Banquet With The King

Saturday, December 19, 2020

Are You Ready?

Meditate.

Think back on those early days when you first learned about Christ. Remember how you remained faithful even though it meant terrible suffering. Sometimes you were exposed to public ridicule and were beaten, and sometimes you helped others who were suffering the same things. You suffered along with those who were thrown into jail, and when all you owned was taken from you, you accepted it with joy. You knew there were better things waiting for you that will last forever. So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God's will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay. And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away." But we are not like those who turn away from God to their own destruction. We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved. Hebrews 10:32-39

We are the faithful ones, whose souls will be saved. How interested or excited are you about Christ’s return? For in just a little while, the Coming One will come and not delay. The Coming One…Jesus Christ—the King of Kings. Only the Heavenly Father knows the exact day when Christ will return.

Then everyone will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds with great power and glory. ...However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. And since you don't know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert! Mark 13:26, 32-33

Next Monday, December 21, is the shortest day of the year and one that some of the doomsayers predict as the day of Christ’s return. Remember that only the Heavenly Father knows—so just make sure you are ready. Forgive and be forgiven. Then sit back…have another cup of hot chocolate, share with your friends, neighbors or relatives the things that God has been doing in your life. Remember how you first learned about Christ. The best is yet to come. When? Who knows. Are you ready?

Prayer ~ Lord, Thank you for purifying us from our sins. You are awesome—King of King, Lord of Lords. May You be glorified—above angels. We look forward to your return. We are the faithful ones.

Verse of Salvation ~ As surely as I live, says the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of wicked people. I only want them to turn from their wicked ways so they can live. Turn! Turn from your wickedness, O people of Israel! Why should you die? "Son of man, give your people this message: The righteous behavior of righteous people will not save them if they turn to sin, nor will the wicked behavior of wicked people destroy them if they repent and turn from their sins. When I tell righteous people that they will live, but then they sin, expecting their past righteousness to save them, then none of their righteous acts will be remembered. I will destroy them for their sins. Ezekiel 33:11-13

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

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Friday, December 18, 2020

Do You Want to Be Known as Good or Evil?

Meditate.

"To what can I compare the people of this generation?" Jesus asked. "How can I describe them? They are like children playing a game in the public square. They complain to their friends, 'We played wedding songs, and you didn't dance, so we played funeral songs, and you didn't weep.' For John the Baptist didn't spend his time eating bread or drinking wine, and you say, 'He's possessed by a demon.' The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, 'He's a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!' But wisdom is shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it." Luke 7:31-35

Is our generation any different? How would Jesus describe us? Are we like those children playing games? Are we complaining? Complacent? Distracted? Self-centered? Just focused on being entertained or on the current political situation. We should be fans…but fans who are fanatical about Jesus—about being His disciples and going out to spread His word. Living our best to show how Jesus changes our life.

The Pharisees thought Jesus was a friend of tax collectors and other sinners. Just because He spent time with those types of people He was judged to be like them. Who do people think of as your “friends” and are you considered like them? Would you consider becoming a friend to someone thought to be a cheat…as the tax collectors were judged? How about being a friend to sinners…or homeless? Could you do that? What would God think of you if you reached out to His children who are less fortunate than you?

We are known by our friends. People judge us…right or wrong…with whom we keep company. We become like those we “hang out” with. Hasn’t that always been the warning…“Be careful who you become friends with?” Wise people choose wise friends—or we can assume they win “wise friends” and conversely, those with wild friends will be “wild” as described in Proverbs…

The seeds of good deeds become a tree of life; a wise person wins friends. Proverbs 11:30

Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents. Proverbs 28:7

Do you want to be known as “good” or “evil?”

Dear friend, don't let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God's children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know God. 3 John 1:11

Prayer ~ Lord, I daily search my heart...and repent of my thoughts, words and actions that are not pleasing to You. It is appropriate to seek you...and live to please You during this Advent season in preparation to forever being with You. Protect those in Israel—may they come to know You, Jesus, as their Messiah. Give them Your peace and joy.

Verse of Salvation ~ But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, "God is great!" Psalm 70:4

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Calories count…but I don’t like to count them. I just prefer to control my portion size and eat less…but that is hard during the holidays. We had planned to be out of town, but plans changed and we’re home…safe and sound! So it was time to joyously celebrate the Christmas season together a bit early. Safety first, of course, which included washing our hands frequently while socially distancing as appropriate.

We had a couple of great meals including a new family favorite…Rice Bowls. It is sort of like sushi—only not wrapped in nori—and since most of us prefer cooked rather than raw fish we concentrated on cooked crab, sautéed shrimp and smoked salmon. Cucumbers are a tasty veggie that all of the grandkiddos enjoy, so those were sliced and chopped to incorporate them into the rice bowl, as well as chopped carrots, sliced avocado, grilled chopped asparagus, seaweed salad and squid salad. The meat and veggies were piled onto sushi rice, sprinkled with chopped nori, sauces and sesame seeds. Served along with fresh sliced pears and oranges, which were a gift from dear friends. It was an easy and very tasty meal since everyone built their own bowls! Try it…you might find a new favorite for your family, too.

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Thursday, December 17, 2020

Joy in a Sacrifice of Praise

Meditate.

Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Think of all the good that has come from their lives, and follow the example of their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. So do not be attracted by strange, new ideas. Your strength comes from God's grace, not from rules about food, which don't help those who follow them. We have an altar from which the priests in the Tabernacle have no right to eat. Under the old system, the high priest brought the blood of animals into the Holy Place as a sacrifice for sin, and the bodies of the animals were burned outside the camp. So also Jesus suffered and died outside the city gates to make his people holy by means of his own blood. So let us go out to him, outside the camp, and bear the disgrace he bore. For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come. Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don't forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Obey your spiritual leaders, and do what they say. Their work is to watch over your souls, and they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this with joy and not with sorrow. That would certainly not be for your benefit. Hebrews 13:7-17

Remember your leaders who taught you the word of God. Who have been those leaders in your life? Have you been obedient to their direction—commands—teachings? Are you a spiritual leader for someone? Is Jesus your ultimate teacher and leader? He should be if He is your Lord and Savior—if you are putting Him first in your life. I consider Him to be the focus of my life—I choose to consider “what would Jesus do” when I have choices to make. There are so many times that circumstances, prior commitments, and responsibilities control my day…but there are always choices.

There is security in knowing that…Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. So I should not be attracted by strange, new ideas. Knowing that Jesus does not change His mind…and knowing that He will keep His promises gives me peace and strength. Because He promised, I know that He will never leave me or forsake me. That is a promise I claim and to which I cling.

Wonderful buffet in a hotel at the Dead Sea.
Israel
Will we have such a buffet in Heaven?
Food brings joy to my heart and I praise the Lord...
For His generosity!
Share the Joy!

I love the assurance that the author of Hebrews also gives us…For this world is not our permanent home; we are looking forward to a home yet to come. That mansion in heaven that has many rooms is going to be wonderful! We don’t know what our heavenly home will be like—but we know that the streets will be paved with gold (Revelation 21:21) so we can imagine that it will be glorious! No one will go hungry in Heaven. God has promised a wonderful banquet…which I anticipate will be on going…forever. The promise of His generosity inspires me to do good and to share with those in need now. There are certainly plenty of people in need with the COVID situation. In their December 4, 2020 news release, the Bureau of Labor Statistics in the Department of Labor reported that there are currently 10.7 million people unemployed in the US. Food bank lines are long all across our country. People are hungry—so now is the time to give of your resources and time. Are they spiritually hungry, too?

With the home and the bounty of food we’re assured in Heaven, we can continually offer a sacrifice of praise and loyalty to the Lord God today. During the Christmas season it is easy to sing praises with so many wonderful Christmas carols being played in homes, on the radio or TV, and in stores wherever we go. When there is not music do you have a song of praise in your head? The seasonal songs are continually replaying in my head—and with those I choose to praise the Lord. Is your sacrifice of praise joyful?

Prayer ~ Thank You God that we can make our own choices… and hear Your voice teaching us. We so look forward to walking those streets of gold and rejoicing with You. Joy and contentment. Sharing that with others is my choice for today. Help me to spread Your JOY to everyone I meet today, whether it is on the phone in person or giving financially. I am content in all things. I need only more of You.

Verses of Salvation ~ When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit. Titus 3:4-5

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Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Resting in the Spirit

Meditate.

Ruins of the City of David
Jerusalem, Israel

Out of the stump of David's family will grow a shoot—yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root. And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. He will delight in obeying the LORD. He will not judge by appearance nor make a decision based on hearsay. He will give justice to the poor and make fair decisions for the exploited. The earth will shake at the force of his word, and one breath from his mouth will destroy the wicked. He will wear righteousness like a belt and truth like an undergarment. In that day the wolf and the lamb will live together; the leopard will lie down with the baby goat. The calf and the yearling will be safe with the lion, and a little child will lead them all. The cow will graze near the bear. The cub and the calf will lie down together. The lion will eat hay like a cow. The baby will play safely near the hole of a cobra. Yes, a little child will put its hand in a nest of deadly snakes without harm. Nothing will hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain, for as the waters fill the sea, so the earth will be filled with people who know the LORD. Isaiah 11:1-9

This is so beautiful. Such a wonder scene of peace. Not only will people be at peace—but the animals who are enemies will safe together.

This passage is also a prediction of Jesus coming from the Family of David—and the Holy Spirit giving Him wisdom, understanding, knowledge, counsel and might. The Spirit “resting” on Him. What does it mean to rest? Will rest by Strong’s lexicon is nuwach and it means just what we think of as “rest”…to settle down, be quite, let down or set down, remain, or to rest. So the Holy Spirit at this point is predicted to “rest” or remain with Jesus. The Holy Spirit was there to guide Jesus.

Jesus will delight in obeying the Lord. How many people do you know that find joy or enjoy being obedient? I think of some of the children I encounter just going to the grocery store—who are just not obedient. Generally, there are a lot of children who listen to their parents—and I am so pleased that my grandchildren listen and obey. Their parents are doing a wonderful job of teaching them to respect others…and themselves. I think that was what Jesus was doing as well—respecting His Heavenly Father…and Himself…by being obedient. How do you measure up with obedience? Are you trusting the Lord and then obeying His commands and guidance? Are you listening to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit to guide and direct you? Listen and obey. Rest in the Spirit…while there is still time.

Prayer ~ Lord. I trust and obediently love You with all my heart, mind, soul and strength. You are awesome and worthy of praise. This Advent season is preparation for forever with You. I look forward to the earth being filled with people who know You. Protect the nation of Israel. May they come to know You, Jesus, as their Messiah...and trust You in all that You do. Give them Your joy and peace.

Verse of Salvation ~ For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time--to show us his grace through Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 1:9

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Tuesday, December 15, 2020

Rejoice! Again, I Say Rejoice!

Meditate. Slow down and focus on the Joy of God.

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7

Rejoice! Again, I say rejoice! Try it…you might like it!

Everyone makes choices continually throughout the day. When a person chooses joy they are choosing that over unhappiness, cranky attitudes, or depression. Yet joy can happen amid crises, trials or traumatic situations. Joy doesn’t depend on happiness. Even Jesus experienced joy.

Jesus was filled with the Joy of the Holy Spirit.

At that same time Jesus was filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit, and he said, "O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way." Luke 10:21

Note that Jesus was praising and thanking His Father, our Heavenly Father, as He prayed. We should be thankful for all God has done for us.

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

Yes, the Lord is my strength. When I reflect on that fact…my anxieties fade away…and I am filled with joy. It is great to know that He will help me when I ask. It is overwhelming just to know that I am loved by the Lord—the creator, my redeemer, my King of Kings.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I praise You! Forgive me today for my bad attitude towards others—I wasn’t a very good example of Your love, patience and forgiveness. Please continue to fill me with Your joy. Thank you – Thank you – Thank you.

Verses of Salvation ~ Please listen, O Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph's descendants like a flock. O God, enthroned above the cherubim, display your radiant glory to Ephraim, Benjamin, and Manasseh. Show us your mighty power. Come to rescue us! Turn us again to yourself, O God. Make your face shine down upon us. Only then will we be saved. O LORD God of Heaven's Armies, how long will you be angry with our prayers? You have fed us with sorrow and made us drink tears by the bucketful. You have made us the scorn of neighboring nations. Our enemies treat us as a joke. Turn us again to yourself, O God of Heaven's Armies. Make your face shine down upon us. Only then will we be saved. Psalm 80:1-7

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Monday, December 14, 2020

Joyfully Celebrate Advent

Meditate. Joyfully.

See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The LORD GOD is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. With joy you will drink deeply from the fountain of salvation! In that wonderful day you will sing: "Thank the LORD! Praise his name! Tell the nations what he has done. Let them know how mighty he is! Sing to the LORD, for he has done wonderful things. Make known his praise around the world. Let all the people of Jerusalem shout his praise with joy! For great is the Holy One of Israel who lives among you." Isaiah 12:2-6

This is the time of the year to sing—and listen to wonderful Christmas music! How many different Christmas carols and songs do you know and love? Most of them are joyful…and then there are others—that you just don’t want to listen to and wonder how anyone can come up with such weird songs. Do you really want to sing “Christmas Cha, Cha, Cha”… “I’m Gonna Lasso Santa”… “The Santa Clause Boogie” or…“Santa Teach Me to Dance”? The list could go on and on…but we still have uplifting favorites that focus on Jesus—the real reason for the season. Away in a Manger, Silent Night, The First Noel and O Holy Night are just a few examples. One of my favorites is “The Christmas Song”…chestnuts roasting on an open fire—although it mentions more about Santa than Jesus—the message is Merry Christmas. Christmas is Christ and I can just hear the Yuletide carols being sung by a choir and feel that cold crisp air we associate with Christmas time. But the weather has nothing to do with the birth of our Savior—in actuality He wasn’t even born in December. This is just the traditional time that we recognize and celebrate His birth…and the light—His light—coming into the world. Make known his praise around the world. Let all the people of Jerusalem shout his praise with joy! For great is the Holy One of Israel who lives among you.

There are unreached people all around the world—but generally most of the civilized world knows about Jesus…whether they recognize Him as their Savior or not. That is everyone’s choice ultimately for He does live among us and WITHIN those who chose to have a relationship with Him. Have you told anyone lately about Jesus…and what He has done for you? Do you see what He is doing in your life? Is it just providing you with a parking place, a smile from a stranger (behind masks), or a true peace in your heart and life? Jesus wants to be more to us than just a baby in a manger…or a great story teller. Does He have your attention and are you willing to share Him with others? You’ll have a bigger impact in telling others—tell the nations—about Jesus if you really can see Him working in your life and can explain His impact. Think about it. Like one of the Christmas carols says…prepare Him room. Prepare Him room in your heart and life. Joyfully!

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus—I sing for joy during this Advent season. I am preparing room for You in my heart and life—come into my heart and shine through me in a way that is pleasing to You and draws other to You. Joy to the World. Let Heaven and Earth Rejoice.

Verse of Salvation ~ You welcome those who gladly do good, who follow godly ways. But you have been very angry with us, for we are not godly. We are constant sinners; how can people like us be saved? Isaiah 64:5

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Sunday, December 13, 2020

Third Sunday in Advent - Joy

Meditate with Joy.

Sing, O daughter of Zion; shout aloud, O Israel! Be glad and rejoice with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! For the LORD will remove his hand of judgment and will disperse the armies of your enemy. And the LORD himself, the King of Israel, will live among you! At last your troubles will be over, and you will never again fear disaster. On that day the announcement to Jerusalem will be, "Cheer up, Zion! Don't be afraid! For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs." "I will gather you who mourn for the appointed festivals; you will be disgraced no more. And I will deal severely with all who have oppressed you. I will save the weak and helpless ones; I will bring together those who were chased away. I will give glory and fame to my former exiles, wherever they have been mocked and shamed. On that day I will gather you together and bring you home again. I will give you a good name, a name of distinction, among all the nations of the earth, as I restore your fortunes before their very eyes. I, the LORD, have spoken!" Zephaniah 3:14-20

What a joy! The Lord has done great things for the Jews...for all of mankind. This passage reminds us that God will rejoice…

…He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy. Zephaniah 3:17 NASB

Praise the LORD in song, for He has done excellent things; Let this be known throughout the earth. Cry aloud and shout for joy, O inhabitant of Zion, for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel. Isaiah 12:5-6 NASB

Rejoice Jerusalem!

Be glad; rejoice forever in my creation! And look! I will create Jerusalem as a place of happiness. Her people will be a source of joy. Isaiah 65:18

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Philippians 4:4

Shouts of Joy for the Jews...Joy to the World. We sing for joy—the Lord has truly blessed His chosen people. Rejoice with them. On this third Sunday of Advent we celebrate…JOY. Joy is a wonderful thing—and the source of joy is the Lord God. There may be times of trials ahead for all of Israel—but surely God is with them. May Israel as a nation discover Jesus as their Messiah.

Are you experiencing Joy during this Advent season? Rejoice.

Prayer ~ Thank You God for the joy with which You have blessed Israel—and allowed them to return to Your Promised Land! May we all feel Your JOY during this Advent season.

Verse of Salvation ~ But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, "God is great!" Psalm 70:4

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Saturday, December 12, 2020

Very Bitter Day is Coming

Meditate.

Listen to this, you who rob the poor and trample down the needy! You can't wait for the Sabbath day to be over and the religious festivals to end so you can get back to cheating the helpless. You measure out grain with dishonest measures and cheat the buyer with dishonest scales. And you mix the grain you sell with chaff swept from the floor. Then you enslave poor people for one piece of silver or a pair of sandals. Now the LORD has sworn this oath by his own name, the Pride of Israel: "I will never forget the wicked things you have done! The earth will tremble for your deeds, and everyone will mourn. The ground will rise like the Nile River at floodtime; it will heave up, then sink again. "In that day," says the Sovereign LORD, "I will make the sun go down at noon and darken the earth while it is still day. I will turn your celebrations into times of mourning and your singing into weeping. You will wear funeral clothes and shave your heads to show your sorrow—as if your only son had died. How very bitter that day will be! "The time is surely coming," says the Sovereign LORD, "when I will send a famine on the land—not a famine of bread or water but of hearing the words of the LORD. People will stagger from sea to sea and wander from border to border searching for the word of the LORD, but they will not find it. Amos 8:4-12

Are you searching God's Word?
Pray--then read.
Don't have a spiritual famine.

The time is surely coming. That time is a famine for the word of God—people will be hungry for God’s word—searching for it in vain. God was displeased with the people of Israel and so He removed Himself—and His word—from their lives. They were looking for a prophet to teach them, but they did not find one. The time is coming, as Matthew Henry explained, that there won’t be any ministers to explain the word of the Lord to the people. How have you felt when you are really looking for something…maybe even something spiritual—but you just couldn’t find it? How discouraging.

What does this teach us? Be obedient to the Lord and He will not abandon us—just as He has promised. But if we neglect to obey Him and thus displease Him, then we can look forward to being discouraged as we search in vain for the Lord and His word.

Time may be short…so don’t wait. Search for Him today. Praise the Lord—if and when you find Him in God’s word and secure Him in your very heart, mind and soul.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, help us to be obedient to You and to Your commandments that we would live in a way that is pleasing to You. Help us to know You more clearly and dearly as we search God's word today.

Verses of Salvation ~ For it is not possible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. That is why, when Christ came into the world, he said to God, "You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings. But you have given me a body to offer. You were not pleased with burnt offerings or other offerings for sin. Then I said, 'Look, I have come to do your will, O God—as is written about me in the Scriptures.'" First, Christ said, "You did not want animal sacrifices or sin offerings or burnt offerings or other offerings for sin, nor were you pleased with them" (though they are required by the law of Moses). Then he said, "Look, I have come to do your will." He cancels the first covenant in order to put the second into effect. For God's will was for us to be made holy by the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ, once for all time. Hebrews 10:4-10

The sacrifice of Jesus brings us salvation.

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Friday, December 11, 2020

Don’t Be Dismayed

Meditate…and pray.

But do not be afraid, Jacob, my servant; do not be dismayed, Israel. For I will bring you home again from distant lands, and your children will return from their exile. Israel will return to a life of peace and quiet, and no one will terrorize them. Jeremiah 46:27

Pray for Israel
Israeli flag flying over the Sea of Galilee.

Don’t be afraid. This is an interesting passage considering the “peace” that seems to be surrounding Israel today. There are a few Middle East nations, as well as the United States, that are seeking peace and friendly diplomatic relationships with Israel. That is wonderful news in comparison to the continued strife that is happening in that part of the world with Turkey, Syria and even within the Israeli countryside. Can you imagine living with frequent bombing attacks…and listening for sirens day or night? You read about that happening during World War II in England, Germany and other European nations…but it still occurs today in Israel—we just don’t always hear about it. We pray for peace for Israel, knowing that when the time is right, they will not have peace, according to predictions in the Bible. In the meantime, may they know peace—a tranquil state of existence within their land and within their hearts. No terror. Just an amiable peace—that they and their children can rest well and have sweet dreams.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil. ... You can go to bed without fear; you will lie down and sleep soundly. You need not be afraid of sudden disaster or the destruction that comes upon the wicked, for the LORD is your security. He will keep your foot from being caught in a trap. Proverbs 3:5-7, 24-26

The Jewish Festival of Lights—also known as Hanukkah began last night at sunset. For the next week Jews will light candles on their menorah to commemorate when the oil in the lamps miraculously did not run out, but kept burning for eight days with only one day’s oil, when the Second Temple was rededicated during the time of the Maccabees. Miraculous. Do you see any miracles happening in your life? God is at work—just look for His hand on you. Don’t be dismayed.

Prayer ~ Now may You, God of peace—who brought up from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, and ratified an eternal covenant with His blood—may He equip us with all we need for doing Your will. May He produce in us, through the power You have given Jesus Christ, every good thing that is pleasing to You. All glory to You, Father God, forever and ever! Amen. From Hebrews 13: 20-21

Verse of Salvation ~ Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, so our land will be filled with his glory. - Psalm 85:9

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

This Challah Bread is one that is served during Shabbat and at Hanukkah. It is very similar to a family recipe for Houska that is a Czech tradition at Christmas time.

Challah Bread
2 1/2 cups warm water (110 degrees F/45 degrees C)
1 tablespoon active quick rise dry yeast (2 pkgs)
1/2 cup honey
4 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted butter
3 eggs
1 tablespoon salt
Pinch of saffron
8 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 cup raisins – dark or yellow, optional

In a large bowl, sprinkle yeast over warm water. Beat in honey, oil, 2 eggs, salt and saffron, if desired. Add the flour one cup at a time, beating after each addition. Then switch to kneading with hands as dough thickens. Add raisins if desired. Knead until smooth and elastic and no longer sticky, adding flour as needed. Cover with a damp clean cloth and let rise for 1 1/2 hours or until dough has doubled in bulk.

Punch down the risen dough and turn out onto floured board. Divide in half and knead each half for five minutes or so, adding flour as needed to keep from getting sticky. Divide each half into thirds and roll into long ropes about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the rope dough on a greased or parchment lined cookie sheet. Pinch the ends of the three ropes together firmly and braid. Cover with towel and let rise about one hour.

Beat the remaining egg and brush a generous amount over each braid. Pre-heat oven and bake at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) for about 40 minutes. Bread should have a nice hollow sound when thumped on the bottom. Cool on a rack before slicing.

Happy Hanukkah

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Thursday, December 10, 2020

Peace and Security

Meditate.

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world." John 16:33

Peace. Peace. Wonderful, sweet peace. Jesus promises this peace to His disciples…and to us…His peace, That tranquility and inner calmness that only He can give. The world…books, TV shows, movies, food or drinks or well-meaning friends, family or neighbors…can’t give us peace. Long-lasting, eternal peace can only come from God. We are guaranteed to have some rough roads, trials, tribulations and thus sorrows in this life…but Jesus can give us joy and peace—even in the midst of the storm. I know…I’ve been there. Sure, I haven’t been homeless, rejected by loved ones, or had cancer myself, but I’ve had family who has and I walked with them through their trials. Well—I have experienced rejection, job loss and close family members who have died tragically, but God was with me even through the hardest moments. Many time I have certainly claimed that verse “I will never leave you or forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 and Hebrews 13:5. Just reciting that verse again gives me peace. It provides a feeling of security and love. Jesus had not yet been crucified or resurrected when He spoke these words…take heart, because I have overcome the world…but He knew what He was facing and that He had already indeed overcome the world even before He was born in that stable in Bethlehem. He conquered sin and death. Now that should give us all security. Eternal security. Does security bring you peace? Peace in your heart?

Jesus crucifixion,
Holy Family Shrine
Gretna, Nebraska

Prayer ~ Lord God, Thank You that You live up to Your promises. I know that although Jesus felt abandoned on the cross, even then, Father God, You did not forget Him. You will never abandon me…even in my weakest moments. Thank You.

Verse of Salvation ~ How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! Isaiah 52:7

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Wednesday, December 9, 2020

Peace in Your Heart

Meditate.

"I am leaving you with a gift--peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. John 14:27

Peace from God is the greatest gift of all—well, after love. We all need love. That is basic. But peace is essential, too. Peace gives us a sense of tranquility, freedom from stress or disquieting emotions, or a state of security or order (see Merriman-Webster Dictionary on line). We all need to escape stress at some point—too much stress is not healthy. It can drain our bodies of energy. The peace that God gives is spiritual—and extends into our emotional and physical bodies as well. One of my favorite passages includes peace…as spoken by Jesus.

But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative--that is, the Holy Spirit--he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you. "I am leaving you with a gift--peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid. Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really loved me, you would be happy that I am going to the Father, who is greater than I am. I have told you these things before they happen so that when they do happen, you will believe. John 14:26-29 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Don’t be troubled or afraid. Give your troubles to Jesus.

Then 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

Give your troubles to Jesus…and know that He gives the gift of peace.

Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. John 14:1-3

That message of hope for a future with Jesus…a place in His father’s house in Heaven gives Peace. Are you going to be living in Jesus’ Father’s house someday? See you there, my friend.

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, You have told me all this so that I may have peace in You. Here on earth I will have many trials and sorrows. But I will take heart, because You have overcome the world, From John 16:33. Thank You, Jesus.

Verse of Salvation ~ How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! Isaiah 52:7

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Tuesday, December 8, 2020

Jesus Loves Me—This I Know

Meditate.

"I have spoken of these matters in figures of speech, but soon I will stop speaking figuratively and will tell you plainly all about the Father. Then you will ask in my name. I'm not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf, for the Father himself loves you dearly because you love me and believe that I came from God. Yes, I came from the Father into the world, and now I will leave the world and return to the Father." Then his disciples said, "At last you are speaking plainly and not figuratively. Now we understand that you know everything, and there's no need to question you. From this we believe that you came from God." John 16:25-30

Figurative language involves analogies, like Jesus’ parables, and may exaggerate the story. Exaggeration is not something that we consider a speaking trait of Jesus. He always told the truth—no lies or big stories. He taught people using parables about things like sheep, coins and houses—and even families, sons and fathers. God the Father is blessed to have such a devoted, obedient, honest and loving son—Jesus. The Father loves the disciples…and us, because we love Jesus.

A lot of kids learn to sing “Jesus Loves Me” when they are like three or four years old. Some of the words to the song centers on “ME” but the song is really about Jesus—and His strength. My sister and I sang this song together when we were children—we liked to sing. She had almost perfect pitch and could sing so beautifully—like an angel. One of the last times we were together we sang “The Lord’s Prayer” and she harmonized, singing alto. Twenty-three years ago today she died tragically…and now I imagine that she is singing at the very throne of Jesus—or will be when He gathers us all together for a feast with Him in Heaven. A feast that you can be at too, if you love Jesus as your Lord and Savior. I’m saying that literally, not figuratively—no exaggeration. We choose if we want to be in Heaven, by choosing Jesus as our Savior. My sister chose to love Jesus and to honor Him as Savior. No wings or harp for her…those are figurative things people think about when they talk about heaven. Those things are for angels, which are totally different created beings than humans. I hope to see you in Heaven, too—I’ll be the one singing there with my sister, Shirley. You can tell us apart—I’m a little taller.

The day Shirley was killed, her new husband, Bob, and her two daughters, Vicki and Anne, were also killed, along with her ex-husband, Ron, who took his own life. Domestic violence is a heart wrenching issue—and in some cases fatal and final. Thirty-one years later I’m still feeling the loss of this family. A few years after this incident a Jewish friend of mine asked me why I was sad, since as a Christian I should be happy that they are with Jesus. Why am I sad? For all these years I have missed (been cheated out of) Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, Fourth of July, birthdays, sunny days…every day celebrations with them. Shirley and I were planning to grow old gracefully—together. I miss the fact that I didn’t get to go to her daughters’ high school and college graduations, weddings, or to hold their newborn babies—I won’t get to share in the joys and sorrows of their lives—they aren’t living. This sharing of our lives isn’t just about me…it’s about family. Families are supposed to share all those joys and sorrows, holidays, birthdays…and every days. We have a void in our family that can’t be filled—that is what death does. It leaves a void. Why am I sad? I’m just selfish I guess. My life is about “me.” I wanted more out of life…more time to spend with those I love. Although I’ll see my sister and her family again in Heaven our relationship here on earth has ended and there is that void. So I give Jesus the void—this loss. That is all I can do. And then I can sing and...remember.

Time is precious—people and relationships are precious. May we all value what we have…and enjoy it to the fullest while we are here. The best advice I received was in a message that said that when we've lost family members we need to focus on the ones we still have. Family and friends—know that I love you—more than my heart can hold.

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus—Thank you for loving us…my sister, me and our family. I praise You for who You are and always will be—King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Thank you for the peace you have given me in the past years…and now.

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

Revised from December 8, 2012 Banquet With The King blog.

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Jesus Love Me--This I Know

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