Friday, February 28, 2014

Do Not Judge Outward Appearances

Jesus answered them, "I did one deed, and you all marvel. For this reason Moses has given you circumcision (not because it is from Moses, but from the fathers), and on the Sabbath you circumcise a man. If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath so that the Law of Moses will not be broken, are you angry with Me because I made an entire man well on the Sabbath? Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment." John 7:21-24

Don’t judge according to appearance. How often have you heard of a ragged person appearing in a church and being snubbed? Maybe it was even the Pastor, posing as a derelict? Whatever the case, Jesus tells us that we need to not judge other peoples outward appearance. Even back in the selection of David as King of Israel this was true. But the LORD said to Samuel, "Don't judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn't see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7 NLT. The Lord looks at the heart. God is concerned with the spiritual attitude, not the name brand clothes and flawlessly perfect make-up.

RSVP: Jesus is asking you today…How is your heart? Are you judging others by their outward appearance? Is your own heart ready to be inspected? How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer~ Dear Jesus, create in me a clean heart and renew in me a right spirit (Psalm 51:10).

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table
That old ground hog saw his shadow and we are certainly having six more weeks of winter. Brrrr!
Here’s a chili recipe from a friend at church to enjoy on one of these cold days soon.

White Chili
2 cups cooked chicken (or turkey)
1 can chicken broth (no MSG please)
1 medium onion, chopped and sautéed in a little olive oil
1 can Navy Beans (15 oz) or about 1 cup dried navy beans, soaked and cooked
1 can Great Northern Beans (15 oz) or about 1 cup white beans, soaked and cooked
1 can of green chilies (8 oz)
½ teaspoon each: cayenne pepper, oregano and cumin 

Put all the ingredients into a pot, simmer at least 30 minutes. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt. Some nice corn bread is tasty with this soup, too.
 
Looking ahead to March...the challenge is to
Pray the Names of God, or His attributes, for 30 days. 

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

 

 

Thursday, February 27, 2014

What Is His Will For You?

So Jesus answered them and said, "My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me. If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself. He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who is seeking the glory of the One who sent Him, He is true, and there is no unrighteousness in Him. Did not Moses give you the Law, and yet none of you carries out the Law? Why do you seek to kill Me?" John 7:16-19

If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching…. God’s teachings. God’s will. A few years ago a lady in my Sunday School class wanted to know what God’s will was for her life. I had sought that answer for myself for many years…what seemed like forever. I told her that as she searched the scriptures, God would reveal His will for her life to her. We often see “will” in scripture…like in the Lord’s Prayer. Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Matthew 6:10. We know that it is important to do God’s will…Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. Matthew 7:21. Do God‘s will and you go to heaven—great reward! So what again is His will? For it is my Father's will that all who see his Son and believe in him should have eternal life. I will raise them up at the last day." John 6:40 NLT. There it is believe in Jesus—as God’s Son and your savior. What could be simpler? Do a study yourself on the “will of God.” Here are a couple of verses.
·         And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. - Romans 12:2
·         …who gave Himself for our sins so that He might rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father….Galatians 1:4
·         So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. Ephesians 5:17
Lastly…another verse of encouragement.
·         Now may the God of peace—who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with His blood—may He equip you with all you need for doing His will. May He produce in you, through the power of Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to Him. All glory to Him forever and ever! Amen. Hebrews 13:20-21 NLT
To God be the glory for all that we think, do and say.

RSVP: Jesus is inviting you today to do His Father’s will. How will you respond? What will you think, say or do that will bring glory to God the Father through Jesus, His Son?

Prayer~ Dear Heavenly Father, may all I do today be pleasing in Your sight and bring You glory.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Where is That Man?

…later, after his family had gone up to the Feast (Feast of Booths), he (Jesus) also went. But he kept out of the way, careful not to draw attention to himself. The Jews were already out looking for him, asking around, “Where is that man?” There was a lot of contentious talk about him circulating through the crowds. Some were saying, “He’s a good man.” But others said, “Not so. He’s selling snake oil.” This kind of talk went on in guarded whispers because of the intimidating Jewish leaders. With the Feast already half over, Jesus showed up in the Temple, teaching. The Jews were impressed, but puzzled: “How does he know so much without being schooled?” John 7:10-15 The Message

Who is this man, Jesus? Where is he? How does he know so much without going to school? Questions that people asked. It says that they were impressed. Are you impressed by Jesus’ teachings? Most of our values, whether people realize it or not, are based on the Judeo-Christian values that are given in the Ten Commandments and by Jesus…love one another and treat others as you would want them to treat you. Jesus went to the Temple even when He said He wasn’t going to go. He was so motivated to teach the people about His Heavenly Father. People were guarding what they were saying about Jesus so that the Jewish leaders didn’t overhear them. They were afraid that the Jewish leaders would want to kill them, as they want to kill Jesus. We must be careful about not speaking out for Jesus. Jesus warned His disciples before He sent them out to talk to the people of Israel. "Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven." Matthew 10:32-33. Who wants to be negated or disowned before the Heavenly Father? That would be like having the gates of heaven slammed closed in one’s face. Speak up for Jesus…but like my grandmother would say…if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.

RSVP: Jesus was respected for what He taught. Do you respect His teachings? Do you read them every day…and put them into practice in your life? How are you responding to Jesus’ teaching and invitation to know Him today?

Prayer~ Jesus, I rejoice knowing that You created the Feast of Booths or Tabernacles as a joyous time for people to connect with You and with each other. Today as I read Your words in John and in Matthew, fill my heart and mind with a deeper understanding of You and our Heavenly Father.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Feast of Booths

After these things Jesus was walking in Galilee, for He was unwilling to walk in Judea because the Jews were seeking to kill Him. Now the feast of the Jews, the Feast of Booths, was near. Therefore His brothers said to Him, "Leave here and go into Judea, so that Your disciples also may see Your works which You are doing. For no one does anything in secret when he himself seeks to be known publicly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world." For not even His brothers were believing in Him. John 7:1-5

There were three time a year that Jewish men were to go to the Temple—to do a pilgrimage. The Feast of Tabernacles or Booth, also known as Sukkot, was one of these pilgrimage festivals. It was also marked by a week-long joyful celebration after harvest where the family built and lived in a shelter made from branches. This was commanded by God through Moses as recorded in the book of Leviticus. Speak to the sons of Israel, saying, 'On the fifteenth of this seventh month is the Feast of Booths for seven days to the LORD.’ Leviticus 23:34. The Hebrew people were not to work during that time and they were to offer burnt and grain offerings to the Lord. The trip to the Temple was what Jesus’ step-brothers were needling Him about. They thought He should go show off His healing gift. But Jesus wasn’t concerned with showing off His talents. He knew that some of the Jews wanted to kill Him and He wasn’t ready for that, yet. Note that it says in this passage that His brothers didn’t believe in Him. We may ask ourselves how can that be since they’d grown up together—but another passage (see Luke 4:16-30) tell us that when Jesus went to Nazareth He was actually chased out of town. They wanted to stone Him. Not exactly a friendly action towards someone they’d known most of his life. So how do you feel about Jesus? If He were here today, how would you treat Him? With respect or would you want to send Him to the wolves…those who were seeking to kill Him?

RSVP: Jesus came to teach, heal and reveal His Father to the world. How will you respond to Him today? Do you want to know His teachings and to know more about Him and His Father?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, open my eyes, ears and mind to know and understand You at a deeper level.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Monday, February 24, 2014

Who Do You Go To?

Simon Peter answered Him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life. "We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God." Jesus answered them, "Did I Myself not choose you, the twelve, and yet one of you is a devil?" Now He meant Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the twelve, was going to betray Him. John 6:68-71

To whom indeed? What other is there? Before His crucifixion Jesus was talking with His disciples and He said…"I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me." John 14:6. Peter recognized that Jesus was the Son of God much earlier than the other disciples and he was very vocal about that revelation.  I often pray that I could have the boldness of Peter—I’m more of a meek, introverted person. If we were all like Peter, everyone would know that Jesus is God, our Creator, our Savior, and our Lord. Do you still need to be convinced? To whom do you turn in times of joy or sorrow? Where do you look for eternal life?  

RSVP: Jesus is offering us knowledge that He is the Son of God, the Holy One—our Redeemer and Savior. Will you choose to respond to Him, as Lord of your life or be like Judas and betray Him?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, You are my Lord, my Savior, my Redeemer. Please give me the boldness of Peter that I can speak out for You.

Happy Birthday, Debbie. May God continue to bless you with His amazing creativity!
Lord—protect, touch and heal Michelle, in her surgery today.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Sunday, February 23, 2014

Do Not Go Away

And He was saying, "For this reason I have said to you, that no one can come to Me unless it has been granted him from the Father." As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew and were not walking with Him anymore. So Jesus said to the twelve, "You do not want to go away also, do you?" John 6:65-67

Among Solomon's wise words in Proverbs there is a verse that shows us some of the disciples' devotion …there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. Proverbs 18:24. Some of Jesus’ followers were falling away—they couldn’t make a devoted commitment. Then there were the others that stuck close to Jesus—walked His path, followed His teachings and were devoted. So how is it with you? Are you devoted to Jesus and His teachings? Do you desire to learn more of Him every day? You do not want to go away, too, do you?

RSVP: Jesus is asking us today if we want to stick it out with Him or go away? What is your response to Him?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, draw me close to You. Help me to see You more clearly and follow the straight and narrow path along which You are leading me. Help me to encourage my family, friends and neighbors to follow Your path, too.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Saturday, February 22, 2014

With What is Your Life Filled?

“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life. But there are some of you who do not believe” (Jesus words). For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were who did not believe, and who it was that would betray Him.  John 6:63-65

Life. Spiritual life. It is this spiritual life that gives our lives meaning…and abundance. In John 10:10 Jesus said, “I have come that they might have life, and have it abundantly!” Sometimes I wonder if my life could have more meaning…I have hope—hope for the future…but day to day sometimes I’m clouded in apathy. Do you ever feel that way? Apathetic?  That is really a pathetic way for a Christian to feel. Jesus knows that I believe in Him…as it says in this scripture passage. He has known from the beginning of time who would believe in Him…and who wouldn’t. God has given us free will—the power to make our own choices. We can choose to be apathetic…or choose life…and live it abundantly. Fully for the Lord.  

RSVP: Jesus is calling us to choose life—spiritual life in Him. How will you respond to His call today?

Prayer~ Dear Jesus, I choose life—filled to the brim, overflowing with Your love and grace. May You fill me with Your Holy Spirit and cast out any apathy I may feel, for life filled with You should be filled with joy—not apathy.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

 

Friday, February 21, 2014

Difficult Stuff

Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this said, "This is a difficult statement; who can listen to it?" But Jesus, conscious that His disciples grumbled at this, said to them, "Does this cause you to stumble?" John 6:60-61
Many among his disciples heard this and said, “This is tough teaching, too tough to swallow.” Jesus sensed that his disciples were having a hard time with this and said, “Does this throw you completely?"  John 6:60-61 NLT

Tough teaching. Jesus had been telling them about eternal life--but the Jews He was speaking to didn't want to accept what He had to say. Now His disciples were grumbling about His teaching, too. They just wanted to whine about how difficult they thought it was--too hard to understand. Still today some people see God's Message that way--too hard to understand. It is really too easy--too simple. A guy gave up his body and blood, dying on a cross for everyone's sin. That's right EVERYONE'S SIN. Not just the Israelites', the Catholic's, the Protestants', the Muslems', or Mormons'. Everyone's. Then after He died--He rose from the dead to proclaim eternal life and freedom from sin to everyone who believes in Him. What a profoundly awesome and yet simple message. Can you believe it? Can you embrace it? Don't stumble over it.
.
RSVP: Jesus is asking His followers if this teaching about His body and blood makes them stumble. Does it cause a spiritual hang-up in their life...or yours? Will you accept His invitation and thus share eternity with Him?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, once again I joyfully confess that I believe in You...and accept Your sacrifice for my life. Help me with my moments of unbelief--and weakness when it comes to telling others about You. You are worthy of everyone's belief in You---and a heaven crowded with adoring believers praising You and our Heavenly Father. Praise be to You now.

Friday's Feast at the Lord's Table
Valentine's Day may have passed, but there is always room in your heart and mouth for excellent chocolates.

Chocolate Truffles
16 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate, broken or chopped into pieces. Use a very good quality chocolate like Valrohna, Green & Black or Scharffen Berger for the best taste.
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup good quality unsweetened cocoa powder, like Ghirardelli, Valrhona or Scharffen Berger

Line a baking sheet with waxed paper and set aside.
Place chocolate in a food processor and pulse until chopped into small pieces.
Place cream in a small heavy saucepan over medium low heat until bubbles begin to appear around edges of pan and cream just begins to steam. Pour over chocolate in the food processor. Let stand for 10 minutes then blend until mixture is smooth.
Pour mixture into a shallow bowl. Cover and refrigerate until mixture is firm, about 3 hours.
Using a teaspoon, scoop out mixture and quickly form into balls. They don’t need to be perfectly round; in fact, they look better when they’re a bit rough. Place on prepared baking sheet. If truffles are very soft, refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Place cocoa powder in a shallow bowl. Roll truffles in cocoa powder to coat.
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy as you serve these at room temperature.
Makes 2 dozen.
Adapted from a Viking Cruise recipe.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Thursday, February 20, 2014

Body and Blood?

Jesus said to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in yourselves. He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. For My flesh is true food, and My blood is true drink. He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him. As the living Father sent Me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats Me, he also will live because of Me. This is the bread which came down out of heaven; not as the fathers ate and died; he who eats this bread will live forever." John 6:53-58

Truly, truly. Jesus is telling them the truth. He repeats what He just said in verse 35 and then in verses 47-51: He is the bread of life--the living bread--so alive that the bread is His flesh. That is pretty much "living" bread. A couple of years later He tells His disciples during their last Passover Meal together that the bread He was serving them was His body...and the cup was His blood (Luke 22:19-20). They were to remember Him when they ate together. This historical event is told by Paul to the Corinthian church...For I received from the Lord that which I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus in the night in which He was betrayed took bread; and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, "This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me." In the same way He took the cup also after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me." For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes. Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord. But a man must examine himself, and in so doing he is to eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For he who eats and drinks, eats and drinks judgment to himself if he does not judge the body rightly. 1 Corinthians 11:23-29. Consider in your heart what Jesus said to His disciples. Are you one of His disciples today? Are you spiritually partaking of His body and blood? Communion offers us physical elements of a spiritual connection with Christ. Partake in His body and blood--given for you by our righteous living Lord and Savior. Jesus Christ.

RSVP: Jesus is once again explaining about eternal life. Will you accept His invitation and share eternity with Him?

Prayer~ Lord God, Your plan for eternal life is so simple and yet so deeply intense that some people just can't seem to see the truth. Your truth. Jesus truly is the Savior--He is my Savior. I needed saving from my sin--and He was there--hanging on the cross for me. Shedding His body and blood for me. Thank you, Jesus--seems hardly enough. And yet we can't escape that Jesus has already done that for us...for me and for you. Died--giving up His body and shedding His blood...for me...and for you. 

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Wednesday, February 19, 2014

Living Bread

"Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread which comes down out of heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread that came down out of heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever; and the bread also which I will give for the life of the world is My flesh." John 6:47-51

Living Bread. Dying Bread. Which would you rather have? Some people are put off by Jesus saying that the bread of life is His flesh. Even the Jews argued about a man giving his flesh to eat. Jesus gave His life, literally, His flesh and blood, for us on the cross. He is offering His body to us as spiritual food--for though He is fully human, He is also fully spirit as the living God. It is necessary to have this spiritual part of Jesus, His body and blood, for us to have spiritual life. Ask Jesus for it if you want eternal life.

RSVP: Jesus is once again offering eternal life to those who believe in Him. His invitation is for eternity. Will you accept His invitation? If you have already responded personally to His invitation, will you share it with others?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, give us Your body and blood. Fill us with a deeper spiritual awareness and understanding of You and help us to reveal You to others.
 
© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

No One Has Seen God

Not that any man has seen the Father, except the One who is from God; He has seen the Father. John 6:46

No one has seen God the Father face to face. In the Old Testament there are a few occasions where people have been in the presence of God. Abraham saw the flaming torch of God when God made a covenant with Abram in Genesis 15.  Jacob wrestling with God (or Jesus) in Genesis 32:24-30; then there was Moses and the Burning Bush; Moses, Aaron, Nadab and Abihu with seventy elders of Israel beheld God and ate and drank in His presence near Mt. Sinai in Exodus 24:9-11; the children of Israel were lead by God as a cloud by day and pillar of fire by night through the desert in the Exodus; Judges 13:3-23 describes what Sampson's parents thought was God, but was actually an angel of God, when they were promised the birth of Sampson; and at least two visions of God are recorded in Isaiah 6:1 and Daniel 7:9. No one sees God since He is a spirit, John 1:18, John 4:24. Jesus was in Heaven with God the Father, before He came down to earth, so Jesus has seen God. In this verse in John 6:46 Jesus is telling the multitude after the feeding 5,000 men and us that He alone has seen God. He is from God. Read between the lines and He will tell you that He wants you to know His Father...and see His Father.

RSVP: Jesus is inviting us to see God the Father through Him. Can you read that between the lines? How will you respond to His invitation today?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, give us eyes to see our Heavenly Father as You have.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Monday, February 17, 2014

Listen Without Grumbling

Jesus answered and said to them, “Do not grumble among yourselves. No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up on the last day. It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught of God.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father, comes to Me." John 6:43-45

Just listen...don't grumble. Just like little kids the Pharisees were grumbling among themselves. Jesus told them not to grumble. And then He says everyone who has listened, they will learn from God the Father...and will be given eternal life. Are you listening and actually hearing what God the Father is saying? Are you learning from Him? That should be our greatest desire---to know more about Jesus and about God the Father. How do we do that you may ask? It is so simple...and yet since it will take our time...so it is difficult. At the end of several of His parables, Jesus said...He who has ears, let him hear. Matthew 13:9. Even the disciples didn't understand Jesus underlying message in some of the parables. So they asked Jesus to explain what He meant. In Matthew 13:13-17 He explains to the disciples why He was speaking in parables. Therefore I speak to them in parables; because while seeing they do not see, and while hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. In their case the prophecy of Isaiah is being fulfilled. You will keep on hearing, but will not understand; you will keep on seeing, but will not perceive; for the heart of this people has become dull, with their ears they scarcely hear, and they have closed their eyes, otherwise they would see with their eyes, hear with their ears, and understand with their heart and return, and I would heal them. But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. For truly I say to you that many prophets and righteous men desired to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it. Do you hear? Do you see?

RSVP: Jesus is inviting us to listen to God the Father. Do you have a teachable attitude? Are you listening and learning from God the Father? How will you respond to Jesus today...and to our Heavenly Father?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, take away my grumbling spirit and fill me anew with a desire to listen and learn.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Sunday, February 16, 2014

Bread of Life

Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen Me, and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. This is the will of Him who sent Me, that of all that He has given Me I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day." John 6:35-40

Jesus kept telling people...the disciples, other followers, the woman at the well, the Pharisees...that He was the bread of life and living water. But some people still didn't believe in Him. His promise--and the promise of His Father--to give eternal life to those who believe. What a promise! Can't pass it up.

RSVP: So are you listening? Did you hear Jesus' invitation to believe in Him? How will you respond to His invitation? If you have already responded to His invitation, will you share this invitation with others?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, I hear you calling...offering an invitation to not only people in Biblical times--but now, too. Help me to share Your invitation with others around me. I praise You for You are the living bread and water that gives eternal life--spiritual life.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Saturday, February 15, 2014

Walking on Water

Now when evening came, His disciples went down to the sea, and after getting into a boat, they started to cross the sea to Capernaum. It had already become dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. The sea began to be stirred up because a strong wind was blowing. Then, when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near to the boat; and they were frightened. But He said to them, "It is I; do not be afraid." So they were willing to receive Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going. John 6:16-21

Splish splash. The water must have been splashing against the sides of the boat as the disciples looked out and saw Jesus walking towards them. How can anyone walk on water? There is another story recorded of Jesus walking on the water and Peter goes out of the boat to meet Him--but Peter sinks into the water before he reaches Jesus. He said, “Come ahead.” Jumping out of the boat, Peter walked on the water to Jesus. But when he looked down at the waves churning beneath his feet, he lost his nerve and started to sink. He cried, “Master, save me!” Matthew 14:28-30 The Message. Would you have the courage that Peter had to climb out of the boat? What would it take for you to believe that deeply in the power of Jesus?

RSVP: Jesus is offering us the opportunity, an invitation, today not to be afraid--but to trust Him--to accept His power and what He can do in your life. How will you respond today to His invitation. 

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, some people joke about walking on water--but I believe it was no joke when You walked on the water. You are amazing and I praise you for who You are...my Lord and Savior, the Creator God and my friend. Please help me to share You with others that they would one day gather around Your Banquet Table and feast with you forever.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Friday, February 14, 2014

Food for 5,000

Jesus answered them and said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. "Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you, for on Him the Father, God, has set His seal." John 6:26-27

Some of those 5,000 men that were fed just wanted Jesus to continue to feed them so that they could be full. Lazy oafs. Only concerned about their rumbling stomachs. Jesus was talking about spiritual food--eternal food. Eternal life which He offers to every one who believes in Him.

RSVP: Just as Jesus offered food for eternal life to those who following Him 2000 years ago, He offers that same food to everyone one today. How will you respond to Jesus' invitation? 

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, I come to You today, hopeful and grateful for the Invitation to Your Table for eternity. 

Friday's Feast at the King's Table
Menu for Feeding 5,000 People
Start with five loaves of bread and two fish. Add Prayer. 
It actually takes an enormous amount of food to feed 5,000 people. Those "loaves" at Jesus meal may have been more like unleavened pita bread. So it would be say 10,000 pita breads or 1,000 times the following recipe. Hours worth of work--and Jesus did it all with a simple prayer.

Pita Bread
1 1/4 cups warm water (100 degrees to 110 degrees)
1 teaspoon active dry yeast
3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 tablespoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil, plus more for bowl

Pour water into the bowl of an electric mixer. Sprinkle yeast over water, and stir to dissolve. Use the paddle attachment to mix in 1 1/2 cups flour. Cover bowl; let sit in a warm place for about 1 1/2 hours, until dough has doubled in bulk.

Sprinkle salt over flour and yeast mixture, and add olive oil and remaining 1 1/2 cups flour. Mix on medium-low speed until dough is smooth and elastic, about 5 minutes. Transfer dough to a floured work surface, and knead about 10 turns, forming a ball. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, and cover with plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm place until dough has doubled in bulk, about 1 1/4 hours.

Heat oven to 450 degrees. Turn dough out onto a board, and cut in half. Cut each half into four pieces, and form each piece into a ball. Cover them loosely with a piece of plastic wrap to keep the dough from drying out. On a floured work surface, roll two balls into circles 7 inches in diameter and slightly less than 1/4 inch thick. Bake on an ungreased baking sheet until puffed and light brown, 6 to 8 minutes. Repeat, baking two pita breads at a time. Makes ten small pita breads.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Alone Again

So Jesus, perceiving that they were intending to come and take Him by force to make Him king, withdrew again to the mountain by Himself alone. John 6:15

Alone. Jesus felt the need to be alone. He liked to spend time just focusing on God the Father, to hear what He had to say--to get direction. But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray. Luke 5:16. He would slip away. Once He became so well known this must have been more difficult to do. It was by choice--specific determination that Jesus took time to pray--to meet alone with the Heavenly Father. That is our choice also...to meet--or not to meet--with the Heavenly Father and Jesus, the Son, every day--or as often as we choose.

RSVP: Jesus is inviting us to meet with Him...and with His Father, our Heavenly Father. How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, like You, I want to spend time alone with God. Sometimes what I want just doesn't happen since I allow other people or things to control my time. Help me to consider my options, moment by moment...that I would choose to serve You and to seek guidance from You. Alone.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Wednesday, February 12, 2014

Do You Have Food for 5,000 People?

...Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee (or Tiberias). A large crowd followed Him, because they saw the signs which He was performing on those who were sick. Then Jesus went up on the mountain, and there He sat down with His disciples. Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was near. Therefore Jesus, lifting up His eyes and seeing that a large crowd was coming to Him, said to Philip, "Where are we to buy bread, so that these may eat?" This He was saying to test him, for He Himself knew what He was intending to do. Philip answered Him, "Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, for everyone to receive a little." One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, said to Him, "There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are these for so many people?" Jesus said, "Have the people sit down." Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand. Jesus then took the loaves, and having given thanks, He distributed to those who were seated; likewise also of the fish as much as they wanted. When they were filled, He said to His disciples, "Gather up the leftover fragments so that nothing will be lost." So they gathered them up, and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves which were left over by those who had eaten. Therefore when the people saw the sign which He had performed, they said, "This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world." John 6:1-14

Five thousand men, plus the women and children that were with them. It may have been as many as 15,000 people. That is a lot of people. When was the last time you saw 15,000 people or even 5,000 people in the same place? Well, some of us saw the 82,500 people at the Super Bowl recently. That was a crowd, but no one offered them free food. October 5, 2013 a group of  top chefs offered a free lunch to 5,000 people in Edinburgh, Scotland. Several churches in Florida, North Carolina and Alabama have had projects to feed 5,000 people. If God cares about people--we should, too. The scripture tells us that the people were full--not just that they all had something, a little to eat. They were full. Satisfied. That's how you want people to treat you, right? So that is how we should treat others. Back to the Golden Rule. Treat others the same way you want them to treat you. Luke 6:31 That is a good rule to follow. Try to teach that to your children. Be their example. Can you feed 5,000 people?

RSVP: Is Jesus calling you to help feed 5000 people? How will you respond today?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, show me how I can serve others for You. How and where do I begin to feed 5,000?

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Tuesday, February 11, 2014

Hope?

Do not think that I will accuse you before the Father; the one who accuses you is Moses, in whom you have set your hope. For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me, for he wrote about Me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words? John 5:45-47

Who is your hope? Do you put your trust in Jesus--knowing that He will never leave you or forsake you? What does it mean to trust or have hope in someone? Jesus provides for us...Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7. He offers His protection, too...But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3. What more could we need?

RSVP: Jesus is offering each of us hope. Hope in Him. A bright future with Him...with His protection...with His provision. How will you respond to His offer?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, Thank You for offering such hope to me, my family, friends...and to everyone in the world...in all times and all places. You are truly a loving and giving God. I praise You with all of my heart, soul and mind.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Monday, February 10, 2014

Do Not Ignore Jesus

I do not receive glory from men; but I know you, that you do not have the love of God in yourselves. I have come in My Father's name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, you will receive him. How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God? John 5:41-44
I’m not interested in crowd approval. And do you know why? Because I know you and your crowds. I know that love, especially God’s love, is not on your working agenda. I came with the authority of my Father, and you either dismiss me or avoid me. If another came, acting self-important, you would welcome him with open arms. How do you expect to get anywhere with God when you spend all your time jockeying for position with each other, ranking your rivals and ignoring God? John 5:41-44 The Message

Don't be like the Pharisees to whom Jesus was speaking. Jesus said that they either "dismiss me or avoid me". Do you ever avoid interacting with Jesus? I think that when we put other things or people ahead of Jesus...we are avoiding Him. Jesus told us in Matthew 6:33...But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Of course in that passage He was talking about God providing food and clothes and everything we need if we seek His kingdom first--that we should pretty much focus our attention on Him and the way He wants us to live. Can we do that?

RSVP: Jesus is inviting us to focus our lives on Him...not on crowd approval...not giving in to peer pressure. He wants us to focus on Him...to seek Him first. How will you respond to His invitation today?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, thank you for bringing to my attention the importance of not ignoring You. Help me, my children, and grandchildren to focus our attention on You today...and every day. You are worthy of our attention.

For Patsy Jeske - My heartfelt condolences go out to my cousin Patsy on the passing of her brother, David Jeske. David was injured in an auto accident over 44 years ago and spent the rest of his life like a seven year old. You've been courageous in your care for him...may God now fill you with His love as you find a new normal in your life without David. Love and Blessings.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Sunday, February 9, 2014

Do You Search for Messiah?

And the Father who sent Me, He has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time nor seen His form. "You do not have His word abiding in you, for you do not believe Him whom He sent. "You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me; and you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life. John 5:37-40

Jesus was speaking to Jews, Pharisees in particular, who did not see or seek Him as Messiah. Do His words ring true in your life? Are you searching the Scriptures for eternal life? Remember that the Jews in Jesus' time only had the Old Testament. Hidden within the Old Testament are glimpses of prophesy and the truth revealed that the Son of God would come to save mankind from their sins...but Jesus was speaking to the Jews who were looking tfor a political savior, not a spiritual savior. Are you looking for a spiritual savior today?

RSVP: Jesus is offering us an invitation to listen to His words...to seek Him as our Savior. HOw will you respond to Him today?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, I hear You speaking to me and I give You my attention today--turning off the distractions, like TV, sports, novels, movies and games that I can focus on You. You are worthy of my time and attention.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Saturday, February 8, 2014

Living in His Will

I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. If I alone testify about Myself, My testimony is not true. There is another who testifies of Me, and I know that the testimony which He gives about Me is true. John 5:30-32

Jesus admits He can do nothing on His own initiative...very human. That's the way I feel, too. But I have an advantage...I can do all things through Him (Jesus Christ) who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13. All believers in Jesus have that advantage...we just have to ask for His help and strength.

Additionally this verse for today above tells us that Jesus humbly doesn't seek His own will...unlike most of us humans who just want to do what they want...to fulfill their own goals, dreams and desires. He had His Father's goals, dreams, and desires in mind with His every thought, word and action. Can we choose to do the same?

RSVP: Jesus is inviting us today to seek His Father's will for our lives. How will you respond to His invitation?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, show us Your Father's will for our lives. Help us to live to please Him and to honor You.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Friday, February 7, 2014

Don't Be Surprised

Don't be so surprised! Indeed, the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God's Son, and they will rise again. Those who have done good will rise to experience eternal life, and those who have continued in evil will rise to experience judgment. John 5:28-29 NLT
There are times when some people loves surprises...birthdays and holidays--or just special occasions when you get to see someone you haven't seen for a long time. But Jesus is saying don't be so surprised when people rise from the dead--literally come out of their graves and live again...or face eternal judgment--the fire pit of hell. We have a choice as to which it will be for us...eternal life or eternal death. I have chosen to believe in Jesus as my Savior and Redeemer--so I've chosen life. It's not a hard choice, but it isn't always an easy choice for some people. They don't feel worthy...they feel like they'd have to give up too much to follow Jesus...or they just wait too long. Jesus is telling us not to be surprised...that includes the timing. Earlier, after His baptism, Jesus said..."The time promised by God has come at last!" The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News! Mark 1:15 NLT. Jesus was indeed talking about those physically dead raising from their graves. There are other examples of this in scripture. Jesus raised His friend Lazareth from the dead as it is recorded in John 11:1-45. It is prophesied...Many of those whose bodies lie dead and buried will rise up, some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting disgrace. Daniel 12:2 NLT.  For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 1 Thessalonians 4:16 NASB. The dead will rise first. Perfect bodies from ashes and dust. What a sight that will be! 

RSVP: Jesus is offering us an invitation to avoid a surprise. Know what is going to happen to you--eternal life in a resurrected, restored body...or eternal judgment in a fiery pit. Your choice. How will your respond to Jesus' invitation?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, as it is written in Isaiah 26:19...Your dead will live; their corpses will rise. Those who lie in the dust, awake and shout for joy, for Your dew is as the dew of the dawn, and the earth will give birth to the departed spirits. I praise You Jesus, for Your gift of eternal life--with no surprises, no strings attached.

Friday's Feast at the King's Table
We had some wonderful seafood recently at an oceanside restaurant as the sun was setting. No surprise that it was a beautiful evening. One of the things on the menu which everyone tasted and enjoyed was the Garlic Corn Soup. I've adapted a couple of recipes to create my version of this tasty soup. Enjoy.

Garlic Corn Soup
4-5 ears corn
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 small onion or 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, grated
1-2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper
4 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, for garnish
Garlic oil (Over low heat, cook 1 head of garlic, pealed and smashed, in 1 cup olive oil for about 15 minutes. Cool to room temperature.) 
Roast the corn on a BBQ, in the husks, if possible, or roast at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. Cut the corn kernels from the cob; reserve all of the juice from the cob, as well as the cobs.
In a soup pot, melt the coconut oil and add the olive oil. Let the onions cook over low heat in the covered soup pot to sweat, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic in the last couple of minutes, then add the corn kernels except for the reserved kernals. Sweat for an additional 5 minutes. Add the thyme, season with salt and pepper and stir. Remove from the heat and allow to cool, reserve about 1/2 cup of the corn. Pour into a blender and blend until smooth. Add the stock, the reserved corn and cobs and simmer until the corn is tender, about 20 minutes.
Remove the cobs. Serve in individual bowls, garnising with chives and a swirl of garlic oil.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Thursday, February 6, 2014

The Time is Now

Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. "For just as the Father has life in Himself, even so He gave to the Son also to have life in Himself; and He gave Him authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man. John 5:25-27

The dead will hear. Those dead spiritually? Our God is a spiritual being...so it makes sense that Jesus was talking about those who are spiritually dead hearing His voice...hearing His words of life and come alive. Spiritually. There is such a spiritual dimension to our life. Have you seen some of the previews for current movies? Now there are some freaky spiritual forces at work. One movie that I am really looking forward to seeing the Noah's Ark movie, NOAH, that will come to theaters on March 28th. The people of Noah's time faced judgment for their evil ways--death by water. But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord (Genesis 6:8). What will it take for us to find grace in the eyes of the Lord? 

RSVP: Jesus is offering us an invitation to hear His voice. Will you open your ears and your heart to hear Him?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, I listen carefully to what You, for You speak peace to Your faithful people. Let us not return to foolish ways, as it says in Psalms 85:8 NLT.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

No Judgment for the Believer

Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life. John 5:24

Listen closely to what Jesus is saying in that verse above. What a promise! No judgment for the believer. I like that.  Judgment will lead to death--but believing in Jesus leads to eternal spiritual life in a wonderful place...Heaven.

RSVP: Jesus is offering everyone who hears and believes eternal life. Have you responded to His invitation? Are you willing to extend that invitation to others around you who may not have heard His invitation yet?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, just as You said...blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it. Luke 11:28. Help me, my children, and my grandchildren to listen to Your word and do what You say that we would not have to face judgment, but enjoy our eternal spiritual life with You. May we forever feast at Your banquet table.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Honor the Judge

For not even the Father judges anyone, but He has given all judgment to the Son, so that all will honor the Son even as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. John 5:22-23

Judgment. There are a lot of verses concerning judgment in both the Old and New Testaments. Here are a few.
  And Jesus said, "For judgment I came into this world, so that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may become blind. John 9:39
  And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment.... John 16:8
  For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment. James 2:13
  The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer. ... For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God? 1 Peter 4:7, 17
  But by His word the present heavens and earth are being reserved for fire, kept for the day of judgment and destruction of ungodly men. 2 Peter 3:7
  By this, love is perfected with us, so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment; because as He is, so also are we in this world. 1 John 4:17
  ...to execute judgment upon all, and to convict all the ungodly of all their ungodly deeds which they have done in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him. Jude 1:15
Everyone passes judgment on others, but the eternal spiritual judgment is pronounced by Christ Himself. We only have the choice of choosing Him and living to please Him...or not.

Honor. To give respect is to honor. Honor and judgment are linked in that when we honor God through Jesus Christ, we are honoring the Son, as the scripture of the day describes and we are ensuring that we will be judged as righteous by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. 

RSVP: Jesus will be the ultimate judge. How will you respond to honor Jesus today?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my rock and my Redeemer. (Psalms 19:14)

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Monday, February 3, 2014

Life or Death?

For this reason the Jews were persecuting Jesus, because He was doing these things on the Sabbath. But He answered them, "My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working." For this reason therefore the Jews were seeking all the more to kill Him, because He not only was breaking the Sabbath, but also was calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God. Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner. "For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will marvel. "For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son also gives life to whom He wishes. John 5:16-21

Jesus healed people when and where they were. It didn't matter what day of the week it was. The Jewish leaders were angry with Him for healing on the Sabbath. They had such strict legalistic rules. And to top it off, Jesus was saying that He was equal with God the Father. That really annoyed them. No one could be equal with God. Jesus wanted people to get excited about the power of God--but the Jewish leaders were not going to marvel at anything. They were going to use Jesus' power against Him...as they plotted to kill Him. Jesus was wanting to give life...eternal life. They were wanting to give death--but it was just a physical death.

RSVP: Jesus gives life to those He wants to. Would you like Him to give you life...abundant life?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God. Please continue to give eternal and abundant life to me, as well as my children, grandchildren, other family and friends.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Sunday, February 2, 2014

Stop Sinning?

Afterward Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, "Behold, you have become well; do not sin anymore, so that nothing worse happens to you." John 5:14 NASB
But afterward Jesus found him in the Temple and told him, "Now you are well; so stop sinning, or something even worse may happen to you." John 5:14 NLT

Jesus was talking to the man that He had healed at the Pool of Bethesda. He sought out the man and told him not to sin anymore. Was He inferring that the man's sin had made him sick...for thirty-eight years? Does our sin make us sick? Some people believe that--and it is likely that unforgiven sin can result in bitterness and cause tension in the body and thus result in illness. In the verse above Jesus said...stop sinning, or something even worse may happen to you. Is that motivating to you?  I think that I can't stop sinning without Jesus' help. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13 

RSVP: Jesus is telling us, just like the man by the pool, to stop sinning. How will you respond to Jesus today?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, please forgive me for my sin, as well as those of my children and my grandchildren, other family and friends. We trust You to take away our sins and to give us peace, joy and love in our lives on a daily basis...not just when we desperately seek You.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Saturday, February 1, 2014

Do You Want to Get Well?

Now there is in Jerusalem by the sheep gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew Bethesda, having five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of those who were sick, blind, lame, and withered, [waiting for the moving of the waters; for an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool and stirred up the water; whoever then first, after the stirring up of the water, stepped in was made well from whatever disease with which he was afflicted.] A man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he had already been a long time in that condition, He said to him, "Do you wish to get well?" The sick man answered Him, "Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I am coming, another steps down before me." Jesus said to him, "Get up, pick up your pallet and walk." Immediately the man became well, and picked up his pallet and began to walk. Now it was the Sabbath on that day. John 5:2-9

Do you want to get well? Silly question---who wouldn't want to get well? Sometimes we get so caught up in the whoa is me...that maybe we don't want to get well...or we don't take care of ourselves--so we get sick. This man was dependent on others to get him down to the Pool of Bethesda to get well--but no one would help him in time. Does that happen to us? Will you trust Jesus to just speak to you and heal you like He healed this man? Is it a physical or spiritual touch that you need?

RSVP: How will you respond to Jesus' invitation to day...do you want to get well? Will you believe in Him to help you?

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, I believe that You can heal me...You can help me. You have sent me to help others...and others to help me. Thank you for your plan...that while You are with us always, You send others to help us--and us to help others.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.
All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.