This is Better Than a Great Discount Coupon…While There is Time

Meditate on the time you have...seek the Lord...or not.

Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the LORD that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously. "My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts," says the LORD. "And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so my ways are higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts."  Isaiah 55:6-9

No one knows the hour or the day.
Seek the Lord while there is time.

Have you ever looked for something…and then it was too late? Like looking for a fantastic discount coupon, only to find that it had expired. Ugh. Well that is nothing compared to how you’ll feel if you ignore the unknown expiration date of the invitation to know Jesus. This offer is guaranteed to be better than any discount coupon you’ve ever had…or will ever have. Look, search deeply within the Scriptures and within your own heart. Do you have room for Jesus in your heart? Are you calling on Him?

The LORD is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth. Psalm 145:18

But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? Romans 10:14

Jesus told us Himself…

Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."  John 14:6

"Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light." John 12:36

Repent—turn your life around—trust Jesus to be Lord of your life…while there is time.

Jesus has made a difference in my life…I was a sharp tongued teenager when I accepted Him as my Savior. A few months later I went to visit my older sister. She asked me what had changed my life…I thought she meant my new haircut, but that wasn’t it. I wasn’t the bitter, sarcastic, critical person I was before. I had changed…and Jesus is still working on me. I do tend to be a bit critical—but I can see things the way God sees them and overlook a lot. Forgiveness is good and that goes beyond just overlooking unmet expectations or faults. Jesus also taught that we have to forgive other to be forgiven. Can you forgive others…beginning maybe with yourself?

If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:14-15

God forgives generously…while there is time. This may seem like heavy stuff—but as you seek God you are doing yourself a favor and you’ll find the best discount coupon ever. A free gift just waiting for you. God loves you and has given you the best gift ever. His Son. Given for your life…for your sin. A truly free gift.

If you have questions…send me a comment. I’ll try to help you understand what God is saying in a particular passage or direct you to another resource that can help you. There are lots of free on-line commentaries that help explain the Scriptures. Pray about finding God…while there is still time. We don’t know the hour or the day…just that we are told to “be ready.”

Prayer ~ Lord God, Show me if I have any unconfessed sin in my life that would keep me from You. I am searching for You daily…seeking to know You more closely.

I come boldly to your throne, my gracious God. There I will receive Your mercy, and I will find grace to help when I need it most. From Hebrews 4:16. Help my friends and family find You in a mighty way as they seek You…while there is time.

Last day of April. If you don’t know Jesus as your Savior, seek Him while there is still time. Consider the ABC’s of salvation.

A – Acknowledge or Admit that you are a sinner.

                        No one is righteous—not even one. Romans 3:10

                        For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Romans 3:23

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

            B – Believe in your heart that Jesus is the Son of God

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. Romans 10:9-10

C – Call on the Name of the Lord

            Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved. Romans 10:13

Don’t wait…make your decision to believe in Jesus…in God… today. Life is short…we don’t know when our time will be up…or when the Lord will return for His church.

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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What Are We To Do Now?

Meditate. Think about these things…can you apply them to your life?

Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone. See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people. Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Stay away from every kind of evil. Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful. 1 Thessalonians 5:14-24 

Jesus taught that we must love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and love our neighbor as ourselves. So what are we to actually do?

Paul gives us a list of to do’s:

·         Council and advice lazy people.

·         Encourage and care for others, especially the weak and timid.

·         Do good. Stay away from every kind of evil—don’t let others pay back evil.

·         Be patient with everyone.

·         Be joyful all the time.

·         Keep on praying, continually.

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

·         Do not stifle the Holy Spirit.

·         Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said.

·         Hold on to what is good.

Paul, Peter and John taught some of these same things in other books of the New Testament. Search them out for yourselves. It is human nature, or at least for those of us with a tendency for OCD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, to legalistically follow a list.  Being legalistic about laws, rules and commands is what got the Pharisees in trouble. They made rules to follow the rules instead of following God’s will. Be careful not to just make a list of Things to Do to please God and then follow that list, rather than follow God’s will and direction for your life. Will following that list make you holy? God wants His people to “be Holy” just as He instructed Moses to tell the Israelites.

Give the following instructions to the entire community of Israel. You must be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy. Leviticus 19:2

Holiness unto the Lord. Hold onto the good--spiritually good--things in life.

What are you going to do now amidst the COVID-19 lock down? 

Prayer - Lord God of peace, make me holy in every way, and may my whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God, You will make this happen, for You are faithful. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24. Thank You, Lord, for Your love, Your sacrifice, and Your plan for all eternity.

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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How Will Your Life Change?

Meditate. Consider how Jesus Christ has changed your life.

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:4-8

After about 60 days of COVID-19 shut-down, stay home, isolation—everyone is getting anxious and tired of this. People are seeking an escape…and perhaps peace—from the strife, the frustration and lack control of their life. There are preachers out there preaching prosperity and peace. There is more to having Christ in our lives than having prosperity and peace. Sure, Christ does give us peace…and no fear. No fear for our future. He gives Hope. Hope for our future…for today and tomorrow…and for eternity. As a gift of the Spirit, He also grants us love, joy, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control. That can change our lives.

Just as this Scripture tells us… Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. He already knows what we need before we ask…but we still need to ask. Jesus told the crowd listening to Him on a hillside above the Sea of Galilee during His Sermon on the Mount:

Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. Matthew 7:7

There were other times He told His disciples and followers to “ask” and seeking those answers will give you something to do today or this week, if you don’t have any other plans. Find ways that God has been working in your life…and thank Him. He deserves your praise and thanks. 

Have Hope....like these migrating Sandhill Cranes.
Near West Richland, Washington.
God cares about the birds of the air...He cares about you.

This isn’t a prosperity message—but I hope it gives you hope. God does care about you. So… Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. This is one of my favorite verses…think about things that are good—beyond good—excellent and worthy of praise. Focus on the good stuff…find something good about today. A ray of sunshine—exchanging a smile and wave with a neighbor, a hug from a family member, or phone call to or from and old friend. Have you read a good book or a familiar Bible passage today? Don’t let yourself get down in the dumps. Preaching to myself here! Scripture, like this passage from today, is encouraging to me. What Scripture gives you hope…takes away your fear or provides an escape from your frustration?

Prayer – Dear God, I’m fixing my thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. I’m thinking about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. You, Lord, are worthy of praise and I thank you for all you have done for me, for my family and my friends.

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Are You Watching the Clouds?

Meditate on this Scripture.

After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. As they strained to see him rising into heaven, two white-robed men suddenly stood among them. "Men of Galilee," they said, "why are you standing here staring into heaven? Jesus has been taken from you into heaven, but someday he will return from heaven in the same way you saw him go!" Acts 1:9-11

Jesus died on the cross, spent three days in the tomb, was resurrected and spent forty days with His disciples and followers here on earth before He ascended to Heaven. God the Father had a plan. Jesus came to be the sacrificial lamb. He died to set mankind permanently free from their sin…the burden that had been cast on them since the disobedience of Adam and Eve. The sin was forgiven…forever. No sacrifice ever has to be made again—once for all. God’s plan, the Good News, includes not only the salvation of mankind, but of resurrection of Jesus Christ and eternal life for everyone who believes in Him as their Savior. That is The Good News. Simple and satisfactory.

Glory-Glory-Glory

Just as Jesus went up into the clouds…He will come again in the same way. It has been promised by God the Father that Jesus will return for the Church—for those who believe in Him as their Savior. Simple. That is the simple truth. God always keeps His promises…so watch the sky. Jesus will come back in the clouds, just as He went. Then He will take His Church to be with Him in Heaven forever. Trust God. We don't know the hour or the day...just be ready. Watch the clouds. It is the truth. 

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus Christ, You have gone to heaven, are seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers accept Your authority. 1 Peter 3:22. Glory in the Highest. I praise Your Name…today and forever.

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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What Happens?

Meditate on what happens after you believe in Jesus Christ as your Savior?

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. As the Scriptures tell us, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced." Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. For "Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved." But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? Romans 10:9-14

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

Confess. Believe and be baptized. That was what Jesus wanted His disciples to do. Make disciples…those who believe…and baptize them.

Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

Matthew 28:18-20

Go into all the world...
Make disciples.

Then the disciples were told to “teach these new disciples to obey all the commands….” It is important to know what Jesus expects…to know His commands so that they can be obeyed. Everyone has to decide for themselves. What do you think? Have you confessed, believed and been baptized? If so are you making new disciples? That is just what Jesus expects you to do? Go into the entire world—beginning with your own neighborhood.

Prayer ~ Jesus, You promised to be with us always, even to the end of the age. People flocked to You and hung on Your every word as they eagerly became Your followers and disciples. Give us wisdom and courage to share You…to tell others...in such a way that people will find You and eagerly follow You. Here and now…until the end of the age.

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Will Your Heart Change?

Meditate.

The LORD your God will change your heart and the hearts of all your descendants, so that you will love him with all your heart and soul and so you may live! Deuteronomy 30:6

Trust Him…The Lord will change your heart. God wants to change people…to allow us to love Him. But He doesn’t make us…He gives us the choice. Let God change your heart and soul…so you may live forever. That is love. God is all about love…He is love.

For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:16-17

We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. 1 John 4:16

There it is…God is love…and those who love Him, live in Him. Forever.

That is the Key. Choice to Love...or not.

The unique thing is that God gives us the choice. He is a gentleman and doesn’t force His love on us. Choice. That is the key. Choose to know God’s Son—believe in Him as the Son of God—know Him as your Savior. Admit that like everyone, you are a sinner and so confess your sins and acknowledge Him as Lord of your life. Everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. It begins immediately when a person believes…and lasts…Forever.

Forever is a long time. For some of us this Stay Home – Isolation – feels like forever, but it is actually a good time to THINK. Search the Scriptures—get to know God and decide for yourself. Does this eternal life promise make sense to you? Can you accept Jesus Christ as your Savior?

Prayer ~ Lord God, You loved us so much that You gave up Your Son for us. That is a lot of love. Thank you for offering eternal life to those of us who believe in Jesus as Your Son. I believe.

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Stay Here Until the Holy Spirit Comes

Meditate. Breathe.

Then he (Jesus) said, "When I was with you before, I told you that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and in the Psalms must be fulfilled." Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. And he said, "Yes, it was written long ago that the Messiah would suffer and die and rise from the dead on the third day. It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: 'There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.' You are witnesses of all these things. "And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven." Luke 24:44-49

In this passage Jesus, after His resurrection, came to see His Disciples in the Upper Room where they had celebrated the Passover Supper just a few days earlier. He was hungry and asked if they had something to eat. They gave Him some fish and watched while He ate it. Then he spoke as in this passage about His life and gave them an understanding of the Scriptures. Wow. If only it were that easy for us now. Just tell us…and we’ll understand everything. Well, I guess the Holy Spirit does give us amazing insight…and we have that now for the asking. The Disciples according to John’s gospel description received the Holy Spirit that day from Jesus.

Then he breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit." John 20:22

The Holy Spirit...breathed on me.

Now read ahead to Acts 2:4 when they were all filled with the Holy Spirit. There were about three thousand people saved that day. They must have been in a large place like the Temple mount, since three thousand is a large group and there were probably more than that. There are always some doubters in a group. They didn’t allow the breath to enter their hearts.

Look at that breath issue. God breathed creation into existence and then into man there in the Garden of Eden. And on the cross, Jesus breathed His last human breath, and then died. Life and death. The beginning and the end. Breath is important.

The LORD merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born. Psalm 33:6

Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nostrils, and the man became a living person. Genesis 2:7

Then Jesus shouted, "Father, I entrust my spirit into your hands!" And with those words he breathed his last. Luke 23:46

So, with a word, Jesus spoke and the Holy Spirit, spiritual life began in the Disciples…and in almost three thousand people in Jerusalem. Spiritual life that continues still today.

Do you have this spiritual life? Do you want this eternal spiritual life? All you have to do is ask?

            Ask for your sins to be forgiven.

            Ask for Jesus to be your Savior.

            Ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

Live forever. Be filled with the breath of the Holy Spirit—with God Himself.

Prayer ~ Lord God…Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, wash away my sins and fill me, O Holy Spirit. Thank you for the hope you give us.

And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5:5.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Isolation continues.

What shall we eat today?

Dessert first...

Creamy chocolate ice cream with hot fudge sauce, topped with chopped pecans.

Hot dogs with sauerkraut, Dijon mustard and pickles.

Chicken, artichoke and spinach pizza.

Smoked salmon, asparagus, and fresh sliced honey crisp apples.

Dream on. Remember you can only get take-out.

© 2020 Text and painting by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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The Watchman

Meditate and listen for the sound of the trumpet.

The word of the LORD came to me: "Son of man, speak to your people, and say to them, 'Suppose I bring a sword against the land, and the people of the land take one man from their borders and make him their watchman. He sees the sword coming against the land, blows the trumpet, and warns the people, but there is one who hears the sound of the trumpet yet does not heed the warning. Then the sword comes and sweeps him away. He will be responsible for his own death. He heard the sound of the trumpet but did not heed the warning, so he is responsible for himself. If he had heeded the warning, he would have saved his life. But suppose the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn the people. Then the sword comes and takes one of their lives. He is swept away for his iniquity, but I will hold the watchman accountable for that person's death.'"  Ezekiel 33:1-6 NET

The Watchman. Ezekiel brought the word of the Lord to the people of Israel. As a prophet he was supposed to warn Israel of impending danger. That danger is still to come. Ezekiel says…suppose the watchman hears the sound of the trumpet…and doesn’t heed the warning.

Sounding the alarm is important to warn the people. If he doesn’t sound the alarm then the sword…the battle…will do them all in. The alarm will warn the people and they’ll all be saved. No alarm…and the watchman loses his life…swept away for his mistake. God appoints Ezekiel as the watchman.

When I say to the wicked, "You will certainly die," and you do not warn him - you do not speak out to warn the wicked to turn from his wicked deed and wicked lifestyle so that he may live - that wicked person will die for his iniquity, but I will hold you accountable for his death. But as for you, if you warn the wicked and he does not turn from his wicked deed and from his wicked lifestyle, he will die for his iniquity but you will have saved your own life. "When a righteous person turns from his righteousness and commits iniquity, and I set an obstacle before him, he will die. If you have not warned him, he will die for his sin. The righteous deeds he performed will not be considered, but I will hold you accountable for his death. However, if you warn the righteous person not to sin, and he does not sin, he will certainly live because he was warned, and you will have saved your own life." Ezekiel 3:18-21 NET

Read more about Ezekiel and his prophesies to Israel. Those were written by Ezekiel after he was taken captive along with hostages from Jerusalem and exiled to Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. The alarm is for Israel…but can we consider that we need to listen for the alarm, too? Sound the alarm for those in Israel. Sound the alarm for those who love the Lord.

Light at the end of the tunnel,
Excavated tunnel at King Agrippa's palace - Israel.

Unlike that watchman, will you listen? Will you heed the sound of the alarm and warn others? That is a big responsibility. Listen for the sound of the trumpet. Sound the alarm. There is light at the end of the tunnel. Hope for the future.

Prayer ~ Lord, give us insight to understand Your prophetic word. We are but a grain of sand…but we do want to see and understand all that has and will happen. We put our hope in You. 

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

NET - The Scriptures quoted are from the NET Bible® http://netbible.com 

Copyright ©1996, 2019 used with permission from Biblical Studies Press, L.L.C. All rights reserved.

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Are You Jewish or Gentile…A Rebel?

Meditate:

Many of the people of Israel are now enemies of the Good News, and this benefits you Gentiles. Yet they are still the people he loves because he chose their ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. For God's gifts and his call can never be withdrawn. Once, you Gentiles were rebels against God, but when the people of Israel rebelled against him, God was merciful to you instead. Now they are the rebels, and God's mercy has come to you so that they, too, will share in God's mercy. For God has imprisoned everyone in disobedience so he could have mercy on everyone. Oh, how great are God's riches and wisdom and knowledge! How impossible it is for us to understand his decisions and his ways! Romans 11:28-33

It is impossible it is for us to understand God’s decisions and his ways! He has a plan. He’s had it since the beginning of time. His family is Abraham’s family and all of the Jewish descendants throughout time. When the Jews rejected Christ, God reached out to the Gentiles. Actually, some Gentiles believed in Jesus as a great physician, miracle worker and their Savior before His crucifixion and resurrection. Consider the faith of the Roman centurion whose paralyzed servant was healed (Matthew 8:5-13); and the transfer of the demons from the possessed man at the tombs in Gerasenes (Mark 5:1-20) to local swine.

God sees the rebellion of all people because that is basically how we have been since Adam and Eve. To acknowledge that Jesus is the Son of God—our Savior—and to repent of our sins, to give up our rebellious ways is uniquely part of God’s plan. He doesn’t want anyone to perish—but gives everyone a chance to come to Him. Repent for the Kingdom of God is at hand. Some Gentiles throughout history have repented. I did…and that is the way to become part of God’s family. There are even Jews who have declared Jesus as their Messiah—making them “complete” Jews. God’s hand is open to accepting you as His adopted child. His glorious Kingdom becomes our home when we repent. What a wonderful plan.

Prayer ~Thank You, Heavenly Father for such a wonderful plan for all Your children—both Jews and Gentiles. I am so glad to be a part of Your magnificent family. I don’t deserve it…so Thank You Jesus for making it possible—for dying on the cross in my place. That is love…that a brother would lay down His life for His family.

© 2020 Text and Photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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While There is Still Time?

Read this passage and consider the words of the Lord. Meditate on them.

The LORD is at the head of the column. He leads them with a shout. This is his mighty army, and they follow his orders. The day of the LORD is an awesome, terrible thing. Who can possibly survive? That is why the LORD says, "Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning." Joel 2:11-12

Written for the Israelites—God’s chosen people—you may question if it is applicable to you today. Are you part of God’s family—adopted by His grace and love?

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." For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God's children. Romans 8:15-16

How do you become God’s child if you were not born Jewish? By believing in Jesus as the Son of God and the one who came to save you from your sin. Everyone is a sinner—since Adam and Eve sinned…we sin. The result of sin is death, but Jesus came to earth to take our place. We don’t have to die...He did. If you believe that…and confess your sin to God, then you will be saved. 

Read Romans 3:23, Romans 6:23, Romans 10:9-10 and Romans 10:13.

Jesus said that He is the light of the world. He brings love, insight and understanding to a dark, sinful and depraved world. But in order to have Jesus give you that light and love, you need to seek a relationship with Him that goes beyond just knowing about Him. Seek Him while there is still time.

J

Jesus replied, "My light will shine for you just a little longer. Walk in the light while you can, so the darkness will not overtake you. Those who walk in the darkness cannot see where they are going. Put your trust in the light while there is still time; then you will become children of the light." After saying these things, Jesus went away and was hidden from them.

John 12:35-36

Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will harvest a crop of love. Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the LORD, that he may come and shower righteousness upon you. Hosea 10:12

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, You are the light of the world. I put my trust in the light while there is still time; then I will become a child of the light. From John 12:36.

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Do You Love Me?

Meditate.

After breakfast Jesus asked Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?" "Yes, Lord," Peter replied, "you know I love you." "Then feed my lambs," Jesus told him. Jesus repeated the question: "Simon son of John, do you love me?" "Yes, Lord," Peter said, "you know I love you." "Then take care of my sheep," Jesus said. A third time he asked him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, "Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you." Jesus said, "Then feed my sheep. John 21:15-17

Picture Jesus and seven of His disciples sitting around a little campfire. He serves them some freshly roasted fish and bread and they devoured it. The disciples are tired after fishing all night, but they just start to chat. It is amazing to see their Savior again—this is the third time after His resurrection. They are beginning to wonder if it will always be this way…will He always be with them? A couple of the guys are so tired they drift off to sleep, but not Peter. He is intent in his conversation with the Lord.

Jesus asks Peter three times…Do you love me...? Do you love me...? Do you love me...? Remember Peter denied knowing Christ three times. I don’t know Him. Christ’s questions cut right to the core of his heart. Now Jesus was forgiving him. Of course, Peter loves Jesus…loves Him more than others…more than his fishing or life itself. With each question Jesus told him to “feed” and “take care of” His lambs and sheep—His followers. That was just what Peter would do. He deeply wanted to please His Lord. Feed the lambs—give the young believers spiritual guidance. Take care of His sheep—give them direction. Feed His sheep—the grown believers—give them leadership. Show Christ’s love by loving them. Peter was ready to serve the Lord.

The Lord is saying to each of us…as He said to Peter…Do you love me? And what is your answer? I love you, Lord with all of my heart, soul, mind and strength…and I love my neighbor as myself. I will feed and tend your sheep.

Prayer ~ Lord God, just as You taught the Israelites when they were about to enter the Promised Land and throughout the Bible…And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:5. I love You, Lord, and I will do as You expected of Peter…I will feed and tend Your sheep. Show me what to do. Open my eyes to opportunities to serve You.

Happy Birthday – Sweet Amelia!

Love You Little Lady Bug

© 2020 Text and painting by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - https://www.blb.org 

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Go-Baptize-Teach

Meditate on Jesus’ words after His resurrection. What it is that Jesus is asking His disciples…and you? How do His words impact you?

Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20 

Jesus told His disciples to go make disciples, baptize them and teach them. He is giving all His followers the same command. That means Jesus is telling each of us that that is what He wants us to do…that is what He expects us to do. Go get them. Train them up.

What does it take to go and make disciples of all the nations?  I think we first have to surrender to God’s will. We must be sure we are totally and intentionally focused on God. Our lives are typically centered on “me” and as a Christian we have to put God first--Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33. What we need is to make disciples—to lead others to knowing Christ, our Savior. It is kind of a cycle…know Christ…make Christ known.

Baptism in the Jordan River - Israel

Then once you have made disciples…then what? Baptize them. That is pretty straight forward. Find a body of water and “splash” in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It has to be a conviction of each new disciple when to be baptized—it gives them that opportunity to “confess with their mouth” that Jesus is their Lord and Savior. If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9.

The next thing that Jesus expects of us…Teach. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands…. To teach something, you have to know it and live it. Do you know the Commandments that Jesus is talking about? Do you live those out? Love God…and love your neighbor as yourself. Live it. Teach it.

Of course, the best part of the Scripture passage today, I think, is Jesus’ promise…I am with you always, even to the end of the age. What a great promise…Jesus is always with us. This is echoed throughout the Old and New Testaments. I will never leave you or forsake you as in Deuteronomy 31:6 and Hebrews 13:5. See how many other times you can find this same theme in the Bible. Jesus is there for us…actually He is here for us in the form of the Holy Spirit.

This is my command--be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

Hang onto that promise today…and all through this time of isolation and social distancing. Do not be afraid…God is with you. Can you claim that promise for yourself today?

Prayer ~ Lord God… You said, Do not be afraid! Don't be discouraged by this mighty army, for the battle is not yours, but God's. 2 Chronicles 20:15. Thank You, Lord that You are fighting this battle for us and that You will always be with us.

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - https://www.blb.org 

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How Can You Feed Others?

Meditate on this Scripture. Here Jesus is speaking to the disciples at the Sea of Galilee after they have been fishing all night.

"Now come and have some breakfast!" Jesus said. None of the disciples dared to ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. Then Jesus served them the bread and the fish. This was the third time Jesus had appeared to his disciples since he had been raised from the dead.

John 21:12-14

Throw your net on the right side of the boat.
Fisherman on the Sea of Galilee.

Earlier when Jesus appeared to the disciples He asked them, Do you have anything here to eat? They had some broiled fish and gave it to Him. They fed Jesus. Now they are at the Sea of Galilee, fishing all night they have not caught anything until He tells them to throw their net over the right side of the boat. They caught a net full of fish. Jesus had already cooked some fish for them right there on the beach and served them fish and bread for breakfast. Once again Jesus demonstrates a servant attitude. He doesn’t expect them to wait on Him…He cooks and serves them a tasty meal. He knows they are hungry from working all night. He meets their need right where they are…at the beach. They didn’t have to go to the synagogue or a big fancy restaurant.  Jesus went to them and fed them where they were.

Great example for us. Do we see anyone who is physically or spiritually hungry in our community? We need to go to where the hungry people are and feed them. Donating money to a food bank or taking sandwiches to some homeless people is an option, but keep your six feet of acceptable social distancing. The food banks are in real need since they don’t have their usual grocery store donations—no excess in any grocery stores right now—and they are hesitant to accept food donations from individual since that could be a potential source of virus proliferation. Give money. How are the homeless being fed? Since there is still a Stay Home mandate in our community, I’m not sure how needs of the homeless are being met here in the Tri-Cities. I did see a request for face masks and hand sanitizer for homeless. Search out those needs and possibilities of service in your community.

Prayer ~ Jesus, You taught that we need to help others… 'Lord, when did we ever see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and not help you?' And You will answer, 'I tell you the truth, when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me.' Matthew 25:44-45. Lord, open our eyes to the needs of others and help us to meet those needs.

© 2020 Text and photo by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - https://www.blb.org 

Follow And Like "Banquet With The King" on Facebook. 👍