Dec 24 = Luke 24

It seems like everyone "important" was given their own personal reinforcement and demonstration that Jesus had risen from the dead.  Why was this necessary? They were told what was to come by a very reliable source.

When two disciples encountered the risen Christ on the road they were made to not see who he really was.  This led to them breaking bread again, this is when the veil was lifted from their eyes.  Even still he then appeared before all of them... again asking for something to eat.

I see this as a powerful reminder to celebrate and break bread together in remembrance of Him.  Further it reminds me of Matthew 7:9 - if a son asked for bread would you give him a stone?  Just as Jesus asked for food, we may ask for His presence and spiritual food - and we would not be denied.

Dec 23 = Luke 23

You notice Pilate didn't want anything to do with what went down.  He didn't find cause and was probably excited to hand him off to Herod, and wash his hands of any guilt.

I can imagine his exasperation when Jesus was sent back to him, again found not guilty, but the crowds kept calling for action.  Have politics changed since then?  Nope. I am pretty sure the left or the right (whichever side you are not on - I am trying to keep my own politics out of this message) would have demanded for crucifixion still today.

Note that Jesus' presence brought peace between the two (Herod and Pilate).  I don't believe this was something to be read lightly in this chapter, although it reads like an aside.  THIS however does not seem to happen today - bringing opposing politics together.  All the more reason we need to pray for the guidance of our elected officials - whether you like them or not, especially if you don't.

Dec 22 = Luke 22

Today we read about the last supper and betrayal of Jesus.

What my mind thinks about are the people and their salvation. Do you think Peter is in heaven?  We read that Satan entered him.  We also read that he went and bitterly wept when he recalled Jesus' words and recognized what he had done.  I feel like it was this moment that Satan fled.  Clearly Peter was in an altered state of mind.

What about the guard whose ear was cut off and healed back in place by Jesus as he took him prisoner? Can you imagine what was going through his head?  What about the conversation he had with his wife when he got home that night? Where do you think his heart was after all of those events took place?

Dec 21 = Luke 21

As a child I remember reading pamphlets that told of signs of the end times, they referenced Padre Pio, I believe they were things he relayed that reflect some of this chapter. Goodness how they scared me.

Earthquakes. Famine. Pestilence (disease/epidemics). Signs from heaven in the sky. But scariest of all - persecution. This chapter even tells us that people will faint from terror.

The faithful should be confident and fearless, right? As we read here we are to stand up and lift our heads because our redemption is drawing near. I'm not fearless at the thought, I admit my trepidation. This makes me worry about my faith.

If Peter was so foolish as to deny Christ three times having stood beside Him and knowing Him personally, How would I not question my own fortitude at the thought of persecution? Fear is not from God, so I know where these thoughts are coming from.

We must pray for strength, courage, and wisdom in all things. I know that God will prepare us.

Dec 20 = Luke 20

Repeatedly Jesus was set up. He was asked questions that required the most careful replies. They tried to trap Him with the very truth that He had dwelling within Him. Notice though that at no point did Jesus ever lie. He continued to speak truth without ever falling into their snares.

Much like Jesus was tested so too are traps set to ensnare us by the devil. Unfortunately, we're not Jesus - on our own we cannot always see these traps or resist those temptations.

Have you ever pondered the words to the "Our Father" prayer? Why are we taught to say "lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil", the last of seven petitions in the prayer? It is because we cannot do this on our own. The devil is crafty and clever. He will use his knowledge of the bible to twist God's word and he never rests his watchful eye.

When we separate our minds from God and refuse to allow Him to be a guiding part of our daily lives (this includes His presence in school and the workplace) we make ourselves vulnerable. We need His constant presence, hence we are to pray without ceasing, both for our mental well being and for our spiritual protection.

Dec 19 = Luke 19

Here we have the parable where a rich man gave 10 coins to ten of his servants and went away. When he returned he called them forth to see how much interest they had gained him. The first doubled it to 20 and was thus put in charge of 10 cities. The next gained 50% (5 more) and he was given 5 cities to run. Another returned only the 10 coins saying he hid them away because he was afraid of the man.

On one hand I think the last guy is lying, he invested it too but was trying to keep the earnings for himself. On the other hand, maybe he did hide it away to avoid losing the coins.
Either way the message of doing well with what you're entrusted will ensure you are granted more is valid.

This message holds true not just with money, but every aspect of life. Did someone trust you with their heart? Their feelings/secrets? Has God given you a talent or gift that you're hoarding away instead of using it to multiply his kingdom?

Dec 18 = Luke 18

The pharisee went to pray saying "thank you that I am not like the other sinners" and he went on to beat his breast about the things he does that are good and right. The tax collector went to pray saying "God, have mercy on me, a sinner".

Does God know the good actions we take? Does he know the thoughts in our minds? Does he not see all of our rights and wrongs? Does he not know your heart? Does he not know your needs and worries?

Your prayers aren't telling God anything he doesn't already know. Your prayers are very telling though of how aware you are of who you really are.

Are your prayers mostly about you? Do your prayers focus on your needs or do they also express gratitude for the blessings already bestowed upon you? Do you take the time to reflect on your failures and sin or do they read like a resume, like the pharisee's?

Dec 17 = Luke 17

Like a thief in the night we're told the time will come. I know there is a million reasons to look forward to the kingdom of God, but I'll admit it fills me with a bit of anxiety to think about it.

Everything would continue on until the time comes. We'll eat, we'll drink, we'll go to work, and then like a strike of lightning on a sunny day our time is up. There will no longer be time to pray or ask for forgiveness, our chance to help the others we love come to know Jesus will be gone.

This is the case both with the end of times and the end of our own personal time here on earth. Our days are numbered but yet we refuse to believe it and not enough people prepare their lives.

If you knew you had a day... a week... a month... a year until your day was to come - what would you do with your time and your last opportunity? What is stopping you from doing those things today?

Dec 16 = Luke 16

If someone you loved and trusted that has already left this earth was granted a day to returned to you tomorrow in order to tell you all about heaven and hell how do you suppose it would change how you live your life? Would you be a different person?

In this chapter we hear of a rich man who begged in Hades to send someone to tell his brothers to prevent their doom. The response was simply that they should listen to Moses and the prophets and that if that isn't enough to convince them even someone rising from the dead would not.

I have to liken this to my own idiocy. I know being overweight isn't healthy and it leads to other things, but here I still am. I've known some people who get diagnosed with things that put the proverbial "fear of God" in them and it does change their eating habits or behaviors, but for the most part it doesn't. We all know what smoking cigarettes can do to you and yet look around.

I'll ask you my first questions again: has the first hand account of heaven and hell offered to us changed your life or who you are? Why not take His word on it?

Dec 15 = Luke 15

Today we find several stories of the lost being found again. Most of us know that no matter what, our parents have our backs. If we need them they're there, 24-7. They'd give and do anything to help us. Their hearts hurt when we hurt, they cry and worry (even though we're not supposed to worry) about us.

I may not agree with the things my daughter does through the years. We will argue. We will drive each other crazy at times. But I will never stop loving her. I know this beyond a shadow of a doubt. She will always be welcome in my home, in my life, and in my arms.

So it is with Jesus. He knows your hurts and sees your tears. He will always be there for you, ready to welcome you into His arms.

I know not everyone has the kind of loving parents here on earth that they should have had. I'm sorry if you are one of those people. I promise you however that your Father in heaven does love you, unconditionally, and He would love nothing more than to hear from you. His arms are open wide and He can provide all of the things denied you here on earth due through the failure of humans.

If you do have the kind of loving parents still here on earth that I described above, why don't you go ahead and give them a call. They miss you and nothing would bring them more joy than to hear your voice just because.

Dec 14 = Luke 14

In this chapter Jesus suggests that when one is invited to a feast they should not take the place of honor, for someone more distinguished may have been invited. He goes on to suggest that they should take the lowest place, giving the most opportunity that the host might tell them to move to a better place.

Many would say I err on the side of pessimism. To me, I just have more opportunity to be pleasantly surprised. I know, it's not quite the same - this example is focused on being humble. But isn't it true? Wouldn't you rather be pleasantly surprised than shot down? Does anyone truly get reward by beating their own chest about being important?

I think the same applies to the works we take on in this life. We shouldn't need to brag or tell others about the things we do (maybe you paid it forward at the drive through in Starbucks or sent a gift card to a family in need or shoveled a neighbor's walk way after a snow). If someone observes your actions and comments, how warm does that make your heart? Even greater still is if no one has seen - because we know that God has seen, and in Matthew 6 we're told we will be rewarded (THAT is what gives your heart that warm feeling when no one has patted you on the back or sung your praises).

If you must boast - instead boast in the Lord and what He has done.

Dec 13 = Luke 13

A mustard seed. If you've ever made Alton Brown's mac and cheese, you've seen one... if you haven't you really need to go look up the recipe, grind some mustard seeds, and give it a go - it's delightful.

They are pretty tiny. I decided to learn more about what they grow into and they can get to a decent size (20-30 ft) (although the mustard seed used for the condiment is more of a shrub). If you've never looked at your child and pondered the universe for a moment - at how two single cells can grow, shape, and evolve into the living, breathing, and thinking blessing that is standing before you you're not paying attention to the wonders God has created like you should.

In this chapter the kingdom of God is compared to a mustard seed that is planted and grew into a tree. The birds could perch and find shelter in its branches. Remember what we said yesterday about the birds... if God has prepared these things for them, what has he prepared for you?

This chapter also talks about the kingdom as an open, but narrow, door. It is open for but a time and will someday be closed. See the preparations made for you, the open door that awaits. Take shelter in the kingdom that has been prepared and opened for you.

Dec 12 = Luke 12

Not a single sparrow is forgotten by God - and we are far more valuable to Him. God provides to the birds, will he not do the same for us?

The most important thing in this chapter that I need to hear daily and feel like I have a good number of friends that need to hear it too: "Who by worrying can add a single hour to their life?"

Our worries don't change the situation it just eats us up. I'd venture to say in some cases it also keeps God at arm's length and tells Him "no, no - I've got this" at which point you can guarantee with our free will that He will allow us to flail as we've chosen. I can almost imagine God saying "really? ok. I'm waiting... let me know when you're ready" as He stands patiently like the good father that he is - waiting with a hand ready to extend and catch us as we fall.

My heart always warms for the passages in the bible that speak about sparrows. I pay attention the birds in the trees out back and flying about as I drive. They're beautiful to me and they should serve as reminders of our value to God and the freedom He provides if we only accept it.

Dec 11 = Luke 11

In this chapter Jesus addresses "how to pray". In addition to presenting a portion of the well known Our Father prayer, Jesus tells us to ask, seek, and knock.

We seem to interpret the "ask" indicated here to treat Him like Santa Claus: here's my list of things I want from you. Clearly we're doing it all wrong, and we're asking for the wrong things.

God knows what we're going through. He knows the outcome. He wants good for us. Why then do we need to ask/pray/talk to Him? The answer is relationship. Jesus wants a relationship with you. Only when you have a close and personal relationship with someone can they help you change. Imagine a stranger telling you something harsh about yourself that needs to change. What do they know?! Imagine a close friend telling you the same thing with love and knowledge of who you are, your hurts, your desires, your heart.

Jesus says "whoever is not with me is against me". Who do you chose to align yourself with in your daily actions, decisions, thoughts, and beliefs? Are you working against Him in your own life and delaying the good things He has planned for you because you are not asking, seeking, and knocking?

Try praying by asking for help understanding. Try praying that God would help you grow/change/evolve. Work with Him rather than against Him.

Dec 10 = Luke 10

The disciples were a pretty small group. Here in this chapter the Lord appoints seventy-two others and sends them out to do His work. They, much like the disciples healed people and cast out demons in His authority.

But what happens to those that received the healing from these seventy-two or even from the disciples? It does no good, we know, to keep that light to ourselves. Instead we have to see the gifts and knowledge we are given when we get to know the Lord like we're part of the original multi-level marketing scheme (before the concept got a bad wrap). It is our job to then set forth and spread the word about this amazing product - Jesus!

Sure, sometimes we are to pray or act in 'secret' (Matthew 6:6), but we are also to be step forth and offer Jesus' love and even His healing to those we encounter.

I hate to say it as I can hear the doubt I wish I didn't have as i type it: I don't know about you, but I don't feel so confident that I can "heal". We do think "gosh, if only my prayers and touch could take away that person's disease or help them see the light". I think it can, but it also depends on the person you're praying for - they too have to be willing to accept and receive, even if they don't know you're praying for them. Please don't be discouraged if your prayers seem to be "unanswered". I know that's a tall request when you see someone you prayed for in earnest pass away or suffering. Keep praying for them! Ask God where and how else you should be praying.

Dec 9 = Luke 9

I've often felt sorry for those with fame. They have no lives of their own, no privacy, and even their children and loved ones have paparazzi breathing down their neck at every move. (Side note: IMHO The way to get famous is to voice a cartoon. People might recognize your voice, but might not piece together who you were right away and the papzz sure wouldn't be chasing you down, but I digress.)

When Jesus and His disciples withdrew the crowds followed and so ensues the story of them feeding 5 thousand me (plus how many women and children) with 5 loaves and 2 fish.

I can't imagine how exhausting this constant barrage would be both for Jesus and the disciples. As those closest to Him, I am sure the disciples longed for a moment of peace where they could just sit alone with Jesus.

Picture that crowd. Imagine all of those people. Could you ever possibly get close enough to hear a word even if Jesus was shouting? No, but yet they were drawn, they followed. I often struggle with hearing His voice. I truly wish it was audible. Is this an excuse to not follow? No! We must deny ourselves, take up our cross - daily - and follow Him. Sometimes it's mighty hard without a clear map of the road we're expected to follow. We must trust that He will lead if we chose to follow each and every day. Sometimes we will require course correction from other believers. Sometimes we will get misled by the crowds and wander from the path.

Dec 8 = Luke 8

No one lights a lamp and hides it. God isn't pouring into you without the expectation that you will then shine as a light. No, this passage tells us you take the light and you put it on a stand - so that others may see the light.

When God calls you. It isn't about calling one person, it's about calling all people. He will use your light (and your life), if you let Him, to act as a beacon to others. This makes me think of the many works of Thomas Kinkade. (Aside: His work was lovely, but it didn't call to me.) He was called the painter of light. If it were so easy to distinguish the light within mankind as it is in his work. Also, think of how often he would put lighthouses in his pieces.

Side note for discussion and insight from others: Jesus expels the demons from the man. He then tells him to return home and tell how much God has done for you. Later in the chapter we read of Jesus bringing back to life a dead girl and He ordered them to not tell anyone what happened.

Why in the second case were they not to tell anyone?

Dec 7 = Luke 7

A lot of people question if there is a God based on the argument that their prayers don't always get answered. Why wasn't my loved one healed? Why do bad things happen to good people? etc.

Death is the cost of life. We all must face it some day. We're often not ready for our own passing, nor do we mentally comprehend it. We're certainly never ready to say good bye to those with whom we share love.

I think it is the smugness with which we ask "why" that answers the question. In this chapter Jesus performs miracles for those who don't count themselves even worthy enough to ask for His touch. Those who were giving their all, those who recognize the great debt they were in.

In my personal life I enjoy giving of myself to someone when it is unexpected and met with thanks. I admit, I am not as gracious of a giver when I feel like something is expected of me, it steals the joy. In all things - have a grateful heart.

His love and forgiveness is given freely. Accept this with that grateful heart. Be in awe of His mercy and goodness. Know that you are and always will be unworthy, but He did it anyway - gladly - for _you_.

Dec 6 = Luke 6

There is so much good guidance in here. But probably the most relevant to me is reminder that to be forgiven we must forgive. We have all been hurt by someone in our lives. That hurt can change who you are forever. The hardest thing in the world is to forgive someone who severely wronged you. You sure don't feel like forgiving them and sometimes you almost WANT to stay angry. But we also know that doing so is like drinking rat poison and hoping the other person dies.

What do we do? What does Jesus tell us to do? He tells us to forgive? But how? For me, the best I could do was during my daily prayers to say out loud I forgave those that severely hurt me. For quite a while it was through gritted teeth and my eyes may have actually been rolling while I said it. I sure didn't mean it. Slowly, it evolved. Today I do. I forgive them. It doesn't take away all of the hurt, it doesn't change what happened, and most importantly it doesn't make what happened "right" or "okay".

Who do you need to start working on forgiving? Please start the process today friends. I want your transgressions to also be forgiven.

Dec 5 = Luke 5

When Jesus tells him to put the nets out and Simon Peter replies "we've worked all night and didn't catch anything, but if you say so, we'll let down the nets" I can almost hear Simon's thoughts, which were more like "are you crazy, there's nothing there". You can even try saying those exact words said in a very sarcastic manner.

It is no wonder after the bounty came in Simon Peter fell at Jesus' knees claiming himself to be a sinful man. But Jesus obviously knew his heart and saw how completely enlightened Simon Peter was as he told him he would now be a fisher of men.

From the lyrics of one of my favorite bands on the same topic "If you're caught is to be free."

Dec 4 = Luke 4

No prophet is accepted in his hometown.

Oh man, isn't that the truth?! The people who are closest to you and know you the best are the least likely to believe in you at times.

We read in other books that there will be many false prophets. I don't know about you but I wonder if I would have the discernment to know the truth if Jesus came back to us tomorrow.

Dec 3 = Luke 3

30. Jesus was 30 when he began his ministry. We heard in Luke 2 of His eagerness to learn (listening and asking questions) at the temple. It took time for Jesus to mature into the plans God had prepared for Him - and He was the Messiah! Yet, we expect the rest of humanity to figure things out faster.

Drawing on thoughts inspired by the movie Dogma (don't laugh):
I bet there was periods as Jesus became to understand who He was that He had a hard time believing or accepting it (we all know He even wanted His inevitable end to be taken from Him).

It takes time to process things in life. It takes time to learn. It takes time to figure out what your calling is. It takes even longer to figure out how to follow that calling.

Dec 2 = Luke 2

Ah... the passage Linus reads in Charlie Brown Christmas.

Two things strike me: 1) if an angel appeared to me and told me to go somewhere, I can only imagine what I would think or feel. It would have to be beyond overwhelming.

2) When Jesus tells his parents "didn't you know I had to be in my father's house" and the passage says they didnt know what he was telling them... I am with them. I mean they knew he was the son of God. What meaning am I missing here? Had they forgotten who he really was in the fast paced daily life of raising a kid?

Dec 1 = Luke 1

Zechariah is muted for his disbelief, questioning, and... not listening. How are you neglecting to listen to God's messages to you?

Side point: Despite Zechariah's disbelief God made good on His plans and promises to him. He is not a man, that He should lie. Numbers 23:19 - A word spoken over me a few years ago!

Reading Luke

I have decided to also add entries here that depart a bit from my other posts.  Here to you'll also find some bible study/discussion activities that I've created.

Here in December I decided to take the 'challenge' to read a chapter of Luke for each day in December leading up to Christmas.

Accomplishments of Others

The accomplishments of others in no way limits your ability to be accomplished.

Your friend my have gotten an A on that exam while you got a C, but her A didn't stop you from also getting an A.  There is no limit to what you can achieve if you take the appropriate steps to be rewarded with success.  There is no pool of success that will run dry if others drink from it before you get a sip.

This is why you should be happy for your friend for their accomplishment - truly happy and joyous for them, not jealous.  If you are the one with an A and your friend the C, be prepared to encourage and offer assistance.  For allowing that friend to flourish does not take from you either, it only adds.

For nothing will be impossible with God.  -Luke 1:37