The Kingdom of God is Among You - Here Now

One day the Pharisees asked Jesus, "When will the Kingdom of God come?" Jesus replied, "The Kingdom of God can't be detected by visible signs. You won't be able to say, 'Here it is!' or 'It's over there!' For the Kingdom of God is already among you." Luke 17:20-21 

Last day of October. I’m sure there are some families out there that are wondering… When will the Kingdom of God come?...because they are so oppressed with domestic violence that only the thought of Jesus return offers them any hope. Domestic violence includes emotional as well as physical abuse, sexual assault and trafficking. The problem isn’t just here in the United States. It is prevalent around the world. This may be the last day of October and the end of the Domestic Violence Awareness campaign for 2017, but it is not the end of domestic violence. Please continue to pray and intervene for women and children around the world who are victims of domestic violence.

Shirley & Bob Woody

with Anne & Vicki 

Personally, I am still grieving for my sister and her two daughter, along with her new husband, who were murdered almost twenty-eight years ago by her ex-husband. The ultimate domestic violence—death. But they believed in Jesus as their Savior and God was with them. The Kingdom of God was already in them.

Do you believe that the Kingdom of God is already in you? Jesus has promised…

 - For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Romans 14:17

- Don't you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God.    1 Corinthians 6:9-10

Take a look at your own life…as I have looked at mine. Are we greedy…or thieves…or worship (follow) idols in even just little ways? We are not perfect—let’s not try to fool ourselves. Only Jesus was perfect. But we are forgiven…IF we ask for that. For those involved in abuse, I pray that the abuse will end—now—and that forgiveness and reconciliation will transform the lives of those involved. Transformed to know that they can have the Kingdom of God—now—within them when they believe in Jesus as their Savior. 

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, In Your mercy and love, touch the lives of those around the world involved in abuse. It may seem like a cultural element or habit, but abuse is disrespectful. There is no love there…and all love comes from You—so please protect those involved in abuse and intercede for those, especially the children. May Your love shine through those who love You and touch the lives of those who need Your love. The Kingdom of God is within us—we don’t need to look any further…or long for the future. It is here—now. You are with us and within us.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 19; Mark 10

© 2017 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

What Is Impossible For People Is Possible With God

Once a religious leader asked Jesus this question: "Good Teacher, what should I do to inherit eternal life?" 

"Why do you call me good?" Jesus asked him. "Only God is truly good. But to answer your question, you know the commandments: 'You must not commit adultery. You must not murder. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. Honor your father and mother.'" 

The man replied, "I've obeyed all these commandments since I was young." 

When Jesus heard his answer, he said, "There is still one thing you haven't done. Sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." 

But when the man heard this he became very sad, for he was very rich. 

When Jesus saw this, he said, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God! In fact, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!" 

Those who heard this said, "Then who in the world can be saved?"

He replied, "What is impossible for people is possible with God."            Luke 18:18-27 

What is impossible for people is possible with God. It is impossible to even keep the Commandments—like that rich religious leader claimed—without God’s help. At least that is what I think and have experienced. That is especially true if you follow Jesus’ teaching that to think something is the same as to do it. As a man or woman thinks in their heart, so they are—that is what they do. For deeper insight read Jesus Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5, especially considering verses 21-30.

Camel overlooking the Judean desert

Have you ever thought about a camel going through the eye of a needle? I laughed the first time I heard I heard that phrase—thinking of the eye in a sewing needle. I thought it impossible—unless it would be like a cartoon character—or now a computer generated scene. The “eye of the needle,” actually refers to a camel going through a very small opening or doorway in the wall surrounding an ancient city. The officials would close and lock the gate through which everyone normally entered. If someone arrived late in the evening when the main gate was locked then the man and his camel would have to bend way over, with the camel down on its knees to go through a very small doorway in the wall. That created a level of security for the walled city inhabitants. Security is safety. Safety is life. Even life for a rich person has to be secure…and have some sacrifices. We seek security in our homes, workplaces, and everywhere.  

What do you think? E-mail me (mhunacek@aol.com) or comment on this web page and let me know what you think about the rich having a harder time with salvation. “Who in the world can be saved?” and "What is impossible for people is possible with God."            

Prayer ~ Jesus, we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4:16. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Psalms 51:10. I know all things are possible with You.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 18

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Forgiveness or a Millstone?

Is there a millstone in your neighborhood or community?

Millstone - Historic park - Israel

One day Jesus said to his disciples, "There will always be temptations to sin, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting! It would be better to be thrown into the sea with a millstone hung around your neck than to cause one of these little ones to fall into sin. So watch yourselves! "If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive." Luke 17:1-4

 

Millstones aren't common now but in Jesus time millstones could be found in any agricultural village. Grains needed to be ground into flour--and at a mill large quantities could be done in a shorter time than a homemaker could do a small quantity for her family's supper. The millstone would grind the grain using a donkey or an ox to turn one stone against another. Now mills grind flour and put it on grocery shelves for millions of families. On a small scale at home we do the same thing with an electric grinder or even a high speed blender. Done in seconds! 

To have one of those millstones hung around one's neck would mean sure death in any body of water. But that is justice for a person who leads children astray--and causes or teaches them to sin. That goes for today, as well as two thousand years ago. 

Repentance and Forgiveness as key to many of Jesus' teaching. Both are associated with obedience--another key teaching. Jesus was the ultimate example of obedience. He went to the cross willingly as a substitute--a sacrifial substitute--for our sin. For that we need to repent and ask for forgiveness. We must forgive others as Jesus forgave us. 

Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven.  Luke 6:37 (KJV)

Are you forgiving those who have offended you?

Prayer ~ Lord God--forgive me as I have forgiven others. Thank you for forgiving me for the mistakes, bad attitudes and just plain sin shrouded in disobedience.

Daily Bible Reading: John 11

 

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Build Me a Bigger Barn

Then he (Jesus) told them a story: "A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. He said to himself, 'What should I do? I don't have room for all my crops.' Then he said, 'I know! I'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I'll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. And I'll sit back and say to myself, "My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry." 

Building a bigger barn....

But God said to him, 'You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?' Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God." Luke 12:16-21

 

Build bigger barns. That is the logical thing for this wealthy farmer to do. Store away his excess for the future. Isn't that what Joseph did for the pharaoh in Egypt? And isn't that what we do with our 401k accounts--store up for the future? Then we can lean back in our Lazy Boy recliners, watch Netflix, and have some popcorn. Eat, drink and be merry. Ahh the easy life. But wait--we've stored up treasures here on earth--what about heaven sent treasures? 

Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go [and] sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come [and] follow me. Matthew 19:21 (KJV)

Jesus also said...

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. Matthew 6:20 (KJV)

What are you storing up in heaven? Relationships--with God the Father, with Jesus Christ, and with the Holy Spirit. Sweet relationships with other Christians. Good deeds, kind actions, pure motives, helpful initiatives, gentleness, self-control just as shown with the fruits of the Spirit. 

  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Galatians 5:22-23

So store up some kindness and goodness in heaven. Thosewill be a good reward here on earth, too. 

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, we praise you. Thank you for Your teaching about treasures and Your love for us. Looking forward to heaven...and treasures there with You.

Daily Bible Reading: John 11

 

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

 

Don’t Worry

Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, "That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life--whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. Look at the ravens. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for God feeds them. And you are far more valuable to him than any birds! Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? And if worry can't accomplish a little thing like that, what's the use of worrying over bigger things?" Luke 12:22-26

Don’t worry…life is about more than food and clothes. God cares about you…in the big and small things. He doesn’t promise to take away the pain or to provide you with a Mercedes Benz SUV and a mansion up on the hill here. But Jesus has promised us a home in heaven…a place in His Father’s house.

Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going. John 14:1-4

Again Jesus said…don’t get uptight and anxious. No troubles. Is that still hard for you to do? Sometimes I will admit it is for me. There just doesn’t seem to be enough hours in my day to accomplish all the things I want to do—and for me that is more frustrating than worrying about anything. I have enough food…too much some days. I could stand to lose twenty pounds. There is no point in worrying over that—it won’t add a single moment to my life. What would I do with that extra minute is my concern. Would I actually reach someone for Christ…and lead them to salvation in our Lord? That is the most important thing in life. We don’t have to wait to get to heaven…God will live with us NOW here wherever we are. Jesus taught His disciples…

All who love me will do what I say. My Father will love them, and we will come and make our home with each of them. John 14:23 

Home—a place of security, comfort, encouragement, and love. The home in our heart is where God lives…if we love Him. What an assurance. Do you love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength? Seek Him. Open your heart and life to Him. One more promise He has given us…

I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. John 14:27

No troubles, no fear, no worries. 

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Thank You for the peace that You offer so freely to each of us. I give You my worries and anxieties…and accept Your peace of mind and heart. What an awesome gift.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 14-15

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

For a worry free diet, eat like Jesus ate. His diet centered around foods of that Mediterranean area like fish, nuts, fruit, some honey, and whole grain breads. Make your desserts fresh fruits and nuts. 

While dining with a ruler, pay attention to what is put before you. If you are a big eater, put a knife to your throat; don't desire all the delicacies, for he might be trying to trick you. Proverbs 23:1-3

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Once Again…Be Ready

Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning, as though you were waiting for your master to return from the wedding feast. Then you will be ready to open the door and let him in the moment he arrives and knocks. The servants who are ready and waiting for his return will be rewarded. I tell you the truth, he himself will seat them, put on an apron, and serve them as they sit and eat! He may come in the middle of the night or just before dawn. But whenever he comes, he will reward the servants who are ready. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. Luke 12:35-40

Are you ready? 

The Hebrew people had a wedding custom in which the bridegroom had a supper with his friends—sort of a bachelor party—and then he went to the bride’s home to get her and returned to his house for a great banquet. Even if it was really late he expected his servants to be waiting for his return. This gives us the example that there is no room for laziness in the life of a believer who is waiting for Christ’s return. Be ready for that special time that Jesus has promised…His return. It may or may not happen in our lifetime…but we should “be ready” all the time. No slacking off…taking it easy. This is similar to the parable of the Ten Virgins who were waiting for the Bridegrooms return. They needed to keep their lamps lit and only five of them brought enough oil. When the unprepared young ladies returned from going to buy more oil, the door to the wedding feast was closed and they were refused entry. That is analogous to being refused entry into heaven. The lesson again…BE READY. Be ready all the time because we don’t know when Jesus, the Son of Man, will return. Only God knows when Christ will return. This scripture tells us that it will be when we least expect it. Be ready. 

            Wait for the Lord’s return eagerly—Philippians 3:20

            Crowns for all who look forward to Christ’s appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8

            Be patient as you wait for the Lord’s return. James 5:7-8

            Purify yourself. 1 John 3:3

            Keep watch—stay alert. Mark 13-32-33

            Practice faithfulness—Matthew 25:21, 23

            Preach the Word of God–2 Timothy 4:1-2

Are you ready?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I am eagerly waiting for Your return. Help me to see areas in my life that I need to improve so that I can please You in all that I think, say and do. I want to be ready for Your return and to encourage others to Be Ready, too.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 12-13

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Focused Attention

As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, "Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me." But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:38-42

Martha was distracted. Have you ever been distracted so that you were focusing on something about

A Big Meal - Martha Style

Engedi, Israel

which no one else seemed to show concern? Mary was interested in only one thing—Jesus’ teaching. Martha was preparing a big meal—and she felt she needed help. She felt it was unfair for her to do all the work. Details…details…details. Don’t lose your cool, Martha. Mary has chosen well. If Martha chose a simpler meal she would have spent less time in the kitchen…and more time at the Lord’s feet. When you have dinner guests…what is on the menu? An elaborate meal? Or a simple meal so that you can spend more time with your guests? If Jesus were your guest, would you keep it simple so you can spend time with Him?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Help me to keep my life…even my meals…simple and focused on the important thing in life—You. You advised Martha: keep it simple. Mary focused on the one thing that was worthy of her attention. You.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 10

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Even Jesus Got Tired

So he (Jesus) left Judea and returned to Galilee. He had to go through Samaria on the way. Eventually he came to the Samaritan village of Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob's well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. John 4:3-6 

Do you ever just get tired...bone tired? Somehow I find it comforting that Jesus got tired out, too. He was human like us. Sometimes I just get so tired that I just want to rest no matter what the time of day even if I have not just finished a long walk. It is just about 85 miles from Jerusalem, in Judea, to Capernaum, in Galilee. That is several days walking journey along a hot and dusty path. It was no wonder that He stopped by Jacob’s well to rest, hoping to get refreshed by some cool water drawn from that well while His disciples went on into Sychar to get some fresh food supplies. He wasn’t carrying the money for the group—so He took the opportunity to rest a bit. I imagine there was a tree with shade where He could sit and lean back…gather His thoughts, and maybe pray to His Father for a few minutes. That would be refreshing in itself. There were always so many people around—pressing Him for answers, healing and guidance. No one was at the well except for a lonely Samaritan woman. Was she tired and thirsty, too? Definitely thirsty or she wouldn’t have come to the well in the heat of the day. Jesus asked her for a drink of water—and ended up offering her water—the living water of eternal life. He was always giving. Giving healing to the bodies of the sick, physically and spiritually. Did Jesus get rest as He waited for His disciples and lunch? He certainly gave rest to the weary and lonely woman at that well. Does He give you rest? Learn from Him…and find rest for your soul…that might just give you rest for your body, too.

Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light." Matthew 11:28-30  

Prayer ~ Jesus, I come to You seeking rest for my body and my soul. Thank you that You refresh me and come alongside carrying my burden with me. There is no one with whom I’d rather be yoked. 

Daily Bible Reading: John 9-10

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

The Message Comes From God

Then, midway through the festival (Feast of Tabernacles or Booths), Jesus went up to the Temple and began to teach. The people were surprised when they heard him. "How does he know so much when he hasn't been trained?" they asked. So Jesus told them, "My message is not my own; it comes from God who sent me. Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether my teaching is from God or is merely my own. Those who speak for themselves want glory only for themselves, but a person who seeks to honor the one who sent him speaks truth, not lies. John 7:14-18 

Can you make your way to the Temple?

This is a model in Jerusalem.

Imagine the glory of the real one.

We just had the Feast of Tabernacles—and during Jesus time it was a Feast that Jewish men were required to go to the Temple in Jerusalem. There Jesus spoke for His Father…our Father. He was teaching in the Temple. What do you suppose He was teaching? It must have been inspiring since the people were surprised and acknowledged that He knew so much. Jesus goes on to say that those who do God’s will discern whether His teaching is from God or His own. Do God’s 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 

Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:2

So are you striving to do God’s will? Are you seeking to honor God—speaking the truth? Or do you speak for yourself? 

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus…People thought You weren’t educated. Little did they know that You are the source of knowledge…You are the way the truth and the life. The Truth. I’ll cling to that…to You.

Daily Bible Reading: John 7-8

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Gather Together--Jesus Christ is With You

Jesus said…"I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them." Matthew 18:19-20  

Jesus promised…He is with us when two or more are gathered together. Gather together…and pray. He has promised to not abandon us. He is with us…ahead of us, with us, behind us…always.

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you." Deuteronomy 31:8 (& Hebrews 13:5)

Don’t be afraid. Fear is a powerful emotion.

Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28 

 No Fear. Obey God.

He won't bite you like this little alligator.

The soul is the important thing…. It is forever. For everyone. As the Hebrew people were taught by Moses after God gave them the Ten Commandments….

These are the commands, decrees, and regulations that the LORD your God commanded me to teach you. You must obey them in the land you are about to enter and occupy, and you and your children and grandchildren must fear the LORD your God as long as you live. If you obey all his decrees and commands, you will enjoy a long life. Listen closely, Israel, and be careful to obey. Then all will go well with you, and you will have many children in the land flowing with milk and honey, just as the LORD, the God of your ancestors, promised you. Listen, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD alone. And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Deuteronomy 6:1-7

Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning. 2 John 1:6

Love God…love others. Give God the respect and love He deserves. To fear God is to respect Him.

Sound the alarm in Jerusalem! Raise the battle cry on my holy mountain! Let everyone tremble in fear because the day of the LORD is upon us. Joel 2:1

Prayer ~ Lord God, I love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. Help me to follow Your commandments and to love those around me…as I love You and myself.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 18

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Help Me Overcome My Unbelief

One of the men in the crowd spoke up and said, "Teacher, I brought my son so you could heal him. He is possessed by an evil spirit that won't let him talk. And whenever this spirit seizes him, it throws him violently to the ground. Then he foams at the mouth and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid. So I asked your disciples to cast out the evil spirit, but they couldn't do it." 

Jesus said to them, "You faithless people! How long must I be with you? How long must I put up with you? Bring the boy to me." So they brought the boy. But when the evil spirit saw Jesus, it threw the child into a violent convulsion, and he fell to the ground, writhing and foaming at the mouth. "How long has this been happening?" Jesus asked the boy's father. 

He replied, "Since he was a little boy. The spirit often throws him into the fire or into water, trying to kill him. Have mercy on us and help us, if you can." 

"What do you mean, 'If I can'?" Jesus asked. "Anything is possible if a person believes." 

The father instantly cried out, "I do believe, but help me overcome my unbelief!" Mark 9:17-24 

Is this an evil spirit....or just a statue in Tel Aviv, Israel?

Take a look at this story. The boy was demon possessed—and the disciples couldn’t cast out that demon. They just didn’t have the faith. Faithless. But Jesus had the power beyond their faithlessness. The father of the boy had faith. Faith to believe that Jesus could heal his son…and He did! Faith. 

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1 NASB Faith is believing in things that we can’t see. Jesus reassuringly told that Dad and His disciples that… Anything is possible if a person believes. Anything! God is a BIG God…with Big Power…and able to answer BIG requests. IF…if…if. What if…? What if you believe? What is it you doubt that God can do? Believe. Jesus said…

The world's sin is that it refuses to believe in me. John 16:9 

Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, …. John 11:26

Then Jesus told him, "You believe because you have seen me. Blessed are those who believe without seeing me." John 20:29 

Like Paul, I am grateful that God has mercy on me.

But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:16 

I believe in Jesus. Will you…do you…believe in Him?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, like that father…help me...help someone with their unbelief.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 17; Mark 9

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Watch the Sky and Take Warning

One day the Pharisees and Sadducees came to test Jesus, demanding that he show them a miraculous sign from heaven to prove his authority. He replied, "You know the saying, 'Red sky at night means fair weather tomorrow; red sky in the morning means foul weather all day.' You know how to interpret the weather signs in the sky, but you don't know how to interpret the signs of the times! Only an evil, adulterous generation would demand a miraculous sign, but the only sign I will give them is the sign of the prophet Jonah." Then Jesus left them and went away. Matthew 16:1-4 

Red sky in the morning…sailors take warning.

Red sky at night…sailors delight.

Anyone can watch the sky…and predict the weather. Sunrise yesterday was beautiful…one friend called it stupendous! To me it is like God is warning up with dramatic clouds to practice for the Rapture. That will be an awesome day. The clouds were dramatic at sunrise, but when they hung around all day it got a bit dreary and then rainy. We need the rain—so I won’t complain. It was raining at sunset so there wasn’t enough light for the clouds to interact and get colorful. No red sky tonight.

The Pharisees were trying to test Jesus. Demanding a sign from Jesus—what did they want? Some lightening…stars falling…or how about some fire and brimstone? What kind of sign did Jonah provide? He refused to obey God and sailed away—only to be cast overboard and swallowed by a great fish. Being in that fish for three days has been suggested to represent the three days that Jesus was in the grave before His resurrection. Would the Pharisees ever give up and just believe in Him? We know the “rest of the story” and they were relentless to the end…to the cross.

Do you need a “sign” from Jesus to believe in Him?

Prayer ~ Jesus, like Jonah You were in the depths for three days. I don’t need another sign…I just pray that You will come quickly…and that more Jews would have their eyes and hearts opened to believe in You as their Messiah.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 16; Mark 8

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

It is soup weather again—and time for a combination of my favorites…fish tacos and soup.

Mick’s Taco Fish Soup

Ingredients for 8 servings:

8 corn tortillas, cut into 1/2 inch strips

Vegetable oil for frying

Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper and chili powder

2 pounds fish fillets, red snapper or cod is a good choice

¼ tsp cumin powder, or more if desired

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 limes, juiced, plus lime wedges for garnish

1 pablano chili (mild) or serrano chili (if you prefer-hot), chopped

3 cups vegetable broth seasoned with ½ tsp thyme, 2 bay leaves, and one clove chopped garlic

6 cups boiling water

1 green onion, sliced, for garnish

4 ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks, for garnish

2 ripe avocados, peeled and cut into chunks, for garnish

Cilantro leaves, for garnish

Directions:

Cut up the fish into pieces about 1” by 2”, sprinkle with cumin, cover with chopped chili pepper, drizzle with the lime juice and olive oil and set aside in the refrigerator to marinate about 15 minutes while you chop the green onion, tomato, and avocado. 

For the tortillas: Heat about 1/4-inch vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Cut the tortillas into 1/2-inch wide strips. Fry the tortilla strips in batches and drain them on paper towels; season with salt, pepper and chili powder while they are still hot. 

For the soup: Heat the broth, water and seasonings to boil and simmer until the meat and vegetable are in the bowls. Saute the marinated fish over medium heat for a few minutes, using the lime-oil marinate. Cook just until the fish are no longer raw, but not falling apart. Divide the fish equally into eight servings and place each in the bottom of a large soup bowl. Top with some onion, tomato, avocado, and cilantro leaves. Ladle in the hot broth and squeeze in a lime wedge. Top with tortilla strips. Serve and enjoy.

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

If It Was Easy…Everyone Would Be Doing It!

Jesus returned to the Sea of Galilee and climbed a hill and sat down. A vast crowd brought to him people who were lame, blind, crippled, those who couldn't speak, and many others. They laid them before Jesus, and he healed them all. The crowd was amazed! Those who hadn't been able to speak were talking, the crippled were made well, the lame were walking, and the blind could see again! And they praised the God of Israel. Matthew 15:29-31

Sea of Galilee

Jesus taught and He healed. In this passage He just couldn’t get away from people. They followed Him up a hillside overlooking the Sea of Galilee and they brought all their sick family, friends and neighbors along with them. Jesus’ healing reputation was growing by the day, amazing the crowds. They were praising the God of Israel. They recognized who had that power for healing. God. Those people couldn’t heal themselves…they needed God. If it was easy to heal, everyone would be doing it. 

Someone pointed out to me last night that if teaching and leading were easy…everyone would be doing it. Teaching a Bible Study or leading a discussion group is not easy…so not everyone is capable of doing it. I see teaching as a gift…a gift of the Holy Spirit.

Teaching. That was NOT a career I wanted to have. I considered being an elementary teacher until I was in the seventh grade as saw some kids put tacks on the teacher’s chair thinking it would be a real hoot to see him sit on those tacks. But he didn’t sit on them…another student knelt on his chair to ask him a question and she got a tack stuck in her knee. I knew then that I would NEVER be a public school teacher. I’ve discovered that teaching or facilitating a discussion group on a volunteer basis has its challenges, too. No tacks, but I think God is trying to teach me something with the groups I’ve been leading lately…and I’m ready for this lesson to be over. Dare I say that I know what persecution feels like—and a few weeks ago I said that most Christians today in American just don’t face persecution. We are part of the Body of Christ—so as one part suffers…we all suffer. We suffer with our brothers and sisters in the Middle Eastern countries. They face death—true martyrdom for their belief in Jesus as Lord and Savior. Are you prepared for martyrdom? Will you stand up for Jesus? If it was easy…everyone would be doing it. 

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. Have mercy on my Christian brothers and sisters around the world who have stood up for You. Give us grace and strength  to do the same if we are ever faced with that choice.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 15; Mark 7

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Bread for Your Life?

Jesus replied, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. But you haven't believed in me even though you have seen me. However, those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. For I have come down from heaven to do the will of God who sent me, not to do my own will. And this is the will of God, that I should not lose even one of all those he has given me, but that I should raise them up at the last day. 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 6:35-40  

Bread of Life 

Bread of Life. What does that mean? That which feeds life? Bread is representative of food—and is a basic component of many diets around the world. Life is that which is active, energetic, devoted to God and illuminating our existence. This is what Jesus is claiming—providing mankind with spiritual food to bring us into existence in a relationship with God. 

In the Lord’s Prayer we ask for bread...give us this day our daily bread. It was explained to me in sixth grade Sunday School class that this bread is spiritual bread…spiritual food. That was a great epiphany moment of my life. Then here Jesus is declaring Himself to be the bread of life. He is the spiritual component of all that we need every day. Think about that. Jesus says to come to Him and never be hungry again. Have you experienced spiritual hunger? Has there been a time when all you wanted to do is spend time reading God’s Word…digging deeper into the Bible for some truth? How about just understanding God’s will? He came to do the will of God who sent Him—not to do His own will. God’s will is… 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. Dig deep into God’s word and chew on that for a while. Know that as you seek God, you will find Him…and with that you’ll find understanding.

I love those who love me; and those who diligently seek me will find me. Proverbs 8:17 NASB

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; A good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever. Psalm 111:10 NASB

And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us understanding so that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life. 1 John 5:20 NASB

Are you seeking the Lord God with all your heart and mind? Are you receiving understanding—spiritual insight? Jesus promised that He is the bread of life. Continue to look for Him…for His wisdom and understanding and apply it to your life. 

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, I believe in You. I look forward to being raised up on the last day…and spending eternity with You. Open my eyes and heart to build a relationship with You with even stronger bonds…and may Your love flow in and through me as You give me spiritual insight. I praise You—for You are worthy of praise. Thank You for being my Lord and Savior. Come quickly Jesus.

Daily Bible Reading: John 6 

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Don’t Look Back

As they were walking along, someone said to Jesus, "I will follow you wherever you go." But Jesus replied, "Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head." He said to another person, "Come, follow me." The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." But Jesus told him, "Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead! Your duty is to go and preach about the Kingdom of God." Another said, "Yes, Lord, I will follow you, but first let me say good-bye to my family." But Jesus told him, "Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God." Luke 9:57-62 

A Desert Fox Home

When you are really tired, you just want to put your head down and stretch out on your bed and go to sleep. Don’t you think that Jesus wanted to do the same thing? But He had no home to go to of His own. He often went to Peter’s home in Capernaum—but as He explained in this passage, unlike a fox, He…the Son of Man…had no home—no bed of His own to lay His head down to sleep.

Others wanted to follow Jesus…but they had to take care of their parents or other loved ones. In this story the father of the follower wasn’t dead…so it might be awhile before he could bury him. He had a need to care for his family greater than his devotion to Jesus. Let the dead—those spiritually dead—bury their own dead. Are you among the spiritually dead…or the spiritually living?

But people who aren't spiritual can't receive these truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can't understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. 1 Corinthians 2:14

Do you consider yourself a “spiritual” person? Are you filled with the Holy Spirit? That is the spirituality that Paul is referring to here when he writes to the people in the church at Corinth. Spirituality may sound foolish still to people—but there are different types of spirituality out there. Be careful with which spirituality you get involved. If it is not the Holy Spirit that is teaching you, then it may likely be an evil spirit that is trying to fool you…to get your attention away from the true Spirit. As John wrote…Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. 1 John 4:1. 

Those who don’t have the Holy Spirit in them don’t understand God’s Word—His teachings, unless He reveals it to them. Where would we be without that?  I’m convinced that God reveals Himself to us…but not everyone sees. They are too caught up in their own world or just don’t consider themselves worthy enough to know God. God doesn’t see it that way. He wants a relationship with everyone. One of the most known verses in the Bible is John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” It doesn’t say that God loved only Americans or only Jews…or only…. It says God so loved THE WORLD.  But not everyone in the world responds to God’s love for them. Maybe they just haven’t heard it yet. I missed telling at least four or five people today that God loves them. May God have mercy on them—and send someone tomorrow to introduce them to Jesus if they don’t already know Him. When it comes to the end of the day…I look back and see where I missed opportunities. But God doesn’t want us to “look back.” But Jesus said to him, "No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62. Look ahead and be ready. As Peter wrote…sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence….1 Peter 3:15. Being ready is important. Remember…You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect. Luke 12:40. Be spiritual—seeking the Holy Spirit and be ready. Don’t look back…to the past you’ve left behind. 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help all my family, friends, and neighbors see how worthy they are of God’s love. We all are spiritual beings…created in God’s image to have a relationship with Him. He is holy—let us be holy, too. May we look ahead…not back…and be ready.

(Elaborated with insight from June 28, 2015)

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 14; Mark 6; Luke 9

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Can You Stand Up for Jesus?

Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows. Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven." Matthew 10:28-33

Can you stand up for Jesus? That is a real test. Your soul is the real prize here. It goes to eternity with you…and if you acknowledge Jesus publically here on earth…then He will proudly say—Hey, Abba Father, this is my friend___________.  And your soul—and you—will enter into eternity with Jesus. The souls of those without a positive response will be destined for a fiery furnace—an eternity without God. 

I acknowledge here and now that Jesus is my personal savior—He is my Lord of Lord, King of Kings. I asked Him to forgive my sin…and He has. I look forward to the day when I hear His voice say, "'Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let's celebrate together! Matthew 25:21. Celebrate! It will be that great Banquet With The King. The King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Is this a sparrow? God cares for it, too.

Do you feel that you are worth more to God than a flock of sparrows? You are. Acknowledge that within your heart—and pay homage to the Creator of the Universe, to your Savior, and your Lord. He will reward you with a heavenly home. Practice that acknowledgment before you have to do it with the threat of death looming over you. Don’t give into pressure to recognize someone as higher than Jesus. That form of persecution may be in your future. We don’t know just what is ahead for us—except that Jesus promised… Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven. What will be your response?

Prayer ~ Jesus, You are my Savior and I will forever praise You.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 10

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Don’t You Care

As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, "Let's cross to the other side of the lake." So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, "Teacher, don't you care that we're going to drown?" When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Silence! Be still!" Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, "Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?" The disciples were absolutely terrified. "Who is this man?" they asked each other. "Even the wind and waves obey him!" Mark 4:35-41

Ancient Boat salvaged from near the Sea of Galilee

Israel 

Imagine that you are out in a boat—big enough to hold several people—but not exactly a yacht. A storm comes up and the boat is tossed about rocking and lunging through the massive waves. To top it off, it is dark and scary—no lights except a weak oil lamp that is also rocking and tossing about. Is the wind going to blow out that lamp? You are scared. What if the boat is submerged by a great wave? You wouldn’t have been out in this storm except Jesus said to cross to the other side of the lake—better known as the Sea of Galilee. Now Jesus is sleeping through it all. He must have been really tired. The disciples ask don’t you care and Jesus responds… Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith? What would your response be? Faith? The disciples had never seen anyone calm a storm before this.

Are you afraid when you face storms in life? I sure am…but I know that I am not alone…Jesus is with me. I have faith that He has the power to overcome any scary problem or situation I may come up against. He gave the disciples a great lesson that day and they got another glimpse of Jesus and His power. He calmed the storm. God has promised us, as He told the Israelites through Moses before they crossed into the Promised Land…Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you." Deuteronomy 31:8.  What a great promise. Additionally, Jesus promised…And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. John 14:16. The Holy Spirit—that Advocate—is continually with us. God has got us covered. We are not alone. Do you intentionally seek the presence of Jesus…or the Holy Spirit…in your life on a daily basis?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, come close to each of us today…filling us with Your love and power—keeping discouragement and fear far from us.

Daily Bible Reading: Mark 4-5

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Tune Up Your Ears - Listen

Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand. His disciples came and asked him, "Why do you use parables when you talk to the people?" He replied, "You are permitted to understand the secrets of the Kingdom of Heaven, but others are not. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them. That is why I use these parables, For they look, but they don't really see. They hear, but they don't really listen or understand. This fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah that says, 'When you hear what I say, you will not understand. When you see what I do, you will not comprehend. For the hearts of these people are hardened, and their ears cannot hear, and they have closed their eyes—so their eyes cannot see, and their ears cannot hear, and their hearts cannot understand, and they cannot turn to me and let me heal them.' But blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear. I tell you the truth, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see, but they didn't see it. And they longed to hear what you hear, but they didn't hear it." Matthew 13:9-17

Will seeds grow among these rocks?

Are you listening? Are you seeing what the Lord is teaching? …blessed are your eyes, because they see; and your ears, because they hear…. How often do you listen to someone and not really hear what they are saying? Do you really hear what your spouse, children or grandchildren, friends or neighbors are saying? Are you so caught up in your own thoughts or chasing rabbits that you are looking right at someone and not listening to what they are saying? That’s what Jesus must have been experiencing. He spoke to people about things they knew about—sowing seeds among rocky and good soil, or stories about sheep and shepherds. Those were things that were part of their lives—their livelihood, but they still didn’t hear and make the analogy to what He was saying. Do we make that connection today and understand what Jesus is saying to us? Not many people today have anything to do with live animals—especially sheep. Oh, they may have a dog or cat—but not a lamb. Nor do many people really sow seeds—they get their plants starts from a local nursery—if they do garden. In my neighborhood only three of nine homes around us even have gardens. Everyone just goes to the grocery store for their food. How about spiritual food? How many people do you think really get into studying the Bible for themselves—not being spoon fed by a minister on Sunday morning? How about you? Are you spoon fed or are you digging into the word—searching for Biblical truths to apply to your life yourself? 

Prayer ~ Lord, open our eyes and ears to hear what you are saying and help us to not only understand the deep meaning of Your teachings, but to apply them to our lives. As You taught Your disciples from Isaiah 6, I ask that…our hearts not be hardened, and please let our ears hear, and our eyes be opened—so that we can understand, and turn to You and You can heal us. In Your mercy Lord—may we be attentive to Your every word.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 13; Luke 8

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.