Keeping and Teaching the Commandments

Whoever then breaks or does away with or relaxes one of the least [important] of these commandments and teaches men so shall be called least [important] in the kingdom of heaven, but he who practices them and teaches others to do so shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:19 Amplified  

On the night that He was betrayed and arrested Jesus had a long talk with His disciples. He told them to keep His commandments: If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. John 14:15.  If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love. John 15:10.  He was reminding them of what He had spoken of in His Sermon on the Mount. Keep these commandments and teach them to others. We are admonished to do the same thing as we read these passages. Jesus wasn’t just talking about keeping the Ten Commandments. He was talking about applying them in practical ways. Right after this statement, He goes on to share about “murder” that is just not killing one’s physical body, but “murdering” someone’s character with anger. Take a look at some of the verses in which Jesus discusses other commandments. Are these revolutionary approaches to the strict Ten Commandments that God gave to Moses? Are you “teaching” the commandments to others around you? You may not know that you are “teaching”—it is all in the way you live and speak. Our actions do speak louder than our words. What are you “saying” today to your family, friends and neighbors?  Practice and teach Jesus’ words to your family, friends and neighbors. Then you will be called “great” in Heaven. 

RSVP: Jesus is inviting you today to show your love for Him by keeping His Commandments. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, may my words, thoughts and actions be pleasing to You. Please show me ways that I may simply “teach” Your commandments to my family, whether they are here or far away.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

He Came to Fulfill the Law

Do not think that I have come to do away with or undo the Law or the Prophets; I have come not to do away with or undo but to complete and fulfill them.  For truly I tell you, until the sky and earth pass away and perish, not one smallest letter nor one little hook [identifying certain Hebrew letters] will pass from the Law until all things [it foreshadows] are accomplished. Matthew 5:17-18 Amplified

Jesus is pointing out that every Hebrew letter and every word in the Old Testament is important—and they will be fulfilled. Some prophesies have happened and some are still going to happen. The Messiah, Jesus, will return again. There will be a new heaven and a new earth (Isaiah 66:22, 2 Peter 3:13, Revelation 21:1). So every little mark counts…like dotting our i’s and crossing our t’s in English—and that may be very important in some cases or the “t” may look like an “l”.  Jesus birth (Isaiah 7:14 fulfilled in Matthew 1:23-25), death (2 Corinthians 5:21) and resurrection (Romans 1:4, 1 Peter 3:18) were predicted in the Old Testament and fulfilled in the New Testament. Check it out for yourself. 

RSVP:  Jesus is inviting you to investigate His Word, the Law, and how He fulfilled it. How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, reveal Your Son to me and in me that I might share Your love—the knowledge of His sacrifice—with others. It is with a heart of thanksgiving that I come before You, praising You and acknowledging that Your will be done—it will be accomplished, just as You planned.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Light in a Dingy World

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a peck measure, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your moral excellence and your praiseworthy, noble, and good deeds and recognize and honor and praise and glorify your Father Who is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 

As recorded in John, Jesus spoke to the scribes and Pharisees in the Temple, … saying, "I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life." John 8:12. Here He says that His followers, you and me, are the light of the world…and to let our light shine. The “light” is the same word translated from Greek in  these verses.

I think that this light that we have is merely a reflection of His light. In order for us to “shine” we must keep focused on Him, read His word daily, and be obedient…to Him and to the Father. In doing that we will honor, praise and glorify our Heavenly Father. Light shines through the darkness…and light illuminates our path, casting out doubts and fears. Just like He said…if we follow Jesus we will have the Light of life—eternal life. So don’t stumble around in the darkness…seek Jesus and you will find Him. Where should you look? Read the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the New Testament of the Bible. Then reading other New Testament books will be enhanced by an understanding of Jesus and His teachings. Examples of this, related to “light,” are found in Paul’s book to the church at Ephesus. …for you were formerly darkness, but now you are Light in the Lord; walk as children of Light ... But all things become visible when they are exposed by the light, for everything that becomes visible is light. Ephesians 5:8, 13. Are you reflecting Jesus’ light or are you in a shadowy darkness? 

RSVP:  The light shining from Jesus is bright, illuminating, inspiring and inviting. Are you reflecting His light? Does your light shine so that others are drawn to Jesus? How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ God said, "Light shall shine out of darkness…." Jesus You are the One who has shone in our hearts to give the Light of the knowledge of the glory of God. 2 Corinthians 4:6. I praise You and Thank You—for You shine brightly in this dingy world—where fear, depression and loneliness pervade life—even of some Christians. 

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Let your light shine! How about a bright, sassy lemon curd to spread on scones, cake, gingerbread or even on toast?  

Lemon Curd

6 whole eggs, beaten

2 cups granulated sugar

1 stick of butter (½ cup) cut up into tablespoon sections

¾ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Rind of 2 lemons, finely grated 

Use a double boiler. Mix the eggs, lemon juice, lemon rind and sugar, stirring until slightly thickened. Add the butter and stir over hot water until curd thickens. This will take about 25 minutes—just have patience and listen to some good music while you stir frequently. Immediately transfer to a bowl or individual glass jars (2-4). Cover and refrigerate until well chilled, about 8 hours. This will keep for weeks in the refrigerator.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Can Salt Loose Its Flavor? Can We?

You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste (its strength, its quality), how can its saltiness be restored? It is not good for anything any longer but to be thrown out and trodden underfoot by men. Matthew 5:13 

Salt is important…it preserves food, gives food flavor and in the Bible it stands for permanence and incorruption.

Every grain offering of yours, moreover, you shall season with salt, so that the salt of the covenant of your God shall not be lacking from your grain offering; with all your offerings you shall offer salt.                                                                                                        Leviticus 2:13

All the offerings of the holy gifts, which the sons of Israel offer to the LORD, I have given to you and your sons and your daughters with you, as a perpetual allotment. It is an everlasting covenant of salt before the LORD to you and your descendants with you.       Numbers 18:19  

Do you not know that the LORD God of Israel gave the rule over Israel forever to David and his sons by a covenant of salt?                                                                                    2 Chronicles 13:5 

Salt is good; but if the salt becomes unsalty, with what will you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.                                                            Mark 9:50 

So if we are the “salt of the earth” how should we give flavor—make life tasty—spread our joy, contentment, and encouragement in Christ with others?

Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.                                                                       Colossians 4:6

Jesus was telling the multitude of people listening to Him on that mountain that they needed to keep their flavor, their zeal for life. We are no different today. Do we want to be “trampled underfoot?” 

RSVP:   Jesus is inviting us today to know that we are to be salt—to give flavor, and to keep our enthusiasm for life in Him, not to lose our passion or zeal for life. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, may the words that I speak today offer encouragement and hope in You to others in a flavorful way. Please give me grace to treat others with kindness, goodness, gentleness, patience, peace, joy and love.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Persecuted Again…or Still?

Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous—with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of your outward conditions) are you when people revile you and persecute you and say all kinds of evil things against you falsely on My account.  Be glad and supremely joyful, for your reward in heaven is great (strong and intense), for in this same way people persecuted the prophets who were before you. Matthew 5:11-12 

Revile…insult, despise, or berate. We may not feel that we are persecuted…but Christians in the United States are certainly insulted, despised, condemned or reviled for their ideals, values or holy lifestyle. Some Christians may laugh at the television shows that portray “normal” families with gay lifestyles—but they wouldn’t choose to live that lifestyle themselves. Is the laughter or even watching such a sitcom an indication of acceptance of the gay lifestyle? What would Jesus do? Would He turn His back on the gay folks, or would He invite Himself to their home? Jesus ate with sinners like Matthew the tax collector, and Mary who had been demon possessed.  

People may say false or evil things about you if you let them know that you are a Christian—but Jesus has told us… But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven. Matthew 10:33. Take your stand. Stand up for Jesus…for your Christian values.  

RSVP:  Jesus is inviting you today to be glad if you are persecuted because of Him and to take a stand for your Christian values and faith. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, I will feel happy and blessed if I am persecuted because of You. You alone are worthy of my praise. As Peter said… "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right.” Acts 10:34-35 NIV. Please come along side of me and give me strength to stand secure in my Christian values and beliefs—to do what is right. Likewise help me not to inadvertently persecute or insult anyone else for their Christianity. 

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Persecution

Blessed and happy and enviably fortunate and spiritually prosperous (in the state in which the born-again child of God enjoys and finds satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of his outward conditions) are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake (for being and doing right), for theirs is the kingdom of heaven! Matthew 5:10 Amplified

 

Jesus told a parable about a sower casting seeds…using the soils to describe symbolically the hearts of those hearing about the Kingdom of Heaven. When persecution comes on some people, they respond as Jesus described…. The one on whom seed was sown on the rocky places, this is the man who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no firm root in himself, but is only temporary, and when affliction or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he falls away. Matthew 13:20-21. How do you react to persecution? When someone challenges your faith, your beliefs do you turn away? Here in the United States most people never experience real persecution—especially not like those in countries where Christians are executed for their faith. Therefore, brothers and sisters, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. For now we really live, since you are standing firm in the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 3:7-8 NIV.

 

Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? Romans 8:35.  

 

RSVP:  Jesus is inviting and challenging you to stand up for your faith, for your belief in Him as the Son of God, as your Savior. How will you respond to Him today?

 

Prayer ~ Jesus, we put on the full armor of God, so that we will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. Ephesians 6:11. Continue to guide and protect me, my family, friends and neighbors that we would live in a way that others know that we belong to You…and even in times of trial or persecution may we live each moment of each day in such a way as to bring You honor and glory.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

1. All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Joy for the Peace Makers

Blessed (enjoying enviable happiness, spiritually prosperous—with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they shall be called the sons of God! Matthew 5:9 Amplified 

Happy are the people who pursue peace for God esteems them as His own children. They are obedient to the Father’s will…and live in a way that brings calmness to themselves and others. Peace. Shalom. Contentment. Completeness. Harmony. Tranquility. It is a quality of the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Can we ever attain true peace? Peace with other nations, with other people, with ourselves? With God’s help, we can. And with that peace comes joy—deeply reverent happiness. True peace—true contentment. Need peace? Ask for it and you will receive it. Pray.

RSVP:  Jesus is inviting you to seek and find His peace—and to make peace with others. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, lead me into paths of righteousness, for Your name sake. May those paths guide me through the shadowy valleys—so that I may not fear death or be overcome by the trials of life—for there are always trials and tribulations. But bring to me, my family, friends, and neighbors peace. A sweet peace that can come only from You.  May You continue to give this sweet peace to friends…Mary W., Teri and Fred, and to others…P,G, and J.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Purity – A Clean Heart

Blessed (happy, enviably fortunate, and spiritually prosperous—possessing the happiness produced by the experience of God’s favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His grace, regardless of their outward conditions) are the pure in heart, for they shall see God! Matthew 5:8 Amplified 

Pure in heart—clean, sincere, or clear. That’s how we must be before God. He cannot have any sin or impurity in His presence, so we must be washed as white as snow. Come now, and let us reason together," Says the LORD, "Though your sins are as scarlet, They will be as white as snow; Though they are red like crimson, They will be like wool. Isaiah 1:18

Can we actually be pure before God? Can mankind be just before God? Can a man be pure before his Maker? Job 4:17. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9. Yes—we can be pure. As Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica…Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord direct our way to you; and may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you; so that He may establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints. 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13. May we be found holy and pure when Christ returns. Keep your account short—be prayed up daily.

RSVP:  Jesus, thank You for offering us purity. Hearts purified by Your sacrifice. How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, by the mercies of God, to present my bodies a living and holy sacrifice, may it be acceptable to God, as my spiritual service of worship. Romans 12:1.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Mercy--Mercy

Blessed (happy, to be envied, and spiritually prosperous—with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy! Matthew 5:7 Amplified 

Key word for the blessing today is merciful. God Himself is merciful—compassionate and showing kindness. The LORD is gracious and merciful; Slow to anger and great in lovingkindness. Psalms 145:8. We are advised by Jesus to be like God the Father. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. Luke 6:36. People over and over asked Jesus to have mercy on them…several blind men, the Canaanite woman, and the father of the demon possessed young man. Do you ever wish for someone to show you mercy…or has anyone asked you for mercy…for compassion? The merciful man does himself good, but the cruel man does himself harm. Proverbs 11:17. To show mercy and compassion is a good trait—admirable and even virtuous.  

RSVP:  Jesus is offering you mercy today. He has a generous supply—an eternal supply. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, just as Mary said to Elizabeth…and His mercy is upon generation after generation toward those who fear Him. Luke 1:50. May Your mercy be not only upon me, but also on my children and grandchildren—for we have a deep love and respect for You—You are our King, our Savior, our Creator, Comforter, and Friend. Thank You, Heavenly Father, for caring enough for us that in the Your  mercy You gave Your only Son that we could all live with You…one day—forever. I praise You.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Are You Hungry or Thirsty?

Blessed and fortunate and happy and spiritually prosperous (in that state in which the born-again child of God enjoys His favor and salvation) are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (uprightness and right standing with God), for they shall be completely satisfied! Matthew 5:6 Amplified

 

Seeking righteousness? But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things (what we should eat, drink and wear) shall be added to you. Matthew 6:33. Righteousness is right living—seeking to please God by the way you live, think and speak with integrity, virtue, and purity. Time, opportunity and choice. We all have each of those…time, opportunity and choice. We have to make our own choices in life. Do you choose to seek righteousness? The promise in this beatitude is a blessed and spiritually prosperous life for wanting to live right before God.           

RSVP:  Jesus is calling you to live a righteous, holy life before our Father God. How will you respond to Him today? Choose wisely.

Prayer ~ Jesus as I seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, bless those around me…my family, friends, and neighbors…with Your love, shown through me. Give me the courage to do and say the right things.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

More zucchini in the garden…what to do? Too hot to cook? How about a nice salad with zucchini. 

Chicken and Zucchini Salad

¼ cup olive oil

¼ cup lemon juice

Course sea salt

Fresh ground pepper

1½ pounds fresh zucchini, thinly sliced

3/4 pounds cooked roasted or sautéed chicken, thinly sliced

8 oz. fresh spinach, chopped

½ fresh red onion, thinly sliced

1 fresh nectarine or peach, chopped

¾ cup chopped pecans

¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled

¼ cup fresh mint, chopped

Marinate the zucchini for about ½ hour in a mixture of the olive oil and lemon juice, seasoned with salt and pepper to taste.  Cut up the chicken and onions, add to the marinated zucchini. Toss with the spinach, top with the fruit, pecans, feta cheese, and chopped mint.  Serve to four people and enjoy.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Who is Meek?

Blessed (happy, blithesome, joyous, spiritually prosperous—with life-joy and satisfaction in God’s favor and salvation, regardless of their outward conditions) are the meek (the mild, patient, long-suffering), for they shall inherit the earth! John 5:5 Amplified 

Jesus was teaching from Psalm 37:11, But the meek [in the end] shall inherit the earth and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. Amplified. So who are the “meek?” Vine’s Expository Dictionary gives a definition of those who are lowly, or humble. Strong’s Lexicon indicates the Biblical usage of meek to include lowly in spirit or to be brought low by grief or depressed. Depressed people are usually considered patient or long-suffering since they don’t appear to fight back when rejected or abused. Depression is an awful disease. Those suffering depression are the meek that deserve to be blessed with a deep life-joy and satisfaction that only God can give. To be meek is opposite of self-assertive, self-interest, or self-centered. True meekness or gentleness comes from trusting God, His goodness and His control over the situation. Meekness, or gentleness, is the result of the Holy Spirit working in someone’s life. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23. Is God working in your life, producing the fruit of gentleness, or meekness? If so the promise to you is to inherit land…the earth. 

RSVP:  Jesus is asking you today if you are meek and gentle, or are you self-centered and assertive? Which quality do you want in your personality? How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, give peace and mercy to those suffering with depression—as we all battle with it to some degree in our lives. May You bless them and help them to find the joy in their lives that is there…just hidden from their view.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

 

Blessed Mourning

Blessed and enviably happy [with a happiness produced by the experience of God’s favor and especially conditioned by the revelation of His matchless grace] are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted!   Matthew 5:4 Amplified 

Enviably happy. Pleasingly happy. Happy and mournful. Do those go together? Jesus thought so. A thought that Matthew Henry conveyed in his commentary is that those mourning were righteously mourning. Graciously mourning for the lost, compassionately mourning for the sins of others, or repentantly mourning for our own sins; it is a godly sorrow. To be blessed during sorrow is a gracious gift from God. It is comforting—to know God cares—to know that others care. The ultimate comfort will be the promises that God has given us in Isaiah and Revelation concerning the end of the age…and heaven. No tears and thus no mourning. That will be a blessed time. Eternity without tears.

-          He will swallow up death for all time, And the Lord GOD will wipe tears away from all faces, And He will remove the reproach of His people from all the earth; For the LORD has spoken. Isaiah 25:8.

-          And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, "Behold, the tabernacle of God is among men, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away." Revelation 21:3-4 

Sorrow is better than laughter, for when a face is sad a heart may be happy. Ecclesiastes 7:3

Let us rejoice and be glad for God cares for us. May our mourning be turned into joy—and our joy be evident even during our mourning. 

RSVP:  Jesus must have had times of mourning—besides what we have recorded at Lazarus’ death when He wept. His heart was probably broken over the loss of family and other friends—but probably more so over complete strangers who rejected Him—and thus rejected our Heavenly Father, too. How would you respond to seeing Jesus mourning over lost souls...over sin…over you?

Prayer ~ Jesus, it will be a joy in Heaven to have tears wiped away—no pain, no sorrow. What a wonderful plan and promise. It brings joy to my heart even now to know that You, our Heavenly Father, and the Holy Spirit care enough about me, my family and my friends to comfort us—to care about us eternally. And it is equally encouraging to know that You care about the lost and those who are mourning—just like You care for us and all those who You seek. And we thought that we were seeking You—but all along You were seeking us. Thank you for not giving up on us. Thank you for blessing us while we were mourning.

 

Please comfort our family and friends as they deal with life and death and other mournful situations. Draw them close to You--and give them Your deep abiding peace.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Are You Spiritually Needy?

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 5:3 

Jesus went about all Galilee teaching and healing. He became pretty well known and folks were following Him around—so He sat down on a hillside and taught this multitude of followers. We know this teaching as the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus wasn’t talking about salvation in this sermon, but about the right way to live. It begins with the Beatitudes. Blessed are…. This first one speaks about being spiritually poor, needy—seeking spiritual things—God Himself. When we seek God, we find Him…and the Kingdom of Heaven. Double bonus. There are examples of seeking God in the Old and New Testaments.

The humble have seen it and are glad; you who seek God, let your heart revive. Psalms 69:32

As he was speaking to the Jews and God fearing Gentiles in the synagogue at Athens, Paul talked about searching for the true God.

The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands; nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us…. Acts 17:24-27.

What about you? Are you seeking to know more about God?  

RSVP:  Jesus is reminding us that God is a spiritual being and if we look for Him, we’ll find Him. How will you respond to Him today?  

Prayer ~ Jesus, reveal more of Yourself to us today that as those who are among the poor in spirit, we would come to have a deeper relationship with You. You alone are worthy of our praise and adoration as we come into the Kingdom of Heaven daily—even now.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

The World Could Not Contain All the Detailed Accounts of Jesus Actions

And there are also many other things which Jesus did, which if they were written in detail, I suppose that even the world itself would not contain the books that would be written. John 21:25  

Jesus went about doing good—helping and healing others. But He was more than just a healer. When the men came to Him, they said, "John the Baptist has sent us to You, to ask, 'Are You the Expected One, or do we look for someone else?'" At that very time He cured many people of diseases and afflictions and evil spirits; and He gave sight to many who were blind. And He answered and said to them, "Go and report to John what you have seen and heard: the BLIND RECEIVE SIGHT, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, the POOR HAVE THE GOSPEL PREACHED TO THEM. Luke 7:20-22.  

This was predicted in the Old Testament. The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, Because the LORD has anointed me To bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to captives And freedom to prisoners; To proclaim the favorable year of the LORD And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, To grant those who mourn in Zion, Giving them a garland instead of ashes, The oil of gladness instead of mourning, The mantle of praise instead of a spirit of fainting. So they will be called oaks of righteousness, The planting of the LORD, that He may be glorified. Isaiah 61:1-3. 

Jesus was who He said He was…the I AM of the Old Testament, incarnate God in human flesh-living out the Old Testament promises, fulfilled in the New Testament writings. Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me." John 14:6. Do you believe that? Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God?  That He is God? If not, search the scriptures again, and pray as you do, that God will reveal the truth to you. 

RSVP:  Just as Jesus said, the only way to the Father is through the Son—through Him. Do you believe? How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus… I believe that You are the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through You. I claim this promise that You said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father. Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.” John 14:6, 12-14.  Please continue to bless my family and friends, guide them and help us all to make good decisions, moment by moment, that we would be pleasing and bring glory and honor to You.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Truth in His Testimony

This is the disciple who is testifying to these things and wrote these things, and we know that his testimony is true. John 21:24  

John was known to be devout and honest. His testimony is true. We can trust it. Truth is found in over 200 verses in the Bible (NASB). One of the first occurrences is describing God as He gave Moses the Ten Commandments.

The LORD descended in the cloud and stood there with him as he (Moses) called upon the name of the LORD. Then the LORD passed by in front of him and proclaimed, "The LORD, the LORD God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in lovingkindness and truth; who keeps lovingkindness for thousands, who forgives iniquity, transgression and sin; yet He will by no means leave the guilty unpunished, visiting the iniquity of fathers on the children and on the grandchildren to the third and fourth generations." Exodus 34:5-7.

The classic truth is Jesus’ statement to Thomas and the other disciples. Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. John 14:6. Jesus is Truth. He talks to Pilate about truth during His trial before His crucifixion. Therefore Pilate said to Him, "So You are a king?" Jesus answered, "You say correctly that I am a king. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice." John 18:37. So what is truth? Whatever is true, correct, honest. It reminds me of one of my favorite passages found in Philippians. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. Philippians 4:8. Good advice for any day. Think on good things. 

RSVP:  Jesus is encouraging us to think good thoughts—to think of truth, to think of Him. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, continue to show us how to live to please You—how to love others as we would love You—showing them Your truth.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

Keep Your Thoughts to Yourself

Therefore this saying went out among the brethren that that disciple (John) would not die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but only, "If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?" John 21:23  

Gossip. You can just hear the whispers going out. Pss-Whss-Pss. Did you hear that…John is going to live until Jesus returns. When will that be??? ~Whisper—Pss-Whss. Gossip. It was happening then…just like it happens now. We are given wise council in Proverbs about gossip.

A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence. Proverbs 11:13 NLT

A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends. Proverbs 16:28 NLT

Wrongdoers eagerly listen to gossip; liars pay close attention to slander. Proverbs 17:4 NLT

A gossip goes around telling secrets, so don't hang around with chatterers. Proverbs 20:19 NLT

Fire goes out without wood, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops. Proverbs 26:20 NLT

 

Paul also writes a surprising statement to the people at the church in Corinth. For I am afraid that perhaps when I come I may find you to be not what I wish and may be found by you to be not what you wish; that perhaps there will be strife, jealousy, angry tempers, disputes, slanders, gossip, arrogance, disturbances…. 2 Corinthians 12:20.

David asked a question of the Lord…and then frankly and honestly answered it.

Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. Those who refuse to gossip or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends. Those who despise flagrant sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the LORD, and keep their promises even when it hurts. Those who lend money without charging interest, and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever. Psalms 15:1-5 NLT

If Jesus wanted someone to live until His return—then they would, but that is His call and no one needed to gossip about it. Refuse to gossip. Your life will be better for it—and you’ll be glad you kept your thoughts to yourself. 

RSVP:  Jesus is calling us to follow Him and lead blameless lives...free from gossip. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Lord, I’m only human, forgive me for wagging my tongue…and then rationalizing that it wasn’t gossip. Please help me to keep my thoughts to myself and to be… dignified, not a malicious gossip, but temperate, faithful in all things. 1 Timothy 3:11. I want to follow You and lead a blameless life that is pleasing to You.

Happy Birthday, Michelle! Blessings-Praises-Prayers

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

You Follow Me

You follow Me! John 21:22 

Jesus wanted Peter to follow Him—and not worry about other people. There are nineteen times that Jesus said, “Follow Me” in the Gospels (NASB). Here are a few of them:

·         And He said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men." Matthew 4:19

·         But Jesus said to him, "Follow Me, and allow the dead to bury their own dead." Matthew 8:22

·         Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." Matthew 19:21

·         My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me…. John 10:27

·         If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him. John 12:26

Do you feel called to “follow” Jesus? What does that mean today? We won’t be tossing away our fishing nets and trudging down dusty paths across Israel—but we could be spending time helping others like Jesus suggests…For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.' from Matthew 25:35-36. Jesus wants us to care for others just like we would show our respect and care for Him. Can we do any less? 

RSVP:  Jesus is asking you to follow Him. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I hear Your voice and I am following You. Show me how to serve You more deeply and honor You more fully. 

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Summertime is salsa time! Here’s a recipe for a Watermelon-Cucumber Salsa that can be made into a salad if you rather have salad for lunch! 

Watermelon-Cucumber Salsa

2 cups watermelon (chopped seedless)

1 cucumber (seeded and chopped)

1/4 cup pitted kalamata olives (chopped)

1 jalapeno chilies (small, seeded and minced)

2 Tbsp red onion (minced)

1 handful chopped mint leaves (about ½ cup)

2 Tbsp rice wine vinegar

1 Tbsp olive oil

1 tsp freshly ground pepper

½  tsp salt

Combine ingredients and serve over grilled meat. Particularly good over grilled fish. 

Make it into a salad for four by adding 2 cups additional watermelon and about ½ cup crumbled blue, goat or feta cheese. You can reduce or omit the jalapeno for the salad if you like it mild.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.