Banquet With The King

Daily Devotional focusing on spiritual "food" at the King's Banquet Table. In 2024 this blog will explore verses to meditate on as we examine our "choices" daily, pursuing a deeper relationship with God as we grow in Christian maturity. This web page has had over 195,000 page views by people in over 133 different countries who are seeking God through His Word. God has promised if you seek Him, you will find Him. May you be blessed reading Banquet With The King.

Saturday, November 30, 2019

Are You Walking on the Highway to Holiness?

Meditate: Are you walking on the Highway to Holiness…the Highway to Heaven with God?

Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. 2 Corinthians 7:1

These promises…. Sometimes we have to look back at the previous verses to see just what Paul…or another author…was saying. What promises?

And what union can there be between God's temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said: "I will live in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people. Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. Don't touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you. And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty." 2 Corinthians 6:16-18

God has promised to be our Father—that we will be His sons and daughters. What a great promise! I can’t image anything greater. I feel so unworthy--but through His grace and His promises...I am loved. For Him to live and walk among us—what a privilege and a joy! All He wants for us to do is separate ourselves from unbelievers…at least that is what He was asking the church at Corinth to do. We can minister to non-believers, but not be a part of them…of their way of life…following their idols. There in Second Corinthians Seven, Paul is teaching that we should cleanse ourselves and work toward complete holiness out of respect for God. How are you doing with that? Are you called to Holiness? Isaiah gives a great picture of this Highway of Holiness.

Looking towards Mt. Carmel in Israel.
Read Isaiah 35

And a great road will go through that once deserted land. It will be named the Highway of Holiness. Evil-minded people will never travel on it. It will be only for those who walk in God's ways; fools will never walk there. Isaiah 35:8.

God shares His holiness with us…as we walk in obedience to Him as Paul did.

We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. We have depended on God's grace, not on our own human wisdom. That is how we have conducted ourselves before the world, and especially toward you. 2 Corinthians 1:12

Although the verse in Matthew below talks about seeking God’s righteousness…it applies to right living before God…in His holiness.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33

Seek God and His Kingdom first in your life. Good advice…and that came from Jesus Himself.

Prayer ~ Jesus, You told us to Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and You will give us everything we need. Matthew 6:33. I’m trusting You for that. Help others to see this promise…and seek You first in their lives. Show them how to get rid of idols…drugs and anger…and provide for them the basic things that they need in life. How do we help the destitute…the forgotten?

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 5-8

Happy Heavenly Birthday to Vicki Marie~

Only 25 Days Until Christmas

Unless otherwise indicated, all scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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Friday, November 29, 2019

Enjoy Your Grandchildren!

If you have grandchildren...meditate on this verse.

May you live to enjoy your grandchildren. May Israel have peace! Psalm 128:6.

As I’ve talked to friends I’ve realized that not everyone remembers their grandparents. Some just didn’t live that long. Even my youngest brother probably doesn’t have many memories of our paternal grandfather, although he remembers going to Grandad and Grandma’s house after kindergarten until Mom or Dad could pick him up. He was six when Grandad died. Our family lived only a couple of miles from those grandparents, but we really didn’t spend a lot of time together. We were too noisy…or at least I was too noisy. I went over to Grandad and Grandma’s house once a week after school and I as I got bigger I helped Grandma with gardening, weeding and cleaning projects. She always had something for me to do. I even painted the entire house outside one summer. I was slow—so it took me the entire summer. I was one of 16 grandchildren…so why was I painting the house alone? Eventually one of my brothers and Dad got involved—just to get the project done! I like to think that Grandma enjoyed having my help.

Early spring - wildflower Phlox on Candy Mountain

Enjoy your grandchildren. What do you like to do? One of my favorite times has been taking three of my grands on a wildflower adventure. We identified at least twenty different wildflowers while hiking on a nearby mountain. Actually although it is called “Candy Mountain” there are no trees so some people wouldn’t consider it much of a mountain. We only went partway up the mountain since I told Julia—who was barely three—we’ll only hike until you are halfway tired so we can make it back down to the car. She was a great trooper. Never complaining! It was a fun morning! I also love doing baking projects, creating crafts and painting with my grandchildren. They love to “play” the piano…and just play with puppets, cars and toys, too. And of course, they love to build Legos with Grandpa. Summertime is for the sandbox, digging in the dirt and climbing trees at my house—and then we can always head for the nearby park with swings and slides or go to the River for floating or kayaking. I hope that we’re creating wonderful memories for them. Alongside those are some special times of church activities and just attending church together…and always reading Bible stories. Yes. I enjoy all of my grandchildren. They bring joy to my life…and I have hope for their future. A future with a growing relationship with the Lord. That is what life is all about; relationships with others and with God and the peace that we feel because of those relationships.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, continue to work in the lives of my grandchildren—blessing them with a deeper knowledge, understanding and a desire to know You more. May You give each of my friends and neighbors a great relationship with their grandchildren…and with You. You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6) bringing us peace--Your peace.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 1-4

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Since Thanksgiving is over…and we are all looking forward to the next big holiday…Christmas…it is time to reevaluate our diet…or eating habits again. I’m trying out a few recipes to add to my routine repertoire—as we all have favorites that we repeat time and again. New favorites that are particularly healthy are good. I’m considering the Paleo Diet since I have found that my body is just healthier—less arthritis pain and more energy with a wheat-free or grain-free eating plan. I’m also reducing sugar, and restricting, if not totally eliminating, dairy products.

Still the most important part of my diet is water. Clean, clear water. It seems most refreshing when it is cold, but I have been reading from multiple sources than room or body temperature water is best--especially at the beginning of the day. Help your body flush out the toxins. Water--plain and pure--is best for that rather than any beverage, coffee or even herbal tea. So drink up. I am.

Do you take fresh clean water for granted? We just turn on the tap and there it is. What about people in areas where there is not fresh water? Some children can't even go to school because they have to spend their time carrying water from a well miles from their village. As you are considering year end giving think about families who don't have the luxury of fresh water in places like India, Pakistan and Thailand. World Vision and Global Gateway Network are reliable organizations to administer money for well drilling, literacy and homes for orphaned children. God provides so generously for us—so we can help others. Think of others as you sip some clean, clear water.

Only 26 Days Until Christmas

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Thursday, November 28, 2019

Be Thankful…and Peaceful

Meditate on Peace and Thankfulness today.

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. Colossians 3:15-16

Rule. What does that mean to you? With our democratic government and freedom here in the United States we don't have as strong a concept of kingship. Although we should show respect to our elected government officials, we don't bow down to a king. Does that make the idea of honoring Jesus as KING of KINGS in our heart more difficult? We all have the choice to make. Who is on the "throne" of your heart? Are we in charge...or is Jesus? Do we want to do things our way or the way that Jesus taught which is basically to love the Lord or God with all our heart…and to love our neighbor as ourselves? The choice is ours.

Here in the US it is our annual Day of THANKSGIVING. There are many passages of scripture that encourage us to be thankful.

- Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Colossians 4:2

- Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

1 1 Thessalonians 5:18

- Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. Hebrews 12:28

Budapest at night. Royal beauty—do you honor Christ as if He were in the in the palace--on the throne of your heart?

Worship God--respectfully. I think that includes letting Him rule in our hearts...and minds. Thankfully.

Prayer ~ Thank You Jesus...for life and Your love that permeates our hearts and minds. May all that we that we think, say and do bring glory and honor to You and to our Heavenly Father. Personally, today I am singing with a thankful heart.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 18-19

Only 27 Days Until Christmas

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Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Pray for peace in Jerusalem.

Meditate on God’s Word today:

Pray for peace in Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper. O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls and prosperity in your palaces. For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, "May you have peace." For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem. Psalm 122:6-9

Peace. There are 361 verses on peace in the New Living Translation. That is almost enough for a verse a day of just peace! Peace…harmony, reconciliation, calm, goodwill, quiet, stillness, tranquility, contentment or serenity. It is a state of mind that is not stressed. Or can you feel peace even when stressed? If Jesus is in control of your life…then there will be peace. Breath in—breath out. Life in…stress out. Let go of it and let God rule. Yes. That does bring peace.

But peace in itself can be an elusive thing. We can’t have peace just for the sake of peace. Even Jesus didn’t claim that He came to give peace.

Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! Luke 12:51

Jesus came to stir things up. God doesn’t want us to love our family or friends more than we love Him. He has declared that He is a jealous god. We must take up our cross and follow Jesus (Matthew 10:38) not following our own goals and desires—but giving up what we want to follow Him and His ways. Can you do that?

As we’re getting ready to celebrate the Advent and Christmas season soon, remember the verse…

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Prince of Peace…that is Jesus. He brings that contentment into our lives and gives us a serenity—that we can choose to pass on to others. Peace is a wonderful gift to receive and one that is worth giving to others. How can we give that to others? Tell them about Jesus and let them experience His peace, love and joy for themselves. Seek His peace—seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. So family and friends—May you have peace.

As seen in a Jerusalem garden.

Prayer ~ Jesus, I trust you with each of my family, friends and all of Jerusalem today that You will touch their lives—healing, strengthening, and protecting them, as well as helping them to make good decisions and giving them Your peace.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 & 2 Thessalonians

Only 28 Days Until Christmas

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Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Are You Chasing the Wind?

Meditate on these verses.

Enjoy what you have rather than desiring what you don't have. Just dreaming about nice things is meaningless—like chasing the wind. Ecclesiastes 6:9 NLT

At this time when we are focusing on being thankful…and on what we are going to eat or do for Thanksgiving, it is good to consider our values. Are you “enjoying” what you already have in life or are you reaching for something you don’t have…something you desire? Day dreaming may seem like a summer vacation activity, but it can happen anytime of the year. Are you dreaming about some new fancy dress or an electronic gadget that you just gotta to have? Would those things really bring any meaning to your life? Are they things that you use once and then stick in the back of the closet or throw in a drawer and probably never use again?

I live in a very windy area. The wind blows frequently—and it gets dusty, since we have less than ten inches of rain a year. When I was growing up and lived on a farm with wide open spaces. In the summertime we used to try to run into the center of whirlwinds, sometimes called dust devils, to see if the air was really calm inside. We were just chasing the wind…and if we caught it, we’d end up all dusty and dirty. The whirlwind was nothing but dirt blowing in a circle. Ugh. We can’t see the wind, unless it is full of dust. We see it moving the leaves on the trees—and the clouds up in the sky. Birds can hover in the air just with the lift of the wind currents. We know that the wind is caused by changes in temperature over land and water as the heated air rises and the cooler air sinks down to the ground…and weathermen can predict which way the wind will blow…but it is a prediction. The wind still blows where it wants.

The Holy Spirit - Are you born of the Spirit?

The word “pneuma” is the same root word in the Greek for wind and spirit. Jesus was telling Nicodemus that like the wind the Spirit is a mystery. Is the Spirit a mystery to you…or to me? We know so much about the Holy Spirit…so much more than Nicodemus knew.

The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit." John 3:8

Are you chasing the wind? Do you know where it is blowing? What’s the point of chasing after the wind? Likewise, today, is dreaming about things we don’t need any different than chasing after the wind?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, give us wisdom to learn more about the Holy Spirit and help us to chase after that wisdom and understanding, not to desire things that are of no eternal value.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 17

Only 29 Days Until Christmas

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation

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Monday, November 25, 2019

Hold Your Tongue?

Meditate on these words today:

The bit in this horse's mouth gives control to the rider.

Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly. Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth.

And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! James 3:1-10

My tongue often gets me into trouble. I speak without thinking, voicing my opinion—maybe finishing others sentences without regard to what they're really meaning. Oops. Actually rude. Are my thoughts any more important or pertinent than others? Certainly not more creative, original or righteous than others. How does one "tame" their tongue? In the past I've struggled with some cussing. I grew up on a farm and had a friend who cussed like an old ranch hand—what a horrible habit for me to pick-up. At any rate it was still a struggle after I became a Christian and then I learned the concept of "renewing my mind." It wasn't just my tongue than needed to be controlled—my mind needed to be renewed—sort of like rebooting your computer. God was gracious—and did just that for me.

Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29.

Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. 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 12:1-2 NASB

This verse in the NLT says...Don't copy the behavior of this world.... Let your mind be transformed. Be like those transformer cars or even like ancient statues that reveal a different form or character. The mind controls the body...and with God's help...the heart will be respectful and respected. That could lead to a controlled tongue, and that is a beautiful thing—worthy of God's attention.

Prayer ~ Lord - give me grace to speak kindly to others...and to love them as I love myself. Tame my tongue. Transform my heart and my mind to be pleasing to you.

Daily Bible Reading: Galatians 4-6

Happy Birthday Andrew!

Only 30 Days Until Christmas

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation

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Sunday, November 24, 2019

What Can You Endure?

Meditate on this Scripture:

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

Endure. Consider how you feel when you have to wait in a long line or a slow traffic jam. I get anxious—even though scripture teaches that we should not be anxious.

Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. Philippians 4:6 NET

Patiently endure. When we recently visited Seattle and we're stuck in rush hour traffic—I was glad I was NOT driving. Somehow it is easier to "patiently endure" when I'm not in the driver’s seat. Can that be applied spiritually? Amazingly enough when I allow Jesus to be the "driver" of my life then I'm not so anxious. Yes. Realizing that is amazing. Jesus can be in control. It is our choice—choose Jesus—choose less anxiety. He gives us peace.

Endurance for those who love God seems to be of utmost importance. God has promised eternal life AND a crown...to those who love Him and patiently endure testing and temptation. That is difficult. Subconsciously we strive to be the Best...the first...at least I have found this for myself. I am, after all, a competitive person. Is this a test for me...to be less competitive? Yet..."I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13. All things...whether it means resisting temptation of eating a sweet I know I shouldn't have or going somewhere earthly temptation is strong. Flee from evil and evil appearances. God has promised not only eternal life, but a crown of life to those who love Him. Do you love God? Do you love God with all your heart soul mind and strength? Patiently endure testing and temptations.

Prayer ~ Lord teach me to patiently endure the trials and temptations before me.

Daily Bible Reading: Galatians 1-3

Happy Birthday, Marv

Only 31 Days Until Christmas

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Saturday, November 23, 2019

First Things First

Meditate on this familiar Scripture:

And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:28-34 (underlined for emphasis)

I recently experienced weird episode of possibly vertigo where I was so dizzy that the room was spinning. Very weird sensation. Although it was not life threatening it made me think about what is really important—and that is putting Christ first in my life, trusting Him and not worrying about anything. Life is in His timing…not mine. I felt like this was a testing of my faith. I was curled up on my couch—just thinking and waiting and hoping that the nausea wouldn’t get any worse. What was important? Where did this dizziness come from? I considered that it might have been food poisoning—but my husband had eaten the same foods and he was just fine.

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:2-4

WHEN your faith is tested your endurance has a chance to grow. Not IF your faith is tested...but WHEN. So be prepared. Your faith WILL be challenged or tested. It is like endurance is a seed planted in the ground...cared for by watering it...and providing food. Endurance if given a chance WILL grow to maturity. That's about the time we die...having become perfect and complete. Jesus was the only "perfect" individual. We can only attain His perfection when we go to live with Him forever in Heaven. I look forward to that day. For the time being...endure.

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:1-5 NASB

Rejoice and be thankful...with great joy...because your endurance is growing. God has found you worthy of His attention. This is the time of the year when most people focus on being thankful, but Scripture to tell us:

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 5:18

Can you do that? I am trying…even when the room is spinning around me.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Give us grace that we would express joy when we have trials, be continually thankful, and put You above everything in our lives.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 15-16

Only 32 Days Until Christmas

Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation

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Friday, November 22, 2019

Is God’s Promise to Israel also to You?

Meditate on these words today and accept the change that God can make in your life.

And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. Ezekiel 36:26

What a great promise! A new heart—tender, responsive. A new heart would be like Christ’s heart. Loving, compassionate, considerate. The new spirit will surely be an infilling of the Holy Spirit.

Read this text in context. God is talking about when He will bring His people back into the land of Israel. That is what has been happening for the last seventy years.

Therefore, give the people of Israel this message from the Sovereign LORD: I am bringing you back, but not because you deserve it. I am doing it to protect my holy name, on which you brought shame while you were scattered among the nations. I will show how holy my great name is--the name on which you brought shame among the nations. And when I reveal my holiness through you before their very eyes, says the Sovereign LORD, then the nations will know that I am the LORD. For I will gather you up from all the nations and bring you home again to your land. Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. Ezekiel 36:22-25.

This is exciting. We may all want “a new heart” and that promise is given to us as we ask, like David did…Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Psalm 51:10. This promise in Ezekiel is for the Israelites who have been scattered around the world. Now they are coming back to their homeland…back to the Promised Land of Israel…back to God. May He bless them as they turn their hearts towards Him. Will you turn your heart totally to God and return to Him along with the Jews?

A clean heart will renew our relationship with the Lord…and with others around us. What a great “gift” at the beginning of this Christmas season. Good relationships.

Prayer ~ Lord God, Bless Your people, Israel. We rejoice in their homecoming and the fulfilling of Your prophesy. They are Your people.

Daily Bible Reading: James

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Runzas In honor of Barry on his birthday!

For the dough:

1 1/4-ounce packet active dry yeast

3 tablespoons sugar, plus a pinch

4 large eggs

3¾ cups bread flour, plus extra for kneading and rolling

12 tablespoons (1½ sticks) salted butter, softened, plus more for the bowl

2 teaspoons fine sea salt

For the filling:

1 pound 85 to 90 percent lean ground beef

Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2-3 tablespoons olive oil

1 large sweet onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 teaspoons minced fresh thyme (or 1½ teaspoons dried)

1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary (or 1½ teaspoons dried)

8 ounces baby spinach or 2 cups finely chopped cabbage

Make the dough: Combine 3/4 cup warm water (approximately 110 degrees F), the yeast and a pinch of sugar in a large mixing bowl and let sit until foamy, about 10 minutes. Add 3 eggs, butter, 3 tablespoons sugar, and the salt whisk to combine. Add half of the bread flour and beat with a wooden spoon for about 3 minutes. Add the remaining the remaining flour and mix well. The dough will be a little sticky. Let rest 15 minutes. Knead the dough to develop the gluten until it feels tight and smooth, about 5 minutes. Transfer the dough to a lightly buttered bowl, cover and let it rise for 1 hour at room temperature. Then chill in the refrigerator, 1 to 2 hours or overnight. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into 8 or 16 even portions, depending on the size of runzas you want to make. Roll each one into a ball and leave on the counter, covered loosely, to warm up, about 30 minutes.

Make the filling: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef, season with ¾ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper and cook, breaking up the beef, until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a bowl. Heat the olive oil in the skilled and cook the onion over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until light golden brown, about 15 minutes. Add the garlic, thyme and rosemary and cook 3 minutes. Add the mixture to the bowl containing the beef. Without cleaning the skillet, add another 1 tablespoon olive oil. Saute the spinach or cabbage over medium high heat until wilted and the excess liquid has evaporated, about 1 minute. (You may just cook the spinach or cabbage in the microwave briefly.) Chop or snip the spinach with scissors, then add it to the beef mixture and set aside to cool. (The filling can be done a day ahead of time. Refrigerate until ready to use.)

Roll out the dough: Flatten a dough ball on a heavily floured surface and roll out into a 3-by-5-inch rectangle, or smaller if using 16 portions of dough. Fill the runzas: Spoon ½ cup (1/4 cup for smaller runzas) of the beef filling into the center of the dough rectangle and wrap the flaps over it, pinching to close. Flip the bundle over in your hands, gently forming the runza into a fat football shape. Set the runza seam-side down on a parchment lined baking sheet (or you can oil the sheet). Repeat with the remaining filling and dough balls. Let the runzas rise about an inch, uncovered, about 45 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Whisk the remaining egg and 2 tablespoons water to make an egg wash and brush it thinly over the tops of the runzas. Bake until golden brown, 25 minutes. Serve hot.

For a variation on the filling try minced steak, chopped mushrooms and Swiss, cheddar or Monterey jack cheeses.

Happy Birthday, Barry!

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Thursday, November 21, 2019

Don’t Worship People…Worship the True God

Mediate on this Scripture passage:

Now Herod was very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. So they sent a delegation to make peace with him because their cities were dependent upon Herod's country for food. The delegates won the support of Blastus, Herod's personal assistant, and an appointment with Herod was granted. When the day arrived, Herod put on his royal robes, sat on his throne, and made a speech to them. The people gave him a great ovation, shouting, "It's the voice of a god, not of a man!" Instantly, an angel of the Lord struck Herod with a sickness, because he accepted the people's worship instead of giving the glory to God. So he was consumed with worms and died. Meanwhile, the word of God continued to spread, and there were many new believers. Acts 12:20-24

Rest for a few minutes.
Consider who and how your worship.

Several times we read in scripture that Peter and Paul were "worshiped" by people—but the both vehemently denied that declaring that they were only human. Not Herod. Unlike Paul and Peter, Herod adored being worshiped—receiving the praise of men.

For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you not to think more highly of yourself than you ought to think, but to think with sober discernment, as God has distributed to each of you a measure of faith. Romans 12:3 (NET)

Think more highly of others than of yourself...that is like "love your neighbor as yourself." Such wisdom. If Herod had thought to please God...instead of seeking glory from men, then God may not have struck him with illness and worms. Ugh! We have similar choices to make. Please God or go for glory from other people? What will it be for you today?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, help us to make good choices today and choose to serve You with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 13-14

Only 34 Days Until Christmas

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Wednesday, November 20, 2019

No Favoritism

Meditate on these verses today:

…Peter replied, "I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel—that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all." Acts 10:34-36

For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. "There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God's one and only Son. John 3:16-18

Israeli flag flying over the Sea of Galilee
Pray for Israel.

God's plan from the beginning was to love everyone—that is the whole world—not just the Jews or not just those He created in the Garden of Eden...but everyone around the earth through all time and eternity. It turns out that that is an enormous number of people. He is a big God with enough love for everyone. As Luke recorded here in the book of Acts—God doesn't have favorites. We know He has His "chosen" people—the family of Abraham—the Jews—but He doesn't love the non-Jews any less. God gave the Jews knowledge so that through the ages knowledge and understanding of Him would survive. And yet the Jews have been probably the most persecuted of all people. Peter tells us here that the message of the Good News—that Jesus is the Messiah—the Christ—the Son of God—is to bring peace to the Jews. Since He has no favorites—may we all be blessed with His peace through His Son, Jesus Christ. Are you feeling blessed?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus—help us to do what is right in Your eyes--all that is kind and good. Shower us with that peace that passes all understanding. And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 (NET)

That is God's deep abiding peace. I am filled with thankfulness for Your love, joy and especially Your peace in my life. Glory be to the Father.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 11-12

For what are you thankful today?

Happy Birthday Blessings, Sylvia

Only 35 Days Until Christmas

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