chief priests and elders had gathered together to plot how they might "seize Jesus by stealth and kill Him." The "stealth" of men would have nothing to do with what was about to happen. The swords and clubs that were in the hands of those who had come to arrest Jesus in Gethsemane would have no bearing on the events that would soon follow. This had been the purpose for His coming. It would be the perfect will of God that would take Jesus to Calvary's cross. Praise God!
Greg
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 25th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here on Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+25&version=NASB
To be faithful in a few things, even what we might consider the "small things" is pleasing to the Lord. In 1st Corinthians 9 the Apostle Paul said that he did "all things for the sake of the gospel". In Colossians 3 we read that we are to "do all in the name of the Lord Jesus" and that whatever we do, we are to do heartily as for the Lord. Certainly these are meant to include the great and the small, the significant and the seemingly insignificant, the important and the seemingly unimportant things.
They are challenging questions to ask oneself. Is the importance of the gospel ever-present in my mind each day in all that I do and say? Am I conscience to remember that God would have me to do the things that I do as unto the Lord? Making reference to the same truths, in the latter portion of today's passage Jesus tells us that in this life we are living that we will have the opportunity to see Him hungry and give Him something to eat, to give Him something to drink when He is thirsty, to invite Him in though a stranger, to cloth Him, to visit Him when He is sick and to go to Him while He is in prison. Of course He is not really talking about Himself but is again teaching that we are to serve as if we were serving Him, minister as if we were ministering to Him, etc... Oh Lord, may you help us to live for You. As we love and serve You may you grant us the joy of loving and serving others.
Greg
To be faithful in a few things, even what we might consider the "small things" is pleasing to the Lord. In 1st Corinthians 9 the Apostle Paul said that he did "all things for the sake of the gospel". In Colossians 3 we read that we are to "do all in the name of the Lord Jesus" and that whatever we do, we are to do heartily as for the Lord. Certainly these are meant to include the great and the small, the significant and the seemingly insignificant, the important and the seemingly unimportant things.
They are challenging questions to ask oneself. Is the importance of the gospel ever-present in my mind each day in all that I do and say? Am I conscience to remember that God would have me to do the things that I do as unto the Lord? Making reference to the same truths, in the latter portion of today's passage Jesus tells us that in this life we are living that we will have the opportunity to see Him hungry and give Him something to eat, to give Him something to drink when He is thirsty, to invite Him in though a stranger, to cloth Him, to visit Him when He is sick and to go to Him while He is in prison. Of course He is not really talking about Himself but is again teaching that we are to serve as if we were serving Him, minister as if we were ministering to Him, etc... Oh Lord, may you help us to live for You. As we love and serve You may you grant us the joy of loving and serving others.
Greg
Monday, February 3, 2014
Today's Bible reading is the 24th chapter of the Book of Matthew. You can read it here on Bible Gateway: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+24&version=NASB
Today's chapter of scripture reminds me that there are certain things that God has chosen not to disclose to us. We do not know when the Lord will gather His church to meet Him in the air (Rapture of the church) and we do not know when He will make a literal return to earth at His second coming. Speaking of the latter in today's passage, Matthew quotes Jesus as having said, "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone."
Not knowing these things should not be a cause of worry or doubt for us. We are to be patiently anticipating the Lord's return while growing in "the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ", walking in the good works God has prepared for us, proclaiming the gospel message, running the race with endurance, etc... We need not pay attention to the scoffers and mockers. We are to be people of faith, simply believing God. No, we may not know the day or the time of His return for His church or His return to earth, but we know His promises. In Hebrews 10:37 we read these words of truth, "For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay."
Greg
Today's chapter of scripture reminds me that there are certain things that God has chosen not to disclose to us. We do not know when the Lord will gather His church to meet Him in the air (Rapture of the church) and we do not know when He will make a literal return to earth at His second coming. Speaking of the latter in today's passage, Matthew quotes Jesus as having said, "But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone."
Not knowing these things should not be a cause of worry or doubt for us. We are to be patiently anticipating the Lord's return while growing in "the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ", walking in the good works God has prepared for us, proclaiming the gospel message, running the race with endurance, etc... We need not pay attention to the scoffers and mockers. We are to be people of faith, simply believing God. No, we may not know the day or the time of His return for His church or His return to earth, but we know His promises. In Hebrews 10:37 we read these words of truth, "For yet in a very little while, He who is coming will come, and will not delay."
Greg
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