Authority and Power Given

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Matthew 28:18 NKJV And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. (Paraphrased) and now I commission you with that same authority and power to go forth and make disciples of all nations and be assured that Lo, I am with you always even unto the end of the age.

This post is gleaned from Pastor Carl’s sermon on Sunday as he shared on the Authority of Jesus. When Jesus did miracles and instructed the crowds, they were amazed because he ministered with authority and power.

Jesus taught with authority and power because he had spent time with his Father, and he was full of the Holy Spirit. He told it like it really was and that upset some of the people. They complained and criticized Jesus for they said “He speaks blasphemy.”

We don’t like it when people complain, gripe and find fault, especially if it is with other people (or with us.)

Matthew 9 “They brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. When Jesus saw their faith, He said to the paralytic, “Son, be of good cheer; your sins are forgiven you.” Immediately some of the Scribes said within them-selves, “This Man blasphemes! For who but God can forgive sins?” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven you,’ or to say, ‘Arise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has power on earth to forgive sins”—then He said to the paralytic, “Arise, take up your bed, and go to your house.” And he arose and departed to his house. Now when the multitudes saw it, they marveled and glorified God, who had given such power to men.

Pastor reminded us that when we partake of communion, that in our time of meditation, we have asked forgiveness of our sins, and as the Pastor says, this is the blood and body of Christ – we are to believe that our sins are forgiven and are gone.

Jesus was led as a lamb to the slaughter and he was silent and opened not his mouth. Pilot told him, “Don’t you know that I have authority and power to release you or condemn you to death?” Jesus answered and said, “You have no power except that which God has given.”

Jesus died but in three days He rose from the dead and showed himself to his disciples, and to many others for a 40 day period of time. His final commandment was “So send I you, and I give you power and authority to minister and share the Truth of the Gospel.

Not authority to crush and put down, but power to lift up, to encourage, to heal the broken hearted, to redeem men from their sins and to let them know that there is a better way to live.

This is an astounding and breathtaking claim, and it is the Great Commission assuring us that we can move in the Power and Authority as Jesus did.  We can minister boldly knowing that we are not alone, but that He is with us always.

Linked up today with Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday 
and Charlotte’s Spiritual Sundays

The Three Partitioned Plate

In the early 1930’s there was the popular Depression glass plates, bowls, and goblets of yellow, green and pink colors that were all the rage.  Perhaps they were inside of Oatmeal boxes or other products.

My husband mentioned to me that during this time, the movie houses, certain stores and gas stations gave away dishes of various types as an incentive to entice customers to come into their establishment.

Although my mother tried to treat all three of us children equally, as I think back in time, she did many special things for me that the other children did not receive.  Perhaps it was because I was the oldest.

When it was dinner time, I fussed because I did not want any of my food to touch the other items on my plate. My dad gruffly remarked, “What difference does it make; it all gets mixed in your stomach?” That remark did not satisfy me and I was particular if not peculiar.

Where Mother got it I am not certain, but somehow she was able to find a dinner plate that had three divisions. To my surprise she presented me with this marvelous dish.

Delighted was not the only word, I was ecstatic with joy to receive such a glorious plate.

Happily and with care, I piled my mashed potatoes, green beans and meat loaf into each area. It was my duty to gently wash my dish after each meal and it was then placed into a safe area away from our everyday dishes.

As time went by, I outgrew the need for my plate, and although I kept it - - eventually I passed on my precious plate to my daughter.

I am reminded that the Children of Israel were to “pass on” to their children the laws and traditions that had been given to Moses on the mountain. They were told to write them down so that their children could read and remember them.

God tells us to hide God’s word in our heart by memorizing it and by continually reading and studying the Bible. When God’s word is a part of us, it is easy then to share the Good News with others who are hungry for truth.

Fill your plate with the meat, bread and milk of the Word, and then liberally share with others.

This post is linked to:
Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays
And to Brag on God Friday with Laura

Aunt Hazel’s Mating Game Advice (Repost)



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 Are you serious about desiring a mate?  The first item on your list should be to pray and ask the Lord to send that special someone across your path.

Church is usually the perfect place to find a Christian mate, but don’t discount other places or ways for this to happen. After all, not every good prospect attends YOUR church! 

Small-groups in your church are a good place to find eligible men or women! Do join one! Of course, do not fail to participate in the discussions at a Bible study. Men like a woman who speaks out, but watch out! The ladies who want to argue or talk non-stop will cause a man to lose interest quickly!

Men also do not like grouchy, complaining women, so put on a joyful face and watch your words. Public grumbling is so unbecoming!

Women want a man who will open up and talk to them, and at least tell them they look nice, and they are pretty or beautiful. If he can cook, that helps too.  :-)

What about qualities? I had a friend who made a list of the traits she wanted in a husband. Each night she would pray as she went over her list, and she would tell the Lord that she believed He was bringing this type of person into her life. As I recall, most of the qualities were there when she did find a good husband.

I do not believe she settled for less. The simple fact is that no one is completely perfect and her expectations were very high. Of course, now she knows that there are always compromises in a marriage - especially if one desires peace in the household. Treating each other with kindness and respect is vital to any relationship. Not always wanting the “last word,” can save a marriage!

Not necessarily suggested, but one of my daughters found her wonderful husband through a Christian dating service, so pray and investigate. There is an internet site that reviews Christian dating services: http://www.christiandatingservice.com/  interestingly enough, they do NOT recommend some of the more popular companies such as e-Harmony.

Some friends of mine have found they are happy to remain single; and there are many reasons for this, too.

The Bible tells us above all, to learn to be content!  Do not be afraid to enjoy life, in whatever station in which you find yourself.

Proverbs 18:22 Who ever finds a wife (or husband) finds a good thing, and obtains favor of the LORD.

This post has been linked to One Word Carnival. The Word this week is Romance

Also Linking with Tracy at Winsome Wednesday

And with Women in the Word Wednesday

Shoes that sparkle

Beautiful Feet Bringing Good News !!

You have seen them, those tennis shoes that light up with each step as you walk.

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When my granddaughter was a tiny little thing my daughter purchased for her some red glittering Mary Jane Sunday shoes. (I believe they were a take on Judy Garland’s red shoes in the Wizard of Oz.)

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Later she was also given a pair of those sparkling tennis shoes that light up with each step you take. Oh what fun she had wearing those shoes, and if she wandered off it was easy to find her in a crowd. 

While I was growing up we didn’t have shoes like these, even my own children were deprived of luminous shoes. No one had thought to invent them at that time.

The Bible speaks of shoes and feet in many places.

Psalms 40:2 He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.

If you are sharing the Good news of Jesus with others, the Bible says you have beautiful feet.

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Ephesians 6:15 tells us, “Have your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;”

Good sturdy Gospel of Peace shoes will keep us standing on our feet when problems come our way!

Psalms 18:36 Thou hast enlarged my steps under me, that my feet did not slip.

We are also urged to shine! Isaiah 60:1 "Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.”

Shining is NOT something you turn off and on. When you have been in the presence of the Lord, for a length of time, you will shine with a light that He places within you.

I am reminded of Moses when he was with God for 40 days on the mountain. His face shone so brightly that the people could not look at him. He found it necessary to wear a veil over his face until the shine wore off.

Can’t you just imagine us all putting on our gleaming shoes of the Gospel of Peace and our faces shining and glistening for the Lord as He watches over us?

No, we will not get lost in the crowd, because God is watching over his sparkling children.

Each step I take, God is watching as he orders the steps of my walk.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZpdeo6iMXk


This post has been linked with Joan Davis  Sharing His Beauty
And with Shanda’s On your Heart Tuesday  

Ho, Every One That Thirsts Come

Ho, Every One That Thirsts Come

Taking notes from Pastor Carl’s Sunday message I share with you some gleanings.

You have heard it said that there is No FREE Lunch. Yet the Prophet Isaiah said in Isaiah 55:1  Ho, every one that thirsts, come you to the waters, and he that has no money; come you, buy, and eat; yes, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.

The Bible has a lot to say about Water. Genesis chapter 1 stated that the world was without form and was void, there was water everywhere. God spoke and divided the water and the land.

The book of Revelation says there was water everywhere. 70% of the earth’s surface is water, and our bodies are mostly water. Cool clear water.

Rime of the Ancient Mariner states, “Water, water everywhere but nor a drop to drink.”
Some have affirmed that water is a cure all.

David was hiding from King Saul and told his men, Oh that I might have a drink from the cool clear water from the well in Bethlehem. The word Bethlehem means bread.

Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty."

"The heavens declare the glory of God," but in these last days God speaks to us through His Son Jesus.

Jesus gave many teachings, and with most he began with these word, “Truly, Truly I say unto you." Or "Verily, verily I say unto you."  Jesus is the way the TRUTH and the Life.

Jesus is watching over us, praying for us and has promised to never leave or forsake us. He is here with us today as you read this. His invitation is “Come eat and drink."

Jesus is our living memorial. He says, “This is my body that was broken for you, and my blood that was shed for your salvation.” Do this in remembrance of me until I return.

The Communion or Lords supper is a feast of victory over death. Through Jesus we are transformed, He offers to us His eternal life. We are his church, his family his children. His mission is salvation to all who will come. Search the scriptures, meditate on his Word, and seek Christ the savior.

The Bride and the Lamb say come. Come and bring your appetite with you.

This post is Linked up with Michelle’s Hear it on Sunday
And also linked to Deidra’s Sunday Jump Tandem

No Greater Love

No Greater Love

There's no greater love than the love of Jesus.

There's no love that's wiser,

that's stronger, that lasts longer,

that's more willing or thrilling.

There's no love more beautiful, more bountiful,

more bold, more basic and unbiased.

There's no love more caring, more sharing,

more daring to risk all in danger for sinner and stranger.

There's no love more gracious, more giving, more living,

more sacred, more selfless, more soul-satisfying,

more pure and undying.

There's no love more verifiable, more valuable,

more validating, more victorious, more glorious.

This lovely poem has been Shared from Day Spring

Permission given to Share the No Greater Love Than Jesus message for witness and encouragement.

Also Free E-Cards from Day Spring are available at:
 http://ecards.dayspring.com/ecards/

Kindle Cover - Guest Post by Terry Moon

Guest post by Terry Moon my favorite sister-in-law

Terry reports:

When we heard that Amazon sold 6 million Kindles for the holidays, my husband suggested I make covers. He bought me one for Christmas so I was able to make a template.

If you purchased one of these readers, you might also like to consider a protection cover and I welcome your visit to my Etsy site. 

Here’s the link:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/moonlight55

Sample Kindle Cover

View my Kindle Cover eReader Sleeve on Etsy. I show a sample here.

Here's what I've been working on for my Etsy shop.

I have designed padded covers that will fit the Kindle Fire, Original Kindle and Kindle Touch. Protect your eRead from scratches. I have many more listed in my shop in a variety of fabric choices. 

Please stop by.

The Kindle Cover is padded and will protect your eReader from scratches. Slide your Amazon Kindle into this beautiful 100% cotton cover to store or to transport.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/92222452/kindle-cover-ereader-sleeve

I welcome your visit and please share with a friend!!  Terry

Submissive – Who me?

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Usually I am very submissive to my husband. If we are shopping and in the middle of our excursion, and he says, let’s go home, I know he is experiencing some weakness so without hesitation we head for home.

I have learned not to question, when he makes a decision, and I go along with it, even when I prefer to do something else. Talking back has never got me anywhere, and it is not worth the hassle of having an upset husband - - - But there were a few occasions when I needed to speak up and I refused to be submissive, this story is about one of those times..

My sweet husband and I had gotten up very early that morning to travel the 75 miles to the HMO where he was to have a procedure down his throat to see if there was something out of sorts. The nurse sprayed a liquid down his throat that Robert said tasted awful. They also hooked him up to an IV and told him that they were giving him a mild sedative that would not put him out, but would take the edge off the examination.

The process went well, and they determined a small pocket was at times catching food but he could live with it and there was no cancer or other problems.

After a time of rest, the nurse said he could get dressed, and she gave him some instructions.

She said that due to the fact that in his system there remained enough medication that could be recognized as DUI. She told him, “You are NOT to drive for 24 hours - - do you promise me that you will not drive?”  He was not listening well !!

I was there and heard the entire set of directions that she gave him.  

Robert put his clothes back on, and the hospital required that you must be escorted to your car in a wheel chair, so that is what we did, then we were ready to leave.

On the way home, we stopped at Jack in the box for a quick lunch. Across the way there was a Starbucks, so I told my husband that I would walk over and get us a Frappe-chino to share. Then he asked for his keys so he could sit in the car and wait for me.

I stepped over to Starbucks, gave the cashier my order and waited. for our drinks.

Now you must understand that I often hear from the Lord. Not out loud mind you, but in my spirit.

God began to tell me that when I returned to the car, that my husband would tell me he was going to drive home. (Usually I would submit and say Okay) Then God said, “If you allow him to drive, he will place his life and yours in jeopardy, so do not permit him to drive.”

I left the store and I could see my husband standing by the driver’s door. Sure enough he said, “I am fine and I will drive us home.” Immediately, I spoke up, “I am sorry, but I cannot allow you to drive, do you remember that the nurse told you not to drive for 24 hours?” His reply was, “I don’t remember her saying that,” but he calmly walked to the passenger side and got in.

As we continued our drive, Robert settled down, and slept most of the way home.

There is a time to submit to your husband but it is always better to submit to the voice of God.

Ephesians 5:21 (NIV) Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

This post is linked to Faith Barista Jam Thursdays
Also linked to Laura’s, Brag on God Friday

Communion and Pass Over

Communion

The E-mail came requesting suggestions on how to pray for God to bless the house that a family was moving to. She asked me if I remembered mentioning the Lamb of God in the prayer.

Thinking back years ago, I can remember giving a short talk about Blessing your house when you move to a new place. My friend was referring to the basic core of this message.

I asked her if she remembered in the book of Exodus when the Children of Israel left Egypt they were instructed to kill a lamb and save the blood into a basin? They were to sprinkle the blood on the top and sides of the door posts of each home so that they would be protected from the Death Angel. They were then to eat the lamb and unleavened bread.  All who remained in the house were protected and blessed.

This Passover celebration was carried over into the New Testament and at the Last Supper, Jesus instructed His disciples to do this in remembrance of Him until He returns.

Symbolically when we take communion, we eat the bread and drink the wine or juice in remembrance of Jesus’ broken body and His blood that was shed for us.

I suggested that she remember one thing when you pray a over a house and that is to keep it a simple dedication that the persons who live there will be blessed and protected.

My friend wanted to pray that all who entered this house would be saved, but I suggested that you cannot ask God to cause people to do anything against their will. For instance if you ask that all persons who enter the house will get saved - - then you are asking God to force them to get saved.  However you can pray that the Holy Spirit will touch the hearts of all who enter the house and cause them to realize that God is in this place.

My friend wanted to use olive oil and place it on the doors. While that is not typically wrong, we should want to avoid getting weird or mystical. The oil is probably not needed for a house blessing. Oil is for anointing and for those who are sick.

Instead I suggested that she carry her Bible and use it to touch the door post and the top of the door. This could be a symbol of the blood using the Passover as an example. Jesus was the Lamb of God who takes away our sins.

Pleading the Blood of Jesus can be done symbolically as you use your Bible to touch each door. If using your Bible in this manner seems strange to you, then just read from the scriptures and pray a prayer of blessing and protection over the house and its occupants.

My friend has a friend who wanted her to come bless a house they planned to look at and purchase. I suggested that this might not be a good idea because if it is NOT God’s will for them to have this particular house you do not want to ask God to give it to them anyway.

We must not treat the Blood of Jesus lightly and we also must remember that there is power in His Blood, power in God’s Word and power in prayer. Perhaps we need to unloose our boldness and to step out and make more declarations as we pray.

This post is linked with Ann Kroeker’s, Food on Fridays .  Today I write on communion
Also linked to Michelle’s Thought Provoking Thursday

Tropical Fish habits




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When our Children were just starting grade school, we decided to purchase a tropical fish aquarium. It came with a pump and filter and some decorations so the environment for the fish would look natural.

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Wanting a nice variety of fish we selected some Angel Fish, Zebra fish, some Black Molly fish and a Plecostomus.  Ugly as he was, he would help clean the sides of our tank. Our children would stare at these fish for hours it seemed, and just watching them was relaxing even for me.

As I watched these fish I noticed something interesting. Each variety of fish would swim together. Although they were friendly to one another, the Black Molly fish and the Angel fish, and the Zebra fish each kept to their own type. There was no interbreeding or mixing of the fish. They each seemed to be proud of their own kind.

In the Bible, God forbid his children of Israel to give their sons and daughters unto other nations. They were to keep their race pure.  That was plan A.

Now don’t get me wrong, because God loves all races, and that was evident when He included Ruth the Moabite woman to be in the linage of Jesus along with some others of questionable reputation.  In fact God became very angry at Miriam when she criticized Moses, her brother’s Ethiopian (black) wife.

God always has plan A which is his perfect will.  Then there is plan B which is his acceptable will, and plan C which is his good will.  God will even go with you all the way to Z if you are that rebellious.

I said all that to say this: Our youth leaders at our church, invited a young girl from a neighboring Black church to work with our youth.  She was Caucasian, fun loving, very outgoing and the youth all liked her. 

One day she confessed to our daughter that she was pregnant by one of the black brothers in her church and they were going to get married.  My daughter came to me very upset, because this girl was an example to our children and they all looked up to her.

By the next Sunday the girl had resigned and returned to her Black church.

If you are wondering, yes I phoned our Pastor and told him the situation and he took charge after that.

Did my children need protecting? Probably not, because often our children know more about life than we did at their age.

However it is up to parents to attend the PTA meetings and to know what is going on at school, and also to be aware of what is being taught to your children at church.

I am not pregidous, but I am opinionated, and it is my strong opinion that a marriage will be off to a rocky start if it is a “mixed marriage.”

When I say mixed, in addition to race, I mean by a Christian and an unbeliever, by culture, church denomination, political affiliation and background in general.  Marriage is difficult enough without a road block in it's beginning.

I know you are ready to point out some of your friends who are very happy and never quarrel over doctrine, or are never shunned by friends because of their choice in a mate.  Be happy for them and also pray for them, because they probably need your prayers.

Thinking back to my fish aquarium, I am reminded that my fish were friendly with everyone in their environment. They played nice and got along well with others.

It would be good if we all could do the same.

Linking with Jennifer at God Bumps and Incidences Wednesdays