​There are a lot of things going on in our world right now, and for the most part, it just all seems so chaotic.  We have found ourselves planted amid a season of so many unknowns.  The medical world, the business world, churches, schools, communities, counties, states, nations, globally; well, I think you get the idea.  All are impacted by this COVID-19 pandemic and we simply do not know when it will all end.  These are unusual times for sure, but then again, we have been in unusual times before.  So, amid this chaotic season, let me take the time to remind you of this important fact.  GOD IS PRESENT AND IN CONTROL!
I am sure that, if you are reading this, that you are aware of the presence and control of God, but it never hurts to be reminded and it never hurts for us to read it and say it out loud.  One can still have faith and be concerned with the present status of our world.  One can still have faith and still struggle with wondering how to move forward.  So then, take this time off and focus on family.  Take this time off and spend quality and quantity time with the Father.  Spend some time in His Word.  Spend some talking and listening to God.   Lastly, remember that the mission of the church is still ongoing, even when the world seems to be on hold.  Remember to be those who follow Jesus and make disciples.
Think about it.  Pray about it.  God bless.

​Throughout Luke’s narrative, we can see the importance placed upon Jesus setting up the stage for His death, burial and resurrection.  It began as a message that was well-received by the common people and rejected by the religious leaders; at least most of the religious leaders that is.  Scripture does tell us about the likes of Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea.  But for the most part, apart from the common people, Jesus’ message sparked a fury that ultimately ended with a tomb; at least that’s what the religious leaders had thought.
Jesus’ message was one that not only bridged heaven and earth, but it was also one that bridged the message of grace and forgiveness for Jews and Gentiles alike.  His was a message of repentance for all of creation and all who needed it then and for those who find that they need it, until He returns.
Think about it.  Pray about it.  God bless.

​Jesus facing the temptations of Satan was a monumental moment for all of humanity.  The three temptations that Jesus faced were ones that speak to much of what we face today, and Jesus staying true to His mission amid these enticing attacks speaks to the credibility of Him as Lord and Messiah.  You see, I truly believe that Satan knew who Jesus was, and I believe that Satan had hopeful results that would come from his temptations.  Satan knew Jesus, yes, but he also knew that if he could get Jesus to give in to, at least, one of the temptations that it would remove any and all credibility that Jesus carried amongst His followers then, and now.  Jesus would prove to be another Adam who experienced a fall.  So, when Jesus stood up to the temptations of Satan, He was responding to Satan and to us.  What was His message?  Jesus was proclaiming right then and there that He was the Prophesied Messiah.  Jesus was proclaiming that He was the one who was to bring freedom for the captives and restore not just any sight, but spiritual sight to the blind.  This is why 2 Corinthians 5:21 speaks just as loudly as Jesus’ response to Satan.
21 Christ had no sin, but God made him become sin so that in Christ we could become right with God. (NCV)
Think about it.  Pray about it.  God bless.