Tuesday, April 7th, 2020

John 12:27-30

“Now my soul is troubled. And what should I say—‘Father, save me from this hour’? No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour. Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” The crowd standing there heard it and said that it was thunder. Others said, “An angel has spoken to him.” Jesus answered, “This voice has come for your sake, not for mine.”

Dear friends, I am once again touched by the power of God speaking to me and the world when we most need it. Rev. Sam with the power of the Holy Spirit has opened up our hearts and minds to the struggles of this life. Rev. Sam did not know when she wrote today’s devotional just how it would feel so personal and piercing as COVID-19 ravages its way around the globe. People all over the world are experiencing vulnerabilities off the chart, with fear and grief at the top of the list. The scripture verses for today tells us that Jesus’ soul was troubled. But Jesus did not pray to be saved from the hour (his death), no Jesus prayed that his Father would be glorified. Jesus wanted to fulfill the Will of God, and God answered Jesus in verse 28 of John chapter 12,”…Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.”

Jesus is with us during these troubling times of COVID-19, feelings of the unknown, unable to be with family and friends is causing great stress. People are missing their friends and loved ones, worse yet of those individuals hospitalized they too are alone because of risk factors for them and visitors. Alone, is a misrepresentation because God is always with us. This virus is highly contagious and leaves much destruction in it wake. The guidelines to stay in is as much for your own safety and protection as it is for others. Please try to abide by the guidelines set up for you in your particular areas. Doing so will lessen the spread to you and others not to mention the possible loss of life. Please be mindful that some people are required to put themselves in harms way in order to provide needed care and services for those infected by the virus.

Words from Rev. Sam, “I find these vulnerable feelings from Jesus comforting. Jesus understands and stands with us as we face situations that cause us to deeply question whether we have the strength or courage to get through them. Jesus knows what it feels like to not want to walk through the valley of the shadow of death.” *Or in our current situation stay in and let the shadow of death/evil pass by.

My prayer for you,

“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.” ~Philippians 4:6-9

Practice: Read Psalm 23

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

http://www.jesuswalk.com/john/22_glorified.htm

https://www.abingdonpress.com/

Friends, I am sorry for the delay in posting this. My internet was not working at home. I had to wait until I got to work to post. I pray for your safety and health!

Monday, April 6th, 2020

The scripture passage for today tells us of Mary anointing the feet of Jesus with expensive perfume. This beautiful gesture was met with rebuke from Judas, a disciple of Jesus. He did not recognize the manner in which it was given. Yes, indeed it was worth a lot of money and Mary’s selfless act of giving her best gift to Jesus was profound. Mary was ready and willing to give all she had to Jesus. This elaborate gift of perfume most likely took everything Mary had to purchase it, she trusted in a Jesus and whatever the future holds.

Questions we should be asking ourselves:

• Am I a Mary?

• Am I a Judas?

Are we ready and willing to give our all to Jesus? Rev. Sam asks these questions in her writing for today:

• Is there a piece of your future that you need to hand over to Jesus.

• Are there riches you are holding on to trust you could use to invest in the Jesus’ Kingdom?

• Is there an act of extravagant love you could do for Jesus?

The Bible tells us in Matthew 16:25, “Those who lose their life for my sake will find it.”

Practice:

Take some oil and rub it on your wrist. If you are able, get down on your knees, as close to the ground as you can. Read John 12:1-8 aloud.

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.melpyke.com/blog/102725/the-triumphal-entry

https://www.abingdonpress.com/

Monday, April 6th, 2020

Today’s photo word is: DAWN

The dawning of a new day is simply spectacular, a gift from God to be sure. I am not a morning person at all! I can do them when necessary but I prefer a beautiful sunset, and moons are nice too! All we have to do is look around and we can see all the beautiful things God created for the world. The warmth of the sun is like a hug from God! I love the rain as well, feeling the rain drops fall softly on my skin, is like God’s love pouring out on me. Snow, though it can be bitter and cold, it is mesmerizing to watch, each flake a unique piece of perfect art, designed by…yes, God the creator of all things.

Friends, I’m wishing you a beautiful day no matter the weather or the geography, the beauty is in the eye of the beholder and a gift from God, our Lord and Savior!

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️☀️

References:

https://disciples.org/

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

Palm Sunday, April 5th, 2020

Hallelujah! Hosanna in the Highest!

Friends, we have an opportunity this year unlike any other to celebrate Jesus. On this day so many years ago, people of Jerusalem celebrated Jesus’ entry into the city! They cried out saying, “HOSANNA!” Which is defined as “Save us!”

The power of God is so very evident in our lives, we just need to open ourselves to it. For example, Rev. Sam prepared this reading most likely a year ago, she listened to the Holy Spirit and allowed it to guide her to help us today. We too are crying out “HOSANNA” save us! The world is crippled by the COVID-19 virus and we are unable to celebrate and live as open as we would like. The strangeness of our lives during these difficult days of COVID-19, need not keep us from celebrating who Jesus was, who Jesus is and who Jesus continues to be. He is our Savior, He paid the price to save us. As we begin Holy Week, let’s RELIVE the beautiful story of Jesus’ triumphant entrance into the city of Jerusalem. He entered on a donkey with people laying their cloaks on the ground before them. They also waved palms while shouting, “HOSANNA!”

We can RELIVE the past memories of Palm Sunday services we have attended. We also have the internet to view online service. I have very fond memories of past services I have participated in and those I watched from afar.

As we all continue to isolate and comply with social distancing I want to remind you that Jesus loves you, He is always near. Trust His love for yourself! Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem knowing what the coming week would bring. He did not run away, and He willingly walked the path that was before him. That’s how much he cares for all of us. So, shout to the Lord, “HOSANNA” knowing He hears every word we speak, He knows what is breaking our hearts and He hears all the unspoken needs on our heart, please trust him.

Thank you for accompanying me on this journey. Blessings to you as we enter a week filled with known tragedies and unknown ones. You are in my thoughts and prayers! 🙏🏻🤍

Practice:

How does the story of Jesus’ entry speak to your hopelessness right now?

From whom or what do you need saving?

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.melpyke.com/blog/102725/the-triumphal-entry

https://www.abingdonpress.com/

Palm Sunday, April 5th, 2020

Lent Photo-a-Day Challenge: CELEBRATE

Today, on this Palm Sunday I want to celebrate my parents. They provided me an opportunity to attend Sunday school and church at a very young age and I’m so thankful for all their sacrifices they made in order to give me and my brother a rich and full life. Those early years of going to church provided a strong foundation for my faith. My journey has taken me down many different paths and the one true thing that has sustained me is God. No matter how far I wondered chasing my own yearnings, my path took me home to my parents and God. I returned to the foundation of my faith, where the seeds were planted by faithful servants of Jesus. Many of those faithful servants are now in Heaven, I hope they know just how influential they were and just how much I cherish their teachings. As we approach Holy Week and Palm Sunday, let us celebrate Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. And, I’m adding to my prayer of thanksgiving all of those faithful servants that planted seeds so long ago.

How about you? Do you have significant individuals in your life that you are thankful for? ~Blessings to you, my friends around the globe. I am so blessed by your support and encouragement. ✝️

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below.

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️☀️

References:

https://disciples.org/

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

Saturday, April 4, 2020

Mark 10:32-34

Notation in my Bible prior to verse 32 states, “A Third Time Jesus Foretells His Death and Resurrection”

Jesus was preparing His followers, His disciples for His death in the scripture verses for today. As I mentioned, this passage was the third time Jesus spoke of His death. It was also recorded in Mark 8:31-33 and Mark 9:30-32

Rev. Sam speaks about her grandfather being diagnosed with cancer and how he faced his inevitable passing. He was not afraid and shared that sentiment with her. She found comfort in knowing this fact after his passing. Death is a truth many of us do not like to think about let alone plan for. I don’t know all the psychology behind it and if we believe in our convictions to our faith, there is absolutely nothing to be afraid of. Jesus is our HOPE, He was crucified and defeated death through His resurrection so we can have life everlasting. I was not prepared for the death of my mom, she had shared a few things with me in the event of her death. Honestly, I just never imagined life without her. I have tried to stay true to the subjects we discussed, immediate after her death I simply put my feet into her shoes and over time I had to admit…I could not fill her shoes in the same way she did. I was trying to be “mom” to the people who lost her as I did, it was impossible but I tried nonetheless. After some time I found what worked for me and I was finally able to allow myself to grieve. I believe she prepared me as much as she felt she needed to and I believe death surprised her too. I’m so thankful she did not suffer and it was a peaceful passing into the Lord’s arms. I still think of her daily and I so very much miss our Saturday phone calls. Through this experience I have learned that I need to plan for my death and make decisions so others will not have to when the time comes. *Learned, I have…executed the plan, I have yet to accomplish.

As we wrap up this week of Lent and our word of the week, RISE! I am challenging myself and others to RISE to the occasion of planning for death. Jesus prepared His followers and that message is ours as well. Death is not our finale, we are God’s beloved and our future and eternity is in Heaven with God and all believers.

Practice:

How can you help others prepare for your death?

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.abingdonpress.com/

Saturday, April 4, 2020

Awe, two of my favorite things; celebrating my birthday and going to Walt Disney World! It appears my eyes are looking intently on my birthday cake! Watch Out! The other picture isn’t really watches but they sort of look like watches. This photo was taken on the plane with my friends on our way to WDW! It was a great trip. Both of these activities require some waiting and watching, waiting 365 days until the next birthday celebration and Disney provides lots of watching people and activities. I hope the picture provided a smile for you today. God Bless you and Keep you~Amen!

Matthew 24:42

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come.”

Matthew 25:13

“Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.”

Habakkuk 2:1

“I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what he will say to me, and what answer I am to give to this complaint.”

Matthew 27:54

“Now when the centurion and those with him, who were keeping watch over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were terrified and said, “Truly this man was God’s Son!”

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below.

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️☀️

References:

https://disciples.org/

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

Friday, April 3rd, 2020

1 Samuel 16:11-13

“Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and bring him; for we will not sit down until he comes here.” He sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and had beautiful eyes, and was handsome. The Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; for this is the one.” Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the presence of his brothers; and the spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward. Samuel then set out and went to Ramah.”

In the scripture reading for today, we read of the prophet Samuel coming to anoint one of Jesse’s sons. All are present except one, David; he was a shepherd. Someone was sent immediately to bring David home. At David’s arrival, he was found ruddy (a healthy reddish color), beautiful eyes and handsome.

Remember, Samuel did not have a picture or even a description of the one he was to anoint. Jesse and Samuel both thought surely the biggest and strongest would be anointed king but after passing over 7 of Jesse’s sons, Samuel ask, is this all your sons and that’s when Jesse says his youngest is with the sheep. Upon David’s arrival home Samuel is told by God, “Rise and anoint him; for he is the one.”

The story of David is a great reminder that God sees the heart of man/woman. God is looking for a broken and contrite heart. A heart willing to be moved to forgiveness, compassion and action. Our strength comes from God, He supplies all that is needed to continue His work here on earth, all that’s required is a willing heart, whose faith is in God the creator of all things. During this season of Lent God is called each of us to open our hearts to the endless possibilities to expand the kingdom of God. Our call is to go before God, ask to be anointed with His Spirit and to walk in His light so that others will see and believe. ~Peace To You~ ✝️🙏🏻

Practice:

Make the sign of the cross on your forehead and say, “I am anointed with the Spirit of Jesus.” Share the same blessing with a friend.

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.abingdonpress.com/

Friday, April 3rd, 2020

Merriam-Webster Dictionary: DARKNESS

• devoid or partially devoid of light

• not receiving, reflecting, transmitting, or radiating light

• arising from or showing evil traits or desires

• absence of light

Everyday we have an opportunity to shine the light of Jesus in the corners of the world filled with darkness. The slightest ray of light will illuminate the dark, the darkness will never overcome the light. Showing kindness to someone will spark the light in their world.

Have you ever sat is a room completely in darkness? If you have, you know the tiniest bit of light 💡 can brighten the room. Today’s word reminds me of a song I sang as a child and now as an adult it’s meaning is so much deeper. “This Little Light of Mine”

In the craziness that is going on around the world with COVID-19, I pray you are healthy and your light continues to shine. The darkness that is happening with this horrible disease cannot over take the LIGHT, God is our Light, our Hope and our Salvation! 💜🙏🏻✝️

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed the below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️☀️

References:

https://disciples.org/

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

Thursday, April 2nd, 2020

In the Book of Psalm, David is writing about admitting his sins before God, chapter 119 verse 26-27, “When I told of my ways, you answered me; teach me your statutes. Make me understand the way of your precepts, and I will meditate on your wondrous works.”

“CONFESSION IS GOOD FOR THE SOUL”

When I used GOOGLE to search that phrase the first result was an APP I use often, biblestudytools.com. The inquiry provided the verse Psalm 119:26 and a biblical commentary explaining the verse.

Naming and claiming the things we are guilty of is good for the soul. It is a spiritual and emotional cleansing of oneself. When we confess our sins/wrong-doings to God, it’s not for His benefit but our own. God knows our hearts, minds and souls. We confess so we can acknowledge them, speak them aloud, take ownership of them. Through this process, our worries and burdens are alleviated/forgiven. Often believers describe it as “a load has been lifted off my shoulders.” Keeping things locked up inside ourselves only makes the situation worse. Pressure builds the longer we try to hide our shortcomings, keeping secrets but why…

In verse 27, David ask God to make him understand His precepts so he can meditate on His works. The closer our relationship with God, the more we will understand His will for our lives. Spending time in prayer and meditation is life foundational building. The closer our relationship is with God, the more opportunities exist for God to mold us into the individuals we were created to be.

Isaiah 64:8

“But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.”

Commentary Notes: Bible Study Tool

EXPOSITION

Verse 26. I have declared my ways. Open confession is good for the soul. Nothing brings more ease and more life to a man than a frank acknowledgment of the evil which has caused the sorrow and the lethargy. Such a declaration proves that the man knows his own condition, and is no longer blinded by pride. Our confessions are not meant to make God know our sins, but to make us know them. I have provided a link below if you are interested in further explanation.

Practice:

In this final week before the cross, consider what is still lying heavy on your heart.

• What do you need to let go of?

• What do you need to accept?

ειρήνη – “Peace” in Greek, reference listed below. 

~Peace~ειρήνη~Charlotte 🌻🙏🏻❣️

References:

https://biblehub.com/greek/1515.htm

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/treasury-of-david/psalms-119-26.html

https://www.abingdonpress.com/