Lent 2022 • Week Five Review

Saturday, April 2nd, 2022

Photo Credit: Me
February 15th, 2022
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

“When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
— Colossians 2:13,15 (NIV)

Why Did Jesus Have To Die?

Jesus died to disarm the powers of sun, death, and the devil.

Bible Readings • Week Five • 🤔

So, did you have a favorite Bible reading from week five? They are all important as they teach us about Jesus, His ministry and His love. I loved reading all of them but the story of Jesus and Zacchaeus is special because of the memories it stirred in me. It took me back to when I was a child and learning the song about Zacchaeus. Drawing and coloring pictures of Zacchaeus in a sycamore tree. I remember learning about him in Sunday school class and vacation Bible school. Remembering precious memories of my Sunday school teacher (Birdie) came to life in my mind, such fond and beautiful memories.

The Rich Young Man

“And as he was setting out on his journey, a man ran up and knelt before him and asked him, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” And Jesus said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘Do not murder, Do not commit adultery, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Do not defraud, Honor your father and mother.’” And he said to him, “Teacher, all these I have kept from my youth.” And Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.” Disheartened by the saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” ~Mark 10:17-22 (ESV)

Jesus Heals Two Blind Men

“And as they went out of Jericho, a great crowd followed him. And behold, there were two blind men sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was passing by, they cried out, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” The crowd rebuked them, telling them to be silent, but they cried out all the more, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David!” And stopping, Jesus called them and said, “What do you want me to do for you?” They said to him, “Lord, let our eyes be opened.” And Jesus in pity touched their eyes, and immediately they recovered their sight and followed him.” ~Matthew 20:29-34 (ESV)

Jesus and Zacchaeus

“He entered Jericho and was passing through. And behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus. He was a chief tax collector and was rich. And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature. So he ran on ahead and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see him, for he was about to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, hurry and come down, for I must stay at your house today.” So he hurried and came down and received him joyfully. And when they saw it, they all grumbled, “He has gone in to be the guest of a man who is a sinner.” And Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, since he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” ~Luke 19:1-10 (ESV)

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet

“Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. During supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going back to God, rose from supper. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.” Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean. And you are clean, but not every one of you.” For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “Not all of you are clean.” When he had washed their feet and put on his outer garments and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you understand what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am.” ~John 13:1-13 (ESV)

I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves. “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.”

Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me. “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe. I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me, but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here.” ~John 14:1-31 (ESV)

Friends, thank you for stopping by today, you are a blessing to me. 🙏🏻 💜 🌻

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

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Mark 10:17-22 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%2010:17-22&version=ESV
Matthew 20:29-34 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2020:29-34&version=ESV
Luke 19:1-10 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%2019:1-10&version=ESV
John 13:1-13 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2013:1-13&version=ESV
John 14:1-31 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:1-31&version=ESV

Lent 2022 • Week Five Jesus Is Patient

Friday, April 1st, 2022

Photo Credit: Me
February 15th, 2022
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?
— John 14:9 – ESV

“Love is patient.”
1 Corinthians 13:4

Bible Reading • John 14

I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life

“Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves. “Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask me anything in my name, I will do it.

Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” Jesus answered him, “If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words. And the word that you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me. “These things I have spoken to you while I am still with you. But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, ‘I am going away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe. I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me, but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here.”

In the Bible reading today, we know that Jesus is speaking with His disciples and three of them are mentioned by name; Thomas, Philip and Judas, (not Iscariot), asking questions of Jesus.

  • Thomas said to Jesus: “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?”
  • Philip said to Jesus,: “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.”
  • Judas (not Iscariot) said to Jesus: “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?”

After spending three years with Jesus and witnessing all He had done and all He had spoken, the disciples had not fully grasp who Jesus is. But, Jesus was not upset or angry with them, He was patient with them. Jesus could have spoken to them sternly instead, Jesus tells them, that they had seen God the entire time they were with Him.

“No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.” ~John 1:18 (ESV)

Jesus is love, love is patient; therefore, Jesus is patient not only with the disciples at that time but He is ever-so patient with all of us.

Challenge 🤔 Questions

◾️ Who do you struggle to show patience towards?

  • I am impatient, I struggle to express/display patience. I have been working on this intentionally for at least the past two years. It is my job that I struggle the most with my impatience. I am doing much better, I can now recognize things that trigger my emotional responses. My intentions are never truly meant to be personal but they can and have been received as personal, as I have been told. My experience has taught me that I am much more likely to become impatient with things/people that I care deeply about. I am competitive and passionate about my job; I have been told that I sometimes take it too seriously. Truth is it wasn’t too serious, I just take it too personal from time to time. Don’t misunderstand, what I do is important but at the end of the day it is a job and not who I am. I am a person who performs an important job, not necessarily an important person. Pride wiggling it’s way into my heart and my actions, where it simply does not belong. Just as we should be patient with others, the same applies to ourselves. The love we extend to others comes from within and should always be extended to SELF. In a world where we can be anything, BE KIND.

Ask Jesus to work His patience in you and through you as you love those you struggle with. The next time you are tempted to respond sternly:

  • Consider giving yourself a time-out.
  • Step away from the situation for a few minutes to take a few breaths.
  • Ask God to show you how you can reveal His character.

Then, go back and love that person as Jesus loved His disciples.

— B • R • E • A • T • H • E —

📚📚 Further Study 📚📚

Jesus Calms a Storm

Mark 4:35-41 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%204:35-41&version=ESV

A Samaritan Village Rejects Jesus

Luke 9:51-55 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%209:51-55&version=ESV
John 1:16-18 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%201:16-18&version=ESV
1 Corinthians 13:4 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Corinthians%2013:4&version=ESV
Galatians 5:22-24 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Galatians%205:22-24&version=ESV

Friends, it is a delight to be able to share this Lenten season with you. I am blessed by your support and kindness. Happy April everyone!

🌧 ☔️ 🌦 🌺 🌻 🌸 🌼 🌷 💐 ☀️

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

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Corinthians%2013:4&version=ESV

John 1:18 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%201:18&version=ESV
John 14:9 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:9&version=ESV
John 14:1-31 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2014:1-31&version=ESV

Lent 2022 • Week Five Jesus Is Not Proud

Thursday, March 31st, 2022

Photo Credit: Me
February 15th, 2022
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

“The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” ~Matthew 20:28 (NIV)

“Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.” ~John 13:14 (NIV)

Bible Reading • John 13:1-17

Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet

“It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him. He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?” Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” “No,” said Peter, “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” “Then, Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!” Jesus answered, “Those who have had a bath need only to wash their feet; their whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.” For he knew who was going to betray him, and that was why he said not every one was clean. When he had finished washing their feet, he put on his clothes and returned to his place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them. “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.“

— The Job No One Wants —

I can say with certainty that washing someone else’s feet would not even make my top ten disliked jobs. But Jesus did exactly that, He washed the feet of all the disciples. Can you image the condition of the feet Jesus washed, mostly very dirty, dusty, unkept toe nails, and calloused. To be clear, washing feet whether it was over two thousand years ago or today, is a less than desirable job. In fact, the job of washing feet in the first century was considered so demeaning that it was reserved for the lowest of servants in a household.

Setting the scene, Jesus and the disciples were in the middle of their meal when Jesus gets up, removes His outer garment and gets a towel. Each disciple is looking at Jesus and then at each other and Peter speaks out, “No!” “you shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” John 13:8.

The message Jesus was teaching His disciples and us today is that no person is too high for the lowest of the task, for He Himself took on the nature of a servant though He is the very nature God. Jesus served not only His best friends, but the one who would betray Him, the one who would deny Him, and the ones who would desert Him. Jesus washing their feet may have seemed shocking and ridiculous, yet this was a beautiful expression of Jesus’ love for His friends and His disciples. This expression of love was a foretelling of just how low Jesus was willing to bow in order to love His own until the very end. Jesus died on the cross for all of creation.

Romans 5:8 “But God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
1 Peter 2:24 “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.”
Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Challenge • Question to Ponder • 🤔

After Jesus sits back down to continue His meal, He asks His disciples if they understand what He has done.

  • Do you understand? _____________
  • Do I understand?
    • My understanding is that we are all God’s children, we are all uniquely created, none are more or less important. What is easy to forget is that we live in a conditional world and it functions much differently than what God wanted for us. It has always seemed easy to blame our human condition on Adam and Eve; then Noah and his descendants but we are all guilty of sin and disobedience. If any thinks that they would have done things differently, they are only lying to themselves. God gave humankind choices and now we must live accordingly. Jesus is our HOPE. Jesus is our SALVATION. Jesus loved us so much, He left His throne in Heaven to be born human, lived the human condition and died in our place on the cross. I believe the washing of feet is so much more than a dirty job. It is humbling ourselves to do and be what Jesus taught us…to LOVE.
      • To love one another.
      • To care for one another.
      • To feed one another.
      • To clothe one another.
      • To comfort one another.
    • To be the literal hands and feet of Jesus
  • How is Jesus calling you to wash another’s feet today? __________________
  • How is Jesus calling me to wash another’s feet today?
    • I strive to be open to the Holy Spirit guiding me, I manage to screw that up from time to time, intentionality is key. I have a mentor, dear friend that taught me that valuable lesson to which I’m grateful for. Being a Christian is not about being perfect, but we are being perfected by God as we learn and grow, sharing the message of God’s love. Not all of us are called to travel long distances for mission work, sometimes our mission field is our next door neighbors, our coworkers, a passenger on a plane or a stranger who lost and item in an airport.

“but whoever keeps his word, in him truly the love of God is perfected. By this we may know that we are in him.”~1 John 2:5 ESV

No matter how or where we are called to serve, do so with a humble and loving heart as Jesus did, setting an example for all of us to follow.

📚📚 Further Study 📚📚

Mark 10:45 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%2010:45&version=NIV
John 13:1-17 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2013:1-17&version=NIV
Philippians 2:6-7 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Philippians%202:6-7&version=NIV

Hi friends, thank you for visiting my blog today, I pray that God’s words are the ones you remember. It is a joy to share using this platform and I am blessed beyond words for your support and encouragement. ~ Peace

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

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Matthew 20:28 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2020:28&version=NIV
John 13:14 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2013:14&version=NIV
John 13:1-17 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2013:1-17&version=NIV
John 13:8 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2013:8&version=NIV
1 John 2:5 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20John%202:5&version=ESV

https://www.openbible.info/topics/jesus_died_on_the_cross_for_our_sins

https://youtu.be/QqtfmmwEbIw

Lent 2022 • Week Five Jesus Believes All Things

Wednesday, March 30th, 2022

Photo Credit: Me
February 15th, 2022
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Bible Reading • Luke 19:1-10

Zacchaeus the Tax Collector

“Jesus entered Jericho and was passing through. A man was there by the name of Zacchaeus; he was a chief tax collector and was wealthy. He wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see him, since Jesus was coming that way. When Jesus reached the spot, he looked up and said to him, “Zacchaeus, come down immediately. I must stay at your house today.” So he came down at once and welcomed him gladly. All the people saw this and began to mutter, “He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.” But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, “Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.” Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Photo Credit: Me
October 8th, 2015
Indianapolis, IN
Photo Credit: Me
February 18th, 2022
Disney’s EPCOT

Do you believe?

More specifically, do you believe in Jesus?

Jesus believes in YOU!

Jesus believes in all things, what exactly does that mean?

Jesus is the most optimistic human ever known, He believes in goodness and that every person is worthy, worthy and deserving of love. This is evident by Jesus becoming human, living the human existence and experiencing all the things you and I do. Jesus sees the hearts of people, not their circumstances or economical situations. In fact, Jesus sought out those individuals that most tried to avoid. Bible story after Bible stories, we see Jesus with the marginal in society; prostitutes, tax collectors, the sick and diseased, the poor and the homeless. Jesus also talked with the religious leaders of the day, though they were not overly impressed with Jesus’ lack of adherence to their coveted rules that routinely excluded people solely based on who they were and where they came from. With Jesus, all are welcome.

The story is Zacchaeus was a favorite of mine when I was a kid in Sunday school. We even sang a song about “Zacchaeus was a Wee Little Man.”

Zacchaeus longed to see the man called Jesus, and Jesus knew this and sought him out. Jesus made Zacchaeus’ wish come true, not only would Zacchaeus see Jesus but Jesus invited himself to his home. This meeting would change Zacchaeus’ life forever. Upon meeting Jesus, the true nature of his heart was revealed. Jesus knows the hearts of all people and takes time with those with receptive hearts to God’s Word.

I’m so very happy that Jesus saved me, I was blind but now I see. I was lost and now I’m found. Jesus is always teaching me lessons in life. Everyone deserves grace and mercy, even when their actions may be questionable. Trust in God and leave the judgments to Him. We are not able to see into the hearts of others, truly God can.

Trust me friends, I share these thoughts not because I consistently adhere to them, no I struggle and stumble, but I am able to start anew each and every day because of the grace afforded me by Jesus my Savior, and through His great mercy I am made new. The Apostle Paul writes this, “…being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6

Always let your conscience
(Holy Spirit) be your guide

📚 • 📚 Further Study 📚 • 📚

The Calling of Matthew

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

Jesus Teaches Nicodemus

John 3:1-21 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%203:1-21&version=NIV

The Burial of Jesus

John 19:38-42 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2019:38-42&version=NIV

Made Alive in Christ

Ephesians 2:8-10 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Ephesians%202:8-10&version=NIV

Thanksgiving and Prayer

Philippians 1:3-6 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Philippians%201:3-6&version=NIV

A Call to Persevere in Faith

Hebrews 10:19-25 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Hebrews%2010:19-25&version=NIV

Friends — Thank you for visiting my blog today. As you can tell I love Jesus and I love Disney. Godly wisdom is all around us, we only need to be open to hearing it and always looking for opportunities to share the Good News of Jesus. ~ Peace

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

References:

Luke 19:1-10 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%2019:1-10&version=NIV

Lent 2022 • Week Five Jesus Is Not Easily Angered

Tuesday, March 29th, 2022

Photo Credit: Me
February 15th, 2022
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

“The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.” ~Matthew 20:31,34 (NIV)

Photo Credit: Me
February 17th, 2022
Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Bible Reading • Matthew 20:29-34

Two Blind Men Receive Sight

“As Jesus and his disciples were leaving Jericho, a large crowd followed him. Two blind men were sitting by the roadside, and when they heard that Jesus was going by, they shouted, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” The crowd rebuked them and told them to be quiet, but they shouted all the louder, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on us!” Jesus stopped and called them. “What do you want me to do for you?” he asked. “Lord,” they answered, “we want our sight.” Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him.“

ANGER

Anger in itself is not a sin—-it can be a healthy recognition that things are not as they ought to be. Anger that is directed against someone who inconveniences us is self-centered anger and not righteous anger. The Bible gives us several incidents of Jesus being angered; it is Jesus’ love that compels Him to anger against those who abuse and misuse the helpless.

  • His anger burned against the disciples when they tried to keep the little children from Him.
  • His anger burned against the money changers who made a profit off those who came to worship at the temple.
  • His anger burned against the religious leaders who misled the people in their spiritual charge.

Some often refer to the God of the Old Testament as the “Angry God” and the “God of Love” in the New Testament through Jesus. God is the same in the Old and New Testament, God the Father, the Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

This is perfect love.

Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)

When words and actions push one’s own agenda’s at the cost of someone else’s dignity it is an insult to God’s loving nature and a cause for righteous anger. Anger that is aroused from personal inconvenience only shows one’s own pride, selfishness and a lack of love.

Jesus’ compassion and His anger both flow from the same heart of love—love not of self, but love of God and love for others. This is the love we should cultivate in our own hearts, as we become the literal hands and feet of Jesus.

Challenge Questions

Think back on the last time you were angry.

  • Was is caused by witnessing injustice done against others or a perceived inconvenience against yourself?
    • I can say with all honesty that my anger is sometimes because I have been inconvenienced. I struggle with being over zealous with my emotions and have misplaced anger from time to time.
    • I see injustices daily on the news, in my neighborhood and in my workplace. I’ve been know you argue with a TV screen on occasion. I am fortunate that I can engage in healthy debates with at least one coworker. I also owe this same coworker much gratitude for teaching me coping skills that I have adapted through the years.
    • When I see I justice on a global scale it can be difficult to deal with; thinking what can I possibly do to make a difference…the answer is can be as easy as incorporating into your daily activities to treat others the way you would like to be treated. You know, the “Golden Rule.”

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Matthew 7:12 (NIV)

  • What does your anger reveal about your own heart?
    • I am selfish at times thinking that my time is more valuable than someone else’s. That certainly is not true and I am working and learning to be more intentional with my words and actions.
    • Being human comes with the human condition of being sinful by nature. I don’t say this as an excuse, only baseline of what is true. I can certainly be and do better, but the opposite can also come true. My desire is to be better, I want to grow and mature into the person God created me to be, not perfect or sinless but loving and caring. Being intentional also means I need to be mindful of the things I do and see; the things we feed ourselves is the byproduct of who we become.

If Jesus were sitting across from you, would He join in rebuking those you are angry with, or would He turn and rebuke you?

  • Umm… (swallows hard).
  • Sometimes Jesus would join and other times, I am I one needing to be rebuked. Intentionality, is my goal. Surround myself with others wanting to be more like Jesus. I am stronger, braver, kinder and more loving because of the people in my life. My friends and family love and support me and call me out when I’m wrong.

Sit for a moment with these questions, and ask the Spirit to reveal any sinful anger in your life you need to confess and to fill you with His love instead.

Prayer~

Loving God, thank you for loving me and for all the wonderful people you have placed in my life. Through the years I have been blessed with the right individuals at precisely the right time. You know me and love me not because of who I am or what I can do, you love me because I am your child. You reprove me not out of anger but because you love me. Jesus guide me to live a life pleasing to you, I pray your Holy Spirit will lead me to truth and comfort me in times of doubt and troubles. Jesus please be with the person reading this, bless them and strengthen their resolve to follow you. I ask all these things in Jesus name~Amen.

📚• 📚 Further Study 📚 • 📚

True Fasting

Isaiah 58:1-14 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Isaiah%2058:1-14&version=NIV

Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath

Matthew 12:11-16 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2012:11-16&version=NIV

The Sheep and the Goats

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

Blind Bartimaeus Received His Sight

Mark 10:46-52 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%2010:46-52&version=NIV

Warning Against the Teachers of the Law

Mark 12:38-40 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%2012:38-40&version=NIV

Samaritan Opposition

Luke 9:51-56 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%209:51-56&version=NIV

A Blind Beggar Received His Sight

Luke 18:35-43 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Luke%2018:35-43&version=NIV

Instructions for Christian Living

Ephesians 4:26 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Ephesians%204:26&version=NIV

Friends—

Thank you for stopping by my blog today, I am blessed by your visit. I appreciate your support and encouragement.

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

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anger

Matthew 20:31,34 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2020:31,34&version=NIV
Matthew 20:29-34 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2020:29-34&version=NIV
Matthew 28:18-20 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2028:18-20&version=NIV
Matthew 7:12 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%207:12&version=NIV

Lent 2022 • Week Five Jesus Loves The Self-Righteous

Monday, March 28th, 2022

Photo Credit: Me
February 15th, 2022
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

“Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.” Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” ~Mark 10:20-21 (NIV)

Bible Reading • Mark 10:17-22

The Rich and the Kingdom of God

“As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. “Good teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “Why do you call me good?” Jesus answered. “No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, you shall not defraud, honor your father and mother.’” “Teacher,” he declared, “all these I have kept since I was a boy.” Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man’s face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.“

Challenge • Things To Ponder

Many have read this story in Mark and measured themselves against their own sense of “wealth and riches” and decide that this passage does not apply to them. Mark tells of a wealthy man wanting heaven but could not part with his worldly possession and travel with Jesus to get there. What if we took a hard look into our own lives. . . are there things we are unwilling to give up for heaven? It may not be money, it could be anything that keeps you from fully engaging with God. Wealth can be measured in others terms than strictly money; some are wealthy because of social status or family name, you might be influential based upon knowledge and experience, perhaps you spend all your time buying and collecting things; simply put, anything that separates you from God. Today, seek God and ask Him to reveal to you anything that keeps you from a deep(er) relationship with Him. If you discover something, confess it to God and ask Him to open your heart to be receptive to His Word and His Love.

💰 ▪️ 💰 ▪️ 💰 ▪️ 💰 ▪️ 💰 ▪️ 💰

Money in and of itself is not a bad thing or a sin and no one should not be ashamed of having it.

The only questions are:

Does it allow greed to grow and fester within one’s heart separating oneself from God (?).

Does having money breed sinful desires in one’s heart and mind, causing strife and isolation from others and especially from God (?).

Money is NOT:

the root of all evil—

“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
— 1 Timothy 6:10 (NIV)

LOVE of Money is:

the root of all evil—

🧡 🙏🏻 💚 🛐 🧡 🙏🏻 💚 🛐 🧡 🙏🏻 💚

Prayer ~

Open the eyes of my heart oh, God that I may seen and hear your words. Help me to pursue you with a pure heart. Forgive me when I let my heart be wooed away from you by the temporary things in this life. I ask these things in Jesus name~Amen.

Further Study

Matthew 10:37-38 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Matthew%2010:37-38&version=NIV
Mark 4:1-20 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%204:1-20&version=NIV
Mark 10:21 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%2010:21&version=NIV
John 12:1-8 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2012:1-8&version=NIV
1 Timothy 6:8-10 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Timothy%206:8-10&version=NIV
1 John 2:15-16 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20John%202:15-16&version=NIV
1 Timothy 6:10 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=1%20Timothy%206:10&version=NIV

Friends, wishing you a beautiful week and. blessings upon you. Thank you for your support and words of encouragement as we continue to travel this Lenten journey. ~Peace 🧡

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

References:

https://www.biblegateway.com/

Mark 10:17-22 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Mark%2010:17-22&version=NIV

Lent 2022 • Week Five

Sunday, March 27th, 2022

Photo Credit: Me
February 15th, 2022
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

“When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.”
— Colossians 2:13,15 (NIV)

Why Did Jesus Have To Die?

Jesus died to disarm the powers of sun, death, and the devil.

Bible Reading • John 10:11-18

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks the flock and scatters it. The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep. “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd. The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”

Questions for Discussion

  1. The good Shepherd protects His sheep with His own life. How does this demonstrate the love of Jesus?
    • Jesus took upon Himself the sins of the world on the cross, so that you and I could have victory over death, spiritual death. Because of Jesus, the devil has been defeated. Jesus died on the cross willingly, knowing this was the only way to cleanse all humankind of the sin that separated us from God. Jesus is the Good Shepherd and He will lead us to glory, a glory beyond our wildest dreams and guide us to the Father, His Father to spend eternity with them. Jesus loves us so much that He would have died on the cross if only for one of His sheep to be saved.
    • Isaiah 40:11 “He will tend his flock like a shepherd; he will gather the lambs in his arms; he will carry them in his bosom, and gently lead those that are with young.”
    • Psalm 23:1 A Psalm of David. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
  2. Verse 18 explains that Jesus has the authority to lay down His life and pick it back up again. What does this tell us about Jesus?
    • “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.” ~John 10:18
    • Jesus was of offerer and the offering on the cross. Jesus had sovereign authority to dispose of His life, He offered it so that you and I could be saved from the sting of spiritual death. The devil has no power over the soul once freely given to God. Jesus was not a debtor to life or death, He gave His life for our redemption. The grace of Christ is that He offered and laid down His life, no one took it. *A great resource is Matthew Henry Commentary ~see link below.
  3. What do you want to say in response to Jesus.
    • Jesus thank you for loving me, for creating me, and giving me purpose. I am not worthy of the price you paid on the cross, it is only by your love, grace and mercy I am set free of sin and shame.
To Jesus With Love ©

Lord, fill me with your spirit
Fill me to overflowing
Help me spread your love
Through my actions
Through my speech
Through my prayers

I am nothing without you
Teach me your ways O Lord
Keep me within your loving embrace
Give me a humble heart
Give me gentleness of words
Cover me with your abiding grace

I am a seeker O Lord
I thirst for new knowledge
I am your willing servant
Guide me to your Truth
Chase after me when I go astray
I am your child, I often wander way

Without you I am an empty vessel
Without you I fill myself with selfish desires
Without you I am a stranger with no home
Without you I am poor sinful creature
Without you I would not be, for you are my Creator

You alone are my Rock
You alone are my Redeemer
You alone are my Refuge
You alone are my shelter
You alone are my everything
My Father, my Brother, my Spirit

Your word tells me that I can do all things through you, help me to be ever present of your will, give me strength of perseverance until the day of your return or until you call me home.

Your loving daughter. ©

March 24th, 2021
16:52 Solidas Park, IN

Friends, thank you for stopping by my blog today, I appreciate the support and encouragement. 💚🤗🛐🌻💜🌼

“He died not for men, but for each man. If each man had been the only man made, He would have done no less.” —C.S. Lewis

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

References:

Colossians 2:13,15 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Colossians%202:13,15&version=NIV
John 10:11-18 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2010:11-18&version=NIV
John 10:18 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=John%2010:18&version=NIV

https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/john/10.html