Banquet With The King

Sunday, May 17, 2026

Just Say the Word

Outer Darkness — Will you be there…gnashing your teeth?

When Jesus returned to Capernaum, a Roman officer came and pleaded with him, “Lord, my young servant lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain.” Jesus said, “I will come and heal him.” But the officer said, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed. I know this because I am under the authority of my superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers. I only need to say, ‘Go,’ and they go, or ‘Come,’ and they come. And if I say to my slaves, ‘Do this,’ they do it.” When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. Turning to those who were following him, he said, “I tell you the truth, I haven’t seen faith like this in all Israel! And I tell you this, that many Gentiles will come from all over the world—from east and west—and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven. But many Israelites—those for whom the Kingdom was prepared—will be thrown into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Then Jesus said to the Roman officer, “Go back home. Because you believed, it has happened.” And the young servant was healed that same hour. Matthew 8:5-13 (This is also recorded in Luke 7:1-10.)

Meditate. Read the passage three times.

Just say the word. This Roman officer believed that Jesus had the power to heal his servant at a distance—and He did. I love that Jesus was approached by a Gentile and He fulfilled the request of this individual. Jesus was Jewish and came to minister to the Jews—but since others heard of Him and believed, He ministered to them, too. Jesus also mentions the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven. Personally, I totally look forward to that time when we will sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at this great feast! Is my faith like that of this Roman officer?

I do believe that Jesus could and still can heal without actually touching the sick person. This soldier’s servant was paralyzed and in pain—that is sounds like a person with ALS—Amyotrophis Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig's disease. The body is slowly, or not so slowly, unable to move…paralyzed…and in excruciating pain. Jesus was certainly merciful to that young servant. Prayers aren’t always answered…but we can be assured that Jesus does hear them.

What can we learn about Jesus from this passage? He is compassionate, caring, attentive listener, powerful, healer, promise keeper, prophet, and councilor. Note that He was amazed by others, particularly by the faith of this Roman officer. He amazes us…but likewise He is amazed.

He tells us that those who have faith in Him will be feasting in the Kingdom of Heaven and those who choose not to believe will end up in the outer darkness, separated from Him for all eternity. Do you have faith like that Roman officer? Can you just trust Jesus to just say the word?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, thank you for fulfilling the request of this Roman officer and providing us with the knowledge of healing and of the coming feast in the Kingdom of Heaven. That will be such a wonderful event!

Verse of Salvation ~ Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned. Mark 16:16

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© 2026 Text, photos, and illustrations by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Saturday, May 16, 2026

Are you Amazed?

When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, he taught with real authority—quite unlike their teachers of religious law. Matthew 7:28-29

Meditate. Amazed.

View of the Sea of Galilee from the Church of the Beatitudes — Israel Site of the Sermon of the Mount

This ended Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. Considered all the teaching and encouraging messages that He gave. During that time it is very likely that He healed people, too. That was one of His missions—to heal sick.

And whatever their sickness or disease, or if they were demon possessed or epileptic or paralyzed—he healed them all. Matthew 4:24

He was compassionate to the masses. He cured them no matter what their disease. In His Sermon on the Mount, He was not only guiding them on how to live, but offering spiritual healing. There were thousands of people there listening to Him. No YouTube video recording or any social media sharing. People talked to each other and shared what they knew, saw, and heard about this great miracle worker. He drew quite a crowd.

What do we learn about Jesus from His Sermon on the Mount? He was generous with His wisdom—He didn’t just keep it for His inner circle of disciples, but freely taught everyone. It was recorded for us all throughout all time that the New Testament has been available. Jesus was compassionate, caring, loving, kind, insightful, generous, and believable. The list could go on and on. He is incredible.

I am amazed. Are you?

Prayer ~ Thank you, Jesus, for Your teaching and Your obedient sacrifice of Your human life for the sins of all mankind…even mine.

Verse of Salvation ~ If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

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Friday, May 15, 2026

Building Sand Castles or Rock Fortresses?

Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash. Matthew 7:24-27. (Also Luke 6:46-49)

Meditate. Think about sand and rocks.

Have you ever tried to build something on sand? How about a sand castle? The bedrock—the foundation of Jesus teaching was obedience. He was the ultimate example of obedience in that He obeyed the Heavenly Father by going to the cross to die for the sins of all mankind. Listen. Build your house—your life on that obedience. When the storms come—and there will be torrential rainstorms, high wind, extreme heat and cold—Jesus will be right there with you. You won't collapse. He has promised that He will never leave us or forsake us. We can count on Him. God the Father did.

Prayer ~ Thank you, Jesus, that You keep your promises. Help us to do the same. Lord Jesus, forgive my lazy attitude as I once again make improvements in my home for You in my heart—a home build on a solid rock. You are the rock of my salvation. I praise You and thank you for Your obedience to God the Father and your sacrifice on the cross for my sin.

Verse of Salvation ~ Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you. 1 Timothy 4:16

Friday's Feast at the King’s Table

Pomegranates are one of the seven healing foods of Israel. Did Jesus eat pomegranates? Since it was a common fruit in Israel then, as it is now, we can assume that Jesus ate it. It is best eaten fresh and raw. No need to cook it.. just peal and eat. You can add it to salads or even juice it for variety.
We note in the Old Testament that God brought the Israelites into the land of milk and honey—as He promised. Pomegranates were there to sustain His people.

So obey the commands of the LORD your God by walking in his ways and fearing him. For the LORD your God is bringing you into a good land of flowing streams and pools of water, with fountains and springs that gush out in the valleys and hills. It is a land of wheat and barley; of grapevines, fig trees, and pomegranates; of olive oil and honey. It is a land where food is plentiful and nothing is lacking. It is a land where iron is as common as stone, and copper is abundant in the hills. When you have eaten your fill, be sure to praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. Deuteronomy 8:6-10 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Enjoy a tasty pomegranate soon—crunch and munch on the tasty healthy seeds within this healing fruit.

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Thursday, May 14, 2026

How’s Your Heart Today?

Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless but are really vicious wolves. You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions. Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’ Matthew 7:15-23

Meditate. Read this passage three times and consider your heart as a tree with fruit.

This same message is recorded in the book of Luke.

Apple Blossoms
A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. A tree is identified by its fruit. Figs are never gathered from thornbushes, and grapes are not picked from bramble bushes. A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. What you say flows from what is in your heart. Luke 6:43-45

We often hear about the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I was surprised when I discovered that this is one fruit—not nine different fruits. It still amazes me. How can one fruit have so many qualities? Yet, it does. These are all good fruit—not bad, so that would indicate that the heart is good, producing good fruit. Jesus assumes us that the good heart—like the good tree—only produces good fruit. How’s your heart today?

Prayer ~ Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24

Verse of Salvation ~ I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ—for this will bring much glory and praise to God. Philippians 1:9-11

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Wednesday, May 13, 2026

What Road Are You On?

You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it. Matthew 7:13-14

Meditate. Read these verses three times and consider their significance in your life.

Jesus gave a lesson on this passage of scripture during the second year of His ministry of teaching and healing people. Imagine this huge crowd seated on the hillside by the Sea of Galilee, hanging onto every word. The gentle breeze cooling them as they pondered what He said and as they wondered about God’s Kingdom. Where was it? How could they get there?

Which path to choose?

To the right or the left...narrow or wide path?

Hiking at Candy Mountain, near Richland, Washington

Here are some words of wisdom penned by the Holy Spirit through Solomon.

My child, pay attention to what I say.
Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them, and healing to their whole body. Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech. Look straight ahead, and fix your eyes on what lies before you. Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Don’t get sidetracked; keep your feet from following evil. Proverbs 4:20-27

That is wise advise…Don’t get sidetracked. Keep focused. Are you searching for God’s Kingdom? Is the path you are following and the gate ahead narrow or is it like a wide highway? Are you encouraged by these words from Jesus?

Gate at the Garden of Gethsemane — Jerusalem, Israel

Prayer ~ Lord, I am persisting along that narrow pathway in Your Kingdom. Please continue to guide my steps along your straight route of righteousness.

Verse of Salvation ~ But giving thanks is a sacrifice that truly honors me. If you keep to my path, I will reveal to you the salvation of God. Psalm 50:23

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Tuesday, May 12, 2026

How Do Treat Others?

Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:12

Meditate.

This is considered to be “The Golden Rule.” Why golden, not purple, or royal, or ultimate? Does it sum up the Ten Commandments? Is it similar to Jesus’ teaching about loving God and loving others?

Do flowers talk to and respect each other? Do you?

How do you want to be treated by others? I want to be regarded with respect and love—not condescending—but true caring and understanding. I desire to take part in conversations in which I am listened to and contribute to an exchange of ideas, concerns, values, and humor—lots of laughter. Life is what we make it—so let’s make it good, happy, worthwhile, and productively giving, not always taking. Love and treat others the same way we love ourselves.

Love does no wrong to others, so love fulfills the requirements of God’s law. Romans 13:10
Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” James 2:8

Jesus was continuing to teach His followers there on the hillside above the Sea of Galilee. What can we learn from and about Him from this verse?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, You see my very soul, my action, my desires. Help me to think about, speak to, and treat others around me the way that You would in a way that honors our Heavenly Father, You, and the Holy Spirit. Thank You for being not just part of my life…but the very center—filling me with Your hopes and dreams.

Verse of Salvation ~ So prepare your minds for action and exercise self-control. Put all your hope in the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. 1 Peter 1:13

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Monday, May 11, 2026

Seeking Grace

The door…or gate will be opened.

This is the gate at the Church of the Beatitudes by the Sea of Galilee near Tabgha and Capernaum in Israel.

Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. You parents--if your children ask for a loaf of bread, do you give them a stone instead? Or if they ask for a fish, do you give them a snake? Of course not! So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him. Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:7-12

Meditate. Focus on God’s goodness and grace.

Just what is grace? Generally, it is defined as “unmerited favor.” We don’t deserve it, but God blesses us with it anyway. God is good that way. Faithful to keep His promises and give direction to those who seek His will in their life.

Ask. Receive. In an Old Testament application of these words, we find that God spoke to Solomon in a dream and offered to give him whatever he asks for. Solomon asked for wisdom, not riches. God richly blessed him with wisdom and riches. See 1 Kings 3:3-15. Have you had any significant or unusual dreams lately?

That night the LORD appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, “What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!” 1 Kings 3:5

There were other incidences of God fulfilling the desires of one’s heart. That is just what He longs to do, even as promised in the New Testament. The one thing He expects…and for which He asks is obedience.

And we will receive from him whatever we ask because we obey him and do the things that please him. 1 John 3:22

Seek and find. David gave that wise advice to his son, Solomon.

And Solomon, my son, learn to know the God of your ancestors intimately. Worship and serve him with your whole heart and a willing mind. For the LORD sees every heart and knows every plan and thought. If you seek him, you will find him. But if you forsake him, he will reject you forever. 1 Chronicles 28:9

Reading Revelation we see that Jesus Himself is standing at the door…of our heart…knocking and waiting for us to invite Him in. He is hoping to share a meal as a friend. Can you open the door of your heart and allow Jesus in?

Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. Revelation 3:20

Is Jesus your “friend” or do you want Him be?
We just celebrated Mother’s Day here in the US, so how would you assess your parenting? Are rocks or snakes good gifts for your kids? Would God give you those when you ask for real food? Can you apply that spiritually?

What do you think of these promises? What do we learn about Jesus today from this scripture? Ask. Seek. Knock.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I hear You knocking at the door of my heart, and I am seeking You with my whole being, mind, and soul—asking for forgiveness as I struggle with my attitude. Help me to be kind to others—as You were—and obedient, not just because You want that, but because it is part of my nature.

Verse of Salvation ~ Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Psalm 51:12

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Sunday, May 10, 2026

Pearls on Pigs?

Don’t waste what is holy on people who are unholy. Don’t throw your pearls to pigs! They will trample the pearls, then turn and attack you. Matthew 7:6

It is a comical vision—pigs wearing pearls. Swine were detestable to the Jews to whom Jesus was speaking. Moses had been given instruction on permissible and forbidden foods.

This little piggy by sweet Liberty. Where are your pearls?

… and the pig, for though it divides the hoof, thus making a split hoof, it does not chew cud, it is unclean to you. Leviticus 11:7.

The Jews still do not eat pork. Pigs can be mean animals. I raised a couple of pigs as a 4-H project when I was a teenager…they were cute when they were little and although they knew me and looked forward to seeing me bring them food every day, as they got older and bigger, they were a little intimidating. I certainly wouldn’t throw pearls to them…they only looked for food…and more food. Tasty grain and apples were their favorites. Nothing beautiful or sacred about that. We need to be careful about how we treat holy things. That would include our attitude and actions. Do you cast a bad attitude or seek out unholy places? Don’t let your attitude go to the dogs…or the pigs. Jesus is calling us to treat holy things in a holy way, including our own attitudes. How will you respond to Him today?

What do we learn about Jesus from this passage?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, help me to live up to Your holy standards…and to seek to please You in all my thoughts, words and actions.

Verse of Salvation ~ Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Cry out, “Save us, O God of our salvation! Gather and rescue us from among the nations, so we can thank your holy name and rejoice and praise you.” 1 Chronicles 16:34-35

Happy Mother’s Day

Blessings on you all as you wear your pearls and seek holiness.

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Saturday, May 9, 2026

Are You Kidding?

Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own? How can you think of saying to your friend, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye. Matthew 7:1-5 (Also Luke 6: 37-42.

Mediate. Think on these verses.

It’s just a speck—a little bitty sliver. Here. Let me get it out for you. Wait… I can’t see it very well. I’ve a log in my own eye. Just a chunk, not the whole branch. That speck and my chunk of wood are like sins. You’ve a little…and whoa..I’ve a lot. I’m trying not to judge you…but yours is pretty obvious. No one can look you in the eye with seeing your sin. I’ll just turn my head, so you won’t see my sin. It is horrible—but…yours! Oh, my. Sinful.

Jesus was still teaching His followers that they needed to get rid of the sin..that great log in their own eye—stop judging others. You’ll be judged the same way that you judge others. Get rid of your sin. How? Confess your sin and you will be forgiven.

But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. 1 John 1:9

Once the sin…that chunky log…is gone, you’ll be able to help your friend with that tiny little speck of sin in their life. With the log I’m my own eye gone, I can see clearly now. How’s your vision?

What do we learn about Jesus from these verses? Jesus wants us to not judge others…ultimately that is His responsibility. Don’t be a hypocrite. You’ve sin in your life…just like your friend, maybe even more. Get rid of your sin…by confessing it. Then you can help others deal with their problems—that speck in their eye.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, help me not to be a hypocrite—or just kidding others’ about their sin…while ignoring my own. Forgive me for being phony and discounting my own shortcomings in Your eyes. Thank You that You gave Your followers…and even everyone now…Your wise and judicious teachings.

Verse of Salvation ~ For the kind of sorrow God wants us to experience leads us away from sin and results in salvation. There’s no regret for that kind of sorrow. But worldly sorrow, which lacks repentance, results in spiritual death. 2 Corinthians 7:10

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Friday, May 8, 2026

No Worries — You Can Feast Today

That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life--whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? 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 6:25-34

No worries. Life is good. For me…that is because God is good. All the time. Thinking and planning ahead for what you will eat, drink, and wear is good resource management. If you know what you are going to eat and drink for the next week you can make one trip to the store and save yourself so much time and money. No waste…or at least less wastefulness with time and money, if you plan your meals and even your wardrobe ahead of time. Jesus was teaching His followers to NOT WORRY—but to just trust God. He will provide all you need. He provides for the bird…and flowers—so why wouldn’t He provide for you, His chosen creation? Paul, too, encourages the believers in Corinth to trust God. He provides.

For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 2 Corinthians 9:10

Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things will be added unto you. These are part of the lyrics to an old chorus from the 1970’s. These “things” include the food, drink, or. clothes…even shelter. God provides.
What do we learn from Jesus in this passage? Don’t worry about everyday life.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Figs are one of the seven healing foods of Israel.

I love figs and it wasn’t until I was an adult that I realized that figs come from more than Fig Newton packages. Fresh ripe ones are so good. I’m sure that Jesus mouth was watering too, when he anticipated eating a fresh fig. When you are hungry---look for food in season, then ask, give thanks, and receive. Jesus was God---yet He was man and experienced things like we do---hunger. He made the fig tree---yet He cursed it when there was no fruit. See Matthew 21:17-22. You may ask—was this a time of the year that figs were ripe for harvest? Good question.
Fig trees actually have fruit at two times during the year. The first crop of the year, called the breba crop comes in the spring about the time when the tree gets its leaves. The fruit is very soft, exceptionally sweet and is usually a delicacy eaten directly from the tree since it does not keep long. In the late summer or fall the common figs ripen on the tree and are harvested before they dry. The fruit has a uniquely sweet taste with a delightful crunchiness of the small seeds inside, which are actually the flower. The fig is the only fruit that has no waste, the skin as well as the flesh with the seeds are eaten. Medicinally figs are good for treatment of asthma, constipation, hemorrhoids, boils, and infections of the stomach, intestines and urinary tract. Additionally in Japan and Europe a chemical (benzaldehyde) found in figs has been found to be effective against cancer. With the highest mineral content of any common fruit, including, potassium, calcium, and iron, figs are exceptionally good for us. Watch for them in your local supermarket and enjoy them fresh.

Portions from Banquet With The King blog, April 19, 2017.

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

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

Thursday, May 7, 2026

Who is Your Master?

No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. Matthew 6:24

Meditate.

Who is your Master? Your Lord?

In this day and age, especially here in the United States, we consider ourselves free and independent. We don’t have anyone controlling us. Oh sure, we pay our taxes, mortgages, and hopefully debts, but we don’t bow down to anyone. We are not the property of anyone. As Christians, we “submit” to the authority of Jesus and we look to Him for guidance and direction in our lives. We call Him Lord, therefore, He can be our “Master.” Other religions have similar views. Is Buddha, Mohamed, Allah, Brahman, or even Zeus considered a “Master?”

Money. How does it control and influence our lives? Our desires—what we want in life—determines how we spend our money. Is it our Master? How much power do you give the wants/needs in your life? How much time do you devote to shopping on Amazon in comparison to how much time you spend reading your Bible? Ahhh. That is convicting! Just shopping…not even buying. It is so easy to put things in that basket and purchase them with the click of a key. Too easy. Whether it is Amazon, the Dollar Tree, Macy’s, or Walmart, it is way too easy to spend money on things we want—whether it is cash or credit. Is it your own power or the mighty dollar that is controlling you…and me? Jesus said in His Sermon on the Mount that people will love one “master” and hate the other. Do you agree? Do you experience this? Can you love God and money at the same time? Choose wisely.

Prayer~ Lord Jesus, be the LORD of my life…moment by moment throughout my day. It is Your day. I want You as my Lord and Master…not money. I give You my heart and my time…and all I have. It is Yours.

Verse of Salvation ~ But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, “The LORD is great!” As for me, since I am poor and needy, let the Lord keep me in his thoughts. You are my helper and my savior. O my God, do not delay. Psalm 40:16-17

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Wednesday, May 6, 2026

Is Your Light Shining?

Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. But when your eye is unhealthy, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! Matthew 6:22-23

Eye Self-Portrait by Amelia

Meditate.

Lamps provide light. Jesus told us that He is the light of the world.

But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world. John 9:5

Living without light can be a scary thing. Do you remember a time when you had to live without electricity even for a short time? Was it night time and you were without lights—scrambling to find a flashlight or some candles? Dark. Spooky. Frightening. Without electricity, usually it is surprisingly quiet, eerie. Then, do you hear sounds you can’t identify?

Jesus told the crowd gathered by Him that when they are spiritually healthy, their eyes are filled with light. To me that indicates no fear when Jesus is near. No fear—how comforting and strengthening is that?! The opposite—spiritual weakness results in darkness, fear. Have you noticed whether people’s eyes sparkle or not? Are they sparkling with love, humor, or mischievousness? Dull eyes may indicate an unhealthy state of mind. Darkness may dwell in their hearts.

We have a choice here. Believe in Jesus—He’s the light of the world. When a person believes, Jesus lives within and through them. His light will shine in them—in me and in you. Believe. Don’t believe. That is the choice. Choose light or darkness.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, let Your light of salvation, honor, and love shine brightly in my life.

Verse of Salvation ~ The LORD is my light and my salvation--so why should I be afraid? The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? Psalm 27:1

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

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

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Where is Your Treasure?

Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Matthew 6:19-21

Don’t store up old coins—for robbers to break in and steal.

Collect heavenly treasures instead.

Meditate.

Jesus continued His lengthy discourse near the Sea of Galilee. Text also in Luke.

Sell your possessions and give to those in need. This will store up treasure for you in heaven! And the purses of heaven never get old or develop holes. Your treasure will be safe; no thief can steal it and no moth can destroy it. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Luke 12:33-34

Later in His ministry I recall that Jesus was asked by a rich young man who kept the commandments, what more should he do to enter God’s kingdom. Jesus answered with this same response about selling your possessions and giving to those in need. Can you do that? Where are your treasures—in heaven or your bank safe deposit box?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, You are what I treasure most in life. Side by side and within my heart,You are with me always. I cannot sell or give You away. I can share You with others…as I am doing now.

Verse of Salvation ~ Though the LORD is very great and lives in heaven, he will make Jerusalem his home of justice and righteousness. In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the LORD will be your treasure. Isaiah 33:5-6

See February 10, 2018, Banquet With The King blog for other thoughts on Biblical “Treasures” that we can apply to our lives. https://kingstablefeast.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2018-02-14T03:00:00-08:00

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

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

Monday, May 4, 2026

When was Your Last Meal?

And when you fast, don’t make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. Matthew 6:16-18

Meditate. Focus on God…not food.

Jesus was continuing to encourage the Jews who were seated on the hillside near the Sea of Galilee. As Jews they knew some principals of fasting like when and where to fast. God had declared the Day of Atonement as a day of fasting.

Ten days later, on the tenth day of the same month, you must call another holy assembly. On that day, the Day of Atonement, the people must go without food and must do no ordinary work. Numbers 29:7

The Jews had historical examples of fasting. David fasted when his son was sick and dying as recorded in 2 Samual 12. He knew he had sinned against God, but was pleading with God to spare his son’s life. Another of their historical examples was Queen Esther who fasted to save the Jews from annihilation. Read about that in the book of Esther. People responded to Jonah’s message from God by fasting. Fasting was a tradition as noted in other books.

The people of Nineveh believed God’s message, and from the greatest to the least, they declared a fast and put on burlap to show their sorrow. Jonah 3:5

They were to ask this question of the prophets and the priests at the Temple of the LORD of Heaven’s Armies: “Should we continue to mourn and fast each summer on the anniversary of the Temple’s destruction, as we have done for so many years?” Zechariah 7:3

So I turned to the Lord God and pleaded with him in prayer and fasting. I also wore rough burlap and sprinkled myself with ashes. Daniel 9:3

This why the LORD says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Joel 2:12

Here we see the Pharisees confronting Jesus about fasting principles.

One day some people said to Jesus, “John the Baptist’s disciples fast and pray regularly, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees. Why are your disciples always eating and drinking?” Luke 5:33

His response is the classical answer we read in Matthew 6:16-18. Fasting is really an individual response to one humbling themselves before God. It can be done with a group of people, but no one needs to draw attention to themselves. Jesus provided good practical instruction in this passage that was good for people at that time and now.

Prayer ~ Thank You, Jesus, for teaching us to humble ourselves before You and our Heavenly Father as we seek Your will in some particular way. Be a blessing today in the life of those who are crying out to You and pleading for mercy. Reward them in Your grace with love.

Verse of Salvation ~ For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed. He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds. Titus 2:11-14

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

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

Sunday, May 3, 2026

Pray to the Lord

Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:9-15

Meditate reverently.

Teach your children and grandchildren to fold their hands in prayer.

During His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught His disciples and followers just how to pray. This is also sustinctly recorded in the book of Luke and books have been written on this subject, so I’ll just add a couple comments of my thoughts on this topic. Prayer to God is the backbone of communication and a relationship with Him. How?

Jesus said, “This is how you should pray: “Father, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. Give us each day the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. And don’t let us yield to temptation.” Luke 11:2-4 (NLT)

First, reverently and respectfully honor and acknowledge our Holy God. His will and Kingdom are important to Him and should be of utmost importance to each of Jesus’ followers…then and now. Jesus next point was to ask for a daily portion of food. As a kid, my sixth grade Sunday School teacher suggested that this was not just the three square meals we each hoped for, but spiritual food as well. Spiritual food. That was a new concept to me and has intrigued me ever since. Spiritual food. God’s word. It is importantly to “be fed” spiritually every day. Just like we need food physically, we need spiritual food daily. How’s it going with your spiritual diet these days?

Forgiveness is essential. Jesus advised His followers to forgive others and to ask for forgiveness. Can’t have one without the other. Similarly, the next part of the prayer model is to ask for protection against temptation and the devil. God is all powerful and we can trust Him to protect us. Just ask. That is the key: ask. Jesus mentioned and clarified this later.

Then Jesus told them, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith and don’t doubt, you can do things like this and much more. You can even say to this mountain, ‘May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ and it will happen. You can pray for anything, and if you have faith, you will receive it.” Matthew 21:21-22 (Underlined for emphasis.)

This simple plan, designed and provided by Jesus, can give your prayer life a boost and as you rely on the Lord, trusting Him. It surely will strengthen your relationship. Blessings.

Prayer ~ Dear Lord, Thank You for this practical lesson on praying. Help me to improve my prayer life and my relationship with you.

Verse of Salvation ~ But I keep praying to you, LORD, hoping this time you will show me favor. In your unfailing love, O God, answer my prayer with your sure salvation. Psalm 69:13 (NLT)

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

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