For the Fourth Time…Keep Watch

However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. And since you don't know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert! The coming of the Son of Man can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a long trip. When he left home, he gave each of his slaves instructions about the work they were to do, and he told the gatekeeper to watch for his return. You, too, must keep watch! For you don't know when the master of the household will return—in the evening, at midnight, before dawn, or at daybreak. Don't let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning. I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him! Mark 13:32-37

Last day of June…half the year has gone by…only 177 days until Christmas. What are your milestones during the year? Easter, Memorial Day…your birthday…Summer Solstice, 4^th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day…Christmas Day? Whatever day is important to you, the best is yet to come! That will be the day of Christ’s return…but we don’t know the hour or the day. We aren’t meant to know and this is the fourth warning that Jesus gives…be alert…keep watch. Don’t fall asleep. Remember the disciples, Peter, James and John, who went to the Garden of Gethsemane with Jesus on the evening of the Last Supper. Jesus told them to watch and pray…but it was late at night, they were full from a wonderful Passover Meal…and they fell asleep while Jesus prayed.  See Matthew 26:36-45 and Mark 14:32-41.  Just like His disciples, Jesus warns us to stay awake. So what is so bad about going to sleep? We all need rest and we can’t possibly stay awake 24 hours a day. So rest when you can…but when you are awake…be on the alert. Be ready because we don’t know the hour or the day. Does that mean that we live only to wait for Jesus’ return? No…but we aren’t to waste our time with meaningless activity. Then again…remember Solomon’s evaluation of life…

I observed everything going on under the sun, and really, it is all meaningless—like chasing the wind. Ecclesiastes 1:14 

Is life meaningless? That is something everyone has to decide for themselves. In the meantime…life goes on. There is sunrise and sunset…just as they sang in “Fiddler on the Roof”…

Sunrise, sunset

Sunrise, sunset

Swiftly fly the years

One season following another

Laden with happiness and tears….

The years fly by swiftly…so quickly that they begin to melt into one another. Watch and pray. Stay alert. Time will go by before you know it…and you’ll be resting with the Lord. Waiting…waiting…waiting. One side of the grave or the other. Waiting for the time when the dead in Christ will rise first. Will that be you?

Prayer ~ Jesus, we are watching and waiting. Simply waiting…for Your return. Hopeful that more people every day will believe in You as their Lord and Savior. Come quickly Lord.

Daily Bible Reading:  2 Chronicles 19-23

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

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

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Do You Need to Be Refreshed?

The wild animals in the fields will thank me, the jackals and owls, too, for giving them water in the desert. Yes, I will make rivers in the dry wasteland so my chosen people can be refreshed. Isaiah 43:20

Sandhill Cranes migrating through the Tri-Cities, WA

Streams of water in the desert—actually rivers. My home is in a semi-desert area where the great Columbia, Snake and Yakima Rivers converge. Most people think of rain, evergreen trees and mountains when they consider the Washington state environment. Actually, on the southeast side of the state where I live we typically get less than ten inches of rain a year—and it can be very hot and dry during the summer. Not much rain to encourage evergreen trees to grow here, so farmland has been developed on the rich volcanic soil. According to the Northwest Power and Conservation Council there are about 5.1 million acres of irrigated crops farmed in the Columbia Basin. Beyond the farmland the hills are covered with native sagebrush and cheat grass that has invaded our region. The rivers have deer and lots of birds thriving on the shores of their banks. It is exciting to see meadowlarks, heron, hawks, pelicans and Sandhill Cranes flying around nearby. I’ve even spotted a coyote, some rattlesnakes and quite a few rabbits while hiking just a few miles from my home. Those wild animals are sure to thank the Lord for the water available to them.

We have living water here, too, provided by the Lord. Jesus is alive and well in our community…but you have to look pretty hard to find Him in some areas. Jesus has refreshed me here in this desert wasteland—I’ve renewed my strength in Him daily—because I do seek Him. Years ago I realized how much I need Jesus—His word and some conversation with Him every day. On days that I don’t make time for Him—I usually fall into a slump or a bad attitude creeps into my thoughts and actions. How do I escape? Scripture is the key for me. A few verses that I’ve memorized rescue me from the doldrums that invade my life. What do you do when you need to be refreshed? Have some cool, living water. Jesus will provide some unique refreshment for your soul. 

(Recycled from June 29, 2017)

Prayer ~ Jesus, You said You have Living Water—the Spirit. Refresh us today. You said…"If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water." John 4:10.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Kings 22; 2 Chronicles 18

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Food safety is so very important in the summer to keep bacteria from growing and contaminating your foods. You’ve probably heard the essential ones:

·         Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.

·         Wash your hands and keep your preparation surfaces clean, too.

·         Don’t allow cross-contamination between raw meats and other raw foods.

·         Use a thermometer and cook to the right temperature.

·         Refrigerate unused foods in one (if over 90 degrees outside) or two hours after beginning to serve the food.

·         Check web sites like the Center for Disease Control (CDC) for more information. foodsafety.gov

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

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

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Watch the Fig Tree

Now learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branches bud and its leaves begin to sprout, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see all these things taking place, you can know that his return is very near, right at the door. I tell you the truth, this generation will not pass from the scene before all these things take place. Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear.  Mark 13:28-31

My own fig tree...with leaves and fruit.

Watch the fig tree. The one in my backyard is getting new fruit right now…and growing. I covered it with netting hoping to keep the local backyard squirrel from eating the fruit. He already got a couple before I covered it.

Watch the events of the world. Wars, rumors of wars, famines and earthquakes. That last one is pretty awesome. You can watch YouTube videos of the action happening currently at the volcano which had a 5.3 magnitude earthquake on June 25, 2018, or go to the United State Geological Survey site https://volcanoes.usgs.gov/volcanoes/kilauea/multimedia_maps.html to see the current lava flows. Exciting, dangerous times for people there on the Big Island of Hawaii. Keep an eye on the events there at the Kilauea volcano…just as if you were watching the fig tree.

Jesus said…Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear. John wrote about such an event in the book of Revelation when a new heaven and earth appear.

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. Revelation 21:1-2

What a change that will be. A new heaven and a new earth—with no sea—no darkness. We will be changed…and in the new city of Jerusalem. Isaiah predicted God establishing this new heaven and earth.

Look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth, and no one will even think about the old ones anymore. Be glad; rejoice forever in my creation! And look! I will create Jerusalem as a place of happiness. Her people will be a source of joy. I will rejoice over Jerusalem and delight in my people. And the sound of weeping and crying will be heard in it no more. Isaiah 65:17-19

So, watch and be ready. Just as the fig tree puts forth new leaves, we know that summer is coming…and likewise when you hear of wars, earthquakes and famines at catastrophic levels you know that God’s words will be fulfilled. Jesus said His words will never disappear...they will last forever.

Prayer ~Lord, I so look forward to being in Your presence continually—filled with the Holy Spirit. Give me wisdom and words of encouragement for others that we would all stand firm in You, Christ. May those I meet that don’t know You, see You in me…and may I be so bold as to share Your Good News with them.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Kings 20-21

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

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

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He is Coming on the Clouds

Then if anyone tells you, 'Look, here is the Messiah,' or 'There he is,' don't believe it. For false messiahs and false prophets will rise up and perform signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible, even God's chosen ones. Watch out! I have warned you about this ahead of time! At that time, after the anguish of those days, the sun will be darkened, the moon will give no light, the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken. Then everyone will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds with great power and glory. And he will send out his angels to gather his chosen ones from all over the world—from the farthest ends of the earth and heaven. Mark 13:21-27

Jesus was addressing His disciples after they asked Him about the end times (Mark 13:4). People have been obsessed—yes, obsessed with Jesus’ return. People have falsely predicted that Christ Jesus would return on a certain day…or at a particular time…but it hasn’t happened yet. Even Jesus said that only the Father knows…as recorded in Mark and Matthew.

However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. And since you don't know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert! Mark 13:32-33 (Also Matthew 23:9)

Once again Jesus is telling us to be on guard…be ready. Look for the signs. We cannot say we haven’t been warned. Are you bold enough to ask others a question to draw them into a conversation about God—one that builds a relationship with you...not one that challenges them to make a decision on the spot for salvation. The question could be one from Doug Pollock’s book God Space, or something similar like “I’m wondering if anyone has tried to talk to you about God…(and then)…What kinds of feelings did that leave you with?”  Listen to what they say. Listen intentionally.

Be ready…but don’t be complacent. We don’t know the hour or the day…whether it will be in our lifetime or not. Just be ready…share the Good News with others…and know that God loves you. That is above all the most important thing. God is Love…and He loves us. He loved us enough to allow His only Son to be the sacrifice for our sins. That is love.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus—thank you for the reminder that we need to watch and be ready…but most of all thank you for Your love. We need to tell others the Good News about You. Give us wisdom in how to approach them. May Your love shine through us.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Kings 17-19

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

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

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Who Do You Trust?

Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep His promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of His return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:23-25

Who do you trust…really trust with your hopes, dreams, secrets, joys and sorrows?  God can be trusted. There were many times that the Israelites throughout history didn’t put their trust or their hope in God…and we still see that today in them and in us. But we can trust God…He wants us to trust Him. David wrote about trusting in God.

The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:7

I recently read the book of Ecclesiastes and Solomon, even with all his wisdom and riches, was so mournfully, depressingly hopeless about life. Isaiah repeats that when he writes about having no purpose…but Isaiah still has hope and trust in God. He is looking for a reward.

Listen to me, all you in distant lands! Pay attention, you who are far away! The LORD called me before my birth; from within the womb he called me by name. He made my words of judgment as sharp as a sword. He has hidden me in the shadow of his hand. I am like a sharp arrow in his quiver. He said to me, "You are my servant, Israel, and you will bring me glory." I replied, "But my work seems so useless! I have spent my strength for nothing and to no purpose. Yet I leave it all in the LORD's hand; I will trust God for my reward." Isaiah 49:1-4

For the nation of Israel to be delivered from bondage may have been the reward and for everyone called by God it is His salvation that is our reward. The Lord speaks to Israel through His prophet

A light - a fire bringing salvation.

Isaiah about the Messiah—Jesus…

He says, "You will do more than restore the people of Israel to me. I will make you a light to the Gentiles, and you will bring my salvation to the ends of the earth." Isaiah 49:6

Promises. God says, “I will.” God certainly has provided us with hope—hope for today and hope for our future with Him. We can trust Him to keep His promises. Encourage others with that Good News.

Prayer ~ Lord, I trust You with all of my heart, mind, soul and strength. You are the light of my life…shine through me. Help me to trust others and share Your love and good news with them.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Kings 16; 2 Chronicles 17  

(Recycled from June 26, 2017)

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

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

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Comforting and Loving Others

ay God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 2 Corinthians 1:2-4

Our God is merciful—full of mercy—full of compassion towards us. He takes pity on us—lowly, disobedient creatures that we often are. In spite of our shortcomings, He loves us and shows us His grace—that unmerited favor—undeserved approval. 

Bougainvillea in Israel.
Giving hope--showing God's love and mercy.

Why do we need God’s grace…or His mercy? The world would be a horrible place—full of evil without God, His love, grace and mercy. Love is a basic human necessity. Babies die without love. I’m sure you’ve heard of studies where babies were never touched, although they had basic needs of food and fresh diaper met. They actually died from a lack of human touch—no love. How utterly sad. In that same way I think that humans need a spiritual touch or their spirit turns to darkness…to death. With His grace and mercy God offers us with His love. He fills us up with His love…and as we grow in His love, it overflows from us to others. That’s God’s plan—spread the love around.

But God is so rich in mercy, and He loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, He gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been saved!) Ephesians 2:4-5.

During His Last Supper with His disciples, Jesus continued to guide and direct them with His teachings.

So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples. John 13:34-35

Paul continued this teaching of “love” as he traveled through the Mediterranean region spreading the good news about Jesus.

For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. - Galatians 5:13

That same “good news” is available to us…to live and share with others today. Good news—that we can have a relationship with God…and with Jesus. We don’t have to feel isolated and unloved. God is always with us (Deuteronomy 31:8) and in His mercy and grace we can live loving lives forever through Him.

And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our (Paul, Silas and Timothy) love for you overflows. 1 Thessalonians 3:12.

Where do you stand in “relationship” to God and to others? If you think your relationship to God is good…then consider how you share Him with others.

Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. Hebrews 10:24

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus Christ, as we come boldly to the throne of our gracious God, may we receive Your mercy, and find grace to help us when we need it most. Hebrews 4:16. May Your grace, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of us. 2 Corinthians 13:14. Show us ways to let Your love flow through us to others around us—sharing Your grace and mercy.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Kings 15; 2 Chronicles 13-16

(Recycled – reused. Still comforting.)

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

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

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The Bridegroom is Coming

Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The five who were foolish didn't take enough olive oil for their lamps, but the other five were wise enough to take along extra oil. When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight they were roused by the shout, 'Look, the bridegroom is coming! Come out and meet him!' All the bridesmaids got up and prepared their lamps. Then the five foolish ones asked the others, 'Please give us some of your oil because our lamps are going out.' But the others replied, 'We don't have enough for all of us. Go to a shop and buy some for yourselves.' But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked. Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, 'Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!' "But he called back, 'Believe me, I don't know you!' So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return. Matthew 25:1-13

I love this parable that Jesus told His disciples about the kingdom of heaven. Only found in the book of Matthew, it gives us Protestants a view into the Jewish customs. The Jewish couple is betrothed—promised in marriage to each other, but their wedding doesn’t take place until their home is prepared. The bridegroom goes to his father’s house and adds on a room—or rooms depending on his wealth. When his father says that the home is ready for the bride, he sends the bridegroom to get her. Meanwhile the wedding party, including those ten virgins, have been preparing for the wedding at the bride’s home—helping her get ready.

Replica of old oil lamp - Israel.

I just imagine these ten girls all curled up, sleeping while they are waiting for the bridegroom’s procession. "He is coming!" They are awakened suddenly, excited, jumping up and down, bumping into each other, and some discover they don’t have enough oil. The important point is that the five wise girls who planned ahead had enough “oil” to light their lamps and the others didn’t.

The bridegroom arrives at the bride’s home and after observing some religious ceremonies he wisks her away to their new home, at his father’s house—where the wedding ceremony and the festivities take place. The bride’s maids in waiting would come out with oil lamps to light up the entrance as the groom and his guests arrived. After the bridegroom procession entered his father’s house, the doors were shut and no other guests were received. Then the bride and groom would be seated under a colorful canopy and for the next three to five days the father of the groom hosted an elaborate and elegant banquet. The wedding feast. Those who are ready go with the bride and groom—those who aren’t ready miss out altogether. Moral of the story—be ready. The unprepared girls had to go buy more oil—and when they arrived at the wedding feast the door was locked and they were not allowed to enter. Thus they were left out in the cold—the Lord didn’t know them.

The bride symbolically represents the church, the bridegroom is Christ, and the ten virgins are said to be representative of the professing Jewish remnant on earth at Christ’s return. The oil is symbolic for the Holy Spirit—so be wise… keep yourself filled. Be ready—again, BE PREPARED! We don’t know the hour or the day that Christ, the bridegroom, will return and take us to His feast. That is The Banquet we don’t want to miss!

Read the passage in John 14:1-3…Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. This is Jesus’ promise to us that He is preparing a place for us in heaven—in His Father’s house—just like the Jewish bridegroom in this scripture in Matthew.

Prayer ~ Lord God, thank you for your plan to have Your Son prepare a place just for us. We so look forward to the great wedding feast in Your Heavenly home one day.

Daily Bible Reading: 2 Chronicles 10-12

Happy Anniversary...Hunnasan! My love.

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

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

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Blessing for the Gentiles

But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When He was hung on the cross, He took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." Through Christ Jesus, God has blessed the Gentiles with the same blessing He promised to Abraham, so that we who are believers might receive the promised Holy Spirit through faith. Galatians 3:13-14

Brass cross from Korea.
Jesus crucifixion.

God has His chosen people—but He graciously extended that to include the Gentiles of the world that believed in Him. Thanks be to God. As a Gentile I feel especially blessed to know God…and to be not only known by Him, but adopted by Him.

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, "Abba, Father."  Romans 8:15

Are you part of God’s family? It’s a decision available to everyone…anywhere in the world. You choose.

Prayer ~ Thank You, God, for blessing and including the Gentiles into Your family.

Daily Bible Reading:  1 Kings 12-14

(recycled from June 23, 2017)

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

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

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Promise for the White Haired

Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim Your power to this new generation, Your mighty miracles to all who come after me. Your righteousness, O God, reaches to the highest heavens. You have done such wonderful things. Who can compare with you, O God? You have allowed me to suffer much hardship, but You will restore me to life again and lift me up from the depths of the earth. You will restore me to even greater honor and comfort me once again. Then I will praise you with music on the harp, because You are faithful to Your promises, O my God. I will sing praises to you with a lyre, O Holy One of Israel. Psalm 71:18-22

Old and gray…how about old and white haired!?! Having recently had a birthday I’m wondering who is this old person looking back at me in the mirror? I’m not really old yet…just not so young anymore. I have to keep reminding myself that age is state of the mind. Stay young. God has promised that He will be with me throughout my lifetime…even in my old age.

I will be your God throughout your lifetime—until your hair is white with age. I made you, and I will care for you. I will carry you along and save you. Isaiah 46:4

It is also encouraging that Jesus is described with white hair in Revelation. If it’s good enough for Him...then who am I to question it? I should love it!

His head and His hair were white like wool, as white as snow. And His eyes were like flames of fire. Revelation 1:14

Enough about white hair! The real truth to realize here is once again that God keeps His promises.

Wenattachee River - Washington

Life is not an easy road for most of us. I am one to admit that I’ve gone through some deep valleys—but God promised to be with me always and I’ve claimed that promise hundreds of times. I know that even now…He is with me. He will never leave me or forsake me. (Deuteronomy 31:8)  

Are you singing praises for the wonderful things He has done…for His love and faithfulness? What promise can you claim from God today? He gave us His Son Jesus—as a sacrifice for our sins. In that promise that God the Father fulfilled, there is no greater love. What do we seek most in life? Love. God gave it. We just need to embrace it.

Prayer ~ Father God, Thank You. I praise You for keeping Your promises. You loved me…and the world…so much that You willingly gave up Your one and only Son as a sacrifice. I am overwhelmed with gratitude, respect and love for You.

(recycled from June 22, 2017)

Daily Bible Reading: Proverbs 30-31

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Water

Be careful not to get dehydrated in this summer heat. Even without the heat we need to drink 8-10 glasses of water a day. Drink additional water, sports drink or for children, Pedialyte, to replace lost fluids.

Water—cool clear water—is the best. God created it—it is good.

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

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

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Those in Judea Must Flee to the Hills

"The day is coming when you will see the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing where he should not be. (Reader, pay attention!) Then those in Judea must flee to the hills. A person out on the deck of a roof must not go down into the house to pack. A person out in the field must not return even to get a coat. How terrible it will be for pregnant women and for nursing mothers in those days. And pray that your flight will not be in winter. For there will be greater anguish in those days than at any time since God created the world. And it will never be so great again. In fact, unless the Lord shortens that time of calamity, not a single person will survive. But for the sake of his chosen ones he has shortened those days." Mark 13:14-20

Hop on a camel and flee to the hills of Judea...
...when the Abomination of Desolation occurs. 

Flee for the hills! Run. Don’t stop…don’t look back. Remember how Lot’s wife turned to a pillar of salt when they were fleeing for the hills…and she looked back. Were they feeling anguish as they left Sodom and Gomorrah? Anguish. Distress. Sorrow. Anxiety. We have all felt those same emotions at one time or another. Here Jesus is describing to His disciples what will happen in the end times—actually during the midpoint of the Tribulation. This was written earlier in the book of Daniel (Daniel 9:27, Daniel 11:31, Daniel 12:11) for the Israelites. Hopefully by this time Jesus will have taken His church in the rapture…but we do not know the hour or the day. We are just told to be ready. So for over two thousand years Christians have been thinking that the end may be near…and yet it has never come. So we wait, trusting that the Lord will spare us anguish. But like the wind…we have no control. We can only pray and trust in the Lord.

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

Are you born of the Spirit? Read John 3 for more information on the Spirit. When we believe in Jesus the Holy Spirit comes to live in us spiritually.

Prayer ~ My prayer is that You, Lord, will continue to touch the lives of those who have read this blog—even if it was only one time. Bless and guide them. May they seek You, Your promises for them and feel Your presence in their lives. You are what matters in this existence we have here on earth…and especially in the Kingdom to come. I praise You—for You are my Lord, my Savior, and my God. King of Kings…Lord of Lords.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Kings 10-11; 2 Chronicles 9

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

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

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First Things First

For the Good News must first be preached to all nations. Mark 13:10

And the Good News about the Kingdom will be preached throughout the whole world, so that all nations will hear it; and then the end will come. Matthew 24:14

Good News…the Gospel…The Truth that Jesus is the Savior of the World.

May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. Jesus gave his life for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live. All glory to God forever and ever! Amen. Galatians 1:3-5

Dear brothers and sisters, I want you to understand that the gospel message I preach is not based on mere human reasoning. I received my message from no human source, and no one taught me. Instead, I received it by direct revelation from Jesus Christ. ... But even before I was born, God chose me and called me by his marvelous grace. Then it pleased him to reveal his Son to me so that I would proclaim the Good News about Jesus to the Gentiles. When this happened, I did not rush out to consult with any human being. Galatians 1:11-12, 15-16

Jesus is the Good News.

When His disciples asked Him… "Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to be fulfilled?"  Mark 13:4, Jesus seemed to respond telling them about the events of 70 AD when the Temple was destroyed and also of the tribulation days that come before His Second Coming. The Good News must first be preached to all nations…and then the end will come. First things first. Tell everyone and when all the people groups know…then God will send Jesus back for His church. What a plan!

The Old Testament book of Isaiah was written as a book of prophesy to the nation of Israel before the Babylonian captivity. In that book Isaiah records that all the nations will hear about the Messiah.

I can see what they are doing, and I know what they are thinking. So I will gather all nations and peoples together, and they will see my glory. I will perform a sign among them. And I will send those who survive to be messengers to the nations--to Tarshish, to the Libyans and Lydians (who are famous as archers), to Tubal and Greece, and to all the lands beyond the sea that have not heard of my fame or seen my glory. There they will declare my glory to the nations. Isaiah 66:18-19

So…are you listening?

Listen to this, all you people! Pay attention, everyone in the world! High and low, rich and poor—listen! For my words are wise, and my thoughts are filled with insight. I listen carefully to many proverbs and solve riddles with inspiration from a harp. Why should I fear when trouble comes, when enemies surround me? They trust in their wealth and boast of great riches. Yet they cannot redeem themselves from death by paying a ransom to God. Redemption does not come so easily, for no one can ever pay enough to live forever and never see the grave. Those who are wise must finally die, just like the foolish and senseless, leaving all their wealth behind. Psalm 49:1-10

Is this the right path to take?
Hiking in the desert near Parker, Arizona.

Just as Jesus said earlier…don’t be afraid. He wants us to trust Him.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust Him to let you help spread the Good News to all nations. Put first things first. Jesus is the first thing…the most important part of our lives. How will you put Him first and share the Good News?

Prayer ~ God, Thank You for giving Your one and only Son and for the opportunity for everyone in the world—through all time—to believe in Him. I humbly look forward to seeing You in Heaven someday…and for now, help me to tell others Your good news. Open the eyes and ears of more people today that both Jews and Gentiles would understand that Jesus is the Messiah of all.

Daily Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 7-12

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

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

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Don’t Let Anyone Deceive You

Later, Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives across the valley from the Temple. Peter, James, John, and Andrew came to him privately and asked him, "Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will show us that these things are about to be fulfilled?" Jesus replied, "Don't let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah.' They will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don't panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won't follow immediately. Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in many parts of the world, as well as famines. But this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come. Mark 13:3-8

Are you easily deceived or mislead? Do you need a sign to show you what is happening? The disciples must have felt like they needed a sign. Tell us, when will all this happen? People are still wondering this today. Look at history…wars, earthquakes, and famines. These are still happening today. 

If there is an earthquake will these fall?

To see a great history of earthquakes not only today, but all over the world for the past year Google “earthquakes today.” I discovered that there have been 625 earthquakes in the past 24 hours, 4,073 in the last seven days and 52,221 in the last 365 days. That is a lot of shaking.

Famines? Yes we are having an unprecedented number of famines in the world today. Once again, used Google to see the dire distress that thousands of people in our world are experiencing. The United Nations has warned that over one million children could die of starvation in the coming months. That doesn’t include the adults affected by the current famines that are occurring in Yemen, Sudan, Somalia, and Nigeria. Also associated with the famines is a lack of clean drinking water. Things that we take for granted with clean water flowing from our faucets and a refrigerator full of fresh foods aren’t available to those people. We are so blessed. How can anyone complain?

Wars? Wikipedia serves as a resource for us to see that wars are ongoing. There are major conflicts in which about ten thousand people died during the last year are occurring in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Mexico. Wars and rumors of wars…that is just what Jesus was telling His disciples. But there have been wars throughout history—so why is this time any different? No reason—it is just that we are experiencing it…and are saddened by not only the loss of life, but by the affect it has on the people of those countries in economic, political and social parameters. Life is truly tough for those having to live in constant conflicts that disrupt their families, food supplies, communications and causes them to have to relocate and live in terror. Where is God’s peace in that?

Jesus didn’t promise peace, but He did say…Don’t panic…Do not be frightened. That could be challenging when bombs are going off around you…people are treating each other brutally and there is no food or water.

Is this the “time” about which Jesus was speaking? We don’t know. People all throughout the ages have thought…and hoped…that Jesus would return during their lifetime. Only God knows when Jesus will call His followers home. It is for us to not be misled…to not be deceived. Be careful in whom you believe.

Prayer ~ Lord, Just as the Israelites declared with Joshua before they entered into the Promised Land…"We will serve the LORD our God. We will obey Him alone." Joshua 24:24. Let all the people praise You, Lord God—King of Kings, forever.

Daily Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 1-6

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

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

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Do You Believe…Now? Do You Now Believe?

His disciples said, "Lo, now You are speaking plainly and are not using a figure of speech. Now we know that You know all things, and have no need for anyone to question You; by this we believe that You came from God." Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe?" John 16:29-31

This scripture is so straight forward. The disciples acknowledged that Jesus came from God and Jesus asked them if they believed. Is just “believing” enough? God’s word tells us…You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder. James 2:19. Read this following passage from 1^st Peter that should encourage you in your salvation—and help you encourage others as you guide them to believe in Jesus as their own Lord and Savior—even though we don’t see Jesus as the disciples did.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you greatly rejoice, even though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been distressed by various trials, so that the proof of your faith, being more precious than gold which is perishable, even though tested by fire, may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ; and though you have not seen Him, you love Him, and though you do not see Him now, but believe in Him, you greatly rejoice with joy inexpressible and full of glory, obtaining as the outcome of your faith the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:3-9.

Faith. Faith to believe in Jesus as our Savior—and as God—even though we can’t see Him face to face until we get to Heaven. Can you believe without seeing?

Jesus is telling us, like His disciples, that He came from God—from Heaven. He asked them if they believed. He’s asking you the same question…Do you now believe? How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ Jesus, even though we have trials in life—merely little bumps in the road—we know that You are with us. We have faith in You. That faith brings us joy and hopefully brings You glory. We praise and honor You, for You are worthy.

Daily Bible Reading: Proverbs 27-29  

© 2018 Text and photo by M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Tell Me About Your Father….

In that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you. Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full. These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; an hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but will tell you plainly of the Father. John 16:23-25

Today is Father’s Day in the United States. Some other countries celebrate and honor fathers on different days than the third Sunday in June. So tell me about your father…. Did/does he believe in God? Is/was he respectful of your mother…you, or your siblings? Was he encouraging to you as you were growing up? Did he have a sense of humor? Did you respect him?

Jesus - Ask for anything...in My name. My Father will do it.

Jesus had a deep respect for His Father…our Heavenly Father. He knew Him well and it was obvious that the Heavenly Father also respected His Son. Ask for anything in Jesus’ name and you will receive it so that you will be filled with joy. Anything? That’s what Jesus said.

-          Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. Matthew 18:19

-          If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it. John 14:14

-          Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you. John 16:23

So ask away—but look also at your motives when you ask. Is it for yourself, your prosperity? Will it be helpful to others?

Jesus is offering to give you whatever you want. How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus—the thing I praise You for is health, wisdom and relationships You have given to family and friends. I am particularly thinking of Bob and Sarah Stallcup. Four years ago today I prayed for You to give Sarah a healing touch of a gallstone issue. Thank You for give her doctors wisdom, for touching her body and healing her. You have provided for the needs of Sarah, Bob, and their adorable children who will soon be headed for a new job and new home in the Midwest. Where there is hope—there is joy. Give us all a joyful spirit. We praise You, Lord, and thank you that You always hear our prayers. God, You are an awesome Father. I worship and praise You.

Daily Bible Reading: Proverbs 25-26

© 2018 Text and photo by M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

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