Is Time an Issue?

But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. 2 Peter 3:8-10

God is patient with everyone. He lets us decide if we want to “repent” and turn back to Him…or not...during Lent or anytime. He is a real gentleman—not forcing Himself or His ideas on anyone. He’s in no rush—time isn’t important. Well...an end of time will come for each person with their death or at the Rapture, when the Lord calls His church home, so everyone must decide by then.

God’s grace covers all our sins through Jesus’ sacrifice for us.

Obviously, the law applies to those to whom it was given, for its purpose is to keep people from having excuses, and to show that the entire world is guilty before God. For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus. Romans 3:19-26

All have sinned. Pretty straightforward. No one is without sin. What are you doing about that?

We’ve all heard the one day as a thousand…and a thousand years as one day, but is it just related to creation time period? I guess not. Here in this passage it is talking about “the day of the Lord” when Jesus Christ returns for the final time. The earth and sky will be burned up—life as we know it will be over. Those who don’t choose Christ— or choose not to repent—will perish. Where do you stand with the Lord?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, give me grace to continually have a repentant heart. I am so thankful that God is patient with me. Help me to always be ready…ready for Christ’s return and ready to give an answer for the hope that I have. May I  sanctify Christ as Lord in my heart, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks me to give an account for the hope that is in me, yet with gentleness and reverence…. 1 Peter 3:15

Revised from October 17, 2015 Banquet With The King blog.

Daily Bible Reading: February 28 – Numbers 11-13

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© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Run in Obedience…to The Father

However, if you do not listen to me or obey all these commands, and if you break my covenant by rejecting my decrees, treating my regulations with contempt, and refusing to obey my commands, I will punish you. I will bring sudden terrors upon you—wasting diseases and burning fevers that will cause your eyes to fail and your life to ebb away. You will plant your crops in vain because your enemies will eat them. I will turn against you, and you will be defeated by your enemies. Those who hate you will rule over you, and you will run even when no one is chasing you! Leviticus 26:14-17

Jesus said…If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. John 14:15 NASB. He is repeating what was said throughout the Old Testament. Keep God’s commandments. We are told that at least 113 times in the New American Standard Bible translation. Obey…keep God’s commandments.

Know therefore that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments…. Deuteronomy 7:9 NASB

Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him. Deuteronomy 13:4

God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near. Revelation 1:3 NLT

If…if…I will…I will…I will. God has a plan set out before the Israelites. If they would just listen…and obey. If not they could count on disaster from the hand of God. Punishment. Terror. Disease. Fevers. Stolen crops. Defeat. Worst of all is that God Himself will turn against them. No wonder He says that they will run even when no one is chasing them. Such fear.

Would more laws motivate them to listen and obey? There were so many laws assigned by God that they must have been just totally overwhelmed at this point. The oppressive slave drivers in Egypt must have whipped them into obedience…and now God was just giving them rules to follow. They had choices to make. If you obey…then I will be your God and bless you. If you don’t obey…expect punishment.

Is this guy chasing you? Alligator at Charleston Museum.

Can we expect any less? Yes. We are under God’s grace. His unmerited favor. How blessed we are—to have Jesus pay for our sins, but we are still expected to live a life of holiness--obedience. God wants us to respect Him by showing our obedience to Him and love to others. That way we will never have to run without being chased…unless we run just for exercise. The time is near…are you running to God or away from Him?

Prayer ~ Lord God, as Your child, I am listening to You and trying to do as You say, so I will have a long, good life. You are teaching me wisdom's ways and leading me in straight paths. When I walk, I won't be held back; when I run, I won't stumble. I am taking hold of Your instructions and I won't let them go. I guard them, for they are the key to life. Proverbs 4:10-13.

Daily Bible Reading: February 27 – Numbers 8-10

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

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Return to My Father's Home

Return to My Father’s Home

Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, "Surely the LORD is in this place, and I wasn't even aware of it!" But he was also afraid and said, "What an awesome place this is! It is none other than the house of God, the very gateway to heaven!" The next morning Jacob got up very early. He took the stone he had rested his head against, and he set it upright as a memorial pillar. Then he poured olive oil over it. He named that place Bethel (which means "house of God"), although it was previously called Luz. Then Jacob made this vow: "If God will indeed be with me and protect me on this journey, and if he will provide me with food and clothing, and if I return safely to my father's home, then the LORD will certainly be my God. Genesis 28:16-21

Franklin D. Roosevelt's home in New York State
Will our home in heaven be like this?

Remember when Jesus was telling the parable of the Prodigal Sons, the younger son returned to his father’s house? Is that story reminiscent this scripture of Jacob’s travels to find his wife Rachel? Jacob had just had a dream of a stairway to heaven. He was talking about returning to his father’s home. Returning home. 

That is what we all need to do during this Lenten season. Return to the home of our Father—our heavenly Father. He is waiting for us…like that Father in the parable—running towards us with open arms. Heaven is our Father’s home—His Kingdom…and we don’t have to wait until we die to enter His Kingdom. It happens when we recognize Jesus as God’s Son—the Messiah and accept Him as our Savior. He is the Good News.

You won't be able to say, 'Here it is!' or 'It's over there!' For the Kingdom of God is already among you. Luke 17:21

"The time promised by God has come at last!" he (Jesus) announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!" Mark 1:15

There it is…repent. Turn around—leave the sins behind. Return home to your Father’s house. Is there something in your life from which you need to turn and head for your Father’s home—into His waiting arms?

Prayer ~ O LORD, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I'm far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand! I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. Psalm 139:1-10. You are an awesome God. You are my God. I am running to You. Thank you for being there with open arms.

Daily Bible Reading: February 26 – Numbers 7

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

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Do You Need a Doctor?

Later, Levi held a banquet in his home with Jesus as the guest of honor. Many of Levi's fellow tax collectors and other guests also ate with them. But the Pharisees and their teachers of religious law complained bitterly to Jesus' disciples, "Why do you eat and drink with such scum?" Jesus answered them, "Healthy people don't need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent." Luke 5:29-32

Reenactment - Jesus and His Disciples

Jesus said…Healthy people don't need a doctor—sick people do. Do you need a doctor? What kind of doctor? A physician to heal your body? A psychologist for your mental stability? Or a specialist—like Jesus—for your spiritual health?

Jesus was the great physician. He could and did it all. He healed the blind and lame (Matthew 15:30), cured the demon possessed (Matthew 8:16) and offered eternal life to everyone who believes (John 5:24). Do you need a doctor…or do you need more of Jesus in your life? How do you get more of Jesus? Pray that the Holy Spirit will reveal more of Jesus and anoint your life with a deeper understanding. Then read God’s Word expecting to receive a blessing, wisdom and understanding. Does that seem too simple to do? Well—if you seek Jesus with all of your heart, you will find Him.

-          - But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul. When you are in distress and all these things have come upon you, in the latter days you will return to the LORD your God and listen to His voice. For the LORD your God is a compassionate God; He will not fail you nor destroy you nor forget the covenant with your fathers which He swore to them. Deuteronomy 4:29-31 NASB

-          - Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Isaiah 55:6 NLT

What a great promise…

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

Claim that promise…seek the Lord and find Him. He is worth the search…eternally worth it! And when you find Him…like a treasure…share Him with others. Job’s friend counseled him…

-           - If I were you, I would go to God and present my case to him. He does great things too marvelous to understand. He performs countless miracles. Job 5:8-9

God is still in the miracle business. He still loves and cares about people. Seek Him while you can find Him.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I treasure that You have allowed me to “find” You…to see You in all that I do. You provide me with everything I need and more…from parking places, warm clothes during the cold winter, a comfortable home and loving family. I have it all…and You. I look forward to seeing You face to face one day….and throughout eternity. Please continue to bless me, my family and friends and all who read this blog…and especially search for You in Your Word today.

Daily Bible Reading: February 25 – Numbers 5-6

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© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Refresh Your Soul

My child, don't lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace. Proverbs 3:21-22

Refresh your soul like this butterfly at the Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale, Arizona. 

Common sense and discernment—gifts of Wisdom. Common sense is truly a gift to those who have it. It is practical sound judgment and it simply makes life so much easier. Discernment, like understanding, allows a person to see beyond themselves—to understand things that are happening around them or to other people. Discernment actually helps a person to be sensitive to judging other people’s character and actions. That is a useful ability. A real gift that can be refreshing to one’s soul. Common sense and discernment can give a person confidence in themselves—especially as they see the Lord working in their life. Good reason to “hang on to” those traits—to rely on them—to use those gifts from the Lord God—the very giver of Wisdom. Refreshment is good for the soul…especially during Lent.

Do you see yourself having common sense or the quality of discernment? Do you see those qualities in your children or grandchildren? Is it possible to help them develop those qualities? Yes, it begins with prayer. And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11. Pray for your family that they would have discernment.

Prayer ~ Lord, be gracious to me, my family, friends and neighbors to fill us with common sense and discernment that can only come from and through You. Give us wisdom to use these gifts wisely for You. Refresh our souls.

(Revised from February 2016—sometimes we just need to revisit a subject…and reuse it.)

Daily Bible Reading: February 24 – Numbers 3-4

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© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Happy Birthday Blessing, Debbie J.

May God Continue to Bless You with an Abundance of Creativity!

God’s Actions are Final

What do people really get for all their hard work? I have seen the burden God has placed on us all. Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God. And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God's purpose is that people should fear him. What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before, because God makes the same things happen over and over again.   Ecclesiastics 3:9-15

Whatever God does is final. He is in control—we have choices…but He is in control. Things happen—history repeats itself. What is it you want…a home in heaven? What is your heart’s desire? During this time of Lent we are to focus on God and turn to Him. What He desires is for us to respect Him…to fear Him—to honor Him above all else and not follow our sinful nature. Consider reading chapter eight of the book of Romans.

So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin's control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit.  Romans 8:1-4

The big question here is…Do you belong to Christ? If so, you have been set free from the power of sin. Alleluia! That is the very word that springs from my heart when I consider what Jesus Christ has done for me—set me free from sin. Alleluia! That home in heaven is looking mighty good. Come quickly Lord.

Prayer ~ Lord God, in Your grace and mercy may we be obedient to Your word…to Your commands—that we would live to please and honor You here on earth…as it will be one day in heaven.

Daily Bible Reading: February 23 – Numbers 1-2

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

As usual every Friday is Feast Day—Feasting at the King’s Table. We can’t live on just spiritual food …nor can we live on bread alone. We’ve got to have some good food to eat and drink blessed by our Lord who provides.

It is always good to start the day with breakfast—the meal to “break the fast” and provide nourishment for the day. So what would Jesus have eaten for breakfast? We know that He ate barley bread—since He fed barley bread from five loaves to 5,000 men plus their families …along with some fish. We can’t just buy barley bread in most grocery stores—so if you want barley bread you may have to make it yourself. For a start…how about some Hot Barley Cereal?

Hot Barley Cereal

3/4 cup pearl barley

2 cups water

2 cups fruit juice

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons honey

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch salt

1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 cup chopped toasted walnuts, dates or almonds

Rinse the barley well in a strainer and place in large saucepan with water, fruit juice, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes until barley is almost tender. Add cranberries or raisins and lemon juice and simmer for another 10-25 minutes until mixture is thick and barley is tender. Stir in nuts and serve immediately with milk or light cream.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days.

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© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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The Kingdom is So Close

One day Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and John baptized him in the Jordan River. As Jesus came up out of the water, he saw the heavens splitting apart and the Holy Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, "You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy." The Spirit then compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, where he was tempted by Satan for forty days. He was out among the wild animals, and angels took care of him. Later on, after John was arrested, Jesus went into Galilee, where he preached God's Good News. "The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!"  Mark 1:9-15

The time promised by God has come at last! The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News! That was Good News! The Kingdom of God is near…right at hand. This has not changed. The Kingdom of God is still near…right at your fingertips—so close you can reach out and touch it, if you choose to do that. Jesus brought our Heavenly Father great joy…and we can bring great joy to Him, too, as we “repent”…and turn to Him during this time of Lent. It is our choice. Turn. Run to God—His arms are open to receive us. Can you hear His voice…“You are my dearly loved child, and you bring me great joy”?

Prayer ~ Lord God, I hear Your voice calling me...You are my dearly loved child, and you bring me great joy. I hope that I will always bring You joy, honor, and glory—for You are my dearly loved Father.

Daily Bible Reading: February 22 – Leviticus 26-27

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

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Covenant Promise

Then God told Noah and his sons, "I hereby confirm my covenant with you and your descendants, and with all the animals that were on the boat with you--the birds, the livestock, and all the wild animals--every living creature on earth. Yes, I am confirming my covenant with you. Never again will floodwaters kill all living creatures; never again will a flood destroy the earth." Then God said, "I am giving you a sign of my covenant with you and with all living creatures, for all generations to come. I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my covenant with you and with all the earth. When I send clouds over the earth, the rainbow will appear in the clouds, and I will remember my covenant with you and with all living creatures. Never again will the floodwaters destroy all life. When I see the rainbow in the clouds, I will remember the eternal covenant between God and every living creature on earth." Then God said to Noah, "Yes, this rainbow is the sign of the covenant I am confirming with all the creatures on earth."  Genesis 9:8-17

Why is God’s covenant with Noah important to Lent? Who is turning…coming back into a relationship with others? God is clearly stating that He is confirming His covenant with all living creature on the earth—man and animals. Why is this important? God was disappointed in men—they were a rebellious bunch—except for Noah—so He destroyed them all—except for Noah and his family. God changed His mind…He turned back to allow the human race to continue through Noah and his family. It seems that God gave others the chance to “repent” and turn from their wicked ways. Peter tells us that Noah warned the world of God’s righteous judgment.

And God did not spare the ancient world—except for Noah and the seven others in his family. Noah warned the world of God's righteous judgment. So God protected Noah when he destroyed the world of ungodly people with a vast flood. 2 Peter 2:5

People were given the chance to “repent” but they didn’t…and they were destroyed. God promised to never again send a flood to destroy mankind, but what other devastating event could occur to eliminate the wicked and rebellious people today? Obviously the world has once again reached a level of rebellion and disobedience in God’s eyes. How will their destruction come? Are people willing to change their ways any more than the people in Noah’s time were? Do you see that same rebellion in any areas of your life? Are you willing to turn back to God…to repent? Turning to God is what Lent is all about.

Prayer ~ Lord God, If You can turn back…change Your mind…then I certainly can, too. You have shown me a rebellious area in my life and I willingly hand it over to You. I want to think, say and do only things that please You and bring You glory…so please forgive my rebellious attitude, create in me a clean heart—willing to serve and honor You.

Daily Bible Reading: February 21 – Leviticus 24-25

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

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Christ Died to Bring You Safely Home

Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit. So he went and preached to the spirits in prison-- those who disobeyed God long ago when God waited patiently while Noah was building his boat. Only eight people were saved from drowning in that terrible flood. And that water is a picture of baptism, which now saves you, not by removing dirt from your body, but as a response to God from a clean conscience. It is effective because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Now Christ has gone to heaven. He is seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers accept his authority. 1 Peter 3:18-22
Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit. So he went and preached to the spirits in prison-- those who disobeyed God long ago when God waited patiently while Noah was building his boat. Only eight people were saved from drowning in that terrible flood. And that water is a picture of baptism, which now saves you, not by removing dirt from your body, but as a response to God from a clean conscience. It is effective because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Now Christ has gone to heaven. He is seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers accept his authority. 1 Peter 3:18-22  

Home. There is no place like HOME! We've just returned from eleven weeks visiting our family in South Carolina. It was wonderful to see them--and take part in our grandchildren's lives...but it is so good to be HOME! To be safely home—no sleeping on the floor in the airport when there were mechanical problems this time—a nice comfortable motel—but that wasn’t home.

There is no place like home. Our house where we live now is our earthly home and it is probably nothing like the one that Jesus is preparing for us in Heaven. Jesus told His disciples…

Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. John 14:1-3

Home—to the Father’s house. The wayward younger son of the rich father in the parable of the Lost Sons (Luke 15) went home to his Father’s house.  Home. That father is said to represent our Heavenly Father—running to us, welcoming us home. When “home” was mentioned in a video at church yesterday I reflected on how I am at HOME with my church family. That goes back to when I first felt that that particular church was HOME about 25 years ago—singing “Alleluia” and standing next to a sweet older lady who had taken us under her wing. Tears were streaming down my cheeks. I was HOME. I am HOME. This is where I need to be…where God wants me to be…and where I am.

Like that young prodigal son have you turned from anything in your life that is telling you to go to the Father? What could be better than repenting of thoughts, words or actions that don’t please God and spending time with the Father?

Prayer ~ Lord – I humbly come before You acknowledging that I am not who You want me to be. I especially don’t always communicate in a pleasing manner with those around me. Help me not to come across as angry—when I’m only trying to be heard above the roar of life. Help me to smile and welcome others as if I were welcoming You, Jesus, for I love that concept of treating everyone like I would treat You. That would really be showing love for others. I look forward to the day when You call us all HOME. Come quickly, Jesus.

Daily Bible Reading: February 20 – Leviticus 22-23

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

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Show Me the Right Road to Follow

A psalm of David. O LORD, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God! Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat. No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others. Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD. The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way. The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his covenant and obey his demands. Psalm 25:1-10

I’m studying the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15)—from a book The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller—with my study group from church during Lent. The verses from this passage in Psalm 25 are reminiscent…or maybe I should say “predictive” of the Prodigal sons. We all consider the younger son “rebellious” these verses are applicable when considering the son who demanded his inheritance and then ran off to spend it.

Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth…. he shows the proper path to those who go astray.

The older son was also rebellious, but in a subtle, pretentious, self-righteous way that deceives others.

            …disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others….

Jesus brought Psalm 25 message to life in His Lost Sons parable. This is the time of Lent when it is appropriate to turn to God. Then follow the road that the Lord shows you—the straight path that leads to Him.  

Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Proverbs 4:26

Both brothers needed to be shown a road to follow. How about you…do you need the Lord to show you a road to follow...a path for your life?

Desert trail - on a road near Ely, Neveda 

Prayer ~ Lord God, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God!

Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat. No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.

Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow.

Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me.

All day long I put my hope in you.

Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past.

Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD.

The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way.

The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his covenant and obey his demands May we live a holy life before You—pleasing You in all that we think, say and do.

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Death for Disobedience

Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu put coals of fire in their incense burners and sprinkled incense over them. In this way, they disobeyed the LORD by burning before Him the wrong kind of fire, different than He had commanded. So fire blazed forth from the LORD's presence and burned them up, and they died there before the LORD. Then Moses said to Aaron, "This is what the LORD meant when He said, 'I will display my holiness through those who come near me. I will display my glory before all the people.'" And Aaron was silent. Leviticus 10:1-3

The wrong kind of fire—burning the incense incorrectly. God had a plan and these two sons of Aaron’s didn’t follow the plan. Poof! They were gone. God is serious. Do things my way…or you won’t be doing that again. Not just do it my way…or not at all. Just follow the rules. Makes you want to look very closely at just when, why, how and where God wants things done His way. Aaron’s sons took a short cut and burned the incense their way.

How do we take short cuts in our dealing with God? Are we silent like Aaron? Do we use rote prayers…saying the same thing over and over? Do we not take His commands seriously…and take His name in vain when we get frustrated or upset? Are we truly observing a Sabbath day—and this time of Lent?  Do we honor Him with our whole heart, mind and soul, and love our neighbor as ourselves? Are we living the holy life that God’s expects? He will display His Holiness to all who come near Him.

Prayer ~ Wow Lord, You were serious about doing things Your way in Your Tabernacle. Everything belongs to You…so we need to do things Your way. Open our eyes and hearts that all we do pleases and honors You.

Daily Bible Reading: February 18 – Leviticus 16-18

(Revised and reused from February 18, 2017)

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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He Won't Abandon You

So we are Christ's ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, "Come back to God!" For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. As God's partners, we beg you not to accept this marvelous gift of God's kindness and then ignore it. For God says, "At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you."Indeed, the "right time" is now. Today is the day of salvation. We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry. In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. We have been beaten, been put in prison, faced angry mobs, worked to exhaustion, endured sleepless nights, and gone without food. We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love. We faithfully preach the truth. God's power is working in us. We use the weapons of righteousness in the right hand for attack and the left hand for defense. We serve God whether people honor us or despise us, whether they slander us or praise us. We are honest, but they call us impostors. We are ignored, even though we are well known. We live close to death, but we are still alive. We have been beaten, but we have not been killed. Our hearts ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing, and yet we have everything. 2 Corinthians 5:20 - 6:10

Come back to God. You may think...come back--I didn't leave Him. Well, He certainly didn't leave you or me. He has promised to never leave us or forsake us.
     - But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul. When you are in distress and all these things have happened to you, then in later days you will return to the LORD your God and obey him. For the LORD your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget the covenant with your ancestors, which he confirmed to them by oath. Deuteronomy 4:29-31 NIV


I will never leave you or forsake you. Written in Hebrew on this ring.

During Lent it is a time to "come back to God" by seeking Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. Paul is teaching here in Second Corinthians that this is the time...the day...of salvation. Salvation always comes first. Then look at the list of actions...enduring troubles, hardships and calamities. Yes. Being a Christian is not an easy road to travel, but it is an honor to honor God--to serve Him. Are you serving God...or do you need to "come back to God"?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Thank You for being the sacrifice for my sins. I am filled with joy and it doesn't matter what others think about me--because it is an honor to serve You. I know that You will never leave me or forsake me.

Daily Bible Reading – Leviticus 14-15

© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Their Choices Made the Land Desolate

Then the word of the LORD came to Zechariah saying, "Thus has the LORD of hosts said, 'Dispense true justice and practice kindness and compassion each to his brother; and do not oppress the widow or the orphan, the stranger or the poor; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another.' But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder and stopped their ears from hearing. They made their hearts like flint so that they could not hear the law and the words which the LORD of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets; therefore great wrath came from the LORD of hosts. And just as He called and they would not listen, so they called and I would not listen," says the LORD of hosts; "but I scattered them with a storm wind among all the nations whom they have not known. Thus the land is desolated behind them so that no one went back and forth, for they made the pleasant land desolate." Zechariah 7:8-14

Are you stubborn like a donkey?

Stubborn hearts—rejecting the wise and kind words of guidance that the Holy Spirit was giving the Israelites. Just like any loving father teaching his children: be kind—play nice. But the stubborn little brats said, “No! I want to do it my way.” Hadn’t they heard of the Golden Rule? Hardening their hearts towards the Lord was not a wise thing. How often do we do that? Sometimes just a little stiffness. I want to do my own thing…my own way. Just like a two year old. Step back. Deep breath. Focus on the Lord. What do you hear Him saying to you? Justice , kindness, compassion? How will you respond? Like the Israelites—who refused to listen—or are your choices turning your heart towards God? If we don’t choose God’s ways will our land become desolate?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, please bless and guide us that we would make good decisions that would result in justice, kindness and compassion for those around us.

Daily Bible Reading – Leviticus 11-13

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Healthy Foods Menu

Since February is National Heart Month, it is a good time to consider eating good foods and exercising. Exercise at least 20 minutes every day and then feast on the bounty God has provided for us. Here are some healthy heart foods to consider in your menu planning:

·         Chick peas – hummus, minestrone soup

·         Sardines and salmon – high in omega 3’s

·         Leafy greens – contain magnesium essential to a healthy heart – includes spinach, kale, Swiss chard, broccoli, romaine lettuce

·         Wine – adults only, but do serve your kiddos concord grape juice, no sugar added

·         Milk – even almond or coconut milk – high in calcium and Vitamin D

·         Almonds

·         Oats

·         Fresh fruits – in the colors of the rainbow

What can you do with these food items? How about a spinach salad with salmon, almonds, chick peas and a wine and olive oil dressing? A little oatmeal with fresh blueberries, cinnamon, honey, and milk for dessert rounds out the food list. And you thought there couldn’t be just one dish/meal that would have all these foods! So choose some healthy foods and feast on them, not just today or during February, but include good fresh foods at every meal all year around. Shop the outside aisles of your supermarket—that’s where the fresh foods are located. Enjoy a Banquet at the King’s Table.

© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Turn to Our Compassionate God

Lent Day 2

Blow the horn in Zion; sound the alarm on My holy mountain! Let all the residents of the land tremble, for the Day of the LORD is coming; in fact, it is near -- a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and dense overcast, like the dawn spreading over the mountains; a great and strong people appears, such as never existed in ages past and never will again in all the generations to come. .... Even now--this is the Lord's declaration --turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Tear your hearts, not just your clothes, and return to the LORD your God. For He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, rich in faithful love, and He relents from sending disaster. Who knows? He may turn and relent and leave a blessing behind Him, so you can offer grain and wine to the LORD your God. Blow the horn in Zion! Announce a sacred fast; proclaim an assembly. Gather the people; sanctify the congregation; assemble the aged; gather the children, even those nursing at the breast. Let the groom leave his bedroom, and the bride her honeymoon chamber. Let the priests, the LORD's ministers, weep between the portico and the altar. Let them say: "Have pity on Your people, LORD, and do not make Your inheritance a disgrace, an object of scorn among the nations. Why should it be said among the peoples, 'Where is their God? ' " Joel 2:1-2, 12-17

Turn to the Lord--as He requested in this scripture passage--with all your heart, with fasting and mourning. Yes. Lent is a season of fasting--to focus on God--and a time of mourning--for Christ our  Messiah has given up so much for us...and we are unworthy. So don't just turn to the Lord...but return    to Him. Were you once in the midst of God...in a relationship with Him...and you slipped away? Do you hear Him calling you back? Listen closely. I hear Him calling me. Give up your rebellious ways--come back to me--just as when you first loved me.  Yes, Lord, I hear you calling.

Like the butterfly...fly back into the presence of God. Be renewed.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...You are a compassionate God. Please forgive my rebelliousness. Have pity on me--and renew our relationship. Thank you for all that You have done for me--for I don't deserve anything--even your love. 

Daily Bible Reading: Leviticus 8-10

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© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 

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

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

Ash Wednesday - A Gift for Me?

Beginning of Lent
[A psalm of David, regarding the time Nathan the prophet came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.] Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin. For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night. Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just. For I was born a sinner--yes, from the moment my mother conceived me. But you desire honesty from the womb, teaching me wisdom even there. Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Oh, give me back my joy again; you have broken me--now let me rejoice. Don't keep looking at my sins. Remove the stain of my guilt. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don't take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to rebels, and they will return to you. Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves; then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness. Unseal my lips, O Lord, that my mouth may praise you. You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. You do not want a burnt offering. The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. Psalm 51:1-17

Lent is a time of reflection--a time to recall what Jesus has done or each of us. We are sinful people...since the time of Adam and Eve. The sacrifice of blood is the only way to find forgiveness...and justification from our sins. Jesus was that ultimate sacrifice--a sinless man--the Son of God--who died on a cross that we might be forgiven and ultimately have eternal life. Sounds simple. It is. Simple, yet complicated. This sacrifice of Jesus life for our sins is a gift. We must admit our sins and confess them to God to receive that "gift" of eternal life. It is a humbling action on our part--but so much easier than what Jesus went through hanging on a cross for us. We don't deserve His mercy--but He freely gives it to us. We can not perform any task...or do anything to earn eternal life. Just acknowledge and receive The Gift. Do you accept it? Can you acknowledge Him as your Savior?

Jesus on the Cross at the Holy Family Shrine - near Gretna, Nebraska

Today is Ash Wednesday, a day that typically marking the beginning of Lent for forty days before Ressurection Sunday--Easter. Some churches solemnly have a service in which ashes are placed on people's foreheads to remind us...By the sweat of your brow will you have food to eat until you return to the ground from which you were made. For you were made from dust, and to dust you will return. Genesis 3:19
God desires a humble and broken spirit from us. Are you willing to put God first in your life? I am.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Have mercy on me, Lord, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin. For I recognize my rebellion--it is sometimes overwhelming. (Psalm 51). I humbly come before You--confessing that I am a sinner--You are my Lord and Savior. Thank You for sacrificing Your life for mine. 

Daily Bible Reading: Leviticus 5-7
Begin Lent - Reflect on what Jesus has done for you. Prepare your hearts for His return.

Happy Valentine's Day

Happy Birthday--Kendall

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© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 

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

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