Good morning! What an interesting day it has already started to be. I had to give a short cooking lesson already at breakfast; J was interested in the scrambled eggs. I think he's decided he likes eating them more than cooking them. Now he's singing to me as I type. Have you ever tried typing at the keyboard with a cat between you and the keyboard. Interesting, to say the least. Growling wouldn't make me stop so she finally abandoned her post.
Today we are in chapter 16, the very last chapter of the book of Mark. The Sabbath has passed, and now it is the first day of the week --Sunday. Mary Magdalene and Mary, mother of James have come to the sepulchre to anoint the body of Jesus. Because he had died so close to the Sabbath, they weren't allowed to do this before his burial.
Being women, they were wondering just who they could get to roll away the stone so they could get to the body. Imagine their surprise when they saw the stone already rolled away, and a man dressed in a white garment sitting there!
They were very frightened at this, and I don't blame them!
But he told them, don't be afraid. You seek Jesus, who was crucified. He is risen and is not here. Go tell Peter and the disciples to meet Jesus in Galilee.
On their way to tell the disciples, Jesus appeared to them. They told this to the disciples but they did not believe the women. Still they did not understand that Jesus was telling them truth when he said he would rise again 3 days later. Even when Jesus appeared to two of the disciples the others still did not believe.
They did not believe until they saw him with their own eyes. Jesus scolded them for their unbelief.
15. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
16. He that believeth and is baptised shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
In verse sixteen, notice the word "and". That means we must believe and also be baptized. Jesus said it himself. Belief is an action. We must be obedient when we believe.
If a man said, I'm bringing you a car. It's yours, but you must take the key from my hand and start the engine to claim it. If you just took the key, the car wouldn't be completely yours yet. You didn't fulfill the agreement. You have to start the engine.
In order to keep the car running you have to take care of it with gas and oil and all that, right? Its the same for our soul. We have to continue reading the Word and praying, and live righteously.
Have a wonderful day.
Showing posts with label Mark. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mark. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea; Crucifixion
Good morning! I apologize for not having a cup of tea post out yesterday.That was entirely my fault.
Today we are in Mark chapter fifteen. It is the morning after Jesus was captured and falsely accused of blasphemy. The chief priests have held a consultation with the the elders and scribes and the whole council, and they bound him over to Pilate.
Pilate asked Jesus, Are you King of the Jews? Jesus simply answered, Thou sayest it. He spoke nothing more to defend himself when the chief priests accused him. Pilate absolutely knew that whether or not Jesus was the Son of God this man was innocent and the charges were trumped up by those who were jealous of him. Pilate, however, was a politician, and he acceded to the wishes of the people on this one.
The custom at the time was that a prisoner would be released during the celebration of Passover. Pilate gave the crowd two choices : a murderer by the name of Barabbas, or Jesus. The chief priests moved around the people, urging them to call for Barabbas, which they did.
Jesus was scourged, mocked by placing a purple robe and a crown of thorns upon his head, struck, and spit upon. Jesus has had very little if any sleep during this time; he had spent the evening in prayer before his capture. The scourge is possibly the worst beating a person could receive: It consists of several of leather cord in which sharp pieces of stone or glass is embedded. All of this rips into the flesh, leaving gaping wounds and can injure internal organs depending upon how severely a person is beaten. And during all of this, Jesus could have simply said, Enough. I'm not doing this anymore. But he didn't. He who had never once sinned became the sacrificial lamb for you and me, and all others.
He was taken to Golgotha, and was made to carry his own cross until he no longer could. Then Simon the Cyrenian was compelled to carry it for him.. There Jesus was nailed to the cross and hung between two thieves.
The cross is an extreme torture device. The nails used to secure a person to the rough wood are large, and the person is positioned in such a way as they eventually cannot draw themselves up enough to breathe properly. They are in severe pain the entire time. During all of this Jesus' clothes were torn apart and the soldiers were casting lots to see who would get the pieces. People were yelling at him to save himself.
At one point the sky darkened. Jesus cried out, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which, interpreted is, My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me? And shortly after he cried out and gave up the ghost. He died there on the cross.
Because it was so close to the Sabbath, Joseph of Arimathea quickly asked for the body of Jesus. Pilate granted it once determining that Jesus was dead, and Joseph bought fine linen for the body and wrapped it and placed it in the sepulcre, with a huge stone rolled in front of it.
Today we are in Mark chapter fifteen. It is the morning after Jesus was captured and falsely accused of blasphemy. The chief priests have held a consultation with the the elders and scribes and the whole council, and they bound him over to Pilate.
Pilate asked Jesus, Are you King of the Jews? Jesus simply answered, Thou sayest it. He spoke nothing more to defend himself when the chief priests accused him. Pilate absolutely knew that whether or not Jesus was the Son of God this man was innocent and the charges were trumped up by those who were jealous of him. Pilate, however, was a politician, and he acceded to the wishes of the people on this one.
The custom at the time was that a prisoner would be released during the celebration of Passover. Pilate gave the crowd two choices : a murderer by the name of Barabbas, or Jesus. The chief priests moved around the people, urging them to call for Barabbas, which they did.
Jesus was scourged, mocked by placing a purple robe and a crown of thorns upon his head, struck, and spit upon. Jesus has had very little if any sleep during this time; he had spent the evening in prayer before his capture. The scourge is possibly the worst beating a person could receive: It consists of several of leather cord in which sharp pieces of stone or glass is embedded. All of this rips into the flesh, leaving gaping wounds and can injure internal organs depending upon how severely a person is beaten. And during all of this, Jesus could have simply said, Enough. I'm not doing this anymore. But he didn't. He who had never once sinned became the sacrificial lamb for you and me, and all others.
He was taken to Golgotha, and was made to carry his own cross until he no longer could. Then Simon the Cyrenian was compelled to carry it for him.. There Jesus was nailed to the cross and hung between two thieves.
The cross is an extreme torture device. The nails used to secure a person to the rough wood are large, and the person is positioned in such a way as they eventually cannot draw themselves up enough to breathe properly. They are in severe pain the entire time. During all of this Jesus' clothes were torn apart and the soldiers were casting lots to see who would get the pieces. People were yelling at him to save himself.
At one point the sky darkened. Jesus cried out, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which, interpreted is, My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me? And shortly after he cried out and gave up the ghost. He died there on the cross.
Because it was so close to the Sabbath, Joseph of Arimathea quickly asked for the body of Jesus. Pilate granted it once determining that Jesus was dead, and Joseph bought fine linen for the body and wrapped it and placed it in the sepulcre, with a huge stone rolled in front of it.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: The Capture, The Denial
Good morning! I'm cuddled up in a blanket this morning, mindful of the time. I don't want to be late this morning for services.
Jesus took his disciples with him to pray. Most he left at a certain spot, but he took Peter, James and John with him a little closer. He told these three to watch and pray,his soul was exceedingly sorrowful. Jesus went a little further away from the three to be alone when he prayed. He prayed that God the Father would take this cup from him, but also said thy will be done, not mine (v36). He knew what was coming up, what was to happen. As he was in the flesh, he would feel every bit of the pain and agony.
When he went back to the three, he found them sleeping. He woke them up and admonished them again to pray. And he went back and prayed again himself. A second time he came back and found his companions asleep. He woke them up again and admonished them to pray, and for a third time he prayed also. After the third time he woke them and told them that the people who were coming for him were near.
Almost as soon as he said this, Judas appeared with a group of people brandishing swords. One of the disciples grabbed a sword and cut off someone's ear, but the disciples did not stay to defend Jesus or to be counted as being with him. They all fled, even Peter, who had earlier vehemently insisted that he would never leave Jesus, nor would he deny him.
The mob took Jesus to the high priest, where a council had been waiting, trying to find witness enough to convict Jesus. Those who spoke against Jesus all told lies, and none could even agree with one another.
Jesus stood there, hearing all that the people were saying about him, and he said nothing. The high priest asked him, Don't you hear what they are saying? Don't you have anything to say about all this? Still Jesus said nothing. Finally the high priest asked him, Are you the Christ? The Son of the Blessed? (v61)
62. And Jesus said, I am; and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of prayer, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
The chief priest considered Jesus' words blasphemy, and they decided it was enough to put him to death. They began to spit in his face, and hit him with their hands, taunting him to "prophesy".
Out in the courtyard Peter was warming himself. A woman saw him, and pointed him out as one who had been with Jesus. Peter denied this accusation, saying I don't know the man and I dont even understand what you are saying. A rooster crowed in the distance. A second time someone pointed out Peter as having been associated with Jesus and once again he denied it. The third time a woman said he had ties with Jesus he began to swear and curse, loudly denying he knew Jesus. He heard the rooster crow once more, and he remembered what Jesus had told him earlier, and he wept. (Scripture and lesson is from Mark 14:27-72.)
Jesus took his disciples with him to pray. Most he left at a certain spot, but he took Peter, James and John with him a little closer. He told these three to watch and pray,his soul was exceedingly sorrowful. Jesus went a little further away from the three to be alone when he prayed. He prayed that God the Father would take this cup from him, but also said thy will be done, not mine (v36). He knew what was coming up, what was to happen. As he was in the flesh, he would feel every bit of the pain and agony.
When he went back to the three, he found them sleeping. He woke them up and admonished them again to pray. And he went back and prayed again himself. A second time he came back and found his companions asleep. He woke them up again and admonished them to pray, and for a third time he prayed also. After the third time he woke them and told them that the people who were coming for him were near.
Almost as soon as he said this, Judas appeared with a group of people brandishing swords. One of the disciples grabbed a sword and cut off someone's ear, but the disciples did not stay to defend Jesus or to be counted as being with him. They all fled, even Peter, who had earlier vehemently insisted that he would never leave Jesus, nor would he deny him.
The mob took Jesus to the high priest, where a council had been waiting, trying to find witness enough to convict Jesus. Those who spoke against Jesus all told lies, and none could even agree with one another.
Jesus stood there, hearing all that the people were saying about him, and he said nothing. The high priest asked him, Don't you hear what they are saying? Don't you have anything to say about all this? Still Jesus said nothing. Finally the high priest asked him, Are you the Christ? The Son of the Blessed? (v61)
62. And Jesus said, I am; and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of prayer, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
The chief priest considered Jesus' words blasphemy, and they decided it was enough to put him to death. They began to spit in his face, and hit him with their hands, taunting him to "prophesy".
Out in the courtyard Peter was warming himself. A woman saw him, and pointed him out as one who had been with Jesus. Peter denied this accusation, saying I don't know the man and I dont even understand what you are saying. A rooster crowed in the distance. A second time someone pointed out Peter as having been associated with Jesus and once again he denied it. The third time a woman said he had ties with Jesus he began to swear and curse, loudly denying he knew Jesus. He heard the rooster crow once more, and he remembered what Jesus had told him earlier, and he wept. (Scripture and lesson is from Mark 14:27-72.)
Saturday, October 29, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: The Passover
Good morning! It's a beautiful, if somewhat chilly day here. Feels perfectly like a time to snuggle in and burrow under comfy blankets and read.
The time is near. Judas has conspired with the chief priests. He will hand over Jesus to them, and for this he will receive money. It is now a very busy day. In the evening the Passover begins, and the disciples know they need to find a place to celebrate the feast. Jesus tells two of his disciples to go into the city and look for a man carrying a pitcher of water. Follow him. (mark 14:13)
14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?
15. And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared; there make ready for us.
They found the man, and made ready the room. That evening they gathered together. As they ate, Jesus announced that one of the twelve will betray him. All of the disciples were sorrowful, wanting to know which of them would do such a thing.
21. The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.
It seems harsh that Jesus would say such a thing. Jesus knew that one of the disciples would do this, and that it must be done in order for Jesus to become the sacrifice for us all. Judas wasn't forced to do it by any means, he did it on his own free will. Whether he knew that the chief priests planned to have him killed I don't know. We just know that he did it. Jesus didn't hate him for what Judas was about to do. But he knew that others would.
While they were eating, Jesus gave the disciples unleavened bread, and the fruit of the vine. These were symbols of Jesus' body and his blood, and thus began our memorial feast which we take on the first day of the week ( Acts 20:7) To find more about the Lord's Supper go here. After the supper they sang a hymn and went out to the Mount of Olives.
The time is near. Judas has conspired with the chief priests. He will hand over Jesus to them, and for this he will receive money. It is now a very busy day. In the evening the Passover begins, and the disciples know they need to find a place to celebrate the feast. Jesus tells two of his disciples to go into the city and look for a man carrying a pitcher of water. Follow him. (mark 14:13)
14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestchamber, where I shall eat the passover with my disciples?
15. And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and prepared; there make ready for us.
They found the man, and made ready the room. That evening they gathered together. As they ate, Jesus announced that one of the twelve will betray him. All of the disciples were sorrowful, wanting to know which of them would do such a thing.
21. The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.
It seems harsh that Jesus would say such a thing. Jesus knew that one of the disciples would do this, and that it must be done in order for Jesus to become the sacrifice for us all. Judas wasn't forced to do it by any means, he did it on his own free will. Whether he knew that the chief priests planned to have him killed I don't know. We just know that he did it. Jesus didn't hate him for what Judas was about to do. But he knew that others would.
While they were eating, Jesus gave the disciples unleavened bread, and the fruit of the vine. These were symbols of Jesus' body and his blood, and thus began our memorial feast which we take on the first day of the week ( Acts 20:7) To find more about the Lord's Supper go here. After the supper they sang a hymn and went out to the Mount of Olives.
Friday, October 28, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: Anointing for Burial
It looks like today's study is an afternoon cup of tea rather than morning! I hope you'll forgive this being a little late today. I had an early doctor's appointment this morning.
We are closing in on the time of Passover. It is very sobering to read and remember the events to follow, but I think it is very important to do so. The people of the world was given a great gift.
Today we are focusing on Mark 14:1-9. During the few days before the Passover, Jesus and his disciples were staying in Bethany. On this day they were at the house of Simon the leper, sharing a meal. A woman came into the room where they were eating, carrying an alabaster box of spikenard. This is a very expensive oil, sometimes used in making perfume. It was used for preparing bodies for burial as well. The woman broke open the box and poured the oil over Jesus' head.
Some in the room were upset at her actions. They thought it would have been better to sell the oil and give the money to the poor rather than waste it as this woman did!
Jesus told them not to be angry at the woman, for she did the right thing.
7.For ye have the poor with you always, and whnsoever ye will ye may do them good; but me ye have not always.
Jesus explained that she was anointing him for burial. He was once again letting the disciples know that he was going to die.
We are closing in on the time of Passover. It is very sobering to read and remember the events to follow, but I think it is very important to do so. The people of the world was given a great gift.
Today we are focusing on Mark 14:1-9. During the few days before the Passover, Jesus and his disciples were staying in Bethany. On this day they were at the house of Simon the leper, sharing a meal. A woman came into the room where they were eating, carrying an alabaster box of spikenard. This is a very expensive oil, sometimes used in making perfume. It was used for preparing bodies for burial as well. The woman broke open the box and poured the oil over Jesus' head.
Some in the room were upset at her actions. They thought it would have been better to sell the oil and give the money to the poor rather than waste it as this woman did!
Jesus told them not to be angry at the woman, for she did the right thing.
7.For ye have the poor with you always, and whnsoever ye will ye may do them good; but me ye have not always.
Jesus explained that she was anointing him for burial. He was once again letting the disciples know that he was going to die.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: "Take Ye Heed; Watch and Pray"
Good morning! Today we are in chapter thirteen of the gospel of Mark. In today's world, probably like any other time since the time Jesus walked the earth, there are often predictions of the 'end of the world', or the second coming of Christ. Just a few months back followers of a certain man left their jobs and some left their homes, and budgeted to the day that Christ was purported to come back, the food and money they had left. They believed so much what their leader told them, that they saw no need for earthly things after that date. As we all know, the date came and went, and life continued on. The leader said he had made a mistake in his calculations, and if I'm not mistaken, has already predicted another date that Jesus will come back. There are others who believe that the end is close to Christmas, 2012, simply because the Mayan calendar ended at that time. If you glance at some of the fanciful tabloids at the check out stand (you know the ones --"The Last Brave Days of Mrs Celebrity" "The President had an Affair with an Alien from Outerspace" --that type) every now and then you will see proclaimed "Nostradamus Predicts World Will End ___ (fill in the date they drew out of a hat. And I'm sure there are many other lesser known predictions out there. A friend of mine once said of such predictions, you can bet on the day it actually happens someone is going to stand up and say see! I told you it would happen today!
None of these cult leaders or prognosticators, or even the followers for that matter, seem to read or remember the words of Jesus concerning the second coming: But that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. Mark 13:32, 33.
This whole chapter, Jesus speaks of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem, which happened during the lifetime of the disciples, and also the second coming. But as for the second coming, there isn't going to be a big sign saying "Jesus is coming in five days. Time to straighten up your act." When the time comes, it will happen in an instant. Jesus himself said you dont know when he's coming back; at evening, at midnight, at daybreak, or in the morning.
Instead of worrying over when the second coming will be, we should concentrate on living for Christ. We should be living our lives so that others see Christ in us. We should be teaching, with word as well as our lives.
None of these cult leaders or prognosticators, or even the followers for that matter, seem to read or remember the words of Jesus concerning the second coming: But that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father. Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is. Mark 13:32, 33.
This whole chapter, Jesus speaks of the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem, which happened during the lifetime of the disciples, and also the second coming. But as for the second coming, there isn't going to be a big sign saying "Jesus is coming in five days. Time to straighten up your act." When the time comes, it will happen in an instant. Jesus himself said you dont know when he's coming back; at evening, at midnight, at daybreak, or in the morning.
Instead of worrying over when the second coming will be, we should concentrate on living for Christ. We should be living our lives so that others see Christ in us. We should be teaching, with word as well as our lives.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea:
Good morning! I'm sorry I missed yesterday but I really felt lousy.Not a very good excuse, so I will try not to let that happen again.
Today we are finishing up the twelfth chapter of Mark. Jesus has been teaching in the temple, and answering questions. Now he is warning the people not to listen quite so much to the scribes who hold that position mostly for show. They liked to sit in the temples and at the feasts so they could be seen as important men, and for show they would give long prayers and wear long clothing, but they thought nothing of turning widows out of their homes. (Verses 35-40). Jesus was telling the people not to be like them.
In the next instance in the temple, Jesus is observing the giving that people do. A widow came in and gave two mites, which was a farthing. It's not much, and wasn't very much even by the standards of the time but it was all she had and she willingly gave it.
43. And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury:
44. For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.
She did not have much, but she was willing to give all she had for the good of others. She knew that God would take care of her. She didn't do this for glory, like the scribes and the Pharisees and those of that ilk. She did it simply out of love for the Lord and for others. She was probably the type of woman who made sure you were fed if you visited her, gave clothing to those in need, was simply there to be a help where she could, not giving much thought to self. This is very convicting to me, as I struggle at times with taking care of others versus making sure we have food in the house, or gas in the car.
Have a wonderful day.
Today we are finishing up the twelfth chapter of Mark. Jesus has been teaching in the temple, and answering questions. Now he is warning the people not to listen quite so much to the scribes who hold that position mostly for show. They liked to sit in the temples and at the feasts so they could be seen as important men, and for show they would give long prayers and wear long clothing, but they thought nothing of turning widows out of their homes. (Verses 35-40). Jesus was telling the people not to be like them.
In the next instance in the temple, Jesus is observing the giving that people do. A widow came in and gave two mites, which was a farthing. It's not much, and wasn't very much even by the standards of the time but it was all she had and she willingly gave it.
43. And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury:
44. For all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.
She did not have much, but she was willing to give all she had for the good of others. She knew that God would take care of her. She didn't do this for glory, like the scribes and the Pharisees and those of that ilk. She did it simply out of love for the Lord and for others. She was probably the type of woman who made sure you were fed if you visited her, gave clothing to those in need, was simply there to be a help where she could, not giving much thought to self. This is very convicting to me, as I struggle at times with taking care of others versus making sure we have food in the house, or gas in the car.
Have a wonderful day.
Monday, October 24, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: A Very Good Reason to Know the Scriptures
Jesus is still in the temple at this time, teaching and answering questions that the Pharisees, elders and scribes and chief priests have brought him, trying to tempt him to answer in such a way they could get rid of him. This time it's the Sadducees who come up with a question, beginning in Mark 12:8.
They give the hypothetical instance of a woman whose husband dies, leaving her childless. At this time Jewish custom was that in such a case, the man's brother would marry her and the children would be considered her first husband's offspring. The second husband dies as the first did, and still no children. This pattern continues until the woman has married all 7 brothers, and dies still childless. The question brought to Jesus was, after the resurrection (which the Sadducees didnt even believe in) whose wife would she be, as she had married all of them at one time or another.
They thought surely this would stump him. But Jesus had an answer for them.
Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God? (v 24)
Jesus went on to explain that after the resurrection there is no marriage. We are like the angels in heaven, having no need of such relationships.
One of the scribes had been listening quietly to all the questions being asked, and the answers that Jesus gave. He asked Jesus which was the first commandment?
29. And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:
30. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength; this is the first commandment.
31. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
The scribe was pleased, I think, with Jesus' answer. Jesus had quoted scripture in answering. The scribe acknowledged the answer given was correct, and himself confessed that there is one God (v32). Jesus saw the earnestness of the man and told him "You are not far from the kingdom of God." (v34)
Men who did not like what Jesus taught asked questions of him, as did a man who diligently and truly sought the truth. Jesus quoted scripture to answer and teach both. In today's world we too will sometimes have conversations with others concerning our beliefs. It is very important that we have scripture to back what we say. And knowing the scripture, or at least knowing where to find what we are looking for, helps us to know if someone else is teaching scripturally.
Although we lead busy lives, we always find time for what we want to do. I myself am guilty of sometimes being able to quote scenes from favorite movies a bit more than memorizing scripture. It is something I need to work on. But I'm not good at memorizing, some might say. There is a preacher I know. I've only been blessed to hear him a few times but my husband grew up with his preaching. This certain preacher could (and still does) quote large sections of scripture in his lessons. He has had a hard time memorizing, but he does it because he makes it a priority. He would practice quoting scripture while doing such things as mowing the lawn. And when our hearts are full of scripture, it's less likely to find room for things that are not good.
Have a great day.
They give the hypothetical instance of a woman whose husband dies, leaving her childless. At this time Jewish custom was that in such a case, the man's brother would marry her and the children would be considered her first husband's offspring. The second husband dies as the first did, and still no children. This pattern continues until the woman has married all 7 brothers, and dies still childless. The question brought to Jesus was, after the resurrection (which the Sadducees didnt even believe in) whose wife would she be, as she had married all of them at one time or another.
They thought surely this would stump him. But Jesus had an answer for them.
Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God? (v 24)
Jesus went on to explain that after the resurrection there is no marriage. We are like the angels in heaven, having no need of such relationships.
One of the scribes had been listening quietly to all the questions being asked, and the answers that Jesus gave. He asked Jesus which was the first commandment?
29. And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:
30. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength; this is the first commandment.
31. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.
The scribe was pleased, I think, with Jesus' answer. Jesus had quoted scripture in answering. The scribe acknowledged the answer given was correct, and himself confessed that there is one God (v32). Jesus saw the earnestness of the man and told him "You are not far from the kingdom of God." (v34)
Men who did not like what Jesus taught asked questions of him, as did a man who diligently and truly sought the truth. Jesus quoted scripture to answer and teach both. In today's world we too will sometimes have conversations with others concerning our beliefs. It is very important that we have scripture to back what we say. And knowing the scripture, or at least knowing where to find what we are looking for, helps us to know if someone else is teaching scripturally.
Although we lead busy lives, we always find time for what we want to do. I myself am guilty of sometimes being able to quote scenes from favorite movies a bit more than memorizing scripture. It is something I need to work on. But I'm not good at memorizing, some might say. There is a preacher I know. I've only been blessed to hear him a few times but my husband grew up with his preaching. This certain preacher could (and still does) quote large sections of scripture in his lessons. He has had a hard time memorizing, but he does it because he makes it a priority. He would practice quoting scripture while doing such things as mowing the lawn. And when our hearts are full of scripture, it's less likely to find room for things that are not good.
Have a great day.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: The Parable of the Vineyard Owner
Good morning! It's not quite so chilly this morning as it was yesterday. I have my buddy right beside me once again, rocking and singing. I love seeing how happy he is today.
Today we begin chapter 12 of Mark. Jesus is still in the temple, speaking. He told the people there a parable of a rich man who bought some land, set up a vineyard, and put managers in charge of it. He then went to a far off city. When the harvest time came, the man sent a servant to see about it. The managers beat him severely and sent him on his way. The vineyard owner sent other servants and they were either beaten severely or killed. Finally the man sent his only son. Surely they would reverence him. But the managers, thinking they would receive the inheritance if the son was gone, killed him also. And what would the Vineyard owner do about this? He would come and destroy the managers and put others in charge of the vineyard.
The chief priests and the elders knew that Jesus was speaking about them and they were not happy one bit. They wanted to do away with Jesus right then but they knew Jesus was well loved among the people. They feared what would happen should they try something at that point. They left him and went on their way. They weren't done yet, though. They sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to talk with him and try to see if he would say something they could pounce on. This group asked him, Is it lawful to give to Caesar? (Taxes).
Jesus knew what they were doing. He asked to see a penny, which they gave him. He asked whose picture and wording was on the coin. Of course, it was Caesar. Jesus gave them their answer: Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and give to God what is God's.
The questioning is not over, as we shall see tomorrow, Lord willing, beginning in verse 18 when the Sadducees discuss marriage and the afterlife.
Have a wonderful Lord's day.
Today we begin chapter 12 of Mark. Jesus is still in the temple, speaking. He told the people there a parable of a rich man who bought some land, set up a vineyard, and put managers in charge of it. He then went to a far off city. When the harvest time came, the man sent a servant to see about it. The managers beat him severely and sent him on his way. The vineyard owner sent other servants and they were either beaten severely or killed. Finally the man sent his only son. Surely they would reverence him. But the managers, thinking they would receive the inheritance if the son was gone, killed him also. And what would the Vineyard owner do about this? He would come and destroy the managers and put others in charge of the vineyard.
The chief priests and the elders knew that Jesus was speaking about them and they were not happy one bit. They wanted to do away with Jesus right then but they knew Jesus was well loved among the people. They feared what would happen should they try something at that point. They left him and went on their way. They weren't done yet, though. They sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to talk with him and try to see if he would say something they could pounce on. This group asked him, Is it lawful to give to Caesar? (Taxes).
Jesus knew what they were doing. He asked to see a penny, which they gave him. He asked whose picture and wording was on the coin. Of course, it was Caesar. Jesus gave them their answer: Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and give to God what is God's.
The questioning is not over, as we shall see tomorrow, Lord willing, beginning in verse 18 when the Sadducees discuss marriage and the afterlife.
Have a wonderful Lord's day.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: By Whose Authority?
Good morning! I hope you have a hot cup of tea this morning, or maybe some hot cocoa with marshmallows, or (my favorite this time of year) some hot apple cider. My son has decided to join me this morning. He is sitting beside me, watching me type and trying to convince me he's hungry. He ate five minutes ago, if that.
Today we are finishing up chapter eleven of Mark. Beginning in verse 27, Jesus is back in Jerusalem and once again at the temple. The chief priests and the scribes and the elders are there. It's no secret that they don't care for Jesus and his brand of teaching. So they ask him, By whose authority do you do these things? Who gave you the authority?
Jesus knows what they are up to so he says okay, (paraphrasing here) I'll ask you a question and if you can answer it, I'll answer your question.
30. The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? Answer me.
They talked among themselves, and understood that if they said the baptism of John was from men, they'd be in trouble with the people because John was considered by them a prophet. If they said the baptism was from heaven, Jesus would ask why they did not believe. So they simply said, we cannot tell. And Jesus told them, neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things. (v33)
Jesus talks with them calmly and does not let them bother him. He knows right now all they are going to do is ask him questions to try and tempt him into what they would consider blasphemy. He knows that they will arrest him at some point, but the time is not yet. Until then, he continues to teach and to prepare his disciples for what is to come. Our job these days is to teach others and to prepare for judgement. We do not know when our time on earth will be done, whether by illness, accident, or the second coming. But once our time here is over, there is no second chance to come to Jesus. If you have not yet obeyed the gospel, I urge you to study, repent of your sins, be baptised, and live for Christ.
Have a wonderful day, ladies.
Today we are finishing up chapter eleven of Mark. Beginning in verse 27, Jesus is back in Jerusalem and once again at the temple. The chief priests and the scribes and the elders are there. It's no secret that they don't care for Jesus and his brand of teaching. So they ask him, By whose authority do you do these things? Who gave you the authority?
Jesus knows what they are up to so he says okay, (paraphrasing here) I'll ask you a question and if you can answer it, I'll answer your question.
30. The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or of men? Answer me.
They talked among themselves, and understood that if they said the baptism of John was from men, they'd be in trouble with the people because John was considered by them a prophet. If they said the baptism was from heaven, Jesus would ask why they did not believe. So they simply said, we cannot tell. And Jesus told them, neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things. (v33)
Jesus talks with them calmly and does not let them bother him. He knows right now all they are going to do is ask him questions to try and tempt him into what they would consider blasphemy. He knows that they will arrest him at some point, but the time is not yet. Until then, he continues to teach and to prepare his disciples for what is to come. Our job these days is to teach others and to prepare for judgement. We do not know when our time on earth will be done, whether by illness, accident, or the second coming. But once our time here is over, there is no second chance to come to Jesus. If you have not yet obeyed the gospel, I urge you to study, repent of your sins, be baptised, and live for Christ.
Have a wonderful day, ladies.
Friday, October 21, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: The Fig Tree, Cleansing the Temple, and Prayer
Good morning!
On the same day that Jesus cursed the fig tree, he went into the temple and threw out all who bought and sold there, and overthrew the tables of the money changers (v15 of chapter 11).
17. And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called by all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.
The scribes and chief priests did not like his teaching one bit. They wanted to destroy him. They liked the way they had things going before Jesus showed up! Most likely overcharging people for doves to sacrifice, paying more attention to the doctrine of men than the law of God.
The next day Jesus and his disciples went by the fig tree once again. This time it had withered, all the way to the roots. Peter pointed out the tree that Jesus had cursed.
22. And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.
23. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.
24. Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
25. And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
26. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.
Jesus told the disciples to have faith; to believe without doubt that they would receive what they asked in prayer and they would receive it. Not necessarily a Mazzarati (sp?) when a more practical car would do better. But do ask God for what you need and want.
Don't forget the warning he also gave. If there is a problem between you and someone else, you need to take care of it first. If you do not forgive others for what they do to you, God will not forgive you of your wrong doings. Why would we let personal grievances keep us from heaven?
Have a wonderful day.
On the same day that Jesus cursed the fig tree, he went into the temple and threw out all who bought and sold there, and overthrew the tables of the money changers (v15 of chapter 11).
17. And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called by all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.
The scribes and chief priests did not like his teaching one bit. They wanted to destroy him. They liked the way they had things going before Jesus showed up! Most likely overcharging people for doves to sacrifice, paying more attention to the doctrine of men than the law of God.
The next day Jesus and his disciples went by the fig tree once again. This time it had withered, all the way to the roots. Peter pointed out the tree that Jesus had cursed.
22. And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.
23. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.
24. Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.
25. And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
26. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.
Jesus told the disciples to have faith; to believe without doubt that they would receive what they asked in prayer and they would receive it. Not necessarily a Mazzarati (sp?) when a more practical car would do better. But do ask God for what you need and want.
Don't forget the warning he also gave. If there is a problem between you and someone else, you need to take care of it first. If you do not forgive others for what they do to you, God will not forgive you of your wrong doings. Why would we let personal grievances keep us from heaven?
Have a wonderful day.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: The Fig Tree
Good morning! I must apologize for getting this out so late. J woke up at four this morning and I could not go back to sleep until hubby woke up. I wasn't feeling well so he insisted I try and get some rest.
Today we are discussing the fig tree that Jesus came by the morning after they came into Jerusalem. But Dottie, didn't we just study about that a few weeks ago while studying in Matthew? Yes ma'am, we sure did, and now we are going to look at it from Mark's perspective.
Verse 13 of chapter 11 states: And seeing a fig tree afar off off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.
14. And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.
Did Jesus have a hissy fit because he was hungry and the tree had no fruit? No. Jesus is not like I of the low blood sugar grouchies. No, he was giving another lesson. Did you notice that Mark said "the time of figs was not yet". That makes it sound like it was a bit early in the season for figs, but Jesus was hoping there might be a chance (haply: by chance) there would be figs because the tree had leaves. Normally a fig tree does not have leaves unless it has fruit. So in essence, the fig tree fibbed. It was saying one thing and showed proof of another thing. (By their fruits ye shall know them...) So Jesus cursed the tree.
If we show leaves by professing to be Christian, we need to bear fruit that shows this to be true. Our fruit is how we treat others, how we act, and teaching others about Christ.
Tomorrow I'll finish this one up. In the mean time, have a wonderful day,
Today we are discussing the fig tree that Jesus came by the morning after they came into Jerusalem. But Dottie, didn't we just study about that a few weeks ago while studying in Matthew? Yes ma'am, we sure did, and now we are going to look at it from Mark's perspective.
Verse 13 of chapter 11 states: And seeing a fig tree afar off off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.
14. And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.
Did Jesus have a hissy fit because he was hungry and the tree had no fruit? No. Jesus is not like I of the low blood sugar grouchies. No, he was giving another lesson. Did you notice that Mark said "the time of figs was not yet". That makes it sound like it was a bit early in the season for figs, but Jesus was hoping there might be a chance (haply: by chance) there would be figs because the tree had leaves. Normally a fig tree does not have leaves unless it has fruit. So in essence, the fig tree fibbed. It was saying one thing and showed proof of another thing. (By their fruits ye shall know them...) So Jesus cursed the tree.
If we show leaves by professing to be Christian, we need to bear fruit that shows this to be true. Our fruit is how we treat others, how we act, and teaching others about Christ.
Tomorrow I'll finish this one up. In the mean time, have a wonderful day,
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: Jesus Rides into Town on a Colt
Good morning! We are beginning Mark chapter 11 today.
Jesus and his disciples were near Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of the disciples and told them where they would find a colt tied up. They were to take the colt, and if anyone tried to stop them they were to say that the master needed him, and they would be allowed to take him. It was just as he said. The colt was brought to Jesus, and they laid clothes on the animal's back, and Jesus sat on him and was led into town. People along the way threw clothes on the path, and others cut tree branches and laid them out. The people all shouted Hosanna! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord: Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that comethin in the name of the Lord: Hosanna in the highest. (verses9 and 10).
This is just a few days before the Passover, and ultimately, the crucifixion. How different the crowd is now, from the one who will be soon crying Crucify Him! Most of the people, it seemed, knew of Jesus and loved him. As we will find later, it is the chief priests and scribes who want to do away with him. That shows us how a few can influence many.
We must be ever vigilant in monitoring who or what influences our choices. While we ourselves have to make the decision to do good or to do wrong, the people we are with can hold sway on some of those decisions if we are not careful. If we go along with the crowd, and gossip about someone, although we know better, it is still our wrong doing. We could have chosen to say Stop. I know Sally and it is not right to talk behind her back like this. We could have chosen to leave. But if we stay and participate (even if you do not say a word, its still wrong) we are just as guilty as the others there.
Jesus and his disciples were near Jerusalem, at Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives. Jesus sent two of the disciples and told them where they would find a colt tied up. They were to take the colt, and if anyone tried to stop them they were to say that the master needed him, and they would be allowed to take him. It was just as he said. The colt was brought to Jesus, and they laid clothes on the animal's back, and Jesus sat on him and was led into town. People along the way threw clothes on the path, and others cut tree branches and laid them out. The people all shouted Hosanna! Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord: Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that comethin in the name of the Lord: Hosanna in the highest. (verses9 and 10).
This is just a few days before the Passover, and ultimately, the crucifixion. How different the crowd is now, from the one who will be soon crying Crucify Him! Most of the people, it seemed, knew of Jesus and loved him. As we will find later, it is the chief priests and scribes who want to do away with him. That shows us how a few can influence many.
We must be ever vigilant in monitoring who or what influences our choices. While we ourselves have to make the decision to do good or to do wrong, the people we are with can hold sway on some of those decisions if we are not careful. If we go along with the crowd, and gossip about someone, although we know better, it is still our wrong doing. We could have chosen to say Stop. I know Sally and it is not right to talk behind her back like this. We could have chosen to leave. But if we stay and participate (even if you do not say a word, its still wrong) we are just as guilty as the others there.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: Faith and Speaking Up
Good morning! Today we are finishing up chapter ten of Mark, verses 46 through 52. As Jesus and his disciples were coming out of Jericho, a man by the name of Bartimaeus , son of Timaeus, sat by the side of the highway, begging because he was blind. When he understood that it was Jesus of Nazareth passing by, he began to call out to him. Others tried to get him to be quiet, but he persisted: Jesus, thou son of David have mercy on me! he cried.
Jesus stopped and spoke to the man. What would you have me to do? he asked. Bartimaeus asked to receive sight.
52. And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight,, and followed Jesus in the way.
Immediately Bartimaeus received his sight! Not hours, or days, or weeks after, but immediately. Because of his faith, and asking, he was rewarded with what he wanted most: to be able to see. And afterwards, did he go back about his day as if nothing spectacular happened? No. He followed Jesus in the way. He lived his life as a follower of Christ.
Jesus stopped and spoke to the man. What would you have me to do? he asked. Bartimaeus asked to receive sight.
52. And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight,, and followed Jesus in the way.
Immediately Bartimaeus received his sight! Not hours, or days, or weeks after, but immediately. Because of his faith, and asking, he was rewarded with what he wanted most: to be able to see. And afterwards, did he go back about his day as if nothing spectacular happened? No. He followed Jesus in the way. He lived his life as a follower of Christ.
Monday, October 17, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: Who shall be First?
Ah, the race to be first, the number one person in whatever whatever there is to compete at. It's not such a new desire,as you will find in Mark ten, verses 35-45. James and John, the sons of Zebedee, wanted Jesus to promise that they two would be on his right hand and left hand in the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus told them that honor was not his to give, but the Father's. He asked them though, if they were able to go through the baptism he would go through and drink from the cup from which he drank, and of course they said they could. Jesus told them they indeed would follow in his footsteps. He told them and the other disciples that in order to be first in the kingdom of heaven one must be a servant to all.
45. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
We must remember, the first shall be last and the last shall be first.
Jesus told them that honor was not his to give, but the Father's. He asked them though, if they were able to go through the baptism he would go through and drink from the cup from which he drank, and of course they said they could. Jesus told them they indeed would follow in his footsteps. He told them and the other disciples that in order to be first in the kingdom of heaven one must be a servant to all.
45. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
We must remember, the first shall be last and the last shall be first.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: "Take Up the Cross and Follow Me"
Good morning! It is a beautiful, if chilly first day of the week here. I think fall is settling in quite nicely. It's time for warm apple cider, hot cocoa, and hearty breakfasts to see you through the day. I've come to think of bible study as breakfast for the soul. It sets the day right. In the same light, I must confess I have tried to make evening bible study a habit is well, but I haven't been so successful at keeping it. I tend to let other things get in the way. Our study today is on a man who let things get in the way of following Jesus. The scripture is Mark 10: 17-31.
A young man came running to Jesus and kneeled before him, asking Good Master, what shall I do to have eternal life?
Jesus said, Why do you call me good? There is none good but God. And he went on to list the commandments, do not commit adultery; do not kill; do not steal; do not bear false witness; defraud not; honor father and mother.
The man replied that he had done those things all his life. Jesus told him one more thing: Sell what you have and give to the poor. You'll have riches in heaven if you do this. Come and take up your cross and follow me.
The man went away sorrowful because he had many riches. Jesus said it was easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter into heaven. Notice he didn't say that NO rich person would enter heaven, just that it is harder for them.
If you look at our lives here in America versus those in some other countries, very few of us can say that we are not rich in comparison. Most of us have at least one car, at least one television, at least one computer, much food in the house. And there are those of us who have our collections: Elvis memorabilia, rubber stamps and scrap booking supplies (guilty on that one), ornaments, gold, silver, etc.
Must we live austere lives in order to please God? I don't think we have to be that severe about it unless convicted to do so. Having things that give us pleasure in life is not bad unless we place a higher value on our possessions than we do people. What good is it to have a fragile tea pot if you cannot enjoy a visit from a child? What good is it to have gold stored in your safe if you have a neighbor who has no food in the house? If we hold tightly to our things so that we cannot help others, then the things are what we worship, not God.
Also, sometimes we may be called to leave family and friends in order to take up our cross. Missionaries do this because their love of God and their fellow man is greater. They take very seriously the command to go out into the world and teach all nations, sometimes at very great risk to their lives.
Others who become Christians have been forced to leave their homes because their lives could be in danger if they stayed. But those who leave family and friends for Jesus' sake are not left alone in the world. In verse 29 Jesus promises: Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or bretheren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,
30. But he shallreceive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
While things are nice, and having our family and friends around in familiar surroundings are great, if we let them go into God's hand, there is something greater for us.
A young man came running to Jesus and kneeled before him, asking Good Master, what shall I do to have eternal life?
Jesus said, Why do you call me good? There is none good but God. And he went on to list the commandments, do not commit adultery; do not kill; do not steal; do not bear false witness; defraud not; honor father and mother.
The man replied that he had done those things all his life. Jesus told him one more thing: Sell what you have and give to the poor. You'll have riches in heaven if you do this. Come and take up your cross and follow me.
The man went away sorrowful because he had many riches. Jesus said it was easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter into heaven. Notice he didn't say that NO rich person would enter heaven, just that it is harder for them.
If you look at our lives here in America versus those in some other countries, very few of us can say that we are not rich in comparison. Most of us have at least one car, at least one television, at least one computer, much food in the house. And there are those of us who have our collections: Elvis memorabilia, rubber stamps and scrap booking supplies (guilty on that one), ornaments, gold, silver, etc.
Must we live austere lives in order to please God? I don't think we have to be that severe about it unless convicted to do so. Having things that give us pleasure in life is not bad unless we place a higher value on our possessions than we do people. What good is it to have a fragile tea pot if you cannot enjoy a visit from a child? What good is it to have gold stored in your safe if you have a neighbor who has no food in the house? If we hold tightly to our things so that we cannot help others, then the things are what we worship, not God.
Also, sometimes we may be called to leave family and friends in order to take up our cross. Missionaries do this because their love of God and their fellow man is greater. They take very seriously the command to go out into the world and teach all nations, sometimes at very great risk to their lives.
Others who become Christians have been forced to leave their homes because their lives could be in danger if they stayed. But those who leave family and friends for Jesus' sake are not left alone in the world. In verse 29 Jesus promises: Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or bretheren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,
30. But he shallreceive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
While things are nice, and having our family and friends around in familiar surroundings are great, if we let them go into God's hand, there is something greater for us.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: Jesus and Children
Good morning ! I hope you slept well last night. For the first time in a long while I slept through the night without a single wake up, and I am very thankful for it. I feel well rested and ready to meet the day. I'm bad, however, at planning productive things to do on Saturdays, so I guess I'll just play it by ear and see what happens.
Today we are focusing on just three verses in chapter ten of Mark. Verses 13 through 16. Some people brought children to Jesus to touch and bless. The disciples tried to stop them, probably thinking that Jesus had more important matters to deal with to bother with little children.
14. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.
15. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
16. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.
As mothers of very young children, sometimes it can be a little discouraging to bring a baby or a toddler to worship. They cry, they fidget, they are loud, they ask questions, etc. If you add autism into the mix, it can be even more discouraging. The temptation to stay home until the child(ren) are older can be strong. I plead with you, don't give in to it. Just being there you may be an encouragement to others. And the children are learning: how to behave during worship, about Jesus and the love of God, and they are learning that the first day of the week has a special importance. Yes, it is hard to think fully about why we take the memorial bread and fruit of the vine, and yes, it can be hard to get much out of the sermon when you're taking a little one to be changed or calmed or whatever. I've been there more times than I can count. Sometimes my son still has excessively fidgety moments and we deal with them.
Ladies of the congregation who don't have young children or children with autism, please hear me: your help and encouragement is greatly needed. I have been in congregations where my son's exuberance was met with frowns or standoffishness (perceived) and at some points I stopped attending. While the responsibility is ultimately mine, no one called. No one checked to see why we weren't showing up. That is very discouraging to a young mother.
I have also been blessed to be part of congregations where there was (is) much encouragement. The congregation we worship with now has been such a blessing. The first Sunday we were there J was loud. It was a new place with new faces and although he understands there are certain rules we follow for church, he was dealing with the newness in his typical manner. I took him to a classroom where I could still hear and he could relax a bit. After service, I was a little shy because of how loud he'd been. I needn't have worried. Several of those precious women stopped to say hello and welcome us, and some looked directly at J and spoke with him. That meant so much to me. It still brings tears to my eyes to think of such love.
We should encourage our young mothers and fathers. Be understanding when a child cries out. Jesus didn't forbid them to be near. He said let them come to me.
Our faith should be like that of a child: honest, forgiving easily, trusting fully that they will be taken care of and loved. They love others fairly easily too, and until taught differently see no difference in color of skin, dialect, or mannerism. The innocence of a child is a wonderful thing. Bring them to church. Continue teaching them. If you have no children at home, encourage the younger ones in the congregation. These are our future teachers, song leaders, preachers and preacher's wives. Our future missionaries. Bring them.
Today we are focusing on just three verses in chapter ten of Mark. Verses 13 through 16. Some people brought children to Jesus to touch and bless. The disciples tried to stop them, probably thinking that Jesus had more important matters to deal with to bother with little children.
14. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.
15. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.
16. And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.
As mothers of very young children, sometimes it can be a little discouraging to bring a baby or a toddler to worship. They cry, they fidget, they are loud, they ask questions, etc. If you add autism into the mix, it can be even more discouraging. The temptation to stay home until the child(ren) are older can be strong. I plead with you, don't give in to it. Just being there you may be an encouragement to others. And the children are learning: how to behave during worship, about Jesus and the love of God, and they are learning that the first day of the week has a special importance. Yes, it is hard to think fully about why we take the memorial bread and fruit of the vine, and yes, it can be hard to get much out of the sermon when you're taking a little one to be changed or calmed or whatever. I've been there more times than I can count. Sometimes my son still has excessively fidgety moments and we deal with them.
Ladies of the congregation who don't have young children or children with autism, please hear me: your help and encouragement is greatly needed. I have been in congregations where my son's exuberance was met with frowns or standoffishness (perceived) and at some points I stopped attending. While the responsibility is ultimately mine, no one called. No one checked to see why we weren't showing up. That is very discouraging to a young mother.
I have also been blessed to be part of congregations where there was (is) much encouragement. The congregation we worship with now has been such a blessing. The first Sunday we were there J was loud. It was a new place with new faces and although he understands there are certain rules we follow for church, he was dealing with the newness in his typical manner. I took him to a classroom where I could still hear and he could relax a bit. After service, I was a little shy because of how loud he'd been. I needn't have worried. Several of those precious women stopped to say hello and welcome us, and some looked directly at J and spoke with him. That meant so much to me. It still brings tears to my eyes to think of such love.
We should encourage our young mothers and fathers. Be understanding when a child cries out. Jesus didn't forbid them to be near. He said let them come to me.
Our faith should be like that of a child: honest, forgiving easily, trusting fully that they will be taken care of and loved. They love others fairly easily too, and until taught differently see no difference in color of skin, dialect, or mannerism. The innocence of a child is a wonderful thing. Bring them to church. Continue teaching them. If you have no children at home, encourage the younger ones in the congregation. These are our future teachers, song leaders, preachers and preacher's wives. Our future missionaries. Bring them.
Friday, October 14, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: Concerning Marriage and Divorce
Good Friday morning to you! Are you winding down the work week and readying for a relaxing weekend with the family? It's going to be a quiet one for us. This is the middle of my husband's work week this time around, as he is working nights. Because he has 12 hour shifts on weekends, we will stick close to home, probably venturing out for groceries and Worship on Sunday morning.
Today we begin chapter 10 of Mark. Jesus and his disciples are in Judea, and the Pharisees there are there once again to test Jesus on his knowledge of the law. Is it lawful for a man to put away (divorce) his wife? they asked.
Jesus answered by asking, what did Moses command you? Of course, they answered that Moses allowed them to simply write her a letter of divorcement, and that would be the end of it.
This is what Jesus has to say on the subject of marriage and divorce. The next few verses are straight from the King James bible. My opinion is nowhere in this, except to say that I whole heartedly agree, because Jesus said it and in my mind that settles it.
5.And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept.
6. But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female.
7. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife:
8. And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.
9. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
In the home at which they were staying, the disciples asked Jesus again about divorce.
11. And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her.
12. And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.
We know in Matthew Jesus said the only reason for divorce where remarriage would not be a sin is fornication. The one who was wronged would be free to divorce and remarry, if he or she so desired.
These days, as then apparently, people get divorced simply because they "fall out of love". Or their straying eye finds someone new they would rather be with. Love shouldn't be so fickle. Love takes work, folks! It is a decision that must be made, continuing to choose to love him despite his faults. After all, we have our own faults that they put up with. The point is to work through them, and with your husband, not to push away from him.
Are there other reasons to divorce? Yes, I think so. If the husband or wife is abusive, there is no reason to stay in the same house with that person. It is better to get out. Instead of looking to marry another though, in that case I would continue praying for my husband --from the safety of another home.
The bottom line is we should not take marriage so lightly. In today's society some refuse to marry at all, because they do not wish to make the commitment. If it doesnt work out, they say, all they need to do is leave. And some marry with the same throw away concept: "If it doesn't work out we can always get a divorce." In both cases there are usually children involved. No, it isnt better for the child to have two separate houses to call home. That is a cop out. It is better for the child and the marriage to try and work things out. Don't let the weeds of discontent take root in your marriage. Nurture it and care for it like any other precious item in your life. You will be rewarded many times over.
Today we begin chapter 10 of Mark. Jesus and his disciples are in Judea, and the Pharisees there are there once again to test Jesus on his knowledge of the law. Is it lawful for a man to put away (divorce) his wife? they asked.
Jesus answered by asking, what did Moses command you? Of course, they answered that Moses allowed them to simply write her a letter of divorcement, and that would be the end of it.
This is what Jesus has to say on the subject of marriage and divorce. The next few verses are straight from the King James bible. My opinion is nowhere in this, except to say that I whole heartedly agree, because Jesus said it and in my mind that settles it.
5.And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept.
6. But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female.
7. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife:
8. And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh.
9. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
In the home at which they were staying, the disciples asked Jesus again about divorce.
11. And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her.
12. And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.
We know in Matthew Jesus said the only reason for divorce where remarriage would not be a sin is fornication. The one who was wronged would be free to divorce and remarry, if he or she so desired.
These days, as then apparently, people get divorced simply because they "fall out of love". Or their straying eye finds someone new they would rather be with. Love shouldn't be so fickle. Love takes work, folks! It is a decision that must be made, continuing to choose to love him despite his faults. After all, we have our own faults that they put up with. The point is to work through them, and with your husband, not to push away from him.
Are there other reasons to divorce? Yes, I think so. If the husband or wife is abusive, there is no reason to stay in the same house with that person. It is better to get out. Instead of looking to marry another though, in that case I would continue praying for my husband --from the safety of another home.
The bottom line is we should not take marriage so lightly. In today's society some refuse to marry at all, because they do not wish to make the commitment. If it doesnt work out, they say, all they need to do is leave. And some marry with the same throw away concept: "If it doesn't work out we can always get a divorce." In both cases there are usually children involved. No, it isnt better for the child to have two separate houses to call home. That is a cop out. It is better for the child and the marriage to try and work things out. Don't let the weeds of discontent take root in your marriage. Nurture it and care for it like any other precious item in your life. You will be rewarded many times over.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: Potpourri
The rest of chapter 9 (verses 36 through 50) continues the conversation that Jesus was having with his disciples. He touches on several subjects at the same time and yet he ties it all together somehow.
Jesus begins by holding a child, and talking of caring for them. I think he could be talking of new Christians as well. Take them into your care.
Then John spoke of one who was not a follower but was casting out devils. He and the other disciples stopped him. Jesus told him not to stop someone like that. No one who does good will speak evil of Jesus. I think Jesus is speaking of new Christians and those who are trying to live a Christian life. Be careful how you treat them. Teach, but don't offend them. Children are precious; anyone who would deliberately hurt a child, we think should be punished. Babes in Christ are the same as children. Anyone who would deliberately do something to hurt them spiritually, Jesus said it is better that a millstone is hung around that person's neck and cast into the sea (v42).
Jesus continues his speech by talking of temptations and offenses. If your right eye causes you to sin, cast it out. It's better for you to have one eye than to keep both eyes and end up in hell (Gehenna). Look for the cause of the problem, he is saying. In today's terms, get rid of the temptation. In the movie Fireproof from a few years back, starring Kirk Cameron, the young man in the story had an addiction --a sin, to put it more bluntly -- to pornography. He could easily find it on the internet. That and other problems were tearing his marriage apart. While the movie teaches nothing about baptism as a part of salvation, it focuses on the sanctity of marriage and a relationship with Christ. As the young man studies more and realizes what he is doing, he decides to destroy the computer at home. He got rid of the source of the sin.
I leave with you verse 50, which I think ties together the conversation.
50. Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith shall ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.
Jesus begins by holding a child, and talking of caring for them. I think he could be talking of new Christians as well. Take them into your care.
Then John spoke of one who was not a follower but was casting out devils. He and the other disciples stopped him. Jesus told him not to stop someone like that. No one who does good will speak evil of Jesus. I think Jesus is speaking of new Christians and those who are trying to live a Christian life. Be careful how you treat them. Teach, but don't offend them. Children are precious; anyone who would deliberately hurt a child, we think should be punished. Babes in Christ are the same as children. Anyone who would deliberately do something to hurt them spiritually, Jesus said it is better that a millstone is hung around that person's neck and cast into the sea (v42).
Jesus continues his speech by talking of temptations and offenses. If your right eye causes you to sin, cast it out. It's better for you to have one eye than to keep both eyes and end up in hell (Gehenna). Look for the cause of the problem, he is saying. In today's terms, get rid of the temptation. In the movie Fireproof from a few years back, starring Kirk Cameron, the young man in the story had an addiction --a sin, to put it more bluntly -- to pornography. He could easily find it on the internet. That and other problems were tearing his marriage apart. While the movie teaches nothing about baptism as a part of salvation, it focuses on the sanctity of marriage and a relationship with Christ. As the young man studies more and realizes what he is doing, he decides to destroy the computer at home. He got rid of the source of the sin.
I leave with you verse 50, which I think ties together the conversation.
50. Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith shall ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
A Morning Cup of Tea: Who is Greatest?
Good morning! Today we are focusing on just a few verses of chapter 9, 30 through 35.
Jesus told his disciples that he would be delivered to men who would kill him, and he would rise again on the third day. The disciples did not understand what he meant, but they did not ask him (v32). They knew he could raise the dead, but they were probably wondering how he could raise himself.
But on the way to Capernaum they began arguing amongst themselves. Jesus asked them about it, but they did not want to answer him. They were arguing over who among them was greatest.
35. And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.
All too often we become caught up in who is more important, who is the greatest among us? We should not focus on who is greatest. We should be looking to serve others. How can we take care of others if our minds are continually on who will receive the biggest crown in heaven? Or here on earth for that matter.
Jesus told his disciples that he would be delivered to men who would kill him, and he would rise again on the third day. The disciples did not understand what he meant, but they did not ask him (v32). They knew he could raise the dead, but they were probably wondering how he could raise himself.
But on the way to Capernaum they began arguing amongst themselves. Jesus asked them about it, but they did not want to answer him. They were arguing over who among them was greatest.
35. And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.
All too often we become caught up in who is more important, who is the greatest among us? We should not focus on who is greatest. We should be looking to serve others. How can we take care of others if our minds are continually on who will receive the biggest crown in heaven? Or here on earth for that matter.
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