Live Long and Prosper...

Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.   (3 John 2).

Okay – I’ll admit it...I was a 'Trekkie' back in the day. 

I loved watching Star Trek each week as Captain James T Kirk and First Officer Spock explored brave new worlds in far-away galaxies aboard the Federation Starship Enterprise.

Set the in 23^rd century, their galactic adventures centered around the United Federation of Planets and its interaction with both friendly and hostile alien species.  Each week the show featured the young crew facing life and death decisions as they navigated through difficulties and dangers.

Mr. Spock would, on occasion, give a blessing of sorts to someone with whom he had respect for or to whom he paid homage to by saying, “Live long and prosper”.  A caveat here: in my opinion, Gene Roddenberry likely had 3 John 2 in mind when he crafted that famous line.

To prosper is to become strong and flourishing – successful or thriving. It also refers to succeeding in an enterprise or economic activity. 

Genesis 39:5 and 39:23 refers to Joseph’s prospering under God’s mighty hand.  Verse 3 tells us, “And his mater saw that the Lord was with him and that the Lord made all he did to prosper in his hand.”  Later in verse 23 we see, “The keeper of the prison did not look into anything that was under Joseph’s hand, because the Lord was with him; and whatever he did, the Lord made it prosper.”

Prosperity can relate to the physical, the mental, and the spiritual state. What does prosperity look like to the Christian? It is proof of God’s working within the daily circumstances of a believer’s life.  It can be an economic surplus, or it can be a physical advantage.  It may manifest itself as an emotional boost, or it can become a spiritual fountain.

Prosperity to me is an indication of inner joy working itself outward in a Christian’s life that is so evident to others that it can only be attributed to God.

Psalm 1 tells us that that the blessed man [woman] delights in God’s law and meditates on His precepts.  Verse 3 says, “He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper.”

Psalm 35:27 tells us the Lord has pleasure in the prosperity of His servants.  Psalm 122:6 declares those who love the Lord will prosper.  Even the Apostle Paul told the Corinthian church to “…lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come.”

Biblical prosperity opens the door for the Christian to share their abundance with those in need.  It is never to be hoarded and wasted.  Even King Solomon warned us in Ecclesiastes 7:14 that God brings both prosperity and adversity – that we might be joyful in the one, and mindful in the other.

3 John 2 was written as a greeting to John’s dear friend Gaius, who most likely supported traveling teachers and missionaries.  

John commended him for his steadfast adherence to God’s Word.  He prayed for him to have good fortune and good health – that his everyday affairs would prosper and flourish as his soul did.  John was happy to hear the good report concerning his beloved student of truth.

In biblical times good health and longevity were a rarity.  Thus, this saying was frequently used to bless someone and to bestow God’s favor upon them by proxy. 

Our Vulcan friend might have exuded little to no emotion while giving his blessing, but we can all agree it is a benediction of sorts nonetheless.  

Live long and prosper definitely has its roots right here in Scripture.

Right on Mr. Spock… good job!

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.   Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

 If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Live Long and Prosper...

The Virus God Saw Coming...

This is a  particularly worrisome time for all who can't help but see & hear the newscasts day in and day out regarding the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)

But it is also a unique time in our history, one which presents a rare silver lining for Christians. We can use this as an opportunity to share our faith and hope in Jesus Christ.

There will be debates whether or not God allowed this sinister pandemic to occur in order to bring about His sovereign plan to unfold at this time in our nation's history. There will also be discussions on a litany of subjects related to end-time events and signs of the times as it relates to Christ's return.

One thing I know for sure:  God saw this virus coming... 

Nothing takes God by surprise. He is not "wringing His hands" and "shaking His head" because the virus is spreading globally. God is still on His Throne. He already sees the beginning of this crisis from the end. 

So what can we do in the meantime as we are faced with possible government imposed Martial Law? (you can read about it here if you are curious) Martial Law in the U.S.  How should we spend endless hours of self-quarantine in our homes? Can we still be productive and make a difference around us?

Some people have careers that allow them to work from home with little difficulty. Others have jobs that require them to be in close proximity to the public at large - whether they are in law enforcement, the medical field, or the food & home goods supply chain. Many simply won't be able to keep their jobs because their places of business have suspended operations or closed down temporarily.

If you are blessed to work part-time from home or still have children (or grandchildren) under your roof, then you might have some discretionary time like I do to be an "encourager from afar." This blog post is a small contribution I can make to the public at large. My little blog reaches across the globe with the click of a mouse. I know that the internet can play a vital role for those who are isolated - irregardless of this virus.

People are becoming more aware of their mortality and vulnerabilities. They are increasingly uneasy and are more afraid of the unknown. We all have some level of anxiety of what is yet to come. However, the Christian is in the unique position to spread God's truth and give a testimony for the "hope we have within us" (I Peter 3:15).

When we are in the midst of a crisis and face afflictions and suffering, first use it as a time of self-reflection. Then use what you have learned as a tool for ministering to others. Tell them why you have a relationship with Jesus Christ vs religion (I wrote a blog post about it here) Relationship with Jesus - Not Religion . Share your testimony. Explain to them why they need a Savior and a spiritual rebirth in order to be with God in heaven.  

In times of uncertainty you can still be an effective ambassador 

for Jesus Christ. Don't let fear rob you of your mission.

First, clothe yourself with humility

Second, divest yourself of anxiety and worry

Third, arm yourself with sobriety

Fourth, remind yourself of eternity

Remember, FEAR is an acronym for:  False Evidence Appearing Real.  Many times what we fear actually never comes to pass. As President Franklin D. Roosevelt said over the radio to millions of Americans in 1933, "You have nothing to fear but fear itself."  

Fear is a weapon Satan uses to immobilize the masses in a way that is debilitating and destructive. In Luke 12:32 Jesus said, "Do not fear..."  So how can we rise above that feeling and function in a healthy environment with those around us?

Here are three things from God's Word that you and I can take comfort in:

1.  God can be trusted in times of trouble
      Proverbs 3:5-6 tells us, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."  

Number 23:19 says, "God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do it? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good?"  God is indeed trustworthy.

Corrie ten Boom said, "God has no problems, only plans."

2.  God will take care of us in times of trouble
      Psalm 91:9-11 says, "Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your habitation, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling; For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways."  I Peter 5:7 encourages us to, "...cast all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you."

Martin Luther said the following, "Pray and let God worry."

3.  God will always be with us in times of trouble
      Joshua 1:9 declares, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage, do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

Remember the three Hebrew youths Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego who were cast into the fiery furnace? Even Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged God's presence in Daniel 3:25, "Look! I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire; and they are not hurt, and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God."

Jesus Himself said, "...and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." 

(Matthew 28:20)

Take heart... God never sleeps nor slumbers (Psalms 121:3-4)  

He is still Sovereign over all - now and forever. 

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

The Virus God Saw Coming...

Transformation in the New Year

Have you been waiting for your spouse to come to knowledge of Jesus Christ that will transform his life? 

Sometimes that personal revelation takes awhile...  You can read about Thomas in John 20:19-29. I firmly believe in divine appointments. Thomas was not in the room when Jesus met with the disciples on the evening He arose from the grave. Did you ever wonder why Thomas wasn't present with them?

Remember, this was the same Thomas that asked Jesus in John 14:5, "Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way"? Jesus then told him, "I am the way, 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; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him".

Isn't it interesting that we also often don't recognize the Lord. We know through scripture that Thomas knew Him, but he did not believe that the other disciples saw Him that night in the upper room. In John 20:14 Thomas insisted, "Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe".

He was basically giving himself an ultimatum! Proof is often needed, even demanded by the natural man. But Thomas was a spiritual man, one who knew the Lord intimately - face to face. What hampered his ability to "see without proof" what he already knew in his heart? Or did he really believe what he had been told?

John 20:26 says, "And after eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, "Peace to you!" Do you think Thomas had peace after the other disciples told him he missed seeing Jesus?

In verse 27 we read, "Then He said to Thomas, "Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing." Jesus turned toward Thomas and personally addressed him. Isn't that just like our loving Lord, to meet us at our weakest point with His immeasurable grace and mercy?

Your spouse also needs to have a transforming meeting with Jesus - face to face. His doubts and fears can be overcome when Jesus dialogues with him on his level, just like Thomas!

Seek God while He may be found and reach out to Him for salvation and understanding.  He is waiting with open arms. Jeremiah 29:11-13 says, "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart."

This is a great quote from Oswald Chambers in My Utmost for His Highest:

"The experience of salvation means that in your actual life things are really altered, you no longer look at things as you used to; your desires are new, old things have lost their power. If you are born again, the Spirit of God makes the alteration manifest in your actual life and reasoning, and when the crisis comes you are the most amazed person on earth at the wonderful difference there is in you. There is no possibility of imagining that you did it. It is this complete and amazing alteration that is the evidence that you are a saved soul."

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away, behold, all things have become new. II Corinthians 5:17

There are many people sitting in church who are not spiritually reborn. They do not understand the concept of being "a new creation in Christ." They think God welcomes them with open arms because He "loves everyone."  Here is a post I wrote awhile ago on the difference between religion (works) and a real relationship with Jesus Christ (g

                                                                  Click below:

RELATIONSHIP not RELIGION

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together. Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Transformation in the New Year

Supernatural Friendship

Webster’s defines a friend as, “one attached to another by affection or esteem.” There is a particular passage of scripture that is a wonderful example of Godly friendship, and that is in I Samuel chapters 18-23.

David had already been anointed as the future king of Israel, but he would not ascend to his throne for approximately twenty-two more years. During that time he defeated the Philistine warrior Goliath, served in King Saul’s court as his armor-bearer, and played the harp to calm the King’s restless spirit.

It was during the early years, while David served at the King’s pleasure, that he met Saul’s eldest son Jonathan. It is my guess that Jonathan observed David during the time he was ministering to his father in the palace, as well as hearing about David’s conquest of Goliath in the King’s court. Saul decided that David would not return to his father’s house, but henceforth reside in Jerusalem with him.

I Samuel chapter 18 tells us in verse 1 that “the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David.” A supernatural friendship had been forged. Verse 3 says, “Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul. And Jonathan took off the robe that was on him and gave it to David, with his armor, even to his sword and his bow and his belt.”

Jonathan and David’s friendship was unique and God ordained. Theirs was a deep spiritual connection – soul to soul – that was sealed with a covenant to honor and respect each other’s office. Jonathan was next in line for the throne by virtue of his birthright. However, he relinquished his power and position by offering to David his royal robe and armaments. God had no doubt prepared Jonathan’s heart in advance of David’s arriving in Jerusalem. Jonathan exemplified all that is noblest in friendship – true affection, unselfishness, helpfulness, and loyalty. His steadfast belief in David’s divine ascension to the throne, and rule of all Israel enabled him to intervene when his father, the King, attempted to kill David on more than one occasion.

After one such attempt on David’s life, Jonathan went out into the field where David was hiding, and after dismissing his servant, reunited with his friend. After an emotional exchange, he said to David, “Go in peace, since we have both sworn in the name of the Lord, saying, ‘May the Lord be between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants, forever.’” During David’s season of flight, while he was in the wilderness of Ziph, Jonathan met David in the woods and strengthened his hand in God. He assured David that his father, King Saul would not find him or prevent him from becoming the future King of Israel.

Sometime later King Saul, Jonathan, and his two brothers would be defeated and slain in a battle on Mount Gilboa. When word got back to David, he lamented Saul and Jonathan’s deaths, tore his clothes, and wept and fasted until evening for them. His sadness was amplified in his eulogy in song to honor their lives. He especially missed the close friendship he shared with a man of unquestionable integrity and honesty. The love he had for his friend surpassed even the romantic love he had experienced with the women he had known up to that time. That would even include his marriage to Jonathan’s sister, Michal. In the Near Eastern culture, the exchange of kisses by men upon greeting was simply an expression of deep affection between friends and family. David’s loss of his friend evoked strong, reflective emotions, matched only by the mourning for his beloved house of Israel upon losing their King at the hands of the Philistines.

Proverbs 17:17 says, “A friend loves at all times…” And in Proverbs 18:24, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.”

To have a great friend, is to be a great friend...  (Anonymous)

Do you have a special God-given friend? I do and it is hard to put into words the love you feel for that dear friend. It truly is a spiritual friendship as well as a practical one. The bond is strong and eternal. Tell me about your soul-sister and what makes your friendship God centered.

This is one of my all time favorites from Michael W. Smith  -  "Friends"

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Supernatural Friendship

Is Exercise Really Good For Us?

As I begin to approach my mid-sixties, I am amazed at how quickly the last thirty years have flown by! I am the mother of an adult married son who is now a father to two darling children (my sweet grand kids), and I’m sharing our empty-nest full-time with a retired husband.

I was listening to a pastor’s message on the Christian radio station in my area, and heard a familiar verse that some have used in a humorous way: "exercise profits little".  But as I listened to his sermon, I began to hear and understand it in a whole new light.

I Timothy 4:8 says, “For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having the promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.”

Another translation puts it this way:  "...physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things ..."

A brisk walk lowers blood pressure, lowers your cholesterol, and reduces stress on the body. Engaging in some form of regular physical exercise will generally add years to your lifespan. Exercise helps to reduce harmful chemicals in our bodies, and provides a form of abreaction (letting off steam), builds up stamina, counteracts the biochemical effects of stress, and reduces the risk of psychological illness.

I attend a local gym and wear a workout monitor belt using My Zone to track my physical exertion. It tracks your heart rate & is nearly equivalent to an EKG. It shows and rewards your effort (as a percentile) when you work out, as well as your calories burned. The intensity is displayed using color-coded zones. Time spent in each zone is converted into MyZone Effort Points (MEP's) which rewards you based on effort and not your fitness level.

As women of faith, our temples need to be strong and fit, for that is where the Holy Spirit resides. We might not accumulate MEP's, but we will certainly notice when our efforts are making a difference in our personal lives. Spiritual wellness is more important than the latest fad diet or workout routine.

Health and fitness are godly goals when they are balanced with common sense and right priority. In biblical times, physical exercise was not touted as necessary because people living in that time period generally walked everywhere and performed manual labor on a daily basis.

As Christians, sometimes we focus too much on programs, bible studies and the latest book craze for your prayer life or child rearing. All those things in and of themselves are  a good thing, but they shouldn't be the main thing. Our spiritual exercise should consist of reading the Holy scriptures, spending time thanking God and conversing with Him on a regular basis, and practicing our godliness in our everyday lives. Our family, friends and co-workers should see the fruit of our spiritual workouts.

Verse 7 prefaces the previous passage with the following, “…and exercise yourself rather to godliness.”

Spiritually speaking, when we exercise godliness through prayer, Bible study, and self-control, we keep our spiritual man [woman] healthy. But what good is it if we take care of the physical body, but neglect our spiritual woman and coddle our sinful nature?

The eternal value is mentioned in verse 8.  Paul makes it clear that whatever we are doing for the here and now is indeed profitable – even commendable, but that which is to come is of more value and lasting. Taking care of the spirit woman, which is incorruptible and lives forever, is far more important than maintaining a corruptible body that will slowly decay in this world.

Exercise is not my god, nor do I place my fate in its hands. Jesus is my God! Sure, I walk my dog every morning and I still go to the gym a few times a week to a Team workout class.  I make it a point to stay active, eat right, and get a good night’s sleep. But for me, keeping my spirit woman healthy and fit is a higher, God-ordained priority.


Let God speak to you about your “spiritual workout".  What type of changes could you make to minister to your spirit woman as you aim to better your physical woman?

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Is Exercise Really Good For Us?

Triple Threat - Trials, Troubles and Tribulation

James 1:2-4  is familiar to most of us as the passage on “testing our faith". 

 This is what James had to say: “My brethren, count [consider] it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect [mature] and complete, lacking nothing.”

In order for us to become mature in our faith, we must remain under the testing. It is in this position that we come forth [as gold] as described by Job in chapter 23. 

Many times we question God’s sovereignty as we verbalize the familiar:  “Why is this happening to me?”  “I don’t need this!”  “Not now, God!” or “I just can’t take anymore!”  

But isn’t that just human nature? Who hasn’t cried out to God in pain and utter disbelief?

Webster’s Dictionary defines the three “T’s” this way:

Trial – a test of faith, patience, or stamina by suffering or tribulation; a source of vexation (irritation) or annoyance.

Trouble – to agitate mentally or spiritually; to disturb.

Tribulation – distress or suffering as a result of oppression or persecution.

I Peter 1:7-9 says, “…Though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials, that the genuineness of your faith being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ… receiving the end of your faith – the salvation of your souls.”   

Two brief character studies in God’s Word gives us a glimpse of suffering while under trials, troubles and tribulation:

Job ~ Everyone has heard of Job. Even non-believers know that to go through a “Job experience” is to endure an awful trial or trouble. We often hear the expression: “He has the patience of Job!” 

Remember the passage in James 1 (above)? There is a process we must go through as we are tested. Sometimes we hear comments like, “Why do bad things happen to good people?”  Job 1:1 tells us, “There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was blameless and upright, and one who feared God and shunned evil.” 

Job exemplifies the enormity of undeserved calamity in his testimony. Not only did Job loose his children, servants, livestock, and livelihood, but he was struck with painful boils and suffered the shame associated with his trials & tribulations. However, he never let Satan provoke him to curse God, although he cursed the day he was born. He conducted himself like a man under affliction, yet maintained his dignity in his grief. Job questioned God and received a private lesson in humility and in God's sovereignty. Eventually, God restored all that Job had lost, increasing his earthly holdings – including his lineage. For Job, the latter was greater than the former.

Paul ~ Saul (Paul) was dramatically converted by the Lord Jesus on the road to Damascus as he was carrying letters of destruction for those who were of the Way [followers of Jesus] to put them to death in Jerusalem. When Jesus selected Ananias to minister to Paul after his vision, He said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for my name’s sake.”  

After that time many attempts were made to kill Paul by the Jews (Acts 10:23), the Hellenists (Acts 10:29), and with Barnabas in Antioch where they were threatened, persecuted and expelled. II Corinthians 11 enumerates for us Paul’s many trials and troubles including being stoned, beaten, shipwrecked, lashed, and left for dead. There was sharp contention between him and Barnabas while on their missionary journeys that split up the pair, resulting in Paul and Silas teaming up to minister to the Gentiles. 

At the end of his life, while in prison, Paul addresses Timothy in his two epistles. As he encouraged the young pastor, Paul remained steadfast in his faith and mission, while acknowledging that all forsook him, save the Lord Jesus. Paul endured the constant pressure of a lifetime of trials, troubles, & tribulations, and yet he saw God’s purpose and sovereignty in all of it. Paul’s victory was this: “But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear” (II Timothy 4:17). 

In the end, we come forth:  precious, valuable and exquisite – a true treasure of God, for His Glory!
 

A diamond must fall under the chisel in order to become a precious stone, and gold is never refined unless it remains in the fire.  

God never leaves the metal in the crucible longer than what is necessary for the burning away of the dross.  He will do the same on our behalf.

“I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; wait, I say, on the Lord!” (Psalm 27:13-14)

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Triple Threat - Trials, Troubles and Tribulation

Amazing love... How can it be? A Resurrection Gift...

And can it be that I should gain
An interest in the Savior's blood?
Died He for me, who caused His pain?
For me, who Him to death pursued?

   Amazing love! how can it be
   That Thou, my Lord, shouldst die for me?
                      [Charles Wesley  1780]

She was freed from seven devils by the power of Jesus, and she joined the women who accompanied the disciples. She was from Magdala, on the Southwest coast of the Sea of Galilee. 

She could not comprehend how this Prophet whom the disciples called "The Son of God" would show her such unmerited kindness and mercy.  How could she ever repay Him?

She remembered how Simon Peter spoke of a parable that Jesus taught of two debtors, saying, "There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more?"  Simon answered Him and said, "I suppose the one whom he forgave more."  And Jesus said to him, "You have rightly judged."  

Jesus spoke this parable of the women who had anointed His feet with a costly flask of fragrant oil during dinner in a Pharisee's house. He continued the parable, saying to Simon and the others, "Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much.  But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little."

She watched as the Lord and His disciples traveled throughout Galilee and the surrounding area performing miracles and ministering to the masses.  She observed firsthand how the crowds grew in anticipation of a conquering King. Then they began to fall away when their expectations did not materialize.  

Who was this Jesus Who had commanded the demons to flee and the Spirit of God to come into her heart? 

Mary recalled that He often withdrew privately to pray to His Father.  She reminisced how He taught with authority and wisdom, confounding the lawyers and Pharisees.  He had preached to all who would listen, often late into the day. She and the others frequently heard the parables Jesus shared as He instructed the people in the ways of righteousness and Kingdom living.

Then she relived the horrors of the days leading up to His crucifixion with the criminals. She recalled the humiliation and pain, and the gore that surrounded His death. Her tears and those of His mother Mary, as well as the other women who witnessed the Roman punishment, had been bitter and frequent since that fateful day.  

When Joseph of Arimathea and Nichodemus secured His body from Pilate, they took the strips of linen with the spices, as was the custom of the Jews, and prepared Him for burial.  Mary also went with the wife of Clopas (Mary) and Salome the mother of James and John with additional spices to the tomb to pay homage to the slain Son of God..

On the Sabbath - the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning while it was still dark. As she stood there she observed that the stone had been taken away. She ran and found Simon Peter and John - crying and pleading with them - asking them where her Lord had been taken.  They were both stunned and ran to the tomb. John arrived at and peered into the tomb first. Peter quickly followed and went inside the tomb to discover the linen cloths and handkerchief lying on the stone.

Mary recalled the pain in her heart as she longed to see her Savior once again. She stood outside by the empty tomb in disbelief. She recalled the encounter with the two heavenly messengers clothed in white as they sat - one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had laid. They asked her why she was weeping, and Mary said to them, "Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him."

She heard Jesus say to her, "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?"  And then she said to Him, supposing Him to be the gardener, "Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away."

Mary then grinned as she recalled her response to His calling out her name, "Mary!"  She surprised herself at her quick heartfelt shout of, "Rabboni!". 

Yes - Mary's heart was filled with gratitude and amazement as she gazed into heaven while Jesus  ascended to His Father. That was a day she would never forget...

(Scripture references:  Luke 7:40-47; John 19:38-42; John 20:1-18)

What about you?  As we celebrate Resurrection Sunday - what is your response to the Risen Lord?  Are you also amazed at His gracious love and mercy?  Do you gaze heavenward in anticipation of His return?

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It was written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.   Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Amazing love... How can it be? A Resurrection Gift...

The Christmas Gift

“Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!” (II Corinthians 9:15)

Christmas isn’t just about the gifts, or is it?  We all know it’s better to give than to receive. Sometimes we spend months looking for just the right gift to give. We often take the time to wrap it with colorful paper, ribbons and bows. Presentation is everything! Once in a while we’ll try to get the recipient to “guess” what’s inside. There’s just something about gift giving that can be so exhilarating!

Matthew Chapter 2 tells us, “When they [Magi] had come into the house they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” These were precious gifts fit for royalty, which had been transported for hundreds of miles. The wise men had followed a bright star which had originated in the East, and had led them to the specific dwelling place of the Christ Child.

One of my favorite passages of scripture is in the 4th Chapter of John. Jesus had a Divine appointment with a woman in Samaria. His disciples had gone into town to purchase food and provisions. While they were gone, Jesus remained by Jacob’s well, weary from the journey. The woman came out at noonday to fetch water because she was an outcast in the community. As she drew the water, Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink”, to which she replied that Jews don’t normally have social contact with Samaritans. Verse 10 is the best part! Jesus said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” Jesus goes on to explain in verse 14 (after her rant about Abraham and their shared heritage) “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, “but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst…” 

Christ had extended her the favor of grace. Verse 15 tells us she wanted that gift right then and there! She was tired of her old life and knew He had something real to offer. She basically said, “Show me where to sign-up! I’m ready!” Romans 6:23 tells us, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The woman at the well knew she was in sin and would face her Maker. God’s Righteousness demands a payment for sin. Jesus shared the good news with her that God’s Gift was indeed standing before her. He offered her eternal life in exchange for eternal separation from God. God in the flesh offered her the greatest token of His love.

Jesus meets us right where we are – ready to give us The Gift of God. Of course, it’s available anytime – not just at Christmas! James 1:17 says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” No one knows how to give gifts like Our Heavenly Father!  Matthew 7:11 states, “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, now much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who as Him!”

Your greatest gift is what Jesus has already prepared for you… He is just waiting for you to accept it!  God sent Jesus in the flesh  -  Emmanuel  - “God with us” - 2000+ years ago.  

Make this your best Christmas ever!

To view a presentation by the Billy Graham Evangelical Assoc. on how to become a Christian, please visit this link: http://bit.ly/hHxb7z   (Steps to Peace with God)

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.   Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

The Christmas Gift