April 23 - Denial

Matthew 26:69-75

“You were with Jesus the Galilean.” ”I do not know what you are talking about.”

Jesus had predicted Peter’s denial of Him and here it is. Warming himself by a fire (Mark 14:54,67) Peter is confronted three times and denies knowing Jesus each time.  Then the rooster crowed.  Daylight was breaking so it was beginning to get light.  There was no hiding in the shadows for Peter. People could see that he was a tanned and weathered Galilean fisherman and would recognize his different accent as he usually spoke in an Aramaic dialect.

Does your speech give you away as a Christian? Do you use Christianese phrases? But the real crux of the matter is, are you denying Jesus?  Don’t be tempted to turn away from opportunities to share the real truth of Jesus with others.

Lord, give me strength to be proud of you in my life and to share You and the truth of your life with others. 

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 21 – Betrayed with a Kiss

Matthew 26:47-56

Judas, accompanied by a great multitude with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and elders of the people, went to Jesus and said, “Hail, Rabbi!” and kissed Him.

Kiss-Kiss. Mostly only lovers, close friends and immediate family kiss in the United States. This week at the shopping mall near my neighborhood and I was aware of lots of people kissing. Is this a Spring thing?  It’s that time of year when people just seem to be more affectionate. Kiss-Kiss.

Betrayed with a kiss.  Judas didn’t just point Jesus out in the Garden—he went up to Him, real friendly like, and kissed Him. He had arranged that the man he kissed would be arrested. It was common in Jewish culture to greet others with a kiss on the cheek, so that was not unusual.  What was unusual was that the crowd with Judas was armed with swords and clubs.  Peter pulled out his sword and cut off the ear of the high priest’s slave—but Jesus touched his ear and healed him (Luke 22:51). So Jesus was arrested and taken away, fulfilling prophesy of Scripture. The disciples left Him and fled.  Just as Jesus predicted, the disciples denied Him and left.

Lord, I don’t want to ever deny or betray you.  

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 20 - The Ten Virgins - Or Give Me Oil in My Lamp Keep Me Burning

Matthew 25:1-13

“The prudent took oil in flasks along with their lamp…The bridegroom came…and those who were ready went in with Him to the wedding feast, and the door was shut.”

Stones used in olive crushing

When we need olive oil we simply go to the grocery store and buy some---imported from Italy or Spain. Similarly, during Bible times oil could be purchased from olive growers and dealers in the market. Olive trees grow quite easily in the Mediterranean region. The ripe olives were gathered, washed and initially crushed. Then the crushed olives were put into a basket that was hung off the end of a log and heavy stones applied pressure to the basket to further crush the olives and release the precious olive oil. The first press of the olives was the best and was likely reserved for cooking. After the first press, additional rocks were added and sometimes the olives were heated to release more oil. The second and third pressings yielded a lower grade of olive oil and that was suitable for use in lamps, for preparation of soap or cosmetics and ceremonial uses. After bathing people would rub oil on their skin for health and to soften their skin. Oil also played an important role in lighting not only homes, in simple clay vessels, but also in the temple in huge metal lamps.

In the marriage customs of the Hebrew people after the betrothal or engagement of the couple, the bridegroom must build their home, adding onto his father’s existing home. When it was ready, the father of the groom would invite people to the wedding, sometimes providing special wedding clothes for them. The bride would be taken by her guests from her family’s home in a procession in the middle of the night through the streets to the bridegroom’s home. The bridegroom would not be at home when she arrived, giving her time to have her hair done by her maids in waiting. He would be having dinner at another relative’s home and his wedding guests would accompany him back to his own home where his bride waited for him. People along his procession route would call out “There he is. He is coming!” 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, 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.       
This is one of my favorite parables. 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. Like the song, "Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning, burning, burning," on fire for the Lord. The oil has been said to represent the Holy Spirit. So how do you bottle up that (Him) to be prepared?



Oil lamp replica from Israel

The point is that the five girls who planned ahead had enough “oil” to light their lamps and the others didn’t. 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. 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!

Lord, fill me—fill us—with the Holy Spirit that we will always be prepared. Give us wisdom to know what to do as we wait for your return. We joyfully look forward to sitting at your banquet table, feasting with you.

April 19 – Famished for Figs

Matthew 21:17-22

…He(Jesus) became hungry. Seeing a lone fig tree by the road, He came to it and found nothing on it except leaves only; and He said to it, "No longer shall there ever be any fruit from you." And at once the fig tree withered. Seeing this, the disciples were amazed and asked, "How did the fig tree wither all at once?" And Jesus answered and said to them, "Truly I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and cast into the sea,' it will happen. "And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive." (NASB)

I love figs and it wasn’t until I was an adult that I realized that figs come from more than Fig Newton packages. Fresh ripe ones are so good. I’m sure that Jesus mouth was watering too, when he anticipated eating a fresh fig. When you are hungry---look for food in season, then ask and receive. Jesus was God---yet He was man and experienced things like we do---hunger. He made the fig tree---yet He cursed it when there was no fruit. You may ask—was this a time of the year that figs were ripe for harvest?  Good question.

Fig trees actually have fruit at two times during the year. The first crop of the year, called the breba crop comes in the spring about the time when the tree gets its leaves. The fruit is very soft, exceptionally sweet and is usually a delicacy eaten directly from the tree since it does not keep long. In the late summer or fall the common figs ripen on the tree and are harvested before they dry. The fruit has a uniquely sweet taste with a delightful crunchiness of the small seeds inside. The fig is the only fruit that has no waste, the skin as well as the seeds are eaten. Medicinally figs are good for treatment of asthma, constipation, hemorrhoids, boils, and infections of the stomach, intestines and urinary tract. Additionally in Japan and Europe a chemical (benzaldehyde) found in figs has been found to be effective against cancer. With the highest mineral content of any common fruit, figs are exceptionally good for us.  

Jesus and his disciples were looking for the spring fruit, but the tree was barren. Like a hypocrite, it promised fruit, but didn’t give any. The nation of Israel has been referred to in the Bible as being like a fig tree (1 Kings 4:25, Hosea 9:10). They were rejected for not being fruitful. Are you being “fruitful”? The promise that Jesus gives us at the end of this passage is so encouraging, whatever we ask for in prayer, if we believe, we will receive it. What a promise! Believe!  

Lord Jesus---Help us to see what is good for us, to ask for the things that are good, in season, and to be fruitful for you.

Easy Fig Pudding

Most fig puddings have flour and are cooked and served at Christmas time. This one is an easy one you can whip up every day, any day.

½ cup figs, fresh or soak dried

3 tsp dried coconut, flaked or shaved

½ cup water

½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp nutmeg

Dash of pure vanilla extract

Sprinkle of sea salt

Soak figs and coconut in the water for several hours or overnight. Put all the ingredients into a blender or food processor and puree. Garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.

Nutritious easy dessert or snack for two, or enjoy it served over French Toast.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 18 - Beloved Fragrance

Matthew 26:6-13

Mary anointed Jesus’ head as he reclined at the table for a meal at the home of Simon the leper. She was asked, “Why this waste?  For this perfume might have been sold for a high price and the money given to the poor.”  Jesus answered the complaints with, “Why do you bother this woman?  For she has done a good deed to Me. The poor you have with you always; but you do not always have Me.”

The closest thing to a room filled with the scent of perfume that I have ever experienced was when I visited the Celestial Seasonings tea factory in Boulder, Colorado. In a room where the peppermint was stored, the enveloping fragrance of the peppermint was so strong in the air that you could literally taste it. I love peppermint, so it was exhilarating to me! For me that peppermint would make a great perfume. Could the scent from a vial of pure perfume in Jesus’ day literally fill that room? Since many of the disciples were indignant about the “waste” of the perfume, they certainly did smell it.    

This same event, as recorded in Mark 14:3-9 and John 12:1-8, occurs in Bethany which was about one and one-half miles east of Jerusalem. It was a place where the sick were cared for since it was the required distance from the Temple; where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead; and where traditionally it is thought that Jesus ascended into heaven.

Taking care of the poor in a town like Bethany where there were lots of poor people with needs may have been upper most in some of the disciples minds, but Jesus was being honored by Mary, who anointed Him for as if for burial, just days before He was crucified. As we recall this story, let us remember that Mary did a special thing, focusing her love and devotion on the Lord. The perfume was about a year’s salary for a rural worker. Would you be willing to give up a year of your wages to buy perfume to pour over Jesus’ head?

Lord, may I be as focused on you as Mary was when she anointed your head with that precious oil.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 17 – Many are Called but Few are Chosen

Matthew 22:1-14

Jesus told a parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son… And he sent out his slaves to call those who had been invited to the wedding feast, and they were unwilling to come….slaves went out into the streets and gathered together all they found, both evil and good; and the wedding hall was filled with dinner guests. But when the king came in to look over the dinner guests, he saw a man there who was not dressed in wedding clothes, and he said to him, 'Friend, how did you come in here without wedding clothes?' And the man was speechless. Then the king said to the servants, 'Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen.” (NASB)

A King was having a banquet for his son. This sounds almost like a fairy tale—like Cinderella. My granddaughter loves the story of Cinderella and she asks me to read it to her often. Cinderella scrubs, cleans and helps her ungrateful step-sisters get ready for the ball, but there is no time or lovely gown for her. In steps the fairy god mother and rescues her with a gorgeous ball gown, glass slippers and a crew of animals who become real servants to take her to the castle. You can almost hear the orchestra tuning up their instruments and practicing. The mouth-watering aromas waft from the kitchen as the bakers and chefs prepare food for the grand ball. We could only wish to be called to such an elegant affair where everyone is arriving in elegant gowns and spotless suits. A glorious day.

Now here is another story of a King who wants his son to have an extravagant wedding. God is the father and invites people to the wedding of His son, Jesus. When it was time for the wedding those who were invited had excuses why they couldn’t make it to the festivities. The invited guests even mistreated and killed the servants. So the Father sent other servants to find new guests. One of these guests wasn’t properly dressed so he was bound and thrown into the outer darkness (hell).

I love parts of this story because we are the invited guests---and I want to be ready. God is choosy about who gets into the wedding feast in heaven. Make sure you not only respond when “invited”---but put on your best clothes and get ready for a wonderful heavenly feast!

What do “wedding clothes” look like?  In Revelation 19:8 it says that the bride of the Lamb (the church) is wearing fine linen, clean and bright. Additionally, Revelation 7:9 and 9:11 state, “…great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues (languages), standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes.”

To wash our robes in the blood of the lamb is to confess our sins and ask for forgiveness. What could be simpler?   But some people don’t want to humble themselves before the Lord and admit that they have done anything wrong. Where do you stand with the Lord today?  Are you ready to stand before His throne?

Lord, please forgive me for my sin---cleanse me white as snow. As I come to you, give me a glorious white robe to wear at your feast!  I don’t want to miss this special banquet with You.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 16 – Talents

Matthew 25:14-30

A man about to go on a journey gives three of his servants five, two and one talents, respectively.  The one given five, immediately traded with them and earned five more.  The one given two talents gained two more, but the servant who had been given one talent buried it.  When the master came back he rewarded the servants who had made money with a promise that their faithfulness would result being put in charge of many things and they could enter into their master’s joy.  The one who buried the money did so out of fear and he gave the one talent back to his master.  The master reprimanded the servant that he should have at least put the money in the bank and earned interest on the money. So the talent was taken way and given to the servant who had ten.  For to everyone who has shall more be given, and he shall have an abundance but the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken way.  The worthless servant was cast into the outer darkness where there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

When I give a gift, I always try to make it something practical. That’s just me. Don’t waste money on frivolous things. I like to give my grandkids gifts of toys, books and clothes that they can really use.  Even for toddlers though money is more useful since it can be saved for their college education, while clothes are quickly outgrown, toys become just another dust collector on the shelf after their uniqueness wears off, and the pages of books get ripped. Personally, I like to receive gifts that are useful, that don’t just sit on a shelf collecting dust, hoping for a time to be regifted or buried in the backyard---like a dog bone.

Could those “talents” that Jesus taught about be more than money? How about real talents and spiritual gifts that the Lord has given each of us? Invest what is given to you! How can you “invest” in talents like music, poetry, or painting? Using those “gifts” will increase their value to you and others. Don't bury your creative abilities. I’ve found that talent not used fades away. I love to paint butterflies, in the Chinese style. If I'm not writing...I'd rather be painting.

As for spiritual gifts, those need to be used, too. Have you discovered your spiritual gifts? There are numerous spiritual gift inventory tests available that you can use to evaluate your particular interests and establish your gifts of faith, service, craftsmanship, discernment, apostle, hospitality, creative communication, teaching, encouragement, mercy, giving, prophecy, evangelism, leadership, exhortation, shepherding or administration. Some evaluations can be found online, just Google or Bing: Spiritual Gifts. In scripture, gifts of the Spirit are discussed in 1 Corinthians 12. Feast on the words of Jesus and look forward to entering into your Master’s joy. The joy of heaven.

Lord, help me to see the talents you’ve given to me and how to invest those talents to please you.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 15 - Hunger

Matthew 25:31-45

Verse 35, “For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me drink….”  Verse 39 continues  “When?”... Verse 40, “…and the King will answer…to the extent that you did it to one of the brothers of mine, even to the least of them, you did it to Me.”

I try to make it a habit of offering water, especially on hot summer days, to anyone who comes to our home, whether it is a repairman or someone selling meat or books. Always be willing to share your food—to give others something to eat or drink. May I offer you a fresh fruit smoothie with that salad?  Or just a cool glass of ice water, with a lemon, of course?!

Jesus is teaching here about feeding the brothers, stressing the importance of taking care of fellow Christians. The teaching goes on in verse 45 to say that when someone did NOT feed the hungry or give a drink to the thirsty, they didn’t do it for the King (Jesus) and those people will go away to eternal punishment, while the righteous (the providers) will go into eternal life (heaven).

Where do you want to go?  Choose to be a servant, choose to go to heaven.

Lord, thank you for letting us serve You through others. May they graciously accept the meal or drink we offer, whether it is gourmet or just plain simple food. Let us feel your presence as we share food and fellowship around Your table, honoring You.

April 14 – Out of the Mouths of Babes

Matthew 21:14-16

The blind and lame came to Jesus in the temple and He healed them. The chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things He had done and the children were crying out, “Hosanna to the Son of David,” they became indignant, and said to Him, “Do You hear what these are saying?” Jesus said to them, “Yes; have you never read, ‘Out of the mouths of infants..thou has prepared praise for Thyself’?” (NASB)

Children say amazing things---funny to the adults around them because sometimes the kids just haven't mastered the language yet. A couple of years ago my oldest grandson, then three, said to his mom who was sitting with her arms crossed watching TV, "I want some of those when I grow up," pointing at her chest. He wants breasts? No, he wants freckles. She has freckles on her arms! Freckles! Kisses of sunshine on his face and arms! That would likely bring a smile to Jesus' face, too!

This is quoted from Psalm 8:2---From mouths of infants and nursing babes Thou hast established strength. David was writing a hymn of praise in awe of the majesty of the Lord. It is astonishing what God has created---and who He is. Creator of the stars of the heavens, and the starfish in the oceans; the horses on land and sea horses in the depths of the seas; flowers in the spring and snowflakes in the winter, each unique and individual, just like each of us are distinctively different, yet created in His image. One day we will stand before Him, see Him face to face and praise Him. Then we'll sit at His banquet table and feast on the bounty that He has prepared. Truth, Love, Joy. Spiritual food, too.

So the priests and scribes didn’t like to hear the truth from little children. Truth. Little children are known for telling things like it is and they repeat exactly what they have heard. Are you careful what you say in front of them? You’ll be hearing it again. Hosanna!

Lord, thank you for the little children in our lives and the honesty that they embrace.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 13 – Signs of the Times

Matthew 24:1-51

Verse 30  “…and then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory.”

Sunrise is the best time of day. Although I haven’t actually seen the sun rise lately, since I’ve been staying up too late at night to rise that early in the morning. For a couple of years when I was in High School I worked on my uncle’s farm moving irrigation sprinklers. It was hard work, but it paid well and I got to see the sun rise every morning. Now each day when I wake up I look outside to check the weather. On cloudless days I often say to myself---no clouds, Jesus won’t be coming back today. Some mornings the clouds and sunlight breaking through the clouds give an amazing preview of what it might be like when Jesus returns. Are those just for practice? Listen. Do you hear any trumpets? Clouds move so quickly, things change. Matthew 24:36-39 tells us it will be like in Noah’s day before the flood when they were eating and drinking until the day that Noah entered the ark. They didn’t understand.

In Acts 1:11, when Jesus ascended into heaven on a cloud, two angels stood beside the disciples and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven.” we have the assurance from Jesus himself that He will come back in a cloud.

Keep your eyes on the clouds. We don’t know the hour or the day, only the Heavenly Father knows the exact time of Jesus’ return. We’ve been warned—be prepared—“be on the alert” and "see to it that no one misleads you." For centuries people have thought that Jesus would return during their lifetime. When I was younger, I did, too. I’ve searched scriptures and tried to understand God’s timing. Many have taught that once Israel is back in their land (Palestine) that Jesus would soon return. Israel came back into the Promised Land as a nation in 1948. There have been wars and rumors of wars around the world continually---and birth pangs worldwide, like unusual earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis, yet Jesus has not yet returned. Not everyone has heard of Him.

The clouds in the morning and evening are often brilliant and spectacular here in the western states. This photo was taken in western Montana. Is this God’s warm-up, His rehearsal for the glory of Jesus return? Remember that before Jesus returns there will be tribulation. Be strong and endure. After that Jesus will meet us in the air---that great rapture we’ve all heard about in 1 Thessalonians 4:17. The word “rapture” is not in scripture, but is a Greek word for taken up. See you “in the air” in the glory of the cloud when Jesus comes to snatch us.

Lord, help us to “be prepared” day by day, to be obedient and to share your love with others.

April 12 - Humble or Hypocrite?

Matthew 23:1-39

“But the greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.” (v 11-12) (NASB)

It is hard to be humble when in our society it is our nature and our desire is to be recognized, rewarded, and revered. Children and adults alike are in the “Me” mode…life is all about ME. When was the last time you talked to someone and they didn’t carry on about what they were doing or feeling? Were they exalting themselves? I know without thinking, I do the same thing. My life is centered around me and my family. I have to make a conscious effort to focus on others, to exalt them.

Jesus, speaking to the disciples and the multitudes, described the heart condition of the Pharisees. The Pharisees should have been respected leaders in their society. They all instructed what to do and observe, but they did not do according to their own words. In verse 6, they love the place of honor at banquets, and the chief seats in the synagogues…But (V13) woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, because you shut off the kingdom of heaven from men, for you do not enter in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in.

The banquet of the Lord will be a joyous, lively meal---with no hypocrites. Do you think there will be round tables so that there will be no “head” or place of honor?  No, the place of honor will be where Jesus Himself is seated…and anyone at that banquet is “honored” to be there. They’ve made the right decision—they’ve chosen Jesus as their Savior. Look at your own heart once again today. Holiness is not an option---it is a requirement. Continue to make good decisions, with pure motives, and humble yourself before the Lord. The best decision you can make is to ask for forgiveness and accept Jesus as your Savior, then you will be worthy and chosen to sit at His Banquet table.

Lord, forgive me if I appear to be a hypocrite like the Pharisees. Cleanse my heart and my attitude that I may be pleasing to you and worthy to sit at your banquet table---today. I love you and praise you, for you alone are worthy of praise.

April 11 – Greatest Commandment

Matthew 22:35-40

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind…second is…you shall love your neighbor as yourself. (vv 37, 39)

When I am thinking something inappropriate, I have found that the best way to focus my mind on Christ is quoting this scripture to myself. It is one of my favorite verses. I've quoted it a lot over the years. Isn’t focusing our minds on Christ what we are suppose to do—at all times, not just when we slip up and find inappropriate ideas running through our thoughts? 

Here Jesus is quoting Deuteronomy 6:5 which is part of the Shema, used by Jews in their daily prayers. What does it mean to “love the Lord with all your heart, soul and mind”?  When you love someone you want to focus your attention on them (not on the TV, newspaper, or internet). So when (not IF) we love the Lord, we will give Him our undivided attention and let Him know that we love Him---through prayer, Bible study, devotions, or just quietly listening for His voice. Feast on His word today and Love Him with all your heart, soul and mind.

This scripture is similar to that recorded in Luke 11. Like the young lawyer in Luke 11 we may want to rationalize “who” our neighbor is. I think that Jesus made it clear in that parable of the Good Samaritan that our neighbor can be anyone, not just the person next door. The Samaritan was an outcast---but he took care of beaten man, when the priests and temple officials had ignored him. We should never ignore those who need help, whether they are stranded on the desert desolate road between Jericho and Jerusalem, or on a street in our community. 

Lord---I do love you above all else. Help me to focus my attention on You and to show your love to my neighbors—who include my family and friends, as well as those people who live next door.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 10 - The Garden of Gethsemane

Matthew 26:36-46

“Sit here while I go over there and pray.”   ...My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt.”

The snarled old olive trees (below in the Garden of Gethsemane in Jerusalem) did not provide a welcoming hospitable, cozy place, but it was quiet. During Jesus time this must have been a tranquil spot since it is noted that Jesus brought his disciples there often. To ponder, to find peace, to pray. 

There in the Garden on the evening of the last supper, the disciples were to keep watch---to stay awake and be alert---and to pray.  But they fell asleep. They had just had a big Passover meal. They were full, it was late and the Garden was dark.  As they waited for Jesus, they fell asleep.  Right when He needed them to be praying---they slept.  He asked them, “Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?” (NIV) When was the last time you prayed for an entire hour? I imagine you got sleepy, too. We have had several times at our church in the last couple of years where we have been called to pray for an hour or even for just a half hour at a time. Few people sign up for an entire hour. They just don’t think they can do it, but all things are possible with God.  If you are asked to pray for an hour---don’t decline the opportunity. Just as Jesus wanted His disciples to watch and pray, so as not to fall into temptation (v. 41), He wants you to be devoted to Him and to prayer, too.  Make a list of the things you want to pray about and scripture that matches those prayer topics. Then pray. 

Jesus wanted the cup to pass from Him, but He sought to do His Father’s will.  That is what we need to do, too.  Seek God’s will in your life. That is a big task in itself, but it is one that is doable on a moment by moment basis. Jesus was giving His life---at that moment, He was being submissive to His Father.  Can you be submissive to God’s will today?

Heavenly Father, show me what it is that You want me to do for you today.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

April 9 – The Denial

Matthew 26:31-35

You will all fall away. Peter answered...I will never fall away.  Jesus said to him, “Truly I say to you that this very night before a cock crows, you shall deny Me three times.”

 

Rooster Art - Israel

Have you ever heard a rooster crow? My grandfather worked on a chicken ranch, so going to visit as a kid would mean waking up to lots of roosters crowing and hearing hens clucking all day long. There were brooding pens and lots of cute fuzzy little chicks in the spring that would delight any child. I loved to visit and go to the egg room where they sorted and cleaned the eggs. The smell of fresh egg and the coolness of the refrigerated room was such a treat. Back home on our farm my folks had just a few chickens, including a rooster. He was a mean one that was scary to try to get back into the fenced area if he got loose. I think that when we finally butchered him I was glad to be picking his feathers, but I missed his crowing---waking us up every morning. Peter wasn’t so glad to hear a rooster crow and possibly didn’t like hearing any rooster crow the rest of his life, reminding him of his denial.

How could Peter deny Jesus not just once, but three times? Jesus knew that all the disciples were to leave Him that evening. How lonely to feel that way---rejected and disowned. Each of the disciples themselves would also feel that way before the evening was gone.  It was predicted in Zechariah 13:7, the falling away of the sheep. The disciples didn’t think that they would reject their Master, their teacher, their God, but they did.

Do you ever deny Jesus before others?  Do you keep your mouth shut when you could speak up and speak out about Him? Do you not read a Bible story or devotional to your children because it is just too late or they’ve just misbehaved too much today?

Back in Matthew 10:33 Jesus said, “But whoever shall deny Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in Heaven.”  Wow. That’s a powerful motivator---I don’t want to be denied to the Heavenly Father. How about you?

Lord Jesus, help me to not only share You with others, but to encourage others not to “fall away” from You during times of stress.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 8 - Resurrection

Matthew 28:1-10

“Do not be afraid…He has risen; He is not here.”

We waited in line for our turn to visit the Empty Tomb. There were some groups singing softly as we waited. Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound. Words rang so true to my heart. I once was lost and now am found. Found in this Garden in Jerusalem (pictured at left). Maybe this was THE tomb…maybe it wasn’t. It is hard to locate a grave from almost two thousand years ago, so the tourists in Israel flock to the presumed site of Jesus burial and resurrection. Our time had come we were next in line to enter the empty tomb. We stepped inside. A sacred hush filled the air, enveloping this holy place. My heart filled with joy recalling the miraculous story of Jesus. He loved me so much that He died for me, took my sins to the grave and now He is risen---overcoming death. 

He was not there---He was risen--just like they said.
That was the message that Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome (Mark 16:1) heard when they brought spices to anoint Jesus’ body.  They were to go and tell His disciples, but they were so afraid that they said nothing to anyone (Mark 16:8). Matthew 28:10 tells us that Jesus Himself appeared to them and said, “Do not be afraid; go and take word to My brethren to leave for Galilee, and there they shall see Me.”

 He is risen!  Hallelujah! He is risen indeed! The favorite Easter or Resurrection Sunday greeting! What else is there to say? He had power over death. We can only rejoice and be glad.

Lord, we praise You and rejoice that indeed You have risen from the grave. Hallelujah!

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 7 - Passover

Matthew 26:17-30

On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”

The Passover meal was initiated by God when the Israelites were about to make their exodus from Egypt. The first Passover as described in Exodus 12:3-10 began with the selection of a perfect year old sheep or goat. It was then sacrificed and the blood was spread on the lintel and doorpost of the home so that the angel of death would “Passover” that home and not kill the first born, as God had ordered for all of the first born humans and animals of Egypt. This was the last of the plagues that were used to convince Pharaoh to let God’s people go. The lamb was to be roasted and eaten quickly with unleavened bread. This is probably the only place in the Bible that people were encouraged to eat quickly. The Hebrew people were commanded to remember this seven day festival to honor God who watched over them that night. Israelites in Jesus time and to this day follow the same instruction given to Moses.

This Passover meal was a very special one for Jesus. It was his last one. He revealed that one of the disciples would betray Him, so that He would be handed over to the authorities and crucified. During the Passover meal He took bread, blessed it, and broke it saying, “Take, eat; this is My body.” Then later during the meal He took a cup of wine, gave thanks for it, gave it to the disciples and said, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will not drink of this fruit of the vine from now until that day when I drink it anew with you in my Father’s kingdom.”

That was His last meal. We refer to it as “The Last Supper” and continue to remember Him by taking those elements, bread and juice from the vine, knowing that He sacrificed His life for us. One day we will gather around His banquet table and drink from the fruit of the vine with Him at His First Supper in Heaven, just as He promised.

Lord, thank you for being that Passover lamb for us; for sacrificing yourself for our sins. Help us to never betray you in any way. 

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 6 – Our Hearts as His Temple

Matthew 21:12-13

Jesus went into the temple of God and drove out the money changers. The temple was to be a house of prayer---but it was a den of thieves (predicted in Isaiah 56:7 and Jeremiah 7:11).

Our hearts are to be a temple for Christ. So how is your heart?  Does Jesus need to do a cleansing?  Is your heart a “house of prayer”?  The area where Jesus drove out the money changes was also known as Solomon’s portico. When Jesus was a baby this is where Joseph and Mary likely bought the doves (Luke 2:24 & 39) that were sacrificed when He was dedicated.  The photo shows the model of the Temple in Jerusaem.

Jesus was angry with the money changers and as a human He struck out at those with whom He was upset. By this example we know that Jesus experienced the same emotion of anger that we do. So what should we do with our righteous indignation?  There aren’t “money changers” in our churches---but if we find “thieves” in the temple of our hearts---we need to drive them out. Choose who you will serve--God or idols. As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. Joshua 27:15.

Lord – Cleanse my heart---and make me white as snow. Send the Holy Spirit to dwell new and fresh in the temple of my heart. I praise You for You today—and for the purity You desire in us.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 5 – Hosanna

Matthew 21:1-11

Hosanna to the Son of David!  Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!  From Psalm 118:21

People waved palm branches—not just as Jesus rode into Jerusalem, but this last Sunday in church. It was Palm Sunday. Often children are asked to parade through the sanctuary and wave palm branches, but this year adults were asked to do the waving, giving honor to the Lord while singing praise songs. Some grownups passed their palms off to children sitting with them, others waved half-heartedly and a few were downright exuberant as they swayed their branch above their heads. How would you have waved your palm branch for the Lord?

Jesus fulfilled prophesy of Zechariah 9:9 when He rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. The Hebrew people were looking for a political savior and king and thought Jesus riding on that donkey was their king. They shouted “Hosanna” meaning “Save”. He was a spiritual savior and king—not the political one they were seeking. This passage is one that we celebrate as Jesus Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem the week He was crucified. This begins Holy week.

Are you letting Jesus ride into your life as your spiritual savior today---everyday? Would you spread your coat on the road as His followers did in Jerusalem? For us to have a “spiritual feast” with Jesus we need to acknowledge Him as our Lord and King.

Jesus, I praise you as my Lord and Savior. Hosanna to you.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 4 – First–Last and Last–First

Matthew 19:24-30

Jesus said It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle that for a rich man to get into heaven.


Camels - kneeling and resting in Israel

When I was young I laughed at the thought of that. It would be impossible for a camel to go through the eye of a needle---even a large needle used for tent making. But then I learned that there is a special low gate in an ancient wall around a city that would be opened at night to let late travelers into the city. This gate is called “The eye of the needle”. To enter through such a gate the camel could have to get down on their knees and literally “crawl” through the opening. So that would be hard. Jesus was teaching that it would be equally difficult for a rich person to enter heaven. They would have to humble themselves---become like a poor person---and desire Christ.

The disciples wondered then who can be saved. Jesus answered---“With God all things are possible.”  He continues, “…in the regeneration”, assuring the disciples of their salvation and of their possible position in heaven, “you will sit on twelve thrones judging the twelve tribes.”  He assures them that since they have left “all” and followed Him that they will receive a “hundred fold” and inherit eternal life.

“Many who are first will be last and the last, first.”  So what is this all about?  Don’t think of yourself too important in God’s eyes. God will decide who will be “first” and “last”. Maybe that is not so important as just to know that you will be seated in heaven---at that table feasting with the Lord. It doesn’t really matter if you will be near the head of the table, “first” or not. Be assured, you will be there, if you choose to have Jesus in your life!

Lord Jesus, I praise you and I so look forward to feasting with you in Heaven. Help me to humble myself to help the poor, and know you more.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 3 - Good Teacher…Only God is Good

Matthew 19:16-23   

And someone came to Him and said, "(Good)Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may obtain eternal life?" And He said to him, "Why are you asking Me about what is good? There is only One who is good; but if you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments." Then he said to Him, "Which ones?" And Jesus said, "YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER; YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY; YOU SHALL NOT STEAL; YOU SHALL NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS; HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER; and YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF." The young man said to Him, "All these things I have kept; what am I still lacking?" Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property. And Jesus said to His disciples, "Truly I say to you, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. (NASB)

Did this man recognize that Jesus is God?

Keep the commandments. Here Jesus lists the commandments that deal with people relationships:  murder, adultery, theft, false witness, honor, (Exodus 20:12-17) and loving neighbors. He didn’t mention the first four commandments that deal with God (Exodus 20:3-8). The young man claimed to have kept all those. Can anyone really do that? Jesus has already taught that to think evil is to do it---and who hasn’t told a little white lie?  That is false witness. This young man was only fooling himself. Jesus knew that and gave him a task that would be impossible for him. “Go, sell what you have and give to the poor. And you will have treasure in heaven.”  So the “rich” young man sadly left and apparently never came back and “followed” Jesus. It is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Treasures on earth are not treasures in heaven. Those treasures will certainly be spiritual food.

Dear Jesus— Show me the treasures I need to store in Heaven. I want to keep your commandments and I look forward to seeing you in Heaven.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 2 - Little Children

Matthew 19:13–14 

Then some children were brought to Him so that He might lay His hands on them and pray; and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, "Let the children alone, and do not hinder them from coming to Me; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."

 “Jesus loved the little children” – Sing it!

One of my earliest memories is of going to Sunday School and singing Jesus Loves Me. We colored, or rather scribbled, pictures of Jesus and watched the teacher move the flannel graph pictures around as she told stories about Jesus and his parables. What does a four or five year old know about Jesus? Probably more than we realize. My early church years gave me a good background into His character and I learned more facts about Jesus over the years, but I didn’t really feel like I belonged to Him was until I was in college.  

He laid his hands on them. Imagine His big hand on your head right now. Jesus loved the little children and big children. We are so blessed to be adopted children of God (He predestined us to adoption as sons through Jesus Christ to Himself…Ephesians 1:5). Look closely at what Jesus says in this passage of Matthew…”for such is the kingdom of heaven.”  Come to Jesus as a child—believing in Him and loving Him unconditionally. Heaven bound for a bountiful banquet with our King.

Lord, thank you for adopting me into your family and loving me even when I don’t deserve your love.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.

April 1 – Divorce and Remarriage

Matthew 19:3-12

“…they are no longer two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let no man separate.”  “Whoever divorces his wife, except for immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery.”

Those are hard words for some people to swallow. Harder still for others to digest. Our society rationalizes divorce so easily. ”…we just aren’t happy together” or …“we have irreconcilable differences.”  What is “happiness?”  Are people truly happier when they are divorced?  The marriage vows are a covenant between two people and between them and God. That commitment is a lifetime commitment; until death do us part. What don’t they understand?  Sure there are tough times in marriage, in any one’s life. My husband and I have “stuck it out” for nearly forty years, as I write this---and we’re still keeping on, keeping on. It doesn’t mean that we haven’t had rough times---we have. We just didn’t give up during the rough times, the bad times. The good times have been very good---like truly feasting, not just nibbling at the Lord’s banquet table. There have been mediocre days that are just part of life, too. Days that might be more like a greasy McDonald’s burger than a feast. The "throw in the towel days" we just worked through somehow, staying committed knowing that we were making choices, and divorce wasn’t a serious option.    

We have to make an effort to create the good times---to create good memories. When was the last time you made an effort to do something kind for your spouse? Have you taken out the trash without being asked…or instead of them doing it?  How about fixing a special meal for them…cleaning their car, or massaging their feet?  If Jesus could wash the disciples’ feet when they’d been out walking on dusty roads---you can certainly wash your spouse’s feet. (smile)  This is not an April Fool’s message. Anyone would be a fool to disregard God’s message on marriage…God’s message on anything!

Lord, help us to be totally committed and truly kind to our spouses and our families.

© 2012 by Mickey M. Hunacek.  All rights reserved.