What is Your Name?

'He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes, to him I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone, and a new name written on the stone which no one knows but he who receives it.' Revelation 2:17 NASB

Everyone will be given a new name in Heaven. I think that is kind of fun idea…a new home and a new name. Will we recognize each other and know everyone’s name? This scripture tells us that… no one knows but he who receives it. So how many Marys or Johns will there be? Or will the names be so unique that each person’s name will be different? Good questions.   

There is power in names. Especially in the name of Jesus. There is power to heal and to change lives—just in saying the name of Jesus, the powerful name of Jesus.  

The next day the council of all the rulers and elders and teachers of religious law met in Jerusalem. Annas the high priest was there, along with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and other relatives of the high priest. They brought in the two disciples (Peter and John) and demanded, "By what power, or in whose name, have you done this?"

Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, "Rulers and elders of our people, are we being questioned today because we've done a good deed for a crippled man? Do you want to know how he was healed? Let me clearly state to all of you and to all the people of Israel that he was healed by the powerful name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, the man you crucified but whom God raised from the dead. For Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says, 'The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.' There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved."  Acts 4:5-12.

The disciples saw Jesus do many other miraculous signs in addition to the ones recorded in this book. But these are written so that you may continue to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing in Him you will have life by the power of His name. John 20:30-31.

Power in the name of Jesus can change your life.

Prayer ~ Jesus, I just believe that You are in the Father and the Father is in You. I believe because of the work I have seen You do in me…and in my family, friends and neighbors. From  John 14:11. Thank You.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

It is time to plan and plant your garden. This year I plan to include some edible flowers like nasturtiums. I recall the first time I saw them in a salad, I thought they were just a garnish. Then someone reassured me that they were actually edible. Yum. The leaves and flowers have a sort of a peppery flavor similar to watercress. In researching their use I was very pleased to discover that the seeds can be made into capers. That will be a fun thing to try later in the summer.

For now…it is planning time…and time to get that soil ready. Where I live here in the Columbia Basin we can still expect a freaky spring frost, so it is best to wait a week or so before actually planting seeds outdoors. Below is a list of a few favorites with edible flowers that can be easily grown including some that we think of as herbs. Google and research for yourself a few edible flowers and pick up some seeds at your local nursery, hardware or big box home improvement store. Let me know what you think as they grow and you use them to add some flavor and color to your salads and other dishes.

Lilacs - In bloom today!

Edible Flowers

Aylssum – add the flowers to salads, soups or omelets.

Basil – use the flowers as you would the leaves in salads, soups or pasta.

Borage – try freezing flowers in ice cubes. Consume in small quantities.

Lilac – mix flowers with cream cheese and serve on crackers.

Nasturtium – use leaves and flowers in salads or to garnish casseroles. Pickle the seeds into capers.

Pansy – use flowers in salads or desserts.

Peony – use flowers in salads or cook for a treat. Use in water or to garnish punch.

Plumeria – use flowers in salads or steep as a tea.

Primrose – garnish salads, cakes or other desserts.

Squash & Pumpkin – use flowers in salads, pastas, soups, or egg dishes. Can be fried and filled with cream cheese.

Rose – if petals smell good, they will taste good. Also use rose hips in jellies. Use only if organic—no chemical sprays.

Rosemary – use with pork and beef dishes. Flowers are also good in breads.

Enjoy a feast of lovely flowers created just for you by the King of Kings. Good eating.

© 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.

Light of the World for Your Soul

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

The physical light fills our world with sunshine on most days. In speaking to His disciples just before He went to raise Lazarus from the dead Jesus used an illustration of the safety that light provides.

Jesus replied, "There are twelve hours of daylight every day. During the day people can walk safely. They can see because they have the light of this world. But at night there is danger of stumbling because they have no light." John 11:9-10.

Similarly, spiritual light provides us safety and security. The light—spiritual light of the world IS Jesus…that light emanates from Jesus…and shine forth in the Gospel—the Good News about Jesus as our Savior.

If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don't understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God. 2 Corinthians 4:3-4

If you believe in Jesus as your Savior, let your light shine—let Jesus shine through you. There is no other name that has the power to save you—to provide salvation from sin.

For Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says, 'The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.' There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved. Acts 4:11-12.

You may wonder what from what it is that you need to be saved? Saved from yourself? Sin is the enemy—and we cannot escape it without the saving grace of a pure and sinless Jesus who went to the cross and died there for our sins. Yes, He died for you and for me. But the Good News is that HE LIVES. Resurrection is what Easter is all about—Resurrection Sunday. He lives by the power of our Heavenly Father God to overcome death. There is spiritual security in that. Our God is the light of the world providing light and life to our very spiritual souls.

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, thank you for Your Words that I may meditate and feast on them today. Thank you for showing me something special that I can apply to my life and to my relationship with You today. Bless my sweet grandgirl, Amelia, continue to give her joy and hope today…and every day. She loves you, as I do.

Daily Bible Reading: Psalms 121, 123-125, 128-130

Happiest of Birthdays—Sweet Amelia!

Love You Bunches

© 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.

Pray for Jerusalem—Pray for Eliat

But at last my people will confess their sins and the sins of their ancestors for betraying me and being hostile toward me. When I have turned their hostility back on them and brought them to the land of their enemies, then at last their stubborn hearts will be humbled, and they will pay for their sins. Then I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land. For the land must be abandoned to enjoy its years of Sabbath rest as it lies deserted. At last the people will pay for their sins, for they have continually rejected my regulations and despised my decrees. But despite all this, I will not utterly reject or despise them while they are in exile in the land of their enemies. I will not cancel my covenant with them by wiping them out, for I am the LORD their God. For their sakes I will remember my ancient covenant with their ancestors, whom I brought out of the land of Egypt in the sight of all the nations, that I might be their God. I am the LORD. Leviticus 26:40-45 

What wonderful promises that God made to the Israelites. I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham, and I will remember the land…. I will not utterly reject or despise them…. I will not cancel my covenant with them by wiping them out, for I am the LORD their God. He WILL. Our God is a God of promises. He is faithful to keep His promises and the Israelites are still His chosen people. That has not changed. A little piece of my heart longs to be Jewish. I guess that is why I feel so privileged to be part of God’s adopted family.

So you (I) have not received a spirit that makes you (me) fearful slaves. Instead, you (I) received God's Spirit when He adopted you (me) as His own (child) children. Now we (I) call Him, "Abba, Father. Romans 8:15.

Pray for the people of Israel. The Jews for Jesus organization is headquartered in San Francisco, California, actively seeks worldwide to share that Jesus is the promised Messiah of the Jewish people, jewsforjesus.org. They will soon have a Behold Your God Campaign in Israel. Below is an excerpt from a recent newsletter focusing on Israel programs.

Every year, our missionaries conduct saturation evangelistic campaigns in a different region of Israel in accordance with the call of the prophet Isaiah to “Lift up your voice with strength, lift it up, be not afraid; say to the cities of Judah, ‘Behold your God!’ ” (Isaiah 40:9).

Our 2017 Behold Your God evangelistic campaign is scheduled in the city of Eilat. Many of the Israelis who live in Eilat moved there from the major cities—to find rest, away from the busyness of Tel Aviv or the religiosity of Jerusalem. Yet many of them haven’t found the peace of our Messiah.

Peter Nasser and Vladimir Mitnitsky will be the leaders of the Behold Your God campaign (our eleventh). Pray that the Lord would use these leaders and the campaign to spread the gospel.

Eilat is the southernmost city in Israel. It is a seaport and resort area located on the Red Sea at the Gulf of Aquaba. Pray for the people of that city…and all of the Jews in Israel.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, touch the hearts of the Israeli people who are still seeking their Messiah and use these leaders Peter and Vladimir to draw more of Your people to know You personally.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 28-31, Psalm 18

© 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.

Light in the Darkness…In the Beginning

Haystack Rock - Oregon Coast

 In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through Him. The Word gave life to everything that was created, and His life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it. John 1:1-5

I love the idea…it is a fact that I have accepted…that God has always existed. I remember forty some years ago struggling with…where did God come from? He has ALWAYS been. He is the I AM—in present tense. In the beginning the Word—that is Jesus—already existed. He created everything—including light. That was physical light.

Then God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. Then He separated the light from the darkness. Genesis 1:3-4.

Jesus provides spiritual light…as He 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

Like David, I claim God to be my light—to give me spiritual insight.

You light a lamp for me. The LORD, my God, lights up my darkness. ... God's way is perfect. All the LORD's promises prove true. He is a shield for all who look to Him for protection. Psalm 18:28, 30.

Jesus sees His light in us as He described when He was addressing a crowd of people on a hillside above the Sea of Galilee, in what is called today The Sermon on the Mount, Jesus also said…

You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:14.

Think of how there is always a shadow cast by any person or object in sunlight.

So don't be misled, my dear brothers and sisters. Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. James 1:16-17.

Without light there is no shadow. What kind of shadow do you cast?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, You are the light of the world. You are the light of my world…of my life. May Your light shine in and through me, as You have promised.

Daily Bible Reading: Psalm 17, 35, 54, 63  

© 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.

We Must Obey God Rather Than Any Human Authority

But Peter and the apostles replied, "We must obey God rather than any human authority. The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from the dead after you killed Him by hanging Him on a cross. Then God put Him in the place of honor at His right hand as Prince and Savior. He did this so the people of Israel would repent of their sins and be forgiven. We are witnesses of these things and so is the Holy Spirit, who is given by God to those who obey Him." Acts 5:29-32

Model of the Temple in Jerusalem

Portico is the columned area behind the main Temple buildings.

Peter and the other apostles had been teaching, doing signs and wonders, in the portico area of the Temple. Many people were healed of sickness and of unclean spirits. A multitude of people began to believe in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. All this made the Jewish high priest and the Sadducees jealous so they had the apostles thrown into prison.  But an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and told them to go teach in the Temple, so they did. When confronted by the Jewish religious official they replied, "We must obey God rather than any human authority. ….” Obedience to God shows the highest respect and is best response to any command that God gives. Jesus is our example of that. Jesus is pure and sinless…qualities that we will never attain, but we can do one thing that Jesus never had to do: repent. He was sinless. To repent means to turn away from our sin—to seek forgiveness. God calls mankind to repent. Obedience leads to a right relationship with God the Father, with His Son, Jesus, and with the Holy Spirit. Relationship with God is what is important in life—here and now, and for the future. How is your relationship with God, today?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, help us to be obedient as You were. We may not be healing people like Peter and the other apostles did. We may not be teaching other in a way that brings multitudes to saving faith in You, but even if we bring one…that is miraculous. Help us to see ways to be obedient to You, God, that others would indeed seek to know You as we do—and to love You as we do.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 25-27

© 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.

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.