FRIDAY, MARCH 25THA TIME OF BLESSING Our Friday time of blessing with Jesus holds more treasures for us. Today, Jesus shares another gift from the …

MENTORING MOMENTS – MERCY ME

THURSDAY, MARCH 24THA TIME OF SHARED STRUGGLES As we gather with Jesus to hear another of his frustrations – the ones we often share – we are …

MENTORING MOMENTS – TRUE TRUST

Thursday, March 24th, 2022

Then he [Jesus] put his hands on her, [the cropped woman] and immediately she straightened up and praised God. . . . But] the synagogue leader said to the people, “There are six days for work. So come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath.”
Luke 13:13-14 (NIV)

“For I desire mercy, not sacrifice.”
Hosea 6:6 (NIV)

Bible Reading: Luke 13:10-17

Jesus Heals a Crippled Woman on the Sabbath

“On a Sabbath Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues, and a woman was there who had been crippled by a spirit for eighteen years. She was bent over and could not straighten up at all. When Jesus saw her, he called her forward and said to her, “Woman, you are set free from your infirmity.” Then he put his hands on her, and immediately she straightened up and praised God. Indignant because Jesus had healed on the Sabbath, the synagogue leader said to the people, “There are six days for work. So come and be healed on those days, not on the Sabbath.” The Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Doesn’t each of you on the Sabbath untie your ox or donkey from the stall and lead it out to give it water? Then should not this woman, a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has kept bound for eighteen long years, be set free on the Sabbath day from what bound her?” When he said this, all his opponents were humiliated, but the people were delighted with all the wonderful things he was doing.”

The Sabbath

We first read about the day of rest (Sabbath) in Genesis 2:2-3, “By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work. Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.”

The Sabbath is mentioned next in Exodus 20:8-11,

Keeping the Sabbath is an affirmation that God is Creator and Sustainer of the world. Exodus 20:11; “For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.”

It is also an affirmation of Israel’s identity, Deuteronomy 5:12,15; “Keep the sabbath day to sanctify it, as the Lord thy God hath commanded thee. And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the Lord thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the Lord thy God commanded thee to keep the sabbath day.”

Just as joy is more than the absence of sorrow, the Sabbath is more than ceasing to do work. Staying in bed all day does not amount to a keeping of the Sabbath. The Sabbath is to be a delightful and joyous, day giving thanks to God for His gift of all creation.

A good article to read and further study can be found by clicking this link:

https://www.biblestudytools.com/dictionary/sabbath/?amp

Challenge Question

• How often do we get so caught up in what others think of us that we ignore the hurt of those around us?

💠 Next time you walk into a room, look around not to ascertain how you measure up, but to seek and find the person who needs a friend. Walk up to them and strike up a conversation, looking for ways to communicate Jesus’ love towards them.

📚Further Study 📚

Exodus 20:8-11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Exodus%2020:8-11&version=NIV

Matthew 9:12-13 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%209:12-13&version=NIV

Luke 14:1-6 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%2014:1-6&version=NIV

Friends ~

Our world is moving 24/7/365 and not all of us have the ability to do the Sabbath, on the Sabbath. Some celebrate the Sabbath on Saturday, while others on Sunday. My upbringing was that Sunday’s were celebrated as the Sabbath. As a child and as a teenager, attending Sunday school and church services was a weekly activity I thoroughly enjoyed. I had wonderful role models and mentors that impressed my heart and my curiosity for learning. I was fortunate to have parents who encouraged me and my brother to be our best. They sacrificed and sent us both to a Christian school to get our education. God provided a way for me to attend a Christian College and the support my parents gave me was priceless. Some of my fondest memories are of the four years in spent pursuing a degree but the best part was the people I met and the bonds of friendships that were forged.

One of my favorite verses in the Bible is in the story of Esther, she was brave not for herself but for her people and their very lives. Esther 4:14b, “And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Esther, placed herself in danger to save her people.

Keeping the Sabbath, strictly speaking for my life is more than a Saturday or a Sunday free from doing anything; the Sabbath for me is about honoring, praising and worshiping God because he created everything, including me. My hope is that others can see more of God and less of me. I wish you a beautiful day filled with unexpected joys. ~ Peace

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Bible Reading: John 9:1-34

“As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?” Some claimed that he was. Others said, “No, he only looks like him.” But he himself insisted, “I am the man.” “How then were your eyes opened?” they asked. He replied, “The man they call Jesus made some mud and put it on my eyes. He told me to go to Siloam and wash. So I went and washed, and then I could see.” “Where is this man?” they asked him. “I don’t know,” he said. They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man’s eyes was a Sabbath. Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.” Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner perform such signs?” So they were divided. Then they turned again to the blind man, “What have you to say about him? It was your eyes he opened.” The man replied, “He is a prophet.” They still did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they sent for the man’s parents. “Is this your son?” they asked. “Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?” “We know he is our son,” the parents answered, “and we know he was born blind. But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don’t know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself.” His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who already had decided that anyone who acknowledged that Jesus was the Messiah would be put out of the synagogue. That was why his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.” A second time they summoned the man who had been blind. “Give glory to God by telling the truth,” they said. “We know this man is a sinner.” He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” Then they asked him, “What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?” He answered, “I have told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples too?” Then they hurled insults at him and said, “You are this fellow’s disciple! We are disciples of Moses! We know that God spoke to Moses, but as for this fellow, we don’t even know where he comes from.” The man answered, “Now that is remarkable! You don’t know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will. Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” To this they replied, “You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!” And they threw him out.”

This story of healing a blind man is the only recorded one that specifically states that he had been born blind. Many believed that the cause of blindness at birth to a child meant that the child either carried the sin of the parents or oddly that somehow the sins of the child himself caused the blindness. Jesus quickly tells his disciples that the blindness was not about sin, it was to display the works of God. The Jewish leaders were not interested in the truth about the healing of the blind man. They were more interested in themselves and their perceived notion of God and the coming Messiah. These educated men and scholars in the community knew the scriptures but did not recognize Jesus as the Messiah, the Chosen one of God. No, Jesus did not fit the mold of who they wanted him to be. They were blind to the truth. This blind man from birth had been an outcast to his own community because of his blindness and now after receiving his sight had become an outcast because of his faith in Jesus, the man who healed him.

The Rest of the Story

Spiritual Blindness ~ John 9:35-41

“Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” “Who is he, sir?” the man asked. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.” Jesus said, “You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you.” Then the man said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him. Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.” Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, “What? Are we blind too?” Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.”

Jesus, once hearing of the man he had healed being thrown out of the synagogue, left those He was with and went and found him. Jesus compelled by love went out to find this one man…why? This is Jesus, “The Good Shepherd” leaving the large crowds (the ninety-nine) behind went to find the lost (one) and bring him home. We need a heart like Jesus, to seek and find the lost, leading them to salvation in Jesus.

Challenge Question

Jesus’ love compels Him to seek and save the list.

• Does that same love beat wildly in your heart as well?
  • I am a constant work in progress as I believe we all are. None of us are without sin. Each day is a new day to share the love of Jesus to a hurting world. Be the best version of yourself, be authentic, be kind and ask God for guidance in all you do. I believe with all my heart that Jesus is the Son of God and He created me with purpose to bring glory to God.

Do you know individuals who are far from Jesus? Pray and ask Jesus to compel you with His love to seek them that He may save them.

Further Study

Psalm 146:8 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%20146:8&version=NIV

Isaiah 35:4-6 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Isaiah%2035:4-6&version=NIV

Isaiah 42:6-7 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Isaiah%2042:6-7&version=NIV

Isaiah 61:1-3 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Isaiah%2061:1-3&version=NIV

Luke 4:14-21 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%204:14-21&version=NIV

Luke 7:18-24 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%207:18-24&version=NIV

John 9:35-10:21 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%209:35-10:21&version=NIV

Friends—

Thank you for supporting my blog and sharing the love of Jesus. ~ Peace

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://brookemccurdy.wordpress.com/2013/02/04/why-did-jesus-use-mud-to-heal-the-blind-man/amp/

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23RDA TIME OF INSTRUCTION When we come to Jesus our mentor for our time of instruction today, we find him quiet and reflective. Like…

MENTORING MOMENTS – KEEP IT SIMPLE

Tuesday, March 22, 2022

“Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” ~John 8:10

Bible Reading: John 8:1-11

An Adulteress Forgiven

“But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. At dawn he went to the temple again, and all the people were coming to him. He sat down and began to teach them. Then the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery, making her stand in the center. “Teacher,” they said to him, “this woman was caught in the act of committing adultery. In the law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?” They asked this to trap him, in order that they might have evidence to accuse him. Jesus stooped down and started writing on the ground with his finger. When they persisted in questioning him, he stood up and said to them, “The one without sin among you should be the first to throw a stone at her.” Then he stooped down again and continued writing on the ground. When they heard this, they left one by one, starting with the older men. Only he was left, with the woman in the center. When Jesus stood up, he said to her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, Lord,” she answered. “Neither do I condemn you,” said Jesus. “Go, and from now on do not sin anymore.” (CSB: Christian Standard Bible Version)

John 8:1-11 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%208:1-11&version=NIV

After reading this scripture passage, it is clear that this was about trying to “trick” Jesus regarding the laws of Moses. The woman could have been any woman, as she was merely the “pawn” for the Pharisees puppet trial in the street. The motivation was never about the issue of sin, clearly we all sin. It is evident that these Pharisees placed themselves above the law, they could easily point out the faults & failures of others but failed to recognize any wrongdoing in their own lives.

Jesus allowed the Pharisees to plead their case about the woman, Jesus even told them that according to the Mosaic Law stated the witness who reported the adultery, would be the first to cast the stones. Then Jesus added these words, “Let anyone of you who is without sin to be the first to throw a stone at her.” — No one dared to be first! In fact, the Pharisees began dropping their stones and walking away, with the older men leaving first. In the end, only Jesus and the woman remained. Jesus was the only one without sin, the only one worthy to cast a stone. Jesus does not throw a stone but asks a question, “Has no one condemned you?” The woman, after looking around replied, “No one, sir.” The woman who knew she was guilty of the charges stated by the Pharisees, her response to Jesus was one of respect; “No one, sir.” She respected Jesus. And, Jesus says to the woman, “Then neither do I condemn you, Go now and leave your life of sin.”

Jesus remains the only sinless human who has every right to give us what we deserve for our sinfulness, but Jesus loves us. Jesus offers forgiveness, hope and a future for all of us and none of us are deserving.

The Pharisees used this woman. preyed upon her vulnerabilities and exploited her for their own shady purposes.

Challenge Questions

The Bible doesn’t tell us what happened next, but let’s sit and reflect.

• Have you ever felt exploited by those in religious power?
  • Not an easy question to answer but definitely worth thinking about.
• Have you ever sat in condemnation of others, whether secretly judging them or openly gossiping about them?
  • Yes, not proud of such behavior.
• How do Jesus’ words to the Pharisees and to the woman speak to you today?
  • Jesus sees and acts with compassion, love and kindness. Qualities He wants us to practice with everyone we come into contact with.
  • “Treat others as you want to be treated”. Wise words!

Further Study

A Letter To The Exiles

Jeremiah 29:10-14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Jeremiah%2029:10-14&version=NIV

Judging Others

Matthew 7:1-5 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%207:1-5&version=NIV

Jesus Teaches Nicodemus

John 3:16-17 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%203:16-17&version=NIV

Life Through The Spirit

Romans 8:1-3 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Romans%208:1-3&version=NIV

Friends,

Thanks for visiting my blog today, I am blessed by your support and encouragement. 💚🌸🌱🌺🍃🌻☘️☀️

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

TUESDAY, MARCH 22NDA TIME FOR A STORY It is time for a story with our mentor, Jesus. As he begins, we may recall this parable, the story of the …

MENTORING MOMENTS – SOIL CONDITIONS

MONDAY, MARCH 21STA TIME OF COMFORT As we sit with Jesus today, we envision that we are sitting with other disciples, all of us eager to hear his …

MENTORING MOMENTS – NEVER ALONE

Monday, March 21, 2022

“People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” ~Mark 10:13-14 (NIV)

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/830140143792990349/

“If you love those who love you, what reward will you get?” ~Matthew 5:46 (NIV)

Bible Reading: Mark 10:13-16

“People were bringing little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.”

Below is one of my most favorite pictures, that I originally saw in social media with no reference to where it came from. I did some digging and found it on website. See below. https://www.culturalhall.com/friends

When I look at this picture, I see me sitting with Jesus. This picture has brought comfort to me on more than one occasion. I hope it comforts you as well.

Challenge Question

• Are you ever tempted to show more love or generosity toward those who can reciprocate?
  • Truth is temptations are everywhere, the point (I believe) is to truly give from the heart with love and generosity it can never be done with an expectation of getting something in return. I also believe when acts of kindness, love and generosity are freely given, the reward is knowing in your own heart you are being the hands and feet of Jesus in a hurting world.
  • I am fortunate to work in an environment where I can help people reclaim their lost items. It is a great feeling when I am able to reunite a person with their property. It is also disheartening we I cannot. I have been able to participate in some very meaningful conversations with individuals as they share their unique stories. Just last week I received a call from a frantic father calling on behalf of his son who had lost a meaningful item. My heart hurt for this man and his son. I did everything possible to assist them but in the end I could not, I felt helpless. But, you know what (?) to my surprise I heard back from the father and he wanted to thank me for my kindness shown to him and his son, even though I could not help them. To me, that was priceless. I was just doing my job. My heart capacity for love increased that day and my hope for the future of human kindness was renewed.

What If this week . . .

Search out one person who can’t repay you (a child in the neighborhood, a widow in your church or neighborhood, or a homeless person on the street) and love them lavishly, privately, without expectation of being seen or known by anyone but Jesus.

Friends—

I pray that your day is unexpectedly filled with random moments of HOPE, KINDNESS and LOVE. Thank you for sharing part of your day with me, I am blessed by your kindness. ❣️

Further Study

Matthew 18:2-4,10-14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2018:2-4,10-14&version=NIV

Matthew 25:31-46 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2025:31-46&version=NIV

Mark 10:13-15 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%2010:13-15&version=NIV

Luke 14:13-14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%2014:13-14&version=NIV

John 4:4-30 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%204:4-30&version=NIV

John 13:1 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2013:1&version=NIV

1 John 4:19-21 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20John%204:19-21&version=NIV

~Charlotte, Seeker of unexpected Comfort, Happiness, Joy and Patience.

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

I always look forward to spring. As a child, one of my fond memories was seeing our tulips blooming each year — a definite indication of spring’s …

Hello, Spring!