Sunday, July 17, 2011

The Nature of Man

Luke 8

Inspired thots

Man is never satisfied;

Even though the miracle happened right in front of their eyes, there is still doubt and demand for more miracles before true belief sets in. The Pharisees wanted a sign from heaven but it was an attempt to test Jesus more than to believe.

The disciples were blur when Jesus spoke in parables; they needed clear explanation of every parable to understand the important lessons.  Minds can be dull unless the Lord is merciful and gracious to open it to true understanding. Indeed heavenly insights are truly God's revelations.

When Jesus spoke clearly and directly about the matter, man tends to be self righteous about it; acting as an authority falsely. Peter was rebuked by Jesus for such a behavior.

It truly is difficult to live righteously on this earth unless I "have in mind the things of God" and not the things of men.

Friday, July 15, 2011

He has done all things well

Luke 7

Inspired thots

No matter what type of people approached Jesus, He always treat them well.
He teaches all who want to hear and learn although He draws many critics and observers. There were many who wanted a good show but others, though few, were genuine in seeking His blessings, which He freely gave.

Amazing how the Gentile woman could answer Jesus so profoundly to stir Jesus' compassion to heal her daughter. Truly LOVE overcomes all obstacles and gives the answers. Jesus saw the same trait in her... only the best for her beloved daughter would make her appeal and beg for the favor.

The crowds tend to miss the boat with just a craving for miracles but not a changing of character.

Jesus did all thinggs well; He got the praises from the people on everything He did... but they did not see it all for themselves. What a shame!

Jesus Heals with Compassion

Luke 6

Inspired thots

This chapter is all about Jesus' healings: Jairus' sick daughter, the woman with the blood issue, the man with Legion demons.

In all these more prominent healings, Jesus acted in compassion while others watched and sneered with disbelief.

It is amazing to note that Jesus was even compassionate towards the demons; did He really pity them? Or is it not yet their time of judgment?

My lesson: I can cry out to God for total healing too... because He acts on compassion.
Praise the Lord!

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

As Much As Could be Understood

Mark 4

Inspired thots

Jesus spoke the Word in parables; stories that reflected on their daily lives so that they can identify and understand as much as possible.

Besides understanding, there is the application. Will one check the self on understanding the parables and accept the truth to change or reject it?

But with the disciples, Jesus explained all parables to them; probably because they WOULD accept as they understand.

Thank God that some parables were clearly explained so that we can UNDERSTAND to ACCEPT and APPLY it to our lives for the better - to the glory of God.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Being Close to Jesus

Luke 3

Inspired thots

The ONLY relation Jesus proclaims and accepts is that for eternity;
> those who do the Heavenly Father's purpose as He did.

> Those who went around everywhere with Him

> those who hear His call and obey immediately like the 12 disciples.

The crowds gathered around Him seeking for signs and miracles.

The Pharisees gathered around Him seeking for opportunities to accuse Him of wrongdoing.

The disciples gathered around Him seeking knowledge and faith. (training)

The family tried to get to Him to make Him more practical (like having meals); they were more earthly.

But whoever does the will of God is Jesus' family.

Monday, July 11, 2011

Why? Why? Why?

Luke 2

Inspired thots

This is man's most famous question: WHY?

For everything that does not go OUR way, there is always the WHY?
It may be silently within the self; it can be asked of others; it can be directed to God Himself.
It reflects the self-dissatisfaction...

Why does Jesus talk like that?
> Because He is the Son of God; he has the authority.

Why does Jesus eat with sinners, tax collectors, Pharisees and his disciples?
> Because He is no respecter of persons; He loves them all. He is compassionate towards all. He is willing for all to be healed (physically and spiritually)

Why did Jesus do what is unlawful on the Sabbath?
> Because He is the Lord of the Sabbath. The Sabbath was made for man; and not man for the Sabbath. Hence, man should not be bound by traditions.

Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.. Matt 6:33
then there will be no WHYs.

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Focused from Start to Finish

Mark 1

Inspired thots

Reading Mark is like speed reading; the events are recorded in a 'fast' speed manner citing main events than other gospels.

From this 'fast' pace chapter, the prevailing thought is how FOCUSED JESUS is.
With a simple intro on John the Baptist who prepared the way for Jesus, Jesus' made a grand entrance in this chapter with His baptism and the approval from the Heavenly Father. That sets the mood and focus.
Jesus went about His mission with the loving approval of His Heavenly Father.

Jesus' mission: proclaim the GOOD NEWS - the kingdom of God is near! Repent and Believe!
Jesus called His disciples and they followed Him immediately. There must be a divine revelation or prompting for them to drop all they were doing or have to follow Jesus immediately. Indeed, God has prepared those of His own for His purpose.

Crowds were drawn to Jesus' teaching and miracles, recognizing His authority but not embracing Him as THE authority. How sad when they are not on the Right Focus.