Passion and Truth in Praise
Note from Jesus Dear Beloved, Today you will read two powerful passages of praise. The first one is from Paul’s letter to the Colossians. The second is from Paul’s letter sent to several churches in Asia, with Ephesus being the most influential city. The first passage is a wonderful summary of My pre-existence, My work in creating the universe, My work at sustaining the universe, and My triumph over the cross and death. My mission was not only to reconcile you back to the Father, but also to reconcile all of creation back to the Father. The burst of praise in this first passage, this song of glory dedicated to Me, ends with an exhortation for you to hold onto these truths about Me. I AM with the Father and the angels of heaven, and I announce you to the Father as His beloved child who is “holy, blameless, and totally free of imperfection.” Paul reminds you that as you praise Me and remain faithful to your praise of Me, I present you to the Father as His perfect child. So I want you to read this first passage aloud. Do it at least three times. Read it one time to honor Me — to concentrate on Who I AM and what I’ve done for you. The second time, read it to remind yourself that these truths are important, that they allowed Me to be the sacrifice that not only atones for your sins but also makes you God’s perfect child. The third time, read the passage aloud to remind yourself to hold onto this confession of both Who I AM and who you are because of Me. Don’t ever denigrate who you are, because I AM the One Who has made you holy at an extremely high cost: My crucifixion! The second passage was written to the Colossians. They needed these truths because they were being lured away by false teachers who told them they lacked things needed to be truly holy. People will do the same in your day to get you to follow their special “enlightened” teachings on how to be really holy. Remember, your holiness comes from Me and from being joined to Me — examine Colossians 3:1-17, for example, to see what that ultimately means! The second passage is a burst of praise that has a kind of chorus near or at the end of each of the three major points of the message. (These choruses are highlighted with bold text below.) Paul again mixes praise for the Father and Me with a description of who you have been made to be by the Father’s plan, My sacrifice, and the Holy Spirit’s power at work in you. Paul emphasizes that this work of grace, your adoption into Our holy family, came about through Me, by Me, and in Me. Translators over the centuries have rightly said that this is one long burst of praise that comes from the Holy Spirit’s inspiration of Paul’s heart. The words flow out into a stream of thoughts that cannot be punctuated easily. Paul’s words are the language of the heart, the language of praise, and they are more poem than prose and more song than speech. Verses to Live Sometimes truth is most powerfully communicated in poetry and song. These two great passages of praise do just that. I want you to let them fill you with a sense of glory at Our — Father, Son, and Spirit’s — identity and then realize that I poured out Our love for you in your world in tangible ways so that you can share the glory of Our world! He [Jesus] is the exact image of the invisible God, the firstborn of creation, the eternal. It was by Him that everything was created: the heavens, the earth, all things within and upon them, all things seen and unseen, thrones and dominions, spiritual powers and authorities. Every detail was crafted through His design, by His own hands, and for His purposes. He has always been! It is His hand that holds everything together. He is the head of this body, the church. He is the beginning, the first of those to be reborn from the dead, so that in every aspect, at every view, in everything — He is first. God was pleased that all His fullness should forever dwell in the Son Who, as predetermined by God, bled peace into the world by His death on the cross as God’s means of reconciling to Himself the whole creation — all things in heaven and all things on earth. You were once at odds with God, wicked in your ways and evil in your minds; but now He has reconciled you in His body — in His flesh through His death — so that He can present you to God holy, blameless, and totally free of imperfection as long as you stay planted in the faith. So don’t venture away from what you have heard and taken to heart: the living hope of the good news that has been announced to all creation under heaven and has captured me, Paul, as its servant. (Colossians 1:15-23) Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus the Anointed One, Who grants us every spiritual blessing in these heavenly realms where we live in the Anointed — not because of anything we have done, but because of what He has done for us. God chose us to be in a relationship with Him even before He laid out plans for this world; He wanted us to live holy lives characterized by love, free from sin, and blameless before Him. He destined us to be adopted as His children through the covenant Jesus the Anointed inaugurated in His sacrificial life. This was His pleasure and His will for us. Ultimately God is the one worthy of praise for showing us His grace; He is merciful and marvelous, freely giving us these gifts in His Beloved.
My Mindset
Note from Jesus Dear Servant of God, Families, churches, groups, and communities are all systems of people. These systems are built upon flawed people and broken people. No matter how well-intentioned many people may be, each of us is flawed. The flaws of all, the pettiness of some, and the sinful behaviors of a few wound other people and damage the system as a whole. You live with two realities: you live in a fallen world, and it is full of imperfect people. These two truths make life in a family, church, group, or community very challenging. The new Christians in Philippi were having difficulty with each other’s imperfections. Two leading women in the Philippian church, Euodia and Syntyche, were at the center of some of the problems. These two women had worked beside Paul in leading people in Philippi to believe in Me and become My disciples (Philippians 4:2-3). Their disagreement had a very negative influence on the whole church. It had led many to forget an essential truth about living as My disciples: My disciples must follow My example as a servant to others. Paul had to write and ask for help in getting Euodia and Syntyche “to be of the same mind in the Lord“ (Philippians 4:2 NIV). Paul used the phrases “same mind” or “one mind” or similar expressions in various translations throughout the letter (Philippians 1:27; Philippians 2:2-5; Philippians 3:15) to mean they needed to “have the mind of Christ.” The problems these ladies had with each other were affecting the whole church! Paul knew that the brothers and sisters in Philippi needed to understand what it meant to have “the mind of Christ.” The first five verses below (Philippians 2:1-5) give Paul’s introductory exhortation. He urged the Philippian believers to “come together as one in mind and spirit and purpose, sharing in the same love.” Then he reminded them of a hymn they sang about Me. This hymn reminded them of what “one in mind and spirit and purpose, sharing in the same love” actually looks like in real life (Philippians 2:6-11). The hymn is beautiful. Paul’s exhortation was powerful. However, Paul didn’t stop with these reminders. He went on to give the Philippian disciples some examples of people who emulated My selfless lifestyle. He first mentioned Timothy: There is no one like Timothy. What sets him apart from others is his deep concern for you and your spiritual journey. This is rare, my friends, for most people only care about themselves, not about what is dear to the heart of Jesus the Anointed. (Philippians 2:20-21) Then Paul mentioned their own fellow Philippian, Epaphroditus, who nearly died trying to serve Paul on behalf of the Philippians (Philippians 2:27-30): I think it is best to send Epaphroditus home to you. He has become my dear brother in the Lord. We have worked well together and fought great battles together, and he was an encouraging minister to me in my time of need. (Philippians 2:25) Paul next reminded the Philippians of his own example. He focused forward. He did not rely on his past accomplishments. He realized he hadn’t arrived at full maturity and being like Me. He pressed on to become who he wanted to be in Me (Philippians 3:7-14). Then Paul added — and this is a very significant point — all who are mature share this point of view (Philippians 3:15). He closed with this exhortation about following the example of servants: Imitate me, brothers and sisters, and look around to those already following the example we have set. (Philippians 3:17) The bottom line, dear servant of God, is to be who I have called you to be: My disciple. A disciple when fully trained will be like his master (Luke 6:40). If I am your Master, then you will learn to serve and realize that serving is more important than being recognized as important or being proved right. Paul had to use exhortation, teaching, a song, and several examples to try to help the Philippians see this truth. I hope his efforts long ago make an impact on your heart today! Verses to Live As you read this exhortation and song, please remember that I, your Lord and Master, set you an example to do as I have done. Follow in My steps and be a servant. If you find any comfort from being in the Anointed, if His love brings you some encouragement, if you experience true companionship with the Spirit, if His tenderness and mercy fill your heart; then, brothers and sisters, here is one thing that would complete my joy — come together as one in mind and spirit and purpose, sharing in the same love. Don’t let selfishness and prideful agendas take over. Embrace true humility, and lift your heads to extend love to others. Get beyond yourselves and protecting your own interests; be sincere, and secure your neighbors’ interests first. In other words, adopt the mind-set of Jesus the Anointed. Live with His attitude in your hearts. Remember: Though He was in the form of God, He chose not to cling to equality with God; But He poured Himself out to fill a vessel brand new; a servant in form and a man indeed. The very likeness of humanity, He humbled Himself, obedient to death — a merciless death on the cross! So God raised Him up to the highest place and gave Him the name above all. So when His name is called, every knee will bow, in heaven, on earth, and below. And every tongue will confess “Jesus, the Anointed One, is Lord,” to the glory of God our Father! (Philippians 2:1-11) Response in Prayer Father, forgive me. Sometimes my need for approval and my desire to feel important make me jealous of those who get attention. Because of these weaknesses, I allow myself to become hurt and sulk about my own apparent lack of importance. Sometimes I just don’t want to submit myself
Joy in the Face of Hardship
Note from Jesus Dear Precious One, No matter what you are facing — right now or ever in the future — please know that I care about your struggles. I will never abandon you in your struggles (John 14:18). I have known what it is like to feel alone when facing trial and torture, even death (Mark 14:44-50; Matthew 27:46). While I felt forsaken, I was not abandoned no matter how alone I felt (John 16:32; Acts 2:23-28). I want you to hear the promise the Father gave to the Israelites (Deuteronomy 31:6). He then gave a similar promise to Joshua (Joshua 1:5). The Father then made the same promise to you through the writer of Hebrews: “I will never leave you; I will always be by your side.” (Hebrews 13:5) The apostle Paul believed My promise. He emphasized My promise to My disciples in Rome: For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38-39 NIV) He also lived based on My promise. While he was in prison awaiting possible death, Paul wrote the words you will read today. They are from his letter to the Philippians. He reminded them — and also you — that joy is based on a disciple’s relationship with Me and a disciple’s assurance of a future with Me, not on circumstances. The Philippians were getting bogged down in church arguments and life’s difficult situations. They were losing the joy of being the Father’s precious children. They were forgetting the peace they could have in being My disciples. They were letting their assurance of life forever with Me slip from their hearts and instead they were focusing on the squabbles in their church and the hostility of their culture against them. To help the Philippians change their wrong focus, Paul wrote the words you find in the two sets of verses below. The first set is near the beginning of the letter and the second, near the end. Each set of verses focuses on joy in the face of difficult times. Both are reminders that circumstances shouldn’t determine a disciple’s joy. A believer’s faith in Me and future with Me should determine his or her joy and peace! The first set of verses shared Paul’s personal situation in prison. His goal was to glorify Me in his body whatever happened — whether released to minister to the Philippians again or martyred because of his faith and loyalty to Me. No matter what happened — prison, torture, martyrdom, or release — Paul refused to let his hard circumstances steal away his abiding joy. “I will continue to rejoice,” Paul proclaimed. He rejoiced because of his faith that the Philippians’ prayers and the power of the Holy Spirit would bring deliverance. He was confident of his deliverance from prison. Either he would be delivered from prison and released to serve the Philippians and others, or he would be delivered from prison through death to share in My presence forever. No matter what happened, his faith in Me and his future with Me gave him a deep and abiding peace that allowed him to rejoice! I want you to have that kind of peace because of your faith in Me and because of your confidence in a glorious future with Me. The second set of verses occurs near the end of Paul’s letter to the Philippians. He gave the Philippians very practical instruction on how to experience both the “the peace of God” and “the God of peace.” This “peace that is beyond any and all of our human understanding” would be the foundation for their joy regardless of their circumstances. No matter what happened in their lives, Paul wanted the Philippians to know that they would never be abandoned. He promised that My abiding presence would always be with them: “The Lord is ever present with us.” With this knowledge, they should rejoice! They needed to make rejoicing a key part of their Christian lifestyle. Their rejoicing would help open the door for their gentleness to be displayed. Their anxieties could be released. Their prayers could be offered with confidence. Their focus should shift to lovely things. Their lives were to emulate Paul’s life as they obeyed his teaching. Faith in Me and assurance of a future with Me lead to rejoicing. This joy leads to living a life of gentleness, release from anxiety, confidence in prayer, proper focus in life, and obedience. This lifestyle leads to peace that empowers faith and assurance. This peace leads to more rejoicing, which reinforces your life of peace. This peace and joy form a powerful cycle of grace that Paul both demonstrated and taught to the Philippians. I want this to be your lifestyle, too. Verses to Live What is going to dictate your joy and your outlook on life? Will it be your circumstances or will it be your faith in Me and your future with Me? In the verses below, Paul made clear what his choice was and what the Philippians’ choice should be. Be blessed today as you read these words of grace and truth. So what do we do then? Listen. What matters is that in every way, regardless of the motives — whether pure or shady — the great story of the Anointed is a cause for joy. I will continue to rejoice because I know that through your encouragement and prayers and through the help of the Spirit of Jesus the Anointed, I will soon be released from this dark place. I don’t expect that dishonor and shame will plague me in any way, but I do hope that I will continue to be able to speak freely and courageously about Jesus, and that now and forever the Anointed One
God’s Suffering Servant
Note from Jesus Dear Follower, The Father’s role for Me when I came to earth as the Son of God shocked many people. They expected a warrior or kingly ruler who would restore Israel to prominence and power among the nations of the world. Even my cousin and forerunner, John the Baptizer, had questions about whether I was the Messiah. So I reminded this great servant that I was doing the things that are in the description of the Messiah given by Isaiah (Isaiah 35:4-6): John sent two of his disciples to ask the Lord, “Are You the Promised One, or shall we keep looking for someone else?” They came to Jesus and asked their question exactly as directed by John the Baptist. Before He answered John’s messengers, Jesus cured many from various diseases, health conditions, and evil spirits. He even caused many blind people to regain their sight. Jesus (to John’s disciples): Go and tell John what you’ve witnessed with your own eyes and ears: the blind are seeing again, the lame are walking again, the lepers are clean again, the deaf hear again, the dead live again, and good news is preached to the poor. Whoever is not offended by Me is blessed indeed. (Luke 7:19-23) I came to earth as the servant promised in Isaiah. I repeatedly tried to help people hear this truth about My identity; here are two examples of what I said about Myself: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to liberate the lost.” (Luke 19:10) “You know that among the nations of the world the great ones lord it over the little people and act like tyrants. But that is not the way it will be among you. Whoever would be great among you must serve and minister. Whoever wants to be great among you must be slave of all. Even the Son of Man came not to be served but to be a servant — to offer His life as a ransom for others.” (Mark 10:42-45) In the second passage of Scripture below, My apostle Paul dealt with problems in the church in Philippi. He used My example and My role as the servant of the Lord to be the foundation of his teaching. My disciples in Philippi needed to have the same mind, the same attitude, as I displayed in honoring the Father when I accepted My role as a servant. I want you to remember My role, My willingness to honor God in that role. More than remembering, I want you to adopt this servant lifestyle as your own! Verses to Live As you read the following verses, ask the Holy Spirit to imprint My example on your heart. First, you will read Isaiah’s words of description for the Lord‘s Suffering Servant. Then you will read Paul’s exhortation for My disciples to have this same attitude. As Paul wrote to the Philippians from prison, he wanted them to grasp fully that they must have this one mind as they lived in relationship with each other. I want you to have this same mind as you live in relationship with other believers! Indeed, who would ever believe it? Who would possibly accept what we’ve been told? Who has witnessed the awesome power and plan of the Eternal in action? Out of emptiness he came, like a tender shoot from rock-hard ground. He didn’t look like anything or anyone of consequence — he had no physical beauty to attract our attention. So he was despised and forsaken by men, this man of suffering, grief’s patient friend. As if he was a person to avoid, we looked the other way; he was despised, forsaken, and we took no notice of him. Yet it was our suffering he carried, our pain and distress, our sick-to-the-soul-ness. We just figured that God had rejected him, that God was the reason he hurt so badly. But he was hurt because of us; he suffered so. Our wrongdoing wounded and crushed him. He endured the breaking that made us whole. The injuries he suffered became our healing. We all have wandered off, like shepherdless sheep, scattered by our aimless striving and endless pursuits; The Eternal One laid on him, this silent sufferer, the sins of us all. And in the face of such oppression and suffering — silence. Not a word of protest, not a finger raised to stop it. Like a sheep to a shearing, like a lamb to be slaughtered, he went — oh so quietly, oh so willingly. Oppressed and condemned, he was taken away. From this generation, who was there to complain? Who was there to cry “Foul”? He was, after all, cut off from the land of the living, Smacked and struck, not on his account, because of how my people (my people!) Disregarded the lines between right and wrong. They snuffed out his life. And when he was dead, he was buried with the disgraced in borrowed space (among the rich), Even though he did no wrong by word or deed. Yet the Eternal One planned to crush him all along, to bring him to grief, this innocent servant of God. When he puts his life in sin’s dark place, in the pit of wrongdoing, this servant of God will see his children and have his days prolonged. For in His servant’s hand, the Eternal’s deepest desire will come to pass and flourish. As a result of the trials and troubles that wrack his soul, God’s servant will see light and be content Because He knows, really understands, what it’s about; as God says, “My just servant will justify countless others by taking on their punishment and bearing it away. Because he exposed his very self — laid bare his soul to the vicious grasping of death — And was counted among the worst, I will count him among the best. I will allot this one, My servant, a share in all that is of any value, Because
Mustard Seed Effect
Note from Jesus Dear Child of the King of Glory, The kingdom of heaven is powerful. You are a part of that kingdom. You are a child of the King. Great power is at work in you. Not sure about this? Don’t really believe this? Remember My parable about the mustard seed? You can find it in the verses below along with Doctor Luke’s ending to the book of Acts. I have put these together for you because I want you to realize something amazing: My mustard seed parable proved true! You are an example of just how far this mustard seed effect has spread both geographically and through time. As we read from the book of Acts in the coming days — after I have shared several key passages reminding you of the power at work in you — you will see the mustard seed effect produced through the power of the Holy Spirit! What began as a small movement in the backwaters of Galilee with Me and a few disciples reaches all over the world bringing people from all different races, cultures, nations, religions, and backgrounds into My family. Yes, there are some who reject the message and refuse to believe. However, an amazing number come to faith and that faith has kept growing and providing a family, a real home, for other people of different languages and cultures. By the time we finish the book of Acts, the apostle Paul will have reached his goal of going to Rome (Romans 1:9-13), the capital of the empire. He didn’t arrive there in the way he anticipated or under the circumstances he would have planned. However, he arrived in Rome and effectively shared My good news there. This sharing is the final message Luke wanted you to hear: In Rome, Paul proclaimed My good news of the kingdom of God and taught about My grace “with great confidence and with no hindrance.” Christianity went from such small beginnings to such powerful influence in such a short time period — in just three decades. All of this was done without the benefits and conveniences of your era in time. The disciples had no superhighways, automobiles, planes, high-speed trains, internet, telephones, text messaging, social media, or email. So imagine what I can do today through you if you keep sharing My message using all your modern tools and trusting that I will support your efforts with My power! Verses to Live Notice how the ending to the book of Acts complements My parable about the mustard seed. My movement really is the mustard seed effect: people doing normal things with extraordinary faith in the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Jesus told them another parable. Jesus: The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a sower took and planted in his field. Mustard seeds are minute, tiny — but the seeds grow into trees. Flocks of birds can come and build their nests in the branches. (Matthew 13:31-32) Some [of the Jewish leaders in Rome] were convinced, but others refused to believe. Paul (adding as they left in disagreement): The Holy Spirit rightly spoke to your ancestors through the prophet Isaiah: Go to this people and say, “You certainly do hear, but you will never understand; you certainly do see, but you will never have insight. “Make their hearts hard, their ears deaf, and their eyes blind. “Otherwise, they would look and see, listen and hear, understand and repent, and be healed.” So let it be known to you that God’s liberation, God’s healing, has been sent to the outsiders, and they will listen. Then the local Jewish leaders left Paul to discuss all he had told them. For two full years, he lived there in Rome, paying all his own expenses, receiving all who came to him. With great confidence and with no hindrance, he proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the ultimate authority — the Lord Jesus, God’s Anointed, the Liberating King. (Acts 28:24-31) Response in Prayer Father, I stand in amazement at how the message of Jesus has reached out and impacted such a significant part of the world. I believe that behind the incredible spread of Your gospel is the work of the Holy Spirit. I believe that behind the advances of the kingdom are the prayers of Jesus’ followers who have invested their lives in His cause and who have kept on asking Him to release the power of the Holy Spirit through them. So I pray, dear Father, that you will use me to further Your mustard seed effect and that I can be a part of seeing people from all over the world come to faith in Your Son. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen. ‘A Year with Jesus’ is written by Phil Ware. © 1998-2024, Heartlight, Inc. ‘A Year with Jesus‘ is part of the Heartlight Network.All scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from The Voice™. © 2008 by Ecclesia Bible Society. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Finally in Rome!
Note from Jesus Dear Disciple, Paul finally arrived in Rome in the concluding chapter of Acts. As you have seen over the last several days of reading, the journey had been difficult. Paul first had to navigate his way through the Jewish and Roman legal systems. He then repeatedly had to avoid being murdered by his enemies. He had to survive the dangerous and brutal sea voyage that included a shipwreck. But he finally arrived in Rome just as I promised. Although under house arrest, Paul had the freedom to teach others about Me and the kingdom of God. Notice several things from the verses that follow as Luke finishes his account of Paul’s journey to Rome. First, when Paul met other believers upon arriving in Italy, they welcomed him and even accompanied him on his journey to Rome. Rather than being afraid to be identified with Paul as a prisoner of Rome, they shared hospitality and encouragement with Paul as he traveled. My first-century followers and their love for each other were described well in the book of Hebrews: [T]hink back to the days after you were first enlightened and understood Who Jesus was: when you endured all sorts of suffering in the name of the Lord, when people held you up for public scorn and ridicule, or when they abused your partners and companions in the faith. Remember how you had compassion for those in prison and how you cheerfully accepted the seizure of your possessions, knowing that you have a far greater and more enduring possession. (Hebrews 10:32-34) This hospitality and encouragement that came from the power of the Holy Spirit and an understanding of grace were unstoppable! Second, Paul invited the Jewish leaders in Rome to come and visit him. He explained to them both the reason for his being imprisoned and also the good news of My coming. While these Jewish leaders had heard bad things about Paul, none of his accusers from Jerusalem or Asia Minor had come to Rome. Paul’s presence in Rome after his long sea voyage opened the door for him to share My salvation message with leaders and rulers. The absence of his accusers allowed for the hostile plans and murderous intentions of Paul’s Judean and Asian enemies to be thwarted. Behind all that happened, the Holy Spirit was working things out (Romans 8:28-29) for Paul to accomplish My purpose for him as an apostle. Finally, while some Jewish people believed Paul’s message, others rejected it. Paul reminded his Jewish critics that I had called him to share this message of liberation and healing with his Jewish brothers and sisters first. Their rejection of that message meant it was time for him to extend the message and invitation of grace to non-Jewish peoples (Romans 1:16-17). Paul’s experience had shown him that many non-Jews would listen to this message and respond by becoming My disciples. Luke was Paul’s physician and supportive friend. He accompanied Paul on many of his mission trips. When Luke chose an ending for the book of Acts, he closed his story of the early church and the ministries of Peter and Paul with a liberating truth. With great confidence and with no hindrance, he [Paul] proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the ultimate authority — the Lord Jesus, God’s Anointed, the Liberating King. Even though Paul was a prisoner, he had arrived in the capital city of the great Roman Empire. Despite his house arrest, Paul openly, powerfully, and effectively shared My good news of the kingdom of God and even some in Caesar’s household became My disciples (Philippians 4:21-22). By going to Rome, Paul had reached one of his primary goals. The gospel was advancing. Even when the Roman authorities turned against Christianity, the most powerful government in the world could not stop the spread of grace. Verses to Live Doctor Luke wrote Acts to trumpet one of the greatest of all surprises: the triumph of the message about Me. My early disciples proclaimed a crucified and resurrected Messiah from the out-of-the-way country of Israel and the insignificant region of Galilee. However, this message had spread like a wildfire across the Roman Empire in a mere three decades. Paul, initially an extremely zealous individual enemy of My movement, converted and became a passionate disciple. He traveled the northern part of the Mediterranean world sharing My story. Hearts and lives were changed. People from all sorts of countries, religious backgrounds, races, and social classes believed and became My disciples. The laws, roads, and stability of the Roman Empire helped pave the way for this rapid expansion of My movement. Even though Paul arrived in Rome as a prisoner, he was able to share My story “with no hindrance.” Paul’s story, dear disciple, is your heritage. Read the last part of the account in Acts about Paul’s journey to Rome and his imprisonment there. As you finish Paul’s journey to Rome, I leave you with one question: What are you doing to encourage, support, and participate in the spread of the good news of the Father’s grace to your world? We [Paul and his companions] set sail from Malta and stopped first at Syracuse. After three days, we weighed anchor and came to Rhegium. We waited there a day, and then a south wind sprang up and sped us to Puteoli. We found some believers there, and they invited us to stay with them for seven days. Then we reached Rome. The believers from Rome heard we were coming, so they traveled out to meet us at the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns. Paul thanked God and felt encouraged to see them. Once inside the city, Paul lived under house arrest by himself, with only one soldier to guard him. Three days after his arrival, he called together the local Jewish leaders. Paul: Brothers, although I committed no wrong against our Jewish people or our ancestral customs, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed
Winning the Hearts of Your Critics
Note from Jesus Dear Friend, Just as Paul faced his legal ordeals and challenging travels to Rome, My disciples in Asia Minor faced growing criticism, ostracism, and persecution. So Peter wrote to encourage them. Like Paul, Peter would soon face even more challenging personal persecution and eventually martyrdom. These two great servants who carried the good news won friends and even some disciples among those who were assigned to guard and imprison them. They even shared their testimony before leaders who had them imprisoned. Peter wrote to those disciples facing persecution and reminded them repeatedly of the importance of being people of holy character and compassion. If they were going to suffer, they were to make sure they suffered for doing right things as My witnesses. I want you to read Peter’s words of encouragement and instruction to those disciples in today’s verses. Paul’s influence on Julius, the Roman officer responsible for delivering him to Rome, is a powerful testimony to the truth of Peter’s words of exhortation. Paul’s influence on Julius saved the crew, the soldiers, the prisoners, and himself from probable death at sea on several occasions. As you read today’s verses, notice how his influence on the Roman officer opened the door for his influence as a witness to My grace. Please remember that your words and actions, especially when you are facing hard times, are powerful and influential in ways you may never realize. When you are a person of faithful character in the face of trial, you are following My example and opening the door for My continued influence on the hearts of those who desperately need My grace! Verses to Live As you read these words, remember the importance in your own day of being a faithful and winsome witness to Me. My disciples today face growing resistance and opposition in the West. They are enduring horrible persecution in the Middle East and parts of Africa. Some countries in Asia are directly oppressing and imprisoning My followers. Please realize the principles you see in today’s verses are every bit as important to living in your day as they were in the time of Peter and Paul. Here are some of Peter’s words of exhortation and instruction to Christians in difficult circumstances: But you are a chosen people, set aside to be a royal order of priests, a holy nation, God’s own; so that you may proclaim the wondrous acts of the One Who called you out of inky darkness into shimmering light. Once you were not a people, but now you are God’s people; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received it. Beloved, remember you don’t belong in this world. You are resident aliens living in exile, so resist those desires of the flesh that battle against the soul. Live honorably among the outsiders so that, even when some may be inclined to call you criminals, when they see your good works, they might give glory to God when He returns in judgment. For the Lord’s sake, accept the decrees and laws of all the various human institutions, whether they come from the highest human ruler or agents he sends to punish those who do wrong and to reward those who do well. You see, it is God’s will that by doing what is right and good you should hush the gabbing ignorance of the foolish. Live as those who are free and not as those who use their freedom as a pretext for evil, but live as God’s servants. Respect everyone. Love the community of believers. Reverence God. Honor your ruler. … Why would anyone harm you if you eagerly do good? Even if you should suffer for doing what is right, you will receive a blessing. Don’t let them frighten you. Don’t be intimidated, but exalt Him as Lord in your heart. Always be ready to offer a defense, humbly and respectfully, when someone asks why you live in hope. Keep your conscience clear so that those who ridicule your good conduct in the Anointed and say bad things about you will be put to shame. For if it is the will of God that you suffer, then it is better to suffer for doing what is right than for doing what is wrong. … Dear ones, don’t be surprised when you experience your trial by fire. It is not something strange and unusual, but it is something you should rejoice in. In it you share the Anointed’s sufferings, and you will be that much more joyful when His glory is revealed. If anyone condemns you for following Jesus as the Anointed One, consider yourself blessed. The glorious Spirit of God rests on you. But none of you should ever merit suffering like those who have murdered or stolen, meddled in the affairs of others or done evil things. But if you should suffer for being a Christian, don’t think of it as a disgrace, as it would be if you had done wrong. Praise God that you’re permitted to carry this name. … So bow down under God’s strong hand; then when the time comes, God will lift you up. Since God cares for you, let Him carry all your burdens and worries. Most importantly, be disciplined and stay on guard. Your enemy the devil is prowling around outside like a roaring lion, just waiting and hoping for the chance to devour someone. Resist him and be strong in your faith, knowing that your brothers and sisters throughout the world are fellow sufferers with you. After you have suffered for a little while, the God of grace Who has called you [to His everlasting presence] through Jesus the Anointed will restore you, support you, strengthen you, and ground you. For all power belongs to God, now and forever. Amen. (1 Peter 2:9-17; 1 Peter 3:13-17; 1 Peter 4:12-16; 1 Peter 5:6-11) Now read about Paul’s example as a Christian prisoner sailing to Rome: The date was
Holy Moments, Ordinary Bread
Note from Jesus Dear Beloved, The fellowship of My disciples as they gather around a table for a meal is a precious and holy time. This meal can be a common meal or Holy Communion. Any time My disciples gather in My name to “break bread” (1 Corinthians 10:16) and remember Me, their time together can be a sacramental experience. Each meal can be a holy time when I join with you in fellowship (Matthew 18:20). Your verses today remind you of the power of this kind of holy moment. The verses talk about holy meals in four contexts: I join two disciples on the road to Emmaus during the late afternoon after My resurrection, and they recognize Me when I “break bread” and share it with them. The first believers in Jerusalem get together to “break bread” regularly in the temple and daily in their homes. Paul reminds the Corinthians of the essence of Holy Communion, the Lord‘s Supper. Paul shares a holy meal with the 276 men — prisoners, soldiers, and ship’s crew — on the storm-tossed ship on his way to Rome. Please recognize that meals can always be a holy and sacred time. As you eat, no matter where you find yourself or with whom you share the meal, invite Me to join you. Recognize that I long to share this table fellowship time with you. Realize that our time together can be a sacramental moment of grace. Bread is never just bread when you gather in My name, remember what I have done for you, and enjoy the presence of others. I long to be made known to you as you “break bread”! Verses to Live These verses speak of several different kinds of meals and several different types of people gathered to share the meals. Each of these occasions is a holy time that brings grace and restores life because I AM a part of the gathering. Picture this [as Jesus meets disciples on the road to Emmaus after His resurrection]: That same day, two other disciples (not of the eleven) are traveling the seven miles from Jerusalem to Emmaus. As they walk along, they talk back and forth about all that has transpired during recent days. While they’re talking, discussing, and conversing, Jesus catches up to them and begins walking with them, but for some reason they don’t recognize Him. Jesus: You two seem deeply engrossed in conversation. What are you talking about as you walk along this road? They stop walking and just stand there, looking sad. One of them — Cleopas is his name — speaks up. Cleopas: You must be the only visitor in Jerusalem who hasn’t heard about what’s been going on over the last few days. Jesus: What are you talking about? Two Disciples: It’s all about the man named Jesus of Nazareth. He was a mighty prophet Who did amazing miracles and preached powerful messages in the sight of God and everyone around. Our chief priests and authorities handed Him over to be executed — crucified, in fact. We had been hoping that He was the One — you know, the One Who would liberate all Israel and bring God’s promises. Anyway, on top of all this, just this morning — the third day after the execution — some women in our group really shocked us. They went to the tomb early this morning, but they didn’t see His body anywhere. Then they came back and told us they did see something — a vision of heavenly messengers — and these messengers said that Jesus was alive. Some people in our group went to the tomb to check it out, and just as the women had said, it was empty. But they didn’t see Jesus. Jesus: Come on, men! Why are you being so foolish? Why are your hearts so sluggish when it comes to believing what the prophets have been saying all along? Didn’t it have to be this way? Didn’t the Anointed One have to experience these sufferings in order to come into His glory? Then He begins with Moses and continues, prophet by prophet, explaining the meaning of the Hebrew Scriptures, showing how they were talking about the very things that had happened to Jesus. About this time, they are nearing their destination. Jesus keeps walking ahead as if He has no plans to stop there, but they convince Him to join them. Two Disciples: Please, be our guest. It’s getting late, and soon it will be too dark to walk. So He accompanies them to their home. When they sit down at the table for dinner, He takes the bread in His hands, He gives thanks for it, and then He breaks it and hands it to them. At that instant, two things happen simultaneously: their eyes are suddenly opened so they recognize Him, and He instantly vanishes — just disappears before their eyes. Two Disciples (to each other): Amazing! Weren’t our hearts on fire within us while He was talking to us on the road? Didn’t you feel it all coming clear as He explained the meaning of the Hebrew Scriptures? So they get up immediately and rush back to Jerusalem — all seven miles — where they find the eleven gathered together — the eleven plus a number of others. Before Cleopas and his companion can tell their story, the others have their own story to tell. Other Disciples: The Lord has risen indeed! It’s true! He appeared to Simon! Then the two men report their own experience — their conversation along the road, their moment of realization and recognition as He broke the bread. At that very instant, as they’re still telling the story, Jesus is there, standing among them! (Luke 24:13-36) [Describing the life of the early disciples in Jerusalem after Pentecost.] They were unified as they worshiped at the temple day after day. In homes, they broke bread and shared meals with glad and generous hearts. (Acts
Treacherous Travels
Note from Jesus Dear Follower of The Way, Paul’s path to Rome was difficult. First, he faced a series of legal hearings before he even left for Rome. Then, he faced the challenging sea journey to Rome, a journey filled with adventure, hardship, danger, and influence. Paul’s legal proceedings began when he appeared before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council (Acts 23:1-11). Years earlier the people on this council condemned Me to death. Paul was later transferred to Caesarea to protect him from a plot to kill him (Acts 23:12-35). There he appeared before the governor, Felix, and was accused by the high priest and others, and there Paul gave his personal testimony (Acts 24:1-27). After two years of waiting, a new governor named Porcius Festus came to power. Paul also appeared before him. When Festus considered sending Paul back to be tried in Jerusalem, Paul appealed to have his case heard before Caesar in Rome. Paul’s appeal was granted (Acts 25:1-12). When King Agrippa arrived to pay respects to Festus, Paul then appeared before Agrippa and gave his personal testimony to him and his wife Bernice (Acts 25:13-27; Acts 26:1-32). The stonewalling delays of the political rulers may seem to have been a waste of time. However, Paul was actually doing exactly what I had told Ananias that Paul would do when I sent him to lead Paul to become My disciple: “I have chosen him to be My instrument to bring My name far and wide — to outsiders, to kings, and to the people of Israel as well. I have much to show him, including how much he must suffer for My name.” (Acts 9:15-16) Paul was able to tell My good news before people to whom he would never have had access without his legal hearings. Paul exposed these influential people to My story. He shared the good news and challenged them to accept My salvation by turning their lives around and receiving My grace. Paul had to endure suffering, but he wasn’t afraid of that. He was determined to fulfill his mission for Me (Acts 20:24). That is precisely what he did. I kept my promise to get him to Rome (Acts 23:11). The trip was eventful, dangerous, and full of adventure. But even in this sea trip to Rome, I used Paul to bless others as he shared My message of grace both in word and in action. Verses to Live The passages below come from the account of Paul’s sea journey to Rome. Notice how I ministered through Paul to those who were his guards. Paul’s influence positively impacted all those he contacted. Remember, your journey also may not be comfortable. Trust in Me and I will make sure your life matters… eternally… to both you and those whom you influence! The date was set for us to depart for Rome, and Paul and some other prisoners were transferred to the custody of a Roman officer named Julius, a member of the Augustan Division. I, Luke, was permitted to join Paul for his journey to Rome, along with Aristarchus, a Macedonian brother from Thessalonica. We boarded a ship from Adramyttium… … Sailing conditions were adverse to say the least. Finally we came to a place called Fair Havens, near the city of Lasea on the south coast of Crete. We had lost a lot of time already — it was late in the year for sailing — following the Day of Atonement, and conditions had deteriorated from adverse to dangerous. Paul tried to warn those in charge. Paul: Sirs, if we proceed, I can see that our voyage will be dangerous and will involve heavy loss, not only of cargo, but of the ship itself; not only of the ship, but also of our lives. But the officer ignored Paul and instead trusted the ship’s pilot and owner who felt they could proceed. … One day a moderate south wind began to blow, which made an attempt [at sailing west up the coast] possible. We weighed anchor and sailed west, staying near shore. Then things got scary. A violent northeaster, the Euraquilo, blew down across Crete. We were caught. We couldn’t turn and sail into this fierce wind, so we had no choice but to let it drive us. … Imagine what happened: It’s the 14th night of our nightmare voyage; we’re being driven by the storm somewhere in the Adriatic Sea. It’s about midnight, and the sailors are taking soundings, fearing we might run aground. “Twenty fathoms,” somebody calls out in the darkness, then a little later, “Fifteen fathoms.” We’re nearing land! But hope quickly gives way to a new fear. At any moment in this darkness, they realize, we could be smashed onto unseen rocks. So they drop four anchors from the stern and pray for first light. … We wait. Just before dawn, Paul again gathers everyone on the ship — all 276 of us. He urges everyone to eat and encourages us not to lose hope. Paul: Listen, men, we’ve all been under incredible stress for 14 days. You haven’t eaten anything during this whole time. I urge you to take some food now because it will help you survive what we’re about to face. And I want to assure you — not one of you will lose a single hair from your head. We’re all going to make it — all 276 of us! Then Paul takes a loaf of bread and gives thanks to God in front of all of them. He breaks it, takes a piece, and begins to eat. A fresh surge of courage seems to fill their hearts as they also begin to eat. After satisfying their hunger, the crew lightens the ship by throwing the remaining wheat overboard. Day finally breaks. They survey the coastline and don’t recognize it, but they do notice a bay with a beach — the best place to try to run ashore. … The soldiers start talking
Powerful Testimony
Note from Jesus Dear Disciple, I gave My life to bring God’s grace to you. As My disciple, I ask you to share My story of grace in your life with others. In the first verses you will read today, Peter tells early disciples who were facing challenging circumstances to be ready always to offer their “defense” for their hope in Me. The same admonition is true for you. You might call your “defense” your testimony. It is your reason for having hope in Me. Here are some questions to help prompt you as you think through your own “defense” or personal testimony: How does My story intersect your life to bring you hope? How does My grace change the way you feel about your future? How does My victory over sin, death, and hell give you the confidence to face your challenges? How does the Father’s love demonstrated by My incarnation, crucifixion, and resurrection grab your heart? Where have you seen My blessings in your life? Certainly, there are more questions than these, but these should get you started as you prepare yourself to share! The longer reading in today’s verses comes from Paul’s trial before King Agrippa. Paul had been arrested in Jerusalem and was caught in a tangle of murder plots, legal delays, changes in leadership, and pressures to bribe his way to freedom. The grinding processes of the Roman legal system, Satan’s direct attacks, and unscrupulous people slowed down Paul’s appeal for freedom. Just as I had promised, Paul’s suffering for Me had a specific purpose. He addressed influential leaders he otherwise would have never been allowed to address (Acts 9:15-16; Acts 22:14-16). The Holy Spirit empowered Paul to say what needed to be said (Luke 12:11-12) so that the good news was preached to these influential leaders. Keeping your faith brimming with hope is hard when you are under fire. Persecution can drain faith of its steadfastness and rob hope of its vibrancy. I want you to know that I see, hear, and know of your challenges, your sufferings, and your trials. These adversities can come in all sorts of forms. Some of My disciples are facing torture and death this very day because of their faith. Others face ridicule while others are being ostracized or marginalized. All of these situations, along with your specific circumstances, are important to Me. I will not forget what you endure for My sake (Luke 12:6-7; Hebrews 6:10; Revelation 14:13). You are not forgotten! I will remember your faithfulness. Hard times do not come upon you because you are unimportant. You do not face them because you have been forgotten. Throughout history, I have used the testimony of My faithful disciples under persecution to soften the hearts of hostile leaders. I have used their examples of courage to strengthen other disciples. I have used their character while suffering to change public opinion about My people and their faith. In the midst of your trials, even in the most painful moments of your persecutions, remain true to Me. In the most belittling moments of ostracism and ridicule, remain faithful. Hang on to your hope in Me. Hold fast to My message of grace and ultimate victory. Remain true to the character and compassion you have as one of My followers. As you persevere, look for an opportunity to share the reason for your hope in Me. Ask the Holy Spirit to make you aware of those around you who are desperately yearning to know the Father’s grace. Be ready to share your hope through both your words and your actions. As you do, please know that the Holy Spirit’s power and direction will work through you. You may not see immediate results, but know that your efforts will not be in vain! Verses to Live Folks in your day tell others in hard times to “hang in there.” For those facing trials, this phrase of encouragement can feel hollow and perfunctory. However, the two witnesses who speak to you through these verses that follow put their lives on the line to share these messages with you. These are words from the front lines of faith in the face of danger. Life is on the line. Both Peter and Paul will ultimately give their lives because of their faith. So take their words to heart. As you do, be encouraged to do two things. First, commit to being faithful under trial as you look for an opportunity to share the reason for your hope in Me. Second, pray for your brothers and sisters who are in hostile places and whose lives are on the line because of their faith. Why would anyone harm you if you eagerly do good? Even if you should suffer for doing what is right, you will receive a blessing. Don’t let them frighten you. Don’t be intimidated, but exalt Him [Jesus Christ] as Lord in your heart. Always be ready to offer a defense, humbly and respectfully, when someone asks why you live in hope. Keep your conscience clear so that those who ridicule your good conduct in the Anointed [in Christ] and say bad things about you will be put to shame. For if it is the will of God that you suffer, then it is better to suffer for doing what is right than for doing what is wrong. (1 Peter 3:13-17) Agrippa (to Paul): Go ahead. You may speak for yourself. Paul (extending his hand): I am indeed fortunate to be standing before you, King Agrippa, to humbly defend myself against accusations from my Jewish opponents. You are extraordinarily familiar with Jewish customs and controversies, so I beg your patience as I begin. My way of life is well known to the whole Jewish community, how I have lived in the Jewish community abroad and in Jerusalem. If they are willing to speak, they themselves will tell you something they have long known — that I was a member of the strictest