On the Third Day - Remember

But very early on Sunday morning the women went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. They found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. So they went in, but they didn't find the body of the Lord Jesus. As they stood there puzzled, two men suddenly appeared to them, clothed in dazzling robes. The women were terrified and bowed with their faces to the ground. Then the men asked, "Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive? He isn't here! He is risen from the dead! Remember what He told you back in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be betrayed into the hands of sinful men and be crucified, and that He would rise again on the third day." Then they remembered that He had said this. So they rushed back from the tomb to tell His eleven disciples—and everyone else—what had happened. Luke 24:1-9

The Empty Tomb - Jerusalem

The tomb was empty…and then they remembered what Jesus had said. He would rise from the dead…on the third day. Puzzled and terrified. It was hard for them to understand what happened…and was happening. Jesus fulfilled the promise. He was obedient to the Father. He suffered rejection by His creation—the very people He came to minister to and save. He suffered humiliation of beating, being spit on, mocked and cursed, and ultimately of being crucified on a cross. He died for the sin of mankind. His resurrection provides salvation and gives us hope—hope and a future. An eternal home with Him.

Will you accept that He died for your sin? Ask for forgiveness and joyfully accept what Jesus Christ has done for you?

Prayer ~  Jesus—we rejoice in Your resurrection.

Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 56, 120, 140-142

Glorious Resurrection Sunday

Happy Easter

© 2017 Text and photo by Mickey 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.

Left Alone in the Dark Tomb

Golgatha - Place of the Skull

Jerusalem today

Though He (Jesus) was God, He did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, He gave up His divine privileges; He took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When He appeared in human form, He humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross. Philippians 2:6-8

As evening approached, Joseph, a rich man from Arimathea who had become a follower of Jesus, went to Pilate and asked for Jesus' body. And Pilate issued an order to release it to him. Joseph took the body and wrapped it in a long sheet of clean linen cloth. He placed it in his own new tomb, which had been carved out of the rock. Then he rolled a great stone across the entrance and left. Matthew 27:57-60

Jesus had gone to the Cross—humbly obedient to the end. Died—as darkness engulfed the land. His body was removed from the Cross and placed in the new tomb of one of His followers. There was no smell of death in that tomb—only fresh clean rock and dirt. Now His body was left in the darkness…alone. His disciples scattered—probably fearing for their own lives. If the Romans would execute their teacher, their Messiah—then would they do the same to them? Darkness…loneliness. When we die our spirit and soul separate from our body. Jesus body was left in the darkness.  So where was His spirit? His last words were…

…"Father, 'into Your hands I commit My spirit.' (from Psalm 31:5)" Having said this, He breathed His last. Luke 23:46 NKJV.

Jesus gave His spirit into the loving care of His Heaven Father. It was finished. His work on earth was done…completed.

The Apostles’ Creed tells us that after His burial, He descended to the dead. (See Ephesians 4:9-10.)

I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again;
he ascended into heaven,
he is seated at the right hand of the Father,
and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.

He was no longer in a dark tomb. Remember that Jesus IS the LIGHT of the world. While He was living on earth …

Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." John 8:12

Garden Tomb - Jerusalem

Just because He died He did not become darkness. The tomb was dark…and His body was in the tomb—but His spirit was released—and the light of His spirit shone wherever He went.

Prayer ~ Jesus, shine into our hearts and lives today. In the Sermon on the Mount, You told the people that they are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, people should let their good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise our heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14-16. We praise You, Jesus, for You light up our lives. No dark, lonely tombs here.

Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 7, 27, 31, 34, 52

© 2017 Text and photo by Mickey 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.

The Truth Shall Set You Free

And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. John 8:32

Pilate therefore said to Him, "Are You a king then?" Jesus answered, "You say [rightly] that I am a king. For this cause I was born, and for this cause I have come into the world, that I should bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice." Pilate said to Him, "What is truth?" And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews, and said to them, "I find no fault in Him at all. John 18:37-38 NKJV

Do you want to be free? Free from stress…free from burdens, cares, worries…free from negative responses…free from broken relationships…free from sickness and disease? Where could you find such relief? Could Jesus hold such an answer?

Jesus said…I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6. He is The Truth…and the truth will set you free. That is a deep and profound thought. Would a relationship with Jesus do all that? Breathe in. Breathe out. Yes. Unload your cares on Him. He is big enough to handle anything. He spent His life headed for the Cross—to take on the sin of the world. Our mistakes…those we willfully and unknowingly committed. He hung on the Cross for us.

Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light." Matthew 11:28-30.

Rest for your very soul. What more could you want in life. If all is well with your soul…life will be better. It is for me. Try the Truth. It will set you free.

Prayer ~ Jesus, it is humbling to know how much You had to suffer on the Cross for me. Thank You.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 21-24

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Have you ever tried to make your own grape juice?

Homemade Grape Juice

Grapes of your choice – traditionally Concord grapes are used, but you  can choose any type

Equipment needed:

            Colander

            Potato Masher

            Large pan—and of course a stove

            Sieve or cheesecloth

            Glass measuring cup or bowl

In the colander, wash the grapes well to remove any dirt or chemicals and remove them from the stems. Sing the potato masher, mash the grapes until the juice starts to come out. Then put the grapes into your cooking pan and cook on medium heat for 10 minutes, mashing or stirring them if they begin to clump up. Using a sieve, or the cheesecloth, strain the grapes, catching the juice in a large cup—like a measuring cup—or bowl. Refrigerate the juice or pour over ice cubes to serve.

 Juicing can also be done in a food mill or with a juicer designed just for fruits and vegetable. Use the tools you have at hand and enjoy fresh juice.

© 2017 Text and photo by Mickey 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.

Passover Meal - The Seder

Now the Festival of Unleavened Bread arrived, when the Passover lamb is sacrificed. Jesus sent Peter and John ahead and said, "Go and prepare the Passover meal, so we can eat it together." "Where do you want us to prepare it?" they asked Him. He replied, "As soon as you enter Jerusalem, a man carrying a pitcher of water will meet you. Follow him. At the house he enters, say to the owner, 'The Teacher asks: Where is the guest room where I can eat the Passover meal with my disciples?' He will take you upstairs to a large room that is already set up. That is where you should prepare our meal." They went off to the city and found everything just as Jesus had said, and they prepared the Passover meal there. When the time came, Jesus and the apostles sat down together at the table. Jesus said, "I have been very eager to eat this Passover meal with you before my suffering begins. For I tell you now that I won't eat this meal again until its meaning is fulfilled in the Kingdom of God." Luke 22:7-16  

Remembering that Last Passover Meal with the Lord.

Men didn’t often carry pitchers of water…that was a women’s job in early Jewish culture. So it must have been easy for the disciples to identify the man with whom they needed to speak. He was carrying a pitcher of water. The disciples went to the Upper Room and prepared the Passover Meal. Passover. A very sacred time in the life of a Jew. One of their great holidays—a celebration of their liberation from the oppressive slavery under the Egyptians. Remember—God had told them. Remember and commemorate.

This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come you shall celebrate it as a festival to the LORD—a lasting ordinance. Exodus 12:14 NIV

I love the way the Passover Meal is a special family time and everyone is involved—children, parents, others family members and guests. When the family is looking through the house searching for leaven, I wonder how far back that tradition dates. Did Jesus and the other children in His home look for leaven in preparation for the Passover? Did His mother, Mary, like other mothers, light a candle to begin the celebration? Wash your hands before you eat…part of the Levitical ritual, but Jesus carried this tradition further to include foot washing, showing Himself to be a servant to His disciples. This purification was only for the external body…not for the spirit. No amount of water could wash away sin, only blood could take away that transgression.

For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it to you on the altar to make atonement for your souls; for it is the blood by reason of the life that makes atonement. Leviticus 17:11 NASB.

The Passover Seder continues including four questions asked by children. Did Jesus ask these questions as a child?

1.      Why is this night different from all other nights?

2.      On all other nights we eat any kind of vegetable. Why on this night only maror—the bitter herbs?

3.      On all other nights we are not required to dip our vegetables even once. Why on this night two times?

4.      On all other nights we eat sitting upright or reclining. Why on this night do all recline?

Just a little later the ten plagues that God inflicted on the Egyptians are recalled:

            Blood

            Frogs

            Lice

            Flies

            Pestilence

            Boils

            Hail

            Locusts

            Darkness

            Death of the firstborn

The three essentials of Passover are discussed.

            The Passover Lamb, slain for the redemption of the Hebrew people in Egypt. The lamb’s blood was placed on the doorposts to show that a Hebrew family lived in that house. That family was spared as the angel of death took the lives of the first born throughout Egypt. Likewise by faith the blood of our Savior applied to our hearts allows God’s judgment to pass over our sin—and we are saved.

            The matzoh, the unleavened bread, reminds us how the Hebrew people didn’t have time to let their bread rise as they prepared to leave Egypt. It reminds us of the perfect life of Jesus who was without sin. It also has stripes, like those that were inflicted on Jesus’ back. Jesus declared that He is the Bread of Life…

Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, Moses didn't give you bread from heaven. My Father did. And now he offers you the true bread from heaven. The true bread of God is the one who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world." ... Jesus replied, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry again. Whoever believes in me will never be thirsty." John 6:32-33, 35.

The maror, a bitter herb—represented often using horseradish, reminds us of the bitter life of slavery that the Egyptians inflicted on the Hebrew people. The Israelites worked hard making bricks and mortar, doing field work and whatever labor the Egyptians asked of them. Life was bitter. Likewise God has brought us out of slavery to freedom with Him—from darkness to light—from bondage to redemption.

Besides of course, a grand and glorious meal, the Passover Celebration includes singing, Scripture readings, responses and four cups: Sanctification, Deliverance, Redemption, and Praise. A time of looking for Elijah, who was to return before the coming of the Messiah, takes place near the end of the Seder celebration. For the Messianic Jews, and for Christians, the Passover is completed with the sacrifice of Jesus’ death on the Cross. How do you view the Passover? Does the Journey to the Cross bringing Jesus closer to completing God’s redemption plan? Are you part of that plan?

Prayer ~ Jesus, as You journeyed closer to the Cross and experienced Your last Passover with Your disciples, did You recall the Passover celebrations that You had with Your family when You were growing up? Did You sing the Psalms, like Psalms 115-118? This time of Passover is a celebration…and also a time of humbling sadness as we recall Your sacrifice on the Cross, the beating that You experienced prior to Your crucifixion, and the humiliation You endured from the Romans and the Jewish religious leaders. Thank You for being obedient to Our Heavenly Father.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 18-20; Psalm 11, 59

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photo by Mickey.

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

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

Arrest Him?

The leading priests and teachers of religious law were plotting how to kill Jesus, but they were afraid of the people's reaction. Then Satan entered into Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve disciples, and he went to the leading priests and captains of the Temple guard to discuss the best way to betray Jesus to them. They were delighted, and they promised to give him money. So he agreed and began looking for an opportunity to betray Jesus so they could arrest him when the crowds weren't around. Luke 22:2-6

Betrayal? How could Judas even consider such an action? Jesus was his rabbi, his teacher—his friend.

Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, "What are you willing to give me to betray Him to you?" And they weighed out thirty pieces of silver to him. Matthew 26:14-15 NASB

Then Satan entered into Judas Iscariot…. Satan entered him. God allowed it to happen so that Jesus would be sacrificed—so He would be the sacrificial lamb on Passover. The sacrifice for the sin of all mankind.

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. John 3:16

Betrayal—yes. And greed…show me the money. For thirty coins…not even gold…just silver coins, Judas looked for a way to betray Jesus. Then he handed Jesus over to the Jewish chief priests. They arrested Him. He was on His way to the Cross.

Sculpture at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher - Jerusalem

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, You loved the world so much that You gave Your one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. From John 3:16. Such great love. Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down His life for His friends.  John 15:13 NASB. Jesus loved mankind…His friends. Jesus loves us...this we know. God the Father love us…this we know.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 15-17

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photo by Mickey.

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

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

Teaching On The Way To The Cross

While Jesus was in the Temple, He watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. "I tell you the truth," Jesus said, "this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has." Luke 21:1-4.

Luke chapters 20 and 21 have been identified as the Tuesday of Jesus’ last week in my Ryrie Study Bible. This covers an enormous amount and wide variety of teaching by Jesus. These chapters begin by the chief priests, elders and scribes questioning Jesus about His authority to teach. Although Jesus casually rejects their question with one of His own, that they refuse to answer, the next section of scripture deals with revealing His authority through a parable. Those Jewish religious leaders tried to trick Jesus into resisting authority when they asked Him if they should pay taxes to Caesar or not. Jesus gives a classic rebuttal, since the denarius coin had Caesar’s image stamped on it, "Well then," He said, "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God." Luke 20:25. Jesus’ teaching goes on to cover the Widow’s mite, the scripture above, and then an apocalyptic discourse, including…

"Watch out! Don't let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don't let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth. Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man." Luke 21:34-36

Listen to Jesus words—they are the Truth. Be strong and courageous…like God told Joshua before the Israelites went into the Promised Land. Be strong and courageous. Be ready. Be like the widow—be willing to give all that you have. All good Biblical advice. Do you have ears to hear?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I stand at Your door and knock, knowing that You hear all my prayers. You know the desires of my heart…and have washed away my sin. Thank you.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 13-14

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photo by Mickey.

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

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

Temple – House of Prayer

When they arrived back in Jerusalem, Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people buying and selling animals for sacrifices. He knocked over the tables of the money changers and the chairs of those selling doves, and He stopped everyone from using the Temple as a marketplace. He said to them, "The Scriptures declare, 'My Temple will be called a house of prayer for all nations,' but you have turned it into a den of thieves." When the leading priests and teachers of religious law heard what Jesus had done, they began planning how to kill him. But they were afraid of him because the people were so amazed at his teaching. That evening Jesus and the disciples left the city. Mark 11:15-19.

The day after His Triumphal Entry Jesus and His disciples, who had spent the evening in Bethany, returned to Jerusalem. As scripture tells us, Jesus went into the Temple only to find it as a marketplace—worse yet a thieving ring of merchants. He had been there before. What changed? He expected people to be more reverent—not out to make a denarii for themselves. I think He was disappointed in humanity. He was there at the Temple again to teach them how to live for God…in God’s House. It was supposed to be a House of Prayer for all nations. Not just for the Jews…not just for Israel…but for everyone.

Model of the Temple - Jerusalem

Have you ever been disappointed in someone or something to the extent that you started turning over tables—pitching a fit? It is the kind of behavior you expect of a two or three year old who doesn’t get their way. But here our Lord—who has just humbly entered the city of Jerusalem as a King on a donkey—is venting His anger at the moneychangers. It was a righteous anger—that was justifiable. It was more than just a sad thing that the moneychangers had taken over the courtyard of the Temple

As I thought more about His Triumphal Entry on a donkey I’ve considered how He will ultimately return—on a great white horse.

Then I saw heaven opened, and a white horse was standing there. Its rider was named Faithful and True, for He judges fairly and wages a righteous war. His eyes were like flames of fire, and on His head were many crowns. A name was written on Him that no one understood except himself. He wore a robe dipped in blood, and His title was the Word of God. ... On His robe at His thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all lords. Revelation 19:11-13, 16.

King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Word of God. That is Jesus Christ. The Jesus in the Temple…and on a donkey…and on a great white horse.

In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1.

The Word of God—Jesus. Our prayer in words…to Jesus—The Word. The King of kings and Lord of lords. Prayers and praise be to Our Lord and our King.

Prayer ~ Lord, You will bring us to Your holy mountain of Jerusalem and fill us with joy in Your House of Prayer. You will accept our sacrifices, because Your Temple will be called a House of Prayer for all nations. From Isaiah 56:7. We praise You Lord.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 9-12

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photo by Mickey.

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

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

Who is This? It’s Jesus.

"Tell the people of Jerusalem, 'Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey—riding on a donkey's colt.'" ... Most of the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. Jesus was in the center of the procession, and the people all around Him were shouting, "Praise God for the Son of David! Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the LORD! Praise God in highest heaven!" The entire city of Jerusalem was in an uproar as He entered. "Who is this?" they asked. And the crowds replied, "It's Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee." Matthew 21:5, 8-11

Fishermen's Anchors in Israel

Did the Jews feel weighed down by the Romans?

Imagine the oppression that the Israelites felt under the Roman reign of their country. This included military occupation; the control of their religious activities, as noted by Josephus; violence like Herod ordering the killing of all boys two years old and younger living near Bethlehem; and high taxes, leaving the average Jewish farmer or fisherman, poor. The Jews were looking for their Messiah—a political ruler to save them from the Romans.

So here enters the King riding on a donkey…Hosanna! Would you have joined the crowd shouting blessings on this presumed King—their political savior? Who is He? It is Jesus—from Nazareth—who has been healing the sick, giving blind their sight…and He even brought a dead man back to life in Bethany. If He can do that—He can save our country from the Roman occupation! Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the King. Do you see Jesus as your Savior? Do you have a relationship with Him that allows you to rely on Him?

 Prayer ~ Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the King…You are that King of glory, Lord Jesus—You are my King and I will praise You daily.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 4-8

Hosanna!

Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the King!

Blessed Palm Sunday!

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photo by Mickey.

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

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

What Did It Take For You to Believe?

A man named Lazarus was sick. He lived in Bethany with his sisters, Mary and Martha. ... But when Jesus heard about it he said, "Lazarus's sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this." ... Then He said, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but now I will go and wake him up." The disciples said, "Lord, if he is sleeping, he will soon get better!" They thought Jesus meant Lazarus was simply sleeping, but Jesus meant Lazarus had died. So He told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead. And for your sakes, I'm glad I wasn't there, for now you will really believe. Come, let's go see him." ... When Jesus arrived at Bethany, He was told that Lazarus had already been in his grave for four days. ... When Martha got word that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him. But Mary stayed in the house. Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if only you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask." Jesus told her, "Your brother will rise again." "Yes," Martha said, "he will rise when everyone else rises, at the last day." Jesus told her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?" "Yes, Lord," she told him. "I have always believed you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who has come into the world from God." ... "Roll the stone aside," Jesus told them. But Martha, the dead man's sister, protested, "Lord, he has been dead for four days. The smell will be terrible." Jesus responded, "Didn't I tell you that you would see God's glory if you believe?" So they rolled the stone aside. Then Jesus looked up to heaven and said, "Father, thank you for hearing me. You always hear me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so that they will believe you sent me." Then Jesus shouted, "Lazarus, come out!" And the dead man came out, his hands and feet bound in graveclothes, his face wrapped in a headcloth. Jesus told them, "Unwrap him and let him go!" Many of the people who were with Mary believed in Jesus when they saw this happen. John 11:1, 4, 11-15, 17, 20-27, 39-45 .

Heading to the desert in Israel.

On His journey to the Cross Jesus was faced with the death of His dear friend Lazarus. God used that incident to show that Jesus was His Son…and to again demonstrate His power. He had already raised a young girl from the dead…and now Jesus resurrected Lazarus. Resurrection—raising Lazarus from the dead. People who came to mourn started rejoicing—Lazarus was alive. Now they believed that Jesus was the Messiah—powerful enough to conquer death. But because the Pharisee feared that Jesus would draw more people to believing in Him and that the Romans would take away their place, they plotted again to kill Jesus. So Jesus stopped walking around in public and left for a desert town of Ephraim with His disciples. He stayed there until just before the Passover when He went back to the home of Martha, Mary and Lazarus.

What did it take to convince you that JESUS IS THE MESSIAH? Some people had to see a miracle for themselves—the blind could see, the lame could walk…and now a man was brought back to life! That was a real convincer. Jesus had more followers…but He also had more opposition. The Cross was looming before Him…and He was drawing closer to that dreaded time. Would you have believed if you had heard Jesus call Lazarus out of the grave…and would you have believed if you had seen Lazarus walking out in his grave clothes?

Prayer ~ Dear God, I can only wonder at the amazed looks that the crowd must have had as Lazarus came out of that grave. I believe…without seeing such a miracle. Continue to open my eyes and ears to the truth that Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in Him will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in Him and believes in Him will never ever die. just as He said.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 1-3

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photo by Mickey.

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

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

Gentile Faith

When Jesus returned to Capernaum, a Roman officer came and pleaded with Him, "Lord, my young servant lies in bed, paralyzed and in terrible pain." Jesus said, "I will come and heal him." But the officer said, "Lord, I am not worthy to have you come into my home. Just say the word from where you are, and my servant will be healed. I know this because I am under the authority of my superior officers, and I have authority over my soldiers. I only need to say, 'Go,' and they go, or 'Come,' and they come. And if I say to my slaves, 'Do this,' they do it." When Jesus heard this, he was amazed. Turning to those who were following him, he said, "I tell you the truth, I haven't seen faith like this in all Israel! And I tell you this, that many Gentiles will come from all over the world—from east and west—and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven. But many Israelites—those for whom the Kingdom was prepared—will be thrown into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth." Then Jesus said to the Roman officer, "Go back home. Because you believed, it has happened." And the young servant was healed that same hour. Matthew 8:5-13.

Great faith…from a Gentile! Jesus came originally for the Jews. This is one of His first outreaches to the Gentile community. Of course the Gentiles had heard of Jesus miracles—who hadn’t! Can you imagine someone healing the blind, making the lame walk…and feeding 5,000 men and people not anxious to tell everyone they knew about these miracles?! This Roman officer knew about power, whether it was from another Roman officer, himself or Jesus—words have power. Go. Come. Heal. But this officer believed that Jesus didn’t have to even be in the same room as his servant to be healed. That showed his faith. He had more respect for Jesus than most Jews. He even said…I am not worthy to have you come into my home. I would feel the same way…I’m not worthy of the Lord. Who am I that He even hears my prayers…and answers them? Do you ever feel that way? Who am I that Jesus hears and answers my prayers? But we have a promise…The LORD is far from the wicked, but He hears the prayers of the righteous. Proverbs 15:29. Can we claim the promises He has made to Israel? O Israel, stay away from idols! I am the one who answers your prayers and cares for you. I am like a tree that is always green; all your fruit comes from me. Hosea 14:8.

God does hear our prayers. He heard David’s…He will hear yours and mine. As soon as I pray, you answer me; you encourage me by giving me strength. Psalm 138:3. Don’t hesitate to call on the Lord. He is our rock…and our salvation.

I look forward to the opportunity to sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the feast in the Kingdom of Heaven. What a glorious day that will be! I pray that more and more Israelites will open their eyes and hearts in faith like that Roman soldier—and believe in Jesus as their Messiah. I long for them to sit with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob…and me…at the feast that God is preparing in the Kingdom of Heaven.

Prayer ~ Dear Heavenly Father, may the eyes and hearts of all the people…Jews and Gentiles…would have the deep faith that the Roman officer as he believed in Jesus’ power to heal his servant. May we also be like Ruth, who was willing to go where You wanted her and who saw in Boaz that kinsman redeemer—one like Jesus. You are our God.

Daily Bible Reading: Ruth

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

As usual every Friday is Feast Day—Feasting at the King’s Table. We can’t live on just spiritual food …nor can we live on bread alone. I recently asked my hubby what he thought might be served at a Feast with the King. Well…hummus of course, and maybe some olives and almonds. That’s what we were served when we had a nomadic encounter in Israel. So here’s a hummus to serve with fresh cucumber slices, carrots, parsley or kale, pita bread and some Mediterranean olives. Add a little salad of chopped cucumber in plain yogurt and a few raw almonds on the side and you’ll have a good balanced meal.

Hummus
2 cups cooked garbanzo beans (start with 1 cup dried, soak and cook in 4 cups of water for three hours) OR 1 can garbanzo beans (15 oz.) drained, reserve liquid
1/4 cup tahini (sesame butter)
1 Tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lemon or about 2 Tbsp
6 cloves garlic, grated with microplane grater (or more if preferred, never too much garlic)
1 tsp sea salt

2 Tbsp horseradish (optional)
pepper to taste
paprika or fresh parsley to garnish
Chop garbanzos in food processor; blend in the rest of ingredients, including some of the reserved liquid until smooth and it reaches your desired consistency. This gets better with age, so prepare it a day before if you like. Pour into serving bowl & sprinkle with paprika or parsley. Serve with triangles of soft pita bread, crisp pita chips, sliced cucumber, carrots, celery, sliced fresh sweet pepper or sliced apples.

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photo by Mickey.

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

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

Gems of Truth

Jesus always used stories and illustrations like these when speaking to the crowds. In fact, He never spoke to them without using such parables. This fulfilled what God had spoken through the prophet: "I will speak to you in parables. I will explain things hidden since the creation of the world." ... Do you understand all these things?" "Yes," they said, "we do." Then He added, "Every teacher of religious law who becomes a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a homeowner who brings from his storeroom new gems of truth as well as old." Matthew 13:34-35, 51-52.

Gems of Truth from Jesus

On His Way to the Cross

New gems of truth.  Jesus was speaking to His disciples after telling parables to a crowd of people.

Where do you suppose that His disciples…or any of us…can find new gems of truth? I think that we can get new “gems” every day in God’s Word. Seek and you will find. Like the man who found the pearl of great value—so he sold all he had and bought that pearl. (Matthew 13:45-46). The gems—highly valued knowledge—are there just waiting for us to discover them. They don’t cost us anything—just our time spent reading and praying for insight and understanding. How much time can you give to discover a gem of truth? Will you let that knowledge make a difference in your life?

"And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:32 NKJV

 Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, You said You are the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through You. John 14:6. Thank you for sharing that gem of wisdom and truth with us. May each of us continue to see the Truth for ourselves—and know You more.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 19-21

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photo by Mickey.

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

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

What Have You Learned from the Great Teacher?

Then Jesus returned to Galilee, filled with the Holy Spirit's power. Reports about Him spread quickly through the whole region. He taught regularly in their synagogues and was praised by everyone. When He came to the village of Nazareth, His boyhood home, he went as usual to the synagogue on the Sabbath and stood up to read the Scriptures. The scroll of Isaiah the prophet was handed to Him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where this was written: "The Spirit of the LORD is upon me, for He has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, and that the time of the LORD's favor has come." He rolled up the scroll, handed it back to the attendant, and sat down. All eyes in the synagogue looked at Him intently. Luke 4:14-20.

Capernaum Synagogue Ruins

Jesus was a Teacher. But when He went to His hometown they didn’t accept Him for what He was. They expected Him to be a mere carpenter since He’d grown up there working alongside Joseph, His step-father and a local carpenter. Little did the people know that Jesus was The Son of God—a great teacher, emancipator and healer. His comments (read Luke 4:21- 28) after He read from Isaiah 61:1, angered the people in the synagogue. Jesus knew when to leave…and He went on His way. He continued teaching and healing next in Capernaum—which became the center of His ministry as He often stayed at Peter’s home there.

Walls rebuilt of houses near Peter's home.

Peter's home beneath Catholic church on upper right.

Jesus was a Teacher. What have you learned from Him? Are you studying His words and applying them to your life? May this prayer, from the Great Teacher, be a guideline for Your prayers.

Prayer ~ Jesus, as You taught us...Dear Father in heaven, may Your name be kept holy. May Your Kingdom come soon. May Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don't let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. (Matthew 6:9-13)…For Yours is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 16-18

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photos by Mickey.

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

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

When Did Jesus First Encounter the Pharisees?

Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. When Jesus was twelve years old, they attended the festival as usual. After the celebration was over, they started home to Nazareth, but Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents didn't miss Him at first, because they assumed He was among the other travelers. But when He didn't show up that evening, they started looking for Him among their relatives and friends. When they couldn't find him, they went back to Jerusalem to search for Him there. Three days later they finally discovered Him in the Temple, sitting among the religious teachers, listening to them and asking questions. All who heard Him were amazed at His understanding and His answers. Luke 2:41-47.

Along His journey from the Manger to the Cross Jesus frequently encounter conflicts. The Pharisees continually tried to trap Jesus during His ministry. Then the Pharisees met together to plot how to trap Jesus into saying something for which He could be arrested. Matthew 22:15. When did their contempt for Jesus begin? We know that Jesus went to the Temple with His family when He was twelve years old, as recorded here in Luke. He was left behind and discovered several days later talking with Teachers, who were professional interpreters of the Law. Since some of the Teachers of the Law were Pharisees, we can assume that may have been His first encounter with them. Were they just amazed at His understand and answers or were they critical and untrusting as they were later in His life? Did their animosity towards Jesus begin when Jesus challenged them for their proud attitudes and legalistic motives?

What does this tell us about our own attitudes and motives? Are we being legalistic, proud or consider ourselves holier than others? Take a look at yourself? Would Jesus see you as He saw the Pharisees?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, open our eyes that we would see ourselves as You see us. May the choices we make bring You glory and honor.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 13-15

© 2017 by Mickey 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.

Mountain Top Experience

Six days later Jesus took Peter, James, and John, and led them up a high mountain to be alone. As the men watched, Jesus' appearance was transformed, and His clothes became dazzling white, far whiter than any earthly bleach could ever make them. Then Elijah and Moses appeared and began talking with Jesus.
      Peter exclaimed, "Rabbi, it's wonderful for us to be here! Let's make three shelters as memorials—one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." He said this because he didn't really know what else to say, for they were all terrified.
      Then a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, "This is my dearly loved Son. Listen to Him." Suddenly, when they looked around, Moses and Elijah were gone, and they saw only Jesus with them. Mark 9:2-8 [Also see Matthew 17:1-13; Luke 9:28-36]

Mt. Hermon - Israel 

About six days after Jesus returned with His disciples from Caesarea Philippi where Peter had declared that Jesus was the Son of God, this event known as the Transfiguration took place. Jesus took Peter, James and John along as He climbed a mountain to commune with God the Father, Moses and Elijah. That was an amazingly fearful event for the disciples to witness. God the Father even spoke—in a loud voice that likely resembled thunder. This is my dearly loved Son. Listen to Him. Yes, frightening—but I’m sure they listened attentively to Jesus!
A lot of people feel closer to God on a mountain—do you? I imagine that is because there are typically fewer people at the top of a mountain…and often it is quieter there so you can listen more intently. Of course, that depends on who you take with you on your mountain top experience. A chatty five or six year old may distract you from your mission…or share your goal. I think that God is where we seek Him—on a tall mountain, in a low valley—or deep within our own hearts. Where are you looking for God?

Seek the LORD while you can find Him. Call on Him now while He is near. Isaiah 55:6.

If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me. Jeremiah 29:13.

God doesn’t want to remain hidden. He wants to have a relationship with each of us…and with His dearly loved Son.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I am listening to You…seeking You with all my heart. I long to hear Your words every day and it motivates me to read my Bible. Continue to speak to me through Your Word—using it to guide and direct my thoughts, words, and actions that I would be pleasing to You and to our Heavenly Father.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 10-12

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. Photo by Mickey.

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

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

You Really Are the Son of God

Immediately after this, (the feeding of 5,000 men, plus their families) Jesus insisted that His disciples get back into the boat and cross to the other side of the lake, while He sent the people home. After sending them home, He went up into the hills by Himself to pray. Night fell while He was there alone. Meanwhile, the disciples were in trouble far away from land, for a strong wind had risen, and they were fighting heavy waves. About three o'clock in the morning Jesus came toward them, walking on the water. When the disciples saw Him walking on the water, they were terrified. In their fear, they cried out, "It's a ghost!"

But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," He said. "Take courage. I am here!"

Then Peter called to him, "Lord, if it's really you, tell me to come to you, walking on the water."

"Yes, come," Jesus said.

So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw the strong wind and the waves, he was terrified and began to sink. "Save me, Lord!" he shouted. Jesus immediately reached out and grabbed him.

"You have so little faith," Jesus said. "Why did you doubt me?"

When they climbed back into the boat, the wind stopped. Then the disciples worshiped Him. "You really are the Son of God!" they exclaimed. Matthew 14:22-33.

Sea of Galilee - Israel

It took a miracle of Jesus walking on the water for some of the disciples to believe. You really are the Son of God!

      That day Jesus had fed 5,000 men, plus their families. He did that with prayer over a mere five little loaves of bread and a couple of fish. That in itself is an amazing miracle. Would that have been enough to convince you that Jesus was the Son of God?

      After He sent the multitude of people home He went up the hill to be alone with God and pray. What do you suppose He said to God?

            “Thanks, Abba Father, for feeding all those hungry folks. I don’t think that some of them would have made it home without eating. Did you see the look on the disciples faces when they gathered up twelve baskets—yes, twelve baskets of leftovers. They are a good helpers and devoted workers—but I just need some time alone with You, now. I’ll go to them soon—out there on the Sea of Galilee. They’ll need some more encouragement that I am who I AM. Wait ‘til they see me walking on the water. You know who will get out of the boat and come to me. He will be surprised—and so will the rest of the guys in the boat.” They went on to talk together…God the Father and His Son. After a while it was time for Jesus to go—to walk across the water and encourage His disciples. It was time for them to declare… You really are the Son of God!

Prayer ~ Jesus, I wish I could have seen Peter get out of that boat and come to You…and the two of you walk together ON the Water! Awesome. Will there be a lake in Heaven…and will You take us for a walk ON the water? I am so looking forward to seeing You on Your throne—high and lifted up. For now, I love You and praise You for Your mercy and grace in my life…and the lives of my family, friends and neighbors. Thank you…that You reached out and took Peter’s hand. Like Peter, help me not to doubt Your power and Your love.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 8-9

© 2017 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.    Photo by Mickey.

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

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

What Amazes You About Jesus’ Miracles?

When the apostles returned, they told Jesus everything they had done. Then He slipped quietly away with them toward the town of Bethsaida. But the crowds found out where He was going, and they followed Him. He welcomed them and taught them about the Kingdom of God, and He healed those who were sick. Late in the afternoon the twelve disciples came to Him and said, "Send the crowds away to the nearby villages and farms, so they can find food and lodging for the night. There is nothing to eat here in this remote place."

But Jesus said, "You feed them."

"But we have only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered. "Or are you expecting us to go and buy enough food for this whole crowd?" For there were about 5,000 men there.

Jesus replied, "Tell them to sit down in groups of about fifty each."

So the people all sat down. Jesus took the five loaves and two fish, looked up toward heaven, and blessed them. Then, breaking the loaves into pieces, He kept giving the bread and fish to the disciples so they could distribute it to the people. They all ate as much as they wanted, and afterward, the disciples picked up twelve baskets of leftovers! Luke 9:10-17  

Loaves and Fishes Mosaic

Jesus journeyed through time and the Promised Land on His way to the Cross. He sent His twelve disciples out to surrounding villages to heal people and tell them about the Kingdom of God. They returned (v. 10). Jesus was so popular that crowds of people followed Him—wanting to have His healing touch. He was amazingly compassionate. On this occasion He taught the crowd and healed the sick. As the disciples wanted to send them away at the end of the day, Jesus turned five loaves of bread and two fish into enough food for 5,000 men and their families. That is a lot of food and a great miracle that is commonly known by even those who are not Bible studying Christians. No one feeds that many people without drawing attention. What impresses you most about this story?

            That Jesus actually welcomed the crowds?

            That Jesus continued to heal the multitudes of people?

That anyone still had food?

            That Jesus used one boy’s lunch to feed 5,000 men and their families?

            The people ate as much as they wanted?

            That the disciples gathered up twelve baskets of leftovers?

Should we be amazed at Jesus’ miracles? I am in awe of Jesus, His miracles of healing and feeding the masses of people. With promises like that, we have so much for which to look forward.

Prayer ~ Jesus, You are awesome. Feeding and healing so many. I ask that You would continue to heal and provide for those who seek You here and now. You know and love those in need.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 6-7

© 2017 by Mickey 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.