This parable talks to me about divisions in the church and in the country. It also talks about hypocrisy and the “unpardonable sin.” While Jesus was removing a demon from someone, the church leaders were quick to judge and criticize (as always) and did not discern the truth. By accrediting the work of the Holy Spirit to the devil, they committed the sin that Jesus said cannot be forgiven. Again, it just wasn’t the act, it was their evil hearts. In Jesus’ answer to the church leaders’ charge, He shows that a divided house cannot stand. I believe that is true in our church, in our families, and in our country. And if we are not careful, we are heading there fast.
Continue reading “Divisions and Hypocrisies”Category: Relationships
What Kind of Steward Are You?
Jesus mentions stewardship a few times during His ministry, as do the apostles in their letters to the churches. In this parable, he talks about an unjust steward who is applauded by his rich employer for his shrewdness. This is a hard one to understand the lesson behind the story. What do you think?
Continue reading “What Kind of Steward Are You?”Racisim
There is so much bitterness going on in the world today. We have a history of racism in this country as well as many others. It has been going on throughout the world probably since there were races. Our country is struggling with this. It has gotten tremendously better since several decades ago, but we still have work to do. And racism is not the only problem. Right now we see hatred on both sides toward and from most races. We see people judging entire people groups because of what a few have done. We see disrespect toward those who serve and try to make this country a better place. We see people looking down on others because of their situation and others taking advantage of it and the system. We see bitterness toward those who believe differently, whether it would be politically, religiously or what their opinions are about certain issues. What are we to do? What did Jesus have to say about this and what was His example? It’s pretty simple, really. Be kind, love others and treat each other right. One parable comes to mind that tells us how we are to treat others. Continue reading “Racisim”
Christ at Christmas
One thing I have been thinking about lately is how we celebrate Christmas. Many say that Jesus wasn’t born in December, and by what I have read, it was probably in the fall, but that is another subject. But, are we celebrating the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ or is it a time of indulging in our own desires? Not that having desires is bad, but where is our heart? Where is our priorities and how do we treat those who are in need? Jesus says, “where your heart is there your treasure will be with you also” and “seek first the kingdom of heaven.” The world has made Christmas to be about getting presents and eating as much as possible for a couple days, which is fun, but I think we often forget the real reason. Often throughout the season we reflect on this, but when it really comes down to it, how often do we thank God for sending His Son on Christmas? How often do we meditate on His word during Christmas? I know I am guilty of this and not putting my focus on Him enough. It may be some in the morning, but what about the rest of the day? What about while we are opening presents with family? Continue reading “Christ at Christmas”
Forgive You, Forgive Me
I was thinking about talking about forgiveness and as I was the line from the movie, Jerry Maguire, “Help Me Help you!” kept coming into my head. That is sort of where this title came from. In order to forgive others, I think one must learn how to forgive one’s self. And, when being forgiven, one must learn to forgive. “Help me Help you.” God has shown us mercy through His Son, who loved us so much that He gave His life in order that we may be forgiven. Nothing we do can earn forgiveness, it is God’s act of love. We don’t deserve His forgiveness, but He forgives us anyways. We just need to accept it. In the same way, those who have hurt us do not deserve forgiveness but if we remember what Jesus did on the cross, we can forgive them too. Continue reading “Forgive You, Forgive Me”
My Daily Scriptures 