Actions All Wrong

John 2:12-24

Inspired thots:

1) A misuse of the venue is a big issue, especially when it comes to God's temple. Jesus was notably upset at the lack of disrespect man holds in regards to the 'things of God'. It was like a market environment IN THE TEMPLE COURTS (v14). It's not outside, but the inside.

Christians tend to let the 'outside' (world) creep into our 'inside' (self) instead of otherwise; anything for convenience's sake, I suppose.

For when there is misuse, there is abuse. Look at the public amenities as examples.

2) It is strange to ask for a 'miraculous sign' to prove one's authority (v18). Nobody would ask like that today. You dont ask the police for a 'miraculous sign' to prove their authority. Their uniform, badge and identity prove their authority in their country.

3) The disciples recalled and remembered... the things that Jesus mentioned and taught them. How important to be hearing and listening, learning and storing what we are taught for it will be necessary to check and confirm, and to build up our faith. (v17,22)

4) Jesus did not entrust Himself to man, although they flock to Him... more for His miracles than Himself as a Person, for WHO He is. The crowd saw Him more of some 'entertainment'.

Being Observant is a GOOD Virtue

John 2:1-11

Inspired thots:

The first thot to my mind is: that's how ladies are! (with regards to Jesus' mother, Mary) Always minding the trivial or insignificant! Always on the look out at any situation. Is it a blessing or a curse? A musing...

Mary just made a simple statement (v3) "they have no more wine". Did she really expect Jesus to do something about it with that statement? Perhaps so, for she continued with 'Do whatever he tells you.' (v5)

She had such great faith in Jesus; she had been watching and observing him since he was born (Luke 2:19,51 - she treasured up all that happened to Jesus and pondered over them in her heart, whether he was a babe or adolescent; amazing woman!) A mother's instincts are very sharp as blest by the Lord! She quietly observes and ponders (no wonder a woman thinks so much) and treasures all the things that happen, not only in her life but in the lives of her children, her family and even to others around her.

That was why Mary noted that the wine ran out at the wedding! She was observant.

Being observant is a good virtue today so that one does not get complacent or miss the opportunity God brings along our way.

Jesus obliged her request or instructions as an obedient son. Jesus, You are so good! You bless me with my heart's desires more than I reciprocate to bless Your heart.

2) Jesus can turn something that was 'ceremonially' unclean (v6) to something beautiful. Anything is possible with God. (Matthew 19:26)

3) When Jesus does a miracle, it raises the faith of His people (v11)

No where like Jesus

John 1:29-51

Inspired thots:

1) It seems to me that John the Baptist did not really know Jesus, yet there is an expectation of Him. John may not recognise Jesus physically, but he was 'informed' (v33) to look for the sign of proving who Jesus is. He believed it and kept alert to note it.

Thus, it is important to be informed and keep alert so that I will not 'miss the boat'.

When John the Baptist does the will of God, Jesus appears! (v31)
~> when God's will is performed, things happen. I may not be aware or know for sure what it is I should be looking out for, but at the right time, I will know, as God's spirit leads.

2) Man is curious by nature. (v37) Discovery is important. It impacts life. Be wise then to the Right and Good discoveries in your life.

3) Man is quite judgmental. (v46) I thought there was nothing for me too at Lahad Datu (Nov 08) but God was there to minister to me.
Dont 'write off' God in your own wisdom or knowledge. Man does not know all.

4) Jesus is always SO kind; HE gets jeered and sneered... but He does not reciprocate.
Although Nathanael spoke badly of Jesus, Jesus spoke kindly of him. What a contrast. what a lesson!

Doing the RIGHT thing At the Right Place and Time

JOHN 1:1-28

Inspired thots:

I have always like the FIRST chapter of JOHN. It reads SO well... so POETIC, so romantic. I can feel the great wisdom of God from there as it prepares the setting for Jesus' entrance. I can also feel God's love that He has planned everything for my good ~ starting from Salvation.

It is worth memorising the chapter.

1) John the Baptist was truly a GREAT man of God; he knew his position very well, and played his role accurately as designed. He did not claim to be the Christ; he did not take any glory; he did not even let any be implied on himself. He truly PREPARED the WAY for the GREAT ONE ~ Jesus, the Son of God, the Savior of the World.

It puts me to shame that I am otherwise; instead of Preparing the way for my Lord, many times I have asked the Lord to 'prepare the way for ME' .... to 'go BEFORE Me'. That is the wrong type of prayer. It is not I but the Lord who is greater, that I should be PREPARING for HIM!

2) It is MORE important to be HEARD than to be SEEN. John was 'a voice' in the wilderness. He was in an undesirable place BUT he CALLED and he was HEARD.
Verbal communication is far more effective than Physical displays in that it is very direct and very immediate. The recipient receives immediately; the choice to ACCEPT depends on themselves. Physical displays or actions are slower in impact and response of recipients. It takes time for recipient to 'get it'; to understand what the action implies or underlays.

I think, for a vast audience or when immediate receipt is desired, VERBAL COMMUNICATION is the better choice... just SPEAK it out!
For those whom we are more familiar with, or have a relationship with, the Physical Display is more appropriate, for the focus is directed on one another due to familiarity.

3) Be truthful and direct when speaking, as part of your personality. It is what the Bible teaches: let your 'Yes' be yes, and your 'No, no. (Matthew 5:37)
John the Baptist really knew how to handle himself.

The Grand Finale

Matthew 28

Inspired thots:

What a great chapter to end the book of Matthew! ~ the grand finale.

Earthquakes and brightness accompanied the rising of Jesus from the tomb.
An eventful happening can fill one with awe, fear and joy at the same time, which the faithful women at the tomb experienced. Praise the Lord they could recognise Jesus and worshiped Him when He appeared to them.

But when the 11 (guys) disciples met Jesus, sadly, some doubted (v17); and Jesus had called them 'my brothers' (v10)
Meanwhile, those who plot continue to plot... (v12)

And the famous Commandment in v28-30! A great ending! Hallelujah!

God did It ALL for MAN (Me)

Matthew 27:45-66

Inspired thots:

Eloi, ELoi, lama sabachthani?
Jesus was forsaken by God because He was carrying the sin of Man. So sad!
But Praise God, He doesnt forsake Man; He doesnt forsake Me! It is promised in the Word of God.
~ Once in the OT (Deut. 31:6) and again in the NT (Hebrews 13:5)
~ In the OT: cause - entering the Promised Land
The Promise is all-encompassing ~> fertile peaceful land, protection from the enemy, victory over the enemy, presence of God for fellowship, God's leading (He goes ahead first)
He wants His people to enter into Salvation.

Take heart that God is there for those whom He loves.

~ In the NT: cause - daily living
The Promise is all-encompassing again to live our lives each day ~> relationships, contentment, focused on heavenly things and issues than worldly ($)
After Salvation, living a life worthy of what Jesus did on the cross.

God is a God who is Relevant; He knows every need. He provides and He advises. He reminds. He loves.
God loves His people SO much that He has to forsake His Son just for Man. AMAZING LOVE!

So Truly Human

Matthew 27:32-44

Inspired thots:

1) Jesus showed the physical side of humanity;
He was beaten and scourged - he felt the pain.
He was tired and weak - he couldn't carry the cross; he had no strength.
He was thirsty and tasted bitter wine (v34) - he couldn't quench his thirst.

Truly, He was as I am - He understands me.

2) Words. False accusations can bring adverse consequences.
Jesus was wrongly accused and paid dearly for it - with His LIFE!
One would think nothing of that simple 8 words on the piece of plank "This is Jesus, the King of the Jews" - more a statement but was taken negatively.
I must be careful with my words; let no form of accusation be formed with them. As the saying goes,"Words - once out, cannot be retracted"

3) Do not add salt to the injury; more jeering and cynism hurled at someone who is already hurting. Such unkindness. Such a bad show of humanity, really. That's where sin has man under its rule.
In a way, the further insults are directed at God too! "... let God rescue him now if he wants him,..." (v34)
a) Disbelief in God
b) Calling God a liar - not believing Jesus is the Son of God
c) Mocking God

4) "He's the King of Israel" - The chief priests declared the truth, but they did not receive it. (v42) Yet, the truth should have set them free (John 8:32)

5) v42 "He saved others...but he can't save himself!" - such is Jesus' nature; such is the greatness of Jesus' love. He will save others; He will think of others before self.

You Are Your OWN

Matthew 27:11-31

Inspired thots:

There are so much thots here; important lesson points to ponder and remember, to be practiced or avoided at all costs.

1) v11 - As the bible says in Matt 5:37, " Simply, let your 'yes' be yes and your 'no', no". Be a person of exact / precise words. Be a simpleton! Jesus did not answer His accusers or to the false charges. That takes Great humility. It is human nature to justify and project self infront.

I can amaze others by holding back my tongue, which is hard to tame (James 3) but not impossible (Matt 17:21) - Practice it!

2) v18,24 - Knowing BUT not Doing! Very common for a child of God. BUT... is always there! External justifications ... are really Internal protest;

3) v20,24 - How powerful an instigation can influence others to see beyond logic! Truly, as the saying goes, 'Sow a THOUGHT, Reap an ACT'. The chief priests knew how to stir up the people's emotions to action.

Charles Reade's full saying: 'Sow a thought, Reap an act; Sow an ACT, Reap a HABIT; Sow a Habit, Reap a CHARACTER; Sow a Character, Reap the DESTINY'.
Where is my destiny? Stephen Covey's ... 'Start with the End in Mind'

4) v25 - Emotions adrift lead only to destruction! The people were so overwhelmed with negative emotions that they brought curses onto themselves, AND their future generations! This is truly an irresponsible act ~ one should subject only the self to a personal decision or act, without implicating the innocent.

5) v26 - Reminds me of Psalm 1: Not to be participative in Wickedness. Do the RIGHT thing! Stand firm in decisions and actions.

The Forked Road in our Life Journey

Matthew 26:69-27:10

Inspired thots:

2 instances of disappointment. 2 examples of man's folly ~ a denier and a betrayer.
Peter and Judas.
They were really stretched to their limit in their relationship with the Lord, at that point in time.
One had no turning back, so sad.
Luckily, the other had been forewarned; pre-informed. Knowledge can save.

Bad judgment costs; both men were filled with sorrow and remorse. One was so lost that he did not have any hope - perhaps he didnt really learn from Jesus after all those times with Him. He was so empty; there was nothing left in life for him to go on living.
~> that will be the same for those of us nowadays who are sitting at Jesus' feet but not really absorbing His Word or filling our hearts and lives with His ways (Isa 55:8,9) We will be empty shells, looking pretty on the outside but void of substance.

The other was rash in his speech and actions which cost him his reputation and nearly his eternity. He was informed and he remembered. It was good that what he was taught and told did not go to nought; what he heard and learned, he stored in his heart and mind to be extracted for deliverance and protection.
~> we must ensure that we are not wasting our time by 'being present' but not absorbing and storing the things that can save us.

There is always a fork in our life journey. Would one know which path to move on when the intersection is reached? Only what is truly stored inside can be the pointers.

The DARK Side of Man

Matthew 26:47-68

Inspired thots:

1) Man is basically a coward - on the inside - even though he may seem bold on the outside. (v55)
Just like:
~ Peter who was quick to answer Jesus on being there for Him, but denied Jesus.
~ the disciples who claimed to stand by Jesus but all ran away when He was being arrested.
~ the chief priests and elders who came at night to arrest Jesus when there was no crowd to protest or witness the situation.
~ the chief priests and Sanhedrin who chose to misinterprete Jesus' words so that they can accuse Him falsely.

We are cowards when we dare not face up to the truth of righteousness; when we choose to hide under another form; when we pretend all is well.

2) When the truth is plainly told(v63-65), it is not accepted, because it is not what was wanted to be heard. Selective listening in man surfaces to satisfy his own selfish desire ~ the sinful nature.

3) And how rude and senseless one can become when caught up in the web of deceit and wrong emotions? (v67-68) The sneers and jeers with violence reflect the sinful nature of man.

Jesus is ALWAYS For Us

Matthew 26:31-46

Inspired thots:

The Lord knows ALL things, so He doesnt blame when we fall. In fact, He warns us of things beforehand so that we can be prepared to face the situation and handle it boldly. But at times, we fail as we rashly make declarations or promises we cannot keep, as in Peter's case.

The Lord goes ahead of me, in everything. He prepares the way for me when it should be I who should prepare the way for HIM! How great is my God!

Jesus understands sorrow and trouble afflicting human for He experiences them too. (v37) But as the Son of God, why was He 'sorrowful and trouble'? He who knows all things...
Was He sorrowful over man whom He has created but is rejecting Him? Was He troubled that man is easily deceived to choose his own way rather than His ways? I think so... knowing how much Jesus loves man, He would not be sorrowful or troubled over Himself. He already has the victory!

v39 As He prayed to the Father for the cup of suffering and death to be removed from Him, what was He really asking? Could He not do it? I dont think so. I believe that this request is made on behalf of man (again). He would have liked to spare His people sorrow and trouble but sin will not permit.

2) Strange as it may, Jesus can really draw strength through prayer. So it is with me; When I am troubled, the best thing to do is to PRAY. I dont fully understand how it works but the peace and reassurance do fill my heart and calm my soul. I can hope again and carry on my day.

Jesus prayed 3x over the removal of the cup but submitting to God's will. He gained boldness and assurance to face His betrayer and destiny (v46). I can pray until I gain boldness and peace.

Self Check CHECKPOINT

Matthew 26:17-30

Inspired thots:

Jesus knows all things. He gives clear instructions. He speaks clearly. He is in charge of everything.
Am I listening? Do I accept what He says or am I still anxious with my own thoughts? The latter is where the danger is.

And as the disciples each ask Jesus, "Surely not I, Lord?"; their question structure implies a self-righteousness ~ a presumptive attitude. Why was the question not,"Is it I, Lord?" ~ to indicate humility for man is not omniscient as God. We dont know if we would falter.

Judas also asked the question, but with a slight difference; did you notice it? "Surely not I, Rabbi?" He called Jesus "Rabbi" (teacher) rather than "Lord". Our words can betray our inmost feelings and attitude. Perhaps he was there riding the waves only, and not humbled by who Jesus really is. Perhaps he saw Jesus as only a man; a teacher who could speak well and did some amazing stuff. But all these didnt touch his heart like they should, and did the other disciples.

Wrong Captivation -> Wrong Direction & Path

Matthew 26:1-16

Inspired thots:

Man's thots and priorities differ so greatly with God's (Isaiah 55:8,9).
I do not see the whole picture as God does; I do not have the same thots as God has; Yes, even I would have reacted like the disciples... 'such a waste of money'!
Why do the things of this world hold my heart captive so easily? Remember Matthew 22:21 "Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God."

Thank you Lord, for helping me release the money issue to You; again, You teach me and confirm Your word to me at just the RIGHT time.

Even Judas Iscariot was not spared; he CHOSE material possession, maybe fame too. He WENT seeking for these, rather than the kingdom of God which was right with him. (Matt 6:33)
Yes, when the heart is captivated (by Right or Wrong), it is steered in that direction (to heaven or hell). Judas WENT TO the chief priests. He SOUGHT them out, and ASKED for worldly benefits for himself instead of the kingdom of God and its righteousness (Matt 7:7). Such a contrast from the Word of God!

Instead of asking from the world, I must ask from my Lord, whatever I need or wish to have; even the things of this world like $$$! He is my Provider (Phil 4:19)

Doing it Unto the Lord

Matthew 25:31-46

Inspired thots:

Parable of the Sheep and the Goats.

The thot that comes into mind as I read this passage is, "I may say 'Maranatha' easily, but have I done all I should before He comes again?"

Search my heart O Lord and let me know, whom may I 'feed and quench thirst', whom should I 'welcome and clothe', whom should I 'look after and visit'.
For though I may not recognise You O Lord, You may test me through people whom You bring along my way. Reminds me of the fable where the king disguises himself to walk amongst his subjects to see how they fare.

Your children are not just your children or heirs to your kingdom; they are called your brothers! (v40) Amazing love! What a great relationship with my God! In a way, others are my 'elders', for they are considered God's brethren! Asian filiality should fit in easily here.

Another thot is, it is common for selective service; man tends to choose to do what he likes or prefers. That can either cost me or benefit me in eternity. Your wisdom is needed Lord, to give me the discernment and submission to act according to Your will, for it is so easy to write off or push aside a task with so many plausible excuses.

Doing the Little the BEST You Can

Matthew 25:14-30

Inspired thots:

This is another favorite from days of old for me;

Though I may not fully know HOW MUCH talent God has given me, what I do know that I DO HAVE, I must work it to produce 100-fold! It is so clear with the examples of the first 2 servants; from the given 5 talents, he made another 5; from the given 2 talents, another 2 were made.

It is NOT the quantity I reproduce but the PERCENTAGE to indicate my deepest motiivation of action. The servant who hid the talent was motivated by fear which his master implied wickedness and laziness. Yes, fear clouded his better judgment. He could have put the ONE talent into the bank for interest without doing anything else!
This is where I need the HOLY SPIRIT to lead and guide me; at times I may be accosted by fear to cloud my better judgment; at times, I am really lost at the seeing the 'solution' or a better solution.

There may be a 'harsh' side to God's nature, but when the better side of Him is known, we need to get onto that side! ~ just like the first 2 productive servants ~ they entered into their master's happiness. There is always 2 sides to a coin. Do I see it? Which side do I choose?

AMPLY Prepared for the 'Just in Case'

Matthew 25:1-13

Inspired thots:

Parable of the 10 Virgins ~ One of my favorites.
The lesson hit me like a rock and has stayed so clearly in my mind, directing my life hence.
It's not enough to KNOW that Christ is coming back for me; it's not even enough to PREPARE myself for His return; I must be ALERT and WATCHFUL for I do not know the day or hour of His coming.

10 waited ~ only 5 got in! It's a 50% statistics. Truly, the Word of God says,"Narrow is the road that leads to life, and few find it" (Matthew 7:14)

Minimum preparation is no good; there must be ample, like the 5 wise virgins who were prepared with extra oil, just in case... and 'just in case' happens. If that is how life is, what more of eternal life? So, it is not just preparing for Christ's return, it is AMPLY Prepared for the 'just in case' (Phil 4:19)

Keep Watch, Be Ready

Matthew 24:36-51

Inspired thots:

"Preparing for a Rainy Day" ~ as the adage goes.

You know it will rain... perhaps from signs of cloudiness; even without signs, you would expect rain...one day, some day! That is the order of Nature, unless it is the desert.

Similarly the Return of Christ ~ it is imminent! Am I prepared for His return since I DO KNOW He is returning. It is quite different if one does NOT KNOW... one cannot prepare. But if one KNOWS and does NOTHING about it, then one is fully accountable for the lack of action on the given knowledge.

With knowledge comes responsibility and the choice to use the knowledge, especially in the way it is originally meant; knowledge is subject to abuse. That's where responsibility steps in.

I may know one part, and not the rest (v42) but it should not stop me from taking action based on the part I know; and being in God's hand, He will guide each step from that one step.

Yes, it is true that when the given knowledge is abused, indulgence sets in. (v48,49) Indulgence causes one to lose sight or focus of the Original. Such is the sinful nature of man. Hence, it is important to be constantly ALERT by keeping watch and making the necessary preparations.

Watch the Signs

Matthew 24:15-35

Inspired thots:

There are so many signs for the end of the age as Jesus has informed; am I alert to them? is there any cause for worry or anxiety?

1) The world will change ~ from peaceful to troubled times. Wars and rumours of war. Natural disasters. These have begun.
2) There will be a drastic happening at the holy place to confirm Jesus' words. (v15)
3) There will be falsity and deceit, especially towards the people of God. (v24)
4) The heavenly bodies will react. (v29)

But God is SO good; He cares for His people.
1) He gives His people knowledge of His plans ~ for preparation of self for confrontation. (V15,33)
2) He reduces the length of disaster for His people's sake, knowing we are weak and frail. (v22)
3) He is confident His people will not fail Him in the deceit. (v24)

So I must be CONFIDENT in God as He is of me. (v24)
I must heed His words of knowledge which are warnings and guideposts. (v32)

Signs Are For Preparation

Matthew 24:1-14

Inspired thots

The Signs of the End Times...

It's already happening... just as the thunder is booming this morning in the distant heavenlies... with the pitter-patter of the rain, and an ever so slight breeze... it feels so peaceful somehow, making me calm.

~ Is this the Peace Jesus promised in John 14:27? It is good to be in God's covering. There is nothing to fear.

Yes,wars and rumours of war; nations rising against one another; earthquakes and famines in various places;... and here I am praying for God's mercy over my country! A bit selfish, really. There are God's people all over the world!
Thus, the BEST prayer is... BUILD Your People UP, Lord!

For, deception will come, with persecution, death, hatred, wickedness, betrayal, turning away from the faith, coldness... to me, the worst will be betrayal.

The disciples finally asked a powerful and strong question: the end times. I wonder if they were ready for Jesus' answer as they were eager to present their question, for it is a tough question; but if I am in Christ, the answer brings calm.

How am I Aligned?

Matthew 23


Inspired thots


So many thots in this chapter; lets see what I can glean from it.

1) Always be humble; do not desired to be exalted ~ which is self-righteous. Yes, this is a long learning process until I am immune to exalting self. Self righteous thots must be checked immediate; this I am learning. Do not let it even stop by, lest come in and brew. That is the best way to handle it!


2) Own standards burden others. Do not impose them on others. Apply God's standards (Isa. 55:8,9) - that is the best and only way.


3) Man is self-centred; it is the 'I' factor once again. But I am the created, not the Creator. The focus should not be on ME ~ the 'I'. When the 'I' is focused upon, disappointments abound.

4) Inner cleansing is more important than external beauty. External cleansing does not clean the internal but the cleansed inside cleans the outside too! Hallelujah! So, the physical and what can be seen are just temporal and not as important as the inside (heart, spirit, mind, soul). Only God sees and knows my internal while others may only see my external.

Only God is Wise, God is Good

Matthew 22:34-46

Inspired thots

First the Sadducees... so sad they didnt understand about Resurrection; not believing in the Resurrection tantamounts to not believing in God, for through the Resurrection, we are made alive for our God is a Living God!

Now the Pharisees... thinking themselves to be wise, they were foolish; remember that...
They set forth a question for Jesus, thinking themselves to be experts in the Law (v35); Jesus answered not only answered their question, He gave them an extra! (v37,38) My God is like that. He always supply according to His riches (Phil 4:19)

Then, Jesus posed HIS question to them, just to help them realise they werent so wise; not the expert they thought themselves to be;(v42,43) yes! I am NOT the expert I thought myself to be; only God is! Glory to Him.

God of the Living

Matthew 22:23-33

Inspired thots:

1) Jesus ALWAYS answer our questions. He also ALWAYS answers our PRAYER Request. Truly this is what I am experiencing these days. He is concern for me. As I submit and trust in Him, (for His ways are BEST), truly "all things work for good to those who love Him" Rom8:28
On another recent incident, I am so glad I said "yes" to God even though He released me from the task! For once, I didnt feel bad.

2) It was a clear answer to the Sadducees' question on Resurrection. Sure there'll be a Resurrection. But Jesus gave more insight than just answering the question.

3) Point 1: We are in error because we do not know God's word (the Scriptures) or God (know God, know His Power) v29
* to be on the RIGHT TRACK, one must KNOW ~ information is Key! Thus, reading and meditating on God's word is crucial (Ps 119:9) God's word is TRUTH; the Truth sets one free ~ free to go on the Right track.
* Apart from God, we can do nothing (John 15:5); when we do not KNOW God, we are in error; for God is the Creator of all things. Thus, if we do not know the Creator, how can we know anything else?

Point 2: There is no marriage in heaven... everyone is like the angels. We will finally be a heavenly being. Our focus will only be on GOD alone! As He has destined in the beginning. (v30)

Point 3: v32 Declaration ~ God is always concern with the Living, not the dead; that's why He is God of the living because He is a living God. He is the God of those who were living and heard Him like Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, and now ME, and all others who are alive!

God only Wants ONE Thing

Matthew 22:15-22

Inspired thots

The foolishness of man; how could the Pharisees think they can 'trap' Jesus? You cannot tie up a strong man unless he is willing. Thinking to be wise, he is a fool... perhaps so am I. Yes, its a money issue to be dealt here..

Are the learned really 'cowards'? The Pharisees sent their disciples to Jesus, instead of confronting Him personally; yet, they are the ones who had issues with Jesus. Why gang up with the Herodians? Is it their thinking that numbers will intinidate? So true in today's world too.

There is acknowledgement that:
1) Jesus has integrity
2) Jesus teaches the things of God - they recognise the teachings to be in accordance to their scripture
3) Jesus teaches the truth - it is said, His word is truth! (John 17:17)
4) Jesus is not swayed by man - He is not a people pleaser.
5) Jesus knows exactly how man is - but of course, He created man! (Gen 1:27)

This is a case of 'knowing what is right/true but not doing it'.
Worse still, it goes on to be against that which is right.
Yes, Jesus named these appropriately: hypocrites.
It's all in the heart - its the matter of the heart. Take check!

"Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God" v21
God doesnt want our material stuff; those are the world's possession. He wants what is His ~ us! man! ME! for He created me... I belong to Him.

Accepting the Banquet Invitation

Matthew 22:1-14

Inspired thots:

1) The wedding banquet is prepared, but it is one's choice to go or not.
Just like any wedding dinners we are invited to, we CAN CHOOSE to accept or decline the invitation... and there would be many 'good' reasons for us either way. So it is no surprise that there are declines and rejects to the grandest banquet prepared for man. But it would be wise to consider thoroughly before making the final decision.

Human banquets I can decline, but not this finale banquet prepared by God! I have to be there! Plus my loved ones! With God's people. It would be a really GRAND affair which I will look forward to...
if I can be excited over..., lets say, my child's wedding (in the future), I should be THAT excited over this grand banquet which God has prepared and is inviting me! Logical?

How sad that there are those who 'refused' and 'paid no attention' and 'went off'.

2) Though invited, there will be a check through; will I be chosen to enjoy that banquet? It is a grand event; there'll be lots of guests; my appearance matters. I need 'wedding clothes'. Yes, I may be invited to the banquet and I choose to attend, but I must 'give face' to the host. I must be properly attired; that is part of the honour and respect to the host. The proper attire at the proper function lends weight to the function objective.

I believe it is not only the physical appearance that is referenced here, but also the heart, mind, soul and spirit. My total being must be ready for the banquet... to fit in to enjoy the grandeur; just as I would in my child's celebration, isn't it?

Chance after chance

Matthew 21:28-46

Inspired thots:

1) Jesus was still addressing the chief priests and elders. They were actually quite an intelligent bunch. They understood His teachings and saying - the parables He told; they could answer His questions. (v31,41)

2) The chief priests and elders did not want to believe in Jesus as the Son of God; perhaps they didnt want to be associated with the lower classes who did (v31,32).

3) Indeed the kingdom of God was turned to the Gentiles instead who bore much fruit for Jesus.

The whole chapter of 21 is all about AUTHORITY; and with it, comes obedience having seen and impacted by the one in authority.

• Jesus' entry into Jerusalem ~ a declaration of His authority even if riding on a donkey, for the sake of the lower classes
• Jesus' cleansing of the temple ~ an act of authority reflecting His passion for what belongs to God
• the withering of the fig tree ~ an example of His authority having no bounds, extending even to nature
• Jesus refuting the chief priests ~ being sure of His authority stemming from His roots and source (who He is, where He came from, what's He to do)
• Parable of the 2 sons ~ there are always 2 sides to the coin; so it is when it comes to authority. Submit or not; Obey or not!
• Parable of the tenants ~ a devious act of insubmission to authority leading to dire consequences. Think before you act!

Remember~ be reminded! Meditate from mind to heart!

Jesus is THE Authority

Matthew 21:18-27

Inspired thots:

1) There were always TWO types of people around Jesus: believers and critics!
~ Whenever Jesus does something great, or a miracles, the BELIEVERS were in Awe; the CRITICS sneered and queried!

• Critics are actually people pleasers; attention seekers; limelight grabbers; noise makers; self righteous; excuse presenters.
• No one is better than self! Critics tend to put others down so that self can be exalted. But when queried, they put forth debates and excuses to avoid standing up.
• Believers are like lambs ~ gentle followers; thirsty sponges; open receivers;

2) Believers with faith can move mountains and wilt trees! Amazing! Just goes to show how lacking in faith I am!

3) Jesus has the Authority to do all things ~ all earth or in heaven (v27). And He has given His disciples the same Authority in His name (28:18). May I use His Authority to His glory!

The Road less traveled

Matthew 21:1-17

Inspired thots

1) Jesus chose to be humble, riding on a donkey to enter into Jerusalem. This is significant as He makes a point to take on that attitude to reach the lowly.

2) v13 As I was awakened early today, I sought the Lord in prayer. I saw some videos on YouTube of how MBBs come to the Lord in Kurdistan. And it is declared by the believers there that it is the power of prayer sweeping the earth that salvation should befall even Kurdistan. Praise the Lord!
This reinforces my role in intercessory prayer, waking up whenever the Lord calls and interceding however He leads. It is His house praying ~ His people called to pray...

3) v15... it was just a simple act ~ they saw ..wonderful things which Jesus did; ~ they heard... children giving praise to Jesus; they were indignant.
Normally one would be filled with awe or gratitude on seeing 'wonderful things done'; not these.
It is better to be grateful and give thanks than to be critical and self-righteous.
Yes, Lord... releasing it all to You!

Exercise My Strengths!

Matthew 20:29-34

Inspired thots

What did God speak to teach me from this simple and short passage?
~> Two blind men... sitting by the roadside; a pitiful sight! But when the opportunity came, they were alert and determine to grab it. They did well.

1) Do not let one weakness in me to cloud over my other strengths; instead, I should exercise my strengths to my benefit ~ just like the blind men, who couldnt see but they heard! ... and they shouted!

2) Do not let people deter or discourage me from receiving blessings from the Lord. The crowd tried to quiet the blind men, but they shouted all the louder!
If I have heard the Lord, I must persevere to receive from Him. (Matt7:7) Jesus will stop by me. He will give me my heart's desire. Only let the desire be righteous!

3) What great faith the blind men had! They asked and they received.
What gratitude they had! IMMEDIATELY... they followed Jesus on receiving their sight! Just like when the disciples were called by Jesus.

As my thoughts linger on, what did these men do from henceforth? Did they follow Jesus faithfully till His crucifixion, or did they 'flee when the Shepherd was stricken'?