BEHOLD YOUR KING !!

BEHOLD YOUR KING !!

Our Bible Study teacher was reminding us of the Table of Show Bread with its ornate crowns around the top of the table.  The crowns represented Jesus being crowned King. 

 

The table itself was made of Acacia wood. The Acacia tree has large spikes that it has been thought were crafted into a crown of thorns when Jesus was crucified.  From my notes I present an edited lesson for you.

Today our teacher wanted to emphasize Jesus as King of Kings, and because of what he did, he has made us kings and priests in His Kingdom.

David asks; Who is He?  Psalms 24:8 Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.

In John chapter 18 Pilot asked Jesus:  “Are you the King of the Jews?”  Jesus answered: My kingdom is not of this world: To this end was I born, and for this cause I came into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth

After Jesus was beaten the soldiers made fun of Him by mocking, putting a purple robe on him, a crown of thorns, and laughing saying “Hail, King of the Jews!”

Pilot presented Him to the people saying to the Jews, Behold your King!  But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him.

Jesus paid the supreme price, giving His life for us so that we might be saved.  All that happened was fulfillment of Old Testament prophesies. 

 

The prophets of old said: Zachariah 14:9 And the LORD will be king over all the earth; in that day the LORD will be the only one, and His name the only one.

In Exodus chapter 19, God told the Children of Israel to remember what he had done to the Egyptians as He delivered them out from under bondage - - now obey me and keep my covenant and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.

David reminded us that those who desire to shall stand in His holy place must come with clean hands, and a pure heart; that has not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.

The enemy attacks our thoughts, so we are to protect our heart and think on things that please God.  We can learn to walk daily in repentance as the Holy Spirit brings to our mind, things that need to be changed. Pay attention and be obedient.

1 Timothy chapter 6, Paul advised us to be content with what ever situation we find ourselves in; to practice gratitude and being thankful for God’s blessings.  Money in its self is not wrong, but Paul warned to guard against the “love of money.”  Being “rich” is not a sin, but if you are blessed financially do not be high minded and haughty; but be ready to distribute to those in need.  You will be storing up treasures in heaven by doing so.

It is okay to clean up, dress up, but not to be puffed up.  God is pleased with a heart that loves and is kind, but sometimes we need the Holy Spirit to teach us.

John was imprisoned on the Isle of Patmos, and while there he received visions and messages from God.  Revelations 1:5-6 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loves us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,  And has made us a kingdom and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.

Jesus has given us dominion and authority and as it says in Revelations 5:10 And have made us unto our God a kingdom and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

We are to rule and reign over our self and our household with wisdom and grace realizing that we are called to act as royalty in all our behavior.

Romans 5:17 For if by one man's offense death reigned by one; much more they who receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a called out people; that you should show forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

 

Consider what Jesus has accomplished for you; Who He is, and Who we are in Him.

 

Sowing Seed (Edited Sermon by Pastor Allan)

 

 

Sowing Seed (Edited Sermon by Pastor Allan)

Pastor Allan was remembering driving down the Highway and noticing Ranchers preparing their soil for next year.  They were ripping up the dirt into huge mounds.

Pastor was impressed by the Holy Spirit that was what God wants to do with his heart.

As he viewed the farmer there seemed to be organized chaos orchestrated by the farmer.  It was all intentional and looked like a confusing mess - - because it was not complete.

This can be compared to our lives when each of us is at different stages of progress in our walk with the Lord.  Allow God to do the great thing he desires in you.  You may have the best house, drive a fine car but be a mess in your heart.  We get comfortable and God has to do some plowing in us.

Let us consider the parable of the sower from Mark chapter 3.  

Jesus said, “Listen if you have ears.”  Understand the farmer sows the Word, but the way the word is received is important.   Some seed fell on the path and birds devoured it. When they hear, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word that is sown in them. 

Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it did not have much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil. And when the sun rose, it was scorched, and since it had no root, it withered away. This person began well, but when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.

Let me encourage you NOT to give up on your family and do not be discouraged.  If there is no depth it is not your fault. Pray for our children and family that depth will be created in them to receive. 

Do you feel like you are getting nowhere as you share with others?

Don’t look at the surface but go deeper.  We are in a process as we grow in Christ.  Keep sowing the seed and it will take root.

Some of you have the five fold Holy Spirit gifts, but if there is no depth they will not be effective because the soil is shallow.

There is a challenging need to love people where they are.

When you look at me (Pastor Allan) you may see me as dressed poorly, but I am blessed. Don’t pay attention to the outside, because God is looking at the heart.

Our sins took Jesus to the cross and He loves the sinner who needs to grow as much as He loves the mature saint.  How do you receive the unlovely?

Pay attention to those we minister to.  Don’t push them away if they are not fully developed in Christ.  At times you will be fighting the devil face to face, but take authority and walk in it.  Pray that the Holy Spirit will dig deep into the soil and prepare it for depth.

Each and every one of us needs more depth.  Allow the seed to work in your life.

The third ground where the seed fell was full of thorns which chocked the seed. Now he who receives seed among the thorns is he, who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful.

Do not allow discouragement or fear to overtake you, instead overcome these emotions that upset you.

The fourth soil was good ground where the word was received with gladness and a firm decision was made to receive all that God offered. These began to share and bring forth fruit.

Keep sowing seed regardless of how it looks outside.  God wants the church to understand what He is doing.  He is preparing for a harvest.  We need the presence of the Holy Spirit daily. 

There was a time, when the doors of the church were opened; the people were expected to show, no matter what was planned for the meeting. 

Posture your heart to receive the seed offered, and pray for our city for depth in the hearts of our citizens.

 

Take My Yoke for it is Easy

Take My Yoke for it is Easy

 

Each Wednesday Pastor Allan has encouraged me to bring a message that will build us up as we consider evangelizing and sharing the gospel with others. 

What do you think of when you hear the word “YOKE?”

A yoke was placed on oxen to control them and keep them on the “Right path.”

Two as a team under a yoke would get more work done, faster and easier. 

The farmer could not hook together opposite animals such as an ox and a donkey, because they would pull against each other causing problems, waste and destruction.   

This is the reason Paul told us

2 Corinthians 6:14 Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship has Righteousness with Unrighteousness?  What partnership has Light with Darkness?

(This verse speaks of partnership with both God and the devil and it just will not work.) 

We should also apply this scripture to our association with people we hang out with.  Are your friends like minded to follow Christ or is there a clash of wills and desires? 

It is good to attend a church where the Bible is taught, and your belief in God is yoked up together with persons who attend. 

If you are seeking a mate – do keep this in mind to avoid BIG trouble ahead.  Only date those of LIKE precious faith, and persons who are actively serving Christ Jesus. Also it is good to date one who believes in the present day work of the Holy Spirit.

 

Warning: Do not date an unbeliever or one who is a member of a cult, such as New Age, types of meditation, Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons or into Spiritism.  Avoid the problems and horror stories that come from yoking up with these kinds of relationships.

Jesus offered us to YOKE up with him because he is gentle, kind and will give you peace and rest.

Matthew 11:28-30  Come unto me, all you that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest unto your souls.  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

The yoke of subjection to Jesus.

Jesus is giving his disciples a reason why they should embrace his teachings. He was not harsh, overbearing, and oppressive, like the Pharisees, (For they bind heavy burdens laying them on men’s shoulders and grievous to be borne,) but Jesus is meek, mild, and gentle in his government. His laws were reasonable and tender, and it would be easy to obey him.

Once we are free in Christ, Galatians 5:1 Christ did set us free: stand fast therefore, and be not entangled again in a yoke of bondage.

What can we learn from this message today? 

1.     Examine your self be sure you are “Yoked up” with Jesus and those of like minded Faith.

2.     As we reach out to our neighbors, we will discover people yoked up with all types of belief and bondage.  Keep Jesus uppermost in our sharing and be sure to have a Bible or brochure to leave with those we meet to encourage them to Yoke up with Jesus.

The Kingdom of God

 

 

Our Bible study lesson at Open Door Church on Sunday Mornings at 9:30 was continuing about how the Golden Table of Show Bread relates to Jesus and to the Kingdom of God.  I took notes and present an edited message for you to enjoy.

 

The border (or crown molding) of the table was crafted with small golden crowns representing the Kingship of Jesus.  We shall cast our crowns before Him in glory.

How does this apply to us today?  What is the Kingdom and where it is now?  Jesus prayed, “Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.” When you receive Jesus as your King and Master, He sets up His kingdom in your life.

We understand there are varieties of “kingdoms:” A community or a family, where wisdom rules, a Business where there is trust, High ethic values where there is worth.  Jesus has made us worthy and has given us authority to labor with Him.

Jesus was teaching about the Kingdom and likening it to ten virgins who were waiting in the night for the wedding party to arrive.  Five were wise and had brought extra oil for their lamps, but five were foolish and did not prepare and their lamps went out.  There was no time to purchase more oil, because the Bridegroom was coming.  It pays to be ready at all times for the return of Christ and to be filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus also told the story of a business man who gave his trusted servants bags of gold to invest and multiply.  One servant was afraid and hid his gold because he feared to be bold and take risks for increase.  Jesus said the unfaithful servant would be cast out into outer darkness.

Each of us has an individual responsibility to serve in the Kingdom of God.  View others as Jesus would see them.  Find your place in the Kingdom and pray for the Gifts of the Holy Spirit to endow you with power.  Allow the voice of the Holy Spirit to guide you to where you should go and to whom you should speak and share the Gospel with.

Once we commit to the King, then we are able to commit to serve others.

Watch our hearts and keep humble, because a great price has been paid for you.

With extravagant love God has made provision for you to have entrance into His Kingdom.

King Jesus is the Door by which we may all enter in and participate in His Kingdom.

 

 

 

JESUS IS WORTHY OF IT ALL

 

 

Pastor Allan asked our Bible Teacher Linda to take the morning sermon, and I took notes and present an edited message.

Our Bible Studies have been about the articles in the Tabernacle and how they relate to Christ Jesus.

Today is Communion and we have a table set with bread and grape juice representing the body and blood of Jesus.  God is a great and faithful king, and the Holy Spirit speaks to always glorify Jesus.  Jesus is worthy of it all.  The table of Showbread in the Tabernacle was made of pure gold with decorative gold crowns around its edging and on the table was placed twelve loaves of unleavened bread.

Jesus was born in Bethlehem, and the Hebrew word is “House of Bread.”  Jesus is the living bread as He said.  He is our bread of Life.

Matthew 26:26-30 speaks of Jesus taking the bread, blessing it and breaking it saying, “This is my body, which is broken for you, do this in remembrance of me. God is a god of detail, and the bread on the table of Showbread was a representation of Jesus the Bread of life.

Jesus then took the cup saying, this is my blood which is given for you - - he went on to say, I will not drink it again until I am able to drink it with you in the kingdom.

Why did Jesus speak about the Kingdom? 

What do you think about when you think about a king?  Perhaps you think of Majesty, a Gold crown, royal garments, Honor, Reverence, and Power.  Jesus is all of that and more. He is our King and we worship Him as King of our life. 

In Matthew chapter 25, Jesus likens the Kingdom to wise and foolish virgins; some with enough oil, and some who neglected to make provision for more oil.  We as believers must keep filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit and this is accomplished by study of God’s word, and being in His presence.

Jesus gave another illustration about the Kingdom, like as a business man giving gifts to invest to his trusted workers as he left on a journey.  Some were diligent to step up and invest in the kingdom, and were faithful in the opportunities given to them. 

 

One was fearful and afraid to use that which was gifted to him.  He held back and refused to work with what he had, but instead hid it.  When the owner returned, he was pleased with those who invested wisely, and gave them more responsibility in the Kingdom of light, but the fearful man was cast out into the kingdom of outer darkness.

Matthew 25 depicts Jesus on the throne as king with the angels surrounding him.  He gathers all the Nations and begins to separate the sheep from the goats. He says to the righteous, when I was hungry you fed me, when I was naked, you clothed me. 

 

They replied when did we do this?  Jesus said, “For as much as you have done this for others, you have done it as onto me.” 

 

This was the condition, serve others and you are serving me.  The body of Jesus was broken for everyone, and His blood was shed for all.  Jesus modeled for his followers what the Kingdom was like. 

 

Jesus knew one would betray Him, but he girded a towel around his waist, and taking a basin of water, he washed the feet of His disciples.  He asked, “Do you understand what I have done?  You have called me Lord and Master, and you say well, for I AM. 

 

His example was the servant is not greater than his lord, but we must all have humility.  Receiving those persons who God sends your way, is the same as receiving Jesus and therefore receiving God the Father who sent Jesus. 

 

There is no difference in the kingdom.  Love one another and know that God loves all people.  It is a choice to become a part of God’s Kingdom. 

 

A decision must be made to accept Jesus Christ as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.  Consider your willingness to serve in the Kingdom.  Model after Jesus with Kingdom, behavior, kingdom love, service, giving and commit our loyalty to God who rules.

As we take communion today, may it not be a ritual, but an emotional and spiritual experience, remembering the symbolic meaning of the bread and wine. 

 

His broken body and his blood was shed for you. 

 

Be a part of His body, for He is worthy of it all. 

ONE PERSON – Is all it Takes – Let it be YOU.

 

Our Wednesday Prayer meeting begins with a lesson I am privileged to bring.  Pastor Allan has asked me to bring encouraging words about evangelism and sharing with others, Christ Jesus the Savior.

On the negative, we are reminded that it was ONE person who took it upon herself to have prayer and the Bible removed from our schools.

On the positive, Jesus was all alone resting at a well, because his disciples had gone into the city to purchase food.  Along came a woman, and Jesus requested of her a drink of water.  The woman was a Samaritan and knew the Jews did not associate with such people so she questioned why did He speak to her and request water? Jesus told her if she only knew who He was; she would ask Him to give her living water so she would never thirst again.  As Jesus began to tell the woman all about her past life, she ran into the city and brought back a huge crowd to hear Jesus.  One person was all it took and many became believers.

Jonah was a disobedient prophet and ended up in the whale’s belly, but when he repented and decided to obey God - - he went to the city of Nineveh all by his self, (Just ONE Person) and preached against sin and that they should repent.  The King and the entire Nation repented and turned to the true God.

You have probably said, but I am only one person and can’t do much for the Kingdom.  I must remind you that if you are entertaining doubtful ideas in your mind those thoughts did not come from God. 

Understand this: Jesus has chosen YOU and he has ordained YOU to be his messenger. 

Will you say out loud these two Bible verses and believe that this is Jesus speaking to YOU? 

John 15:16 You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ORDAINED you, that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever you shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.   

Matthew 16:19 And I will give to you the (secret) keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatever you shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatever you shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 

You as a believer have the authority to Unlock Prison doors; to release the chains that bind others.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

You might face problems as you pray with people.

1. A person believes they are going to heaven because they are a good person.  Or they may not be sure they are saved.  Our good works will NOT save us, only Jesus can save us and give us eternal life.  Jesus said, “I am the door and no one may enter in except by me.  They should not wait because today is the day of salvation.

Highlight in your Bible: Romans 3:23, (All have sinned) - - Romans 6:23, (Sin brings death, but God gives eternal life) - - Romans 10:9-10 (Believe on Jesus, Confess you receive Him now.  Rev 3:20 (With your mouth say “Come in to my life Lord Jesus.) 

ABC’s of Salvation:  Admit you are a sinner, Believe Jesus died for you in your place.  Confess Him as your Lord and tell him you are surrendering to His will for your life.   

2. If a person you are praying with is struggling with a habit or a spiritual problem:

It is good to ask the person a question.  Do you want to be free?  Are you ready to tell Jesus you want to be free to serve him?  Are you ready to put aside those habits that are keeping you in bondage?  Are you ready to RENOUNCE all forms of your habit (bondage) and say with your mouth –I renounce all habits, and tell them to leave and be gone and do not return?  Now there is an empty space, so we need to ask Jesus to come and fill up the void with the Holy Spirit:  

Say this with your mouth:  Jesus I ask you to come into my life and fill me with your Holy Spirit. I want to serve you all the days of my life.  Encourage the new believer to read their Bible daily and to attend a Bible believing church faithfully. 

3. A Person needs healing.  (Unforgiveness often blocks healing)

Is there any unforgiveness in their life?  Encourage them to open up their heart to God’s Love and forgiveness in their own life.  Encourage them to release anyone they are holding bitterness or resentment against. 

Now we come before a Holy God who sent his Son Jesus to take a whipping on his back to pay for our healing.  I Peter 2:24  By His stripes we were healed.   Isaiah 53:5  But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. 

Jesus shed His blood for our atonement and healing.  It is God’s will for you to be healed.

May God’s will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  No one is sick in heaven.

Ask the person to place their hand where they need healing.  If it is not an appropriate area, have them place their hand on their heart or stomach.  Lay your hand on their hand - - or anoint their forehead with oil and pronounce “Be Healed in Jesus Name.”

Remember it only takes ONE person to begin a snow ball of changes in our city, our families, and in our Nation.  Will you be that One Person?

The Table of Show Bread in the Tent Tabernacle

The Table of Show Bread in the Tent Tabernacle

Our Bible Study teacher had prepared 12 flat loaves of bread in the shape of 8 inch pancakes, to illustrate the show bread that was placed on the Table of showbread in two rows of 6 and represented the 12 tribes of Israel.  At the end of class she offered us small cups of grape juice and a piece of the bread she had broken.  We celebrated the reminder of Jesus body and His blood and being in His presence.

It was called the Bread of “His Presence.” This bread was a Spiritual invitation for man to enter into God’s presence and to fellowship with Him.  

I took notes and present an edited lesson.

The table of Show Bread sat to the right in the Holy Place, and was anointed twice daily morning and evening with frankincense.  Our prayers are likened to incense as we pray to the Father. 

Each Sabbath day, the twelve flat loaves were replaced with fresh loaves and the priests were to eat the old bread while standing in the Holy place.  Everything was done while standing.  There was no place to sit down and rest.

When Jesus made the final sacrifice; He sat down. Hebrews 10:11-14 "But Jesus after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God - -

The Table for the Showbread  Exodus 25:23-30   You shall also make a table of acacia wood; two cubits shall be its length, a cubit its width, and a cubit and a half its height.  And you shall overlay it with pure gold, and make a molding of gold all around.  You shall make for it a frame of a handbreadth all around, and you shall make a gold molding for the frame all around.  And you shall make for it four rings of gold, and put the rings on the four corners that are at its four legs.  The rings shall be close to the frame, as holders for the poles to bear the table. And you shall make the poles of acacia wood, and overlay them with gold, that the table may be carried with them.  You shall make its dishes, its pans, its pitchers, and its bowls for pouring. You shall make them of pure gold.  And you shall set the showbread on the table before Me always.

Jesus said He is the Light of the World as the Lamp Stand represents, and the Table with the bread is a symbol of Jesus the Bread of Life. 

The Table was made of hard acacia wood that has large thorny spikes, and is thought to have been the thorns that were used to make the Crown placed on the head of Jesus when he was crucified.

His Body was broken by whipping and beating and as we partake of the Lord’s Supper we are reminded of His broken Body and of His Blood shed for our salvation.

Pure Olive oil was beaten for the lamp in the Holy Place to burn continually.  We are reminded to not allow our light to go out, but to keep our light burning always.

Jesus had fed a multitude with loaves and fishes, and went to the mountain to pray, but told his disciples to get in their boat and go back to the other side.  The people walked around the lake to reach the other side, and knew the disciples had left without Jesus.  But here Jesus was with them.  How could this be? 

They really were not interested, but wanted Jesus to give them more physical food.  Jesus told them that Moses gave them manna in the wilderness, but He said, “I am the Living bread.”  As he explained in spiritual too deep for their understanding - - many left him.  May we understand Jesus has much for us in the Spirit and we can feast at His table anytime?  He supplies living bread and living water that we shall never hunger and thirst again
.
1 Corinthians10:14-17 Therefore my beloved, flee from idolatry.  I speak as to wise men; judge for yourselves what I say. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?  For we, though many, are one bread and one body; for we all partake of that one bread.

We are many, but we are one.  Our actions speak for us. 

How can we change a culture?  By our example; may we walk the talk?

Fire Cider - Make Your Own

I purchased my first 16 ounce bottle of Fire Cider over the internet for $26.00 plus shipping - then I made my own.

Each Winter my mother would mix up some homemade salsa with tomatoes, garlic and hot peppers from her garden.  At the first sign of a sore throat, she would take a tablespoon full and chew it down. 

I never tried her recipe, but perhaps it might have saved my hearing as most winters I contacted bronchitis and additional damage to the nerves in my ears. 

Now I am trying my best to prevent a bad cold or the flu by brewing FIRE CIDER and drinking small amounts.  Sometimes I mix the Fire Cider in a bit of Kefir Lemon Water or to the last gulp of  my Kombucha tea.


Here for your enjoyment is the Recipe I use to make a batch of Home Made Fire Cider

Fire Cider: Health Tonic and Homeopathic Remedy for Colds and Flu

 Ingredients

1 Glass Gallon Jar with tight fitting lid.

• 1 large horseradish root, about 7 inches long (scrubbed very well)  OR - - -
• ( I could not find horseradish, so I bought a 6 ounce jar horseradish in the refrigeration section at the Food Market. (Or two 4 ounce jars)
• 1 large ginger root, about 7 inches long
• 1 large onion, root and stem end removed and peeled and chopped
• 2 large oranges peeled and cut in pieces
• 2 lemons peeled and cut in pieces
• 16 cloves of garlic, peeled  (I minced the garlic in my garlic press)
• 4 habanero peppers, stems removed
• 2 jalapeno peppers remove seeds and chop
• 1 tablespoon ground turmeric
• 2 quarts Heinz or Bragg’s apple cider vinegar  (save the glass jars)
• 1 teaspoon cayenne Pepper
• Raw honey to taste  (begin with ½ cup and add more if not sweet enough.)

Instructions
 

Grate the horseradish and ginger roots. Roughly chop the onions, orange, lemon, garlic, and habanero and Jalapeno peppers. Stuff them into a gallon glass jar with a tight fitting lid or divide evenly between two half gallon sized canning jars. Sprinkle the turmeric on top (dividing evenly between the jars if using more than one jar). Pour the raw apple cider vinegar in over the contents, allowing it to settle in through the crevices and adding more so that the contents are submerged. Lay a piece of parchment paper over the rim of the jar, then screw the lid tightly in place. Let the mixture sit in a dark, cool place, allowing it to marry and infuse for 4 weeks, shaking once daily.

After 4 to 6  weeks, pour the contents into a muslin or cheesecloth lined colander positioned over a stable pot. Let it drain for 30 minutes, then gather the corners of the cloth, twisting and squeezing until you cannot release any more liquid. When it's fully strained, add honey to the liquid to taste and pour into a sterilized wine bottle or canning jar. Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year, shaking well before using.   (I reuse the glass vinegar bottles for the Fire Cider. I store the jar I am using in the refrigerator. And keep the other Fire Cider bottles in the dark room where I am brewing my Kombucha.

·                           When you grate your horseradish, make sure you do it in a well-ventilated area or you will regret it. That stuff packs some serious oomph and will empty your sinuses in 30 seconds flat.

·                           When it’s time to strain your Fire Cider Health Tonic & Homeopathic Remedy, line a colander with butter muslin, a muslin tea towel, or a double layer of super fine cheesecloth, and set it over a large, stable pot. Pour the contents of your jar into the lined colander and let it drain for 30 minutes. After the 30 minutes, pull the corners of the cloth together and twist to squeeze the contents until you cannot squeeze any more liquid from it. You may reserve the solids for tossing in stir-fries or discard them.

·                           You’ll notice there is not an actual quantity of honey listed in the recipe. You should add this to taste. We tend to like ours less sweet, you may prefer yours more so. Start with 1/4 cup and whisk it well, then add 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition, until you reach your desired sweetness.

          - - - - - - --

Instant Fire Cider  (I made some of this to get me by while my mixture is still brewing)  It is okay, but not as good as the real brew.

·                    1/3 cup raw apple cider vinegar

·                    1/3 cup lemon juice or the juice of 2 lemons

·                    1 teaspoon ground cayenne

·                    1 teaspoon ground ginger

·                    1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

·                    Pinch of cracked black pepper

·                    1/3 cup of raw honey

Directions

·                    Add lemon juice, vinegar, and spices to your jar

·                    Add honey to bring up to 8 ounces

·                    all ingredients in a small jar (like a mason jar)

·                    Shake well to mix

·                    Store in the refrigerator

YOU ARE MY LORD

 

Sunday Morning Service at Open Door Church, we were honored to have a visiting Missionary Pastor Gamel from Egypt ministering as I took notes and present his edited message here.

Psalms 16:2 My soul has said to the Lord, “You are my Lord.”

Some people know about the Lord, and some have heard about the Lord, but others have made Him LORD.

Some may say “Praise the Lord,” but others have made Him a Personal Savior; one who has redeemed us from our sins.  Some have accepted Jesus as Pastor, friend, even a savior, but it is important to make Him LORD over your life, over your family, your business.  We crown Him Lord of all, giving up our “rights;” We allow Him the preeminence to be our LORD. 

The Gospel of John explains what God has established, and that Jesus is God.

Matthew's gospel is to the Jewish People and reveals Jesus the Lion of Judah, and Jesus as a servant.  The gospel of Mark speaks of many miracles. Luke presents Jesus as the Son of Man, and John speaks of Jesus as the Son of God.  John presents miracles and signs showing Jesus as the Messiah.

John 20:31. But these are written so that you may believe Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and by believing you may have life in His name.

John chapter 2. Jesus did his first miracle by turning water into wine.  Jesus is Master of ecology.  Without any kind of outside influence; change was made. Wine represents the Holy Spirit and we are filled to the brim and we are different.  Our taste to life has changed and old things fall away and our appetite is no longer the same.  Wine brings joy and we find peace in Christ.  Our desire is now to read the Bible, to pray and worship our Lord.  If your life is boring, allow Jesus to change you.

John chapter 4. A Nobleman asked Jesus to come heal his son.  Jesus told the man to go home because his son is now healed.  When we pray, Jesus is in heaven, but He is also near and he hears and will answer.  Some people worry about their son.  But the Lord is speaking; your son shall live.

Chapter 5. A crippled man lay many years at the pool waiting for someone to help him into the healing water.  Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do?”  The man answered, I have no one to help me.”  Jesus knows your miserable situation, and he is Lord over the affairs of life.  He has come especially for you, to become your personal Lord.

Chapter 6 speaks of a multitude being fed with 5 small barley loaves and 2 small fishes.  A boy’s mother had made him a little sack lunch and when Jesus blessed his insignificant gift, it was able to bless thousands.  What ever you have, give it to Jesus and He will supply your needs.   Jesus is Lord over your provision.  He is the master, so do not worry about your future, for the Lord will take care of all you need.

6:19 Jesus was asleep when the storm came, and his disciples, cried, Lord we are perishing.  Jesus is Master over Nature, and Lord over the storms of life that try to sink your boat. He speaks peace and stills the winds and says, “Do not be afraid.”  The word is “Now,” what ever you are facing, God is able to deliver.

There was a man born blind, but Jesus the creator made new eyes.  Jesus is Master and Lord of creation.  Are you willing to allow His glory to be in you as your Lord?

Chapter 11  Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead even though it had been 4 days and he was stinking.  Jesus is Master of Life, and has power over death.  If your life stinks, Jesus is able to restore and renew you into a different person. 

 

Jesus is King of Kings, Lord of Lords, the First and the Last, and He is Master of Everything. 

He IS my Lord.

Evangelism is Not always Comfortable

 

At our Wednesday prayer over our city, Pastor Allan asked me to bring some messages on Evangelism.  As I meditated on what Bible example I could use, the Holy Spirit spoke to me:  Sharing Jesus with people you don’t know can be uncomfortable, especially if they are different from you in some way.  The Holy Spirit took me to Acts chapter 10.

Today’s lesson will impress on us that God is not a respecter of persons, and that He loves all people regardless of who they are.  God is not a Racist.

At Caesarea (the capital of the Roman province) there was a Gentile man named Cornelius a Centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment.  He and all his Italian family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly.  

One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, “Cornelius!”  You must send men to Joppa, for a man named Peter.  He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. He will tell you what you must do.”

In the mean while, Peter went up on the housetop to pray.  As he prayed he became very hungry and wanted to eat; but while they made ready, he fell into a trance and saw a vision.  Heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, descended and settled in front of him.  In it were all kinds of strange animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. And a voice came to him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.”

But Peter said, “Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten anything common or unclean.” And a voice spoke to him again the second time, “What God has cleansed you must not call common.”

This was done three times. And the object was taken up into heaven again.  Peter thought to himself, “I have NEVER done anything like that before and it is absolutely NOT Kosher.”  He was very uncomfortable about the vision he had seen.

As we prepare to go out door to door, we might say, “I have never done that before.  Understand that we have been praying for many months preparing the Spiritual atmosphere and God will go before us.  We will actually be working with God, and not by ourselves.

As Peter went downstairs, he wondered what this vision meant, and immediately three Non Jewish visitors arrived at the gate asking for him.  The Holy Spirit told Peter to go with them doubting nothing.  The next day, Peter and several Jewish believers went with the Italian men to Caesarea to Cornelius’s home where his large family and many friends were waiting.  Peter found that he was out of his comfort zone. 

Peter said to them, “You know how unlawful it is for a Jewish man to keep company with or go to one of another nation.  But God has shown me that I should not call any man common or unclean.”  Peter asked, “Why have you sent for me?”

Cornelius explained about the Angel visit and being told to send for Peter. 

Then Peter opened his mouth and said: “In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality.

Notice, Peter did not begin to teach about the Law and the Ten Commandments, but his message was about Christ Jesus the Lord.  Peter began to preach how Jesus went about preaching, doing good, and healing the sick, but evil men crucified him, and he was buried in a tomb.  However after three days Jesus was raised from the dead; - - and as Peter preached, the Holy Spirit fell on all those who were in the Gentile house and they began to speak with other tongues. 

You can imagine the surprise of Peter and his prejudiced Jewish brethren. They were completely out of their comfort zone and were amazed that God could love these Italian Gentiles.  Their preconceived ideas all needed to be thrown out, because this was a new thing.  God loves everybody. 

As we go out to share Jesus, we must remember that if we feel timid, that God has told us to be bold.  Our primary message is: Jesus came to save men and women and give them a better life now; and eternal life in heaven.  We may meet people that we are uncomfortable being around, but if God has sent you; know you are in the “right place.”

Remember on the day of Pentecost (Act 2))  Peter, BOLDLY standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. For these people are not drunk, as you suppose, since it is only the third hour of the day. But this is what was uttered through the prophet Joel:

"And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions.  Your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy.  And I will show wonders in the heavens above and it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." 

God always has a comfort zone, and when you move with God you will be in His will.