Category Archives: Advent

Are We Truly One?

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Are we truly One?

There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28

We live in a world that likes to segregate us, that likes to label us and put us into categories. But when you’re truly a Christian, this is not the case. For God sees all his children equally, for God does not show favoritism (Romans 2:11)

Then why do we have so many different Christian denominations when we supposedly all worship the same Christ? This is because Satan wants to divide and conquer, Jesus said a kingdom divided among itself will not stand (Matthew 12:25) So when we separate ourselves from each other were doing the work of Satan and not God.

Jesus taught us to Love our neighbor as yourself, (Mark 12:31) he didn’t say to just love yourself or your family. Jesus also taught to even love your enemy (Matthew 5:44), so why is there so much separation between the Church and the rest of the world?

If we truly want to be one in Christ then we must be more like Christ, meaning we eat with sinners (Matthew 9:10), associate with people of different nationalities (John 4), stand up for injustice (John 8:7) and rebuke corruption in the church (Matthew 21:13)

So are we truly one? Or did we create walls to divide ourselves? Remember there is only one God and one Heaven, and only one human race. We were all created in his image, its time we unite through Jesus Christ as he intended Amen

The Last Supper

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So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover. Matthew 26:19

The disciples didn’t prepare The Last Supper because it was there idea, they were commanded by Jesus to prepare The Last Supper, Why? Because Jesus wanted them and wants you to know how important his sacrifice on the cross is. This is an event that will change the world forever, change the destiny of humanity forever, and defeated sin and death forever.

While they were eating, Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Matthew 26:26

Notice Jesus First Blessed the Bread, Then Broke The Bread, and Then gave it to everyone. Just as when Jesus fed 5,000 people with 5 loaves of bread, he first Blessed The Bread and then Broke it. Breaking of Bread is a Jewish custom that the head of the table or household says the blessing and breaks the bread.

Jesus is not only showing them that his body on the cross will be a broken sacrifice for us like the Bread but also he is the King of Kings, he Blessed, Broke, and Delivered the Bread of Life for all of us

Then he took a cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. Matthew 26:27-28

Without Blood there is no life and without the Blood of Jesus there is no forgiveness for our sins. He is The Lamb of God, the atoning sacrifice for our sins. So by drinking the wine, remember the importance of Jesus sacrifice on the cross.

The cross created a new covenant with God which allows all of us to be a Children of God. Its because of the Blood of Jesus we can stand before God, pure as snow, unblemished.

I tell you, I will not drink from this fruit of the vine from now on until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” Matthew 26:29

Jesus is preparing his disciples on what is about to happen at Calvary. But Jesus gives them words of hope and victory as he tells them they will celebrate again in Heaven.

So when you take communion remember what it means, remember the sacrifice Jesus made for you, and remember the victory we have thru Christ Amen

Prophet Without Honor

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Coming to his hometown, he began teaching the people in their synagogue, and they were amazed. “Where did this man get this wisdom and these miraculous powers?” they asked. “Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? Matthew 13:54-55

When Jesus returned to his hometown of Nazareth during his ministry, the reaction was not what you would expect. Instead of people being joyful that the Messiah was from there hometown they began to question his legitimacy. Because they knew Jesus there entire lives they believed there is no way Jesus could be the Messiah, he just the carpenters Son

How you ever experienced this in your own life? Nobody how much you accomplished or how much you changed your life for the better your always going to have haters. There going to say “I knew this person growing up, they could never change” or “ I know where you come from , I know your family, you could never amount to anything”

And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town and in his own home.” Matthew 13:57

Imagine how Jesus felt, these people he grew up around all his life, including his family mostly rejected him. The people he thought he could count on the most were the ones who doubted him the most.

Are there people in your life doubting you today? Or maybe your doubting someone in your life? Remember God works in mysterious ways, his ways our higher than our ways. God took a poor carpenter Son and saved the world with him. Don’t let peoples doubt stop your from your diving destiny.

And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith. Matthew 13:58

Notice there lack of faith prevented Jesus from performing miracles. Imagine if they just had the faith the size of a mustard seed, how many miracles Jesus could have performed for them. But there doubt prevents the power of God from activating.

This is the same with our life, do you ever say “I don’t see any miracles” question is how much faith do you have? Is your lack of faith preventing Jesus from working in your life today? Remember with man it’s impossible but with God all things are possible in Jesus Name Amen

Happy Birthday Tanner

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“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”   John 16:33

As I reflect on another year of Tanners life, one word comes to mind “Overcomer”. This year Tanner started Kindergarten, we have a lot of questions and doubts going into this year how Tanner would do transitioning into regular school. However Tanner has not only adapted he is thriving!

Of course there were days that were tougher than others, but Tanner is a overcomer. When he sets his mind on something, he will work harder than everyone to get better. Even though he’s only going to be 6, hes been a huge inspiration to me.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

The original plan was for Tanner to only spend 60% of the time with his regular class, and the other 40% with his support class. However Tanner had adapted so well since Day 1 that he has spent 100% of the time with his regular Kindergarten class. During our last meeting with the teachers they decided moving forward Tanner won’t need the support class at all as part of his plan.

Tanners teacher also revealed that during a grade wide testing, Tanner scored the highest of all the kids in  the entire Kindergarten for his reading level. Tanner actually reads text books to his classmates because they can’t.  I know I’m bragging a lot but you have to remember Tanner was labeled Autistic by the world, therefore the world assumed he would fail. Tanner not only overcame all those obstacles but he’s thriving above and beyond.

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Matthew 5:14

Once Tanners teachers and classmates get to know him, they instantly want to be his friend. Tanner is a light to this world, his big heart and charming personality make him addictive to be around. Anyone who takes the time to get to know Tanner, can see he is a blessing to this world

Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him. Psalm 127:3

I’m so proud of Tanner and honored that he is my son. I love him with all my heart and soul and want him to know every step he takes on this journey, we are right there with him. Anyone who ever met Tanner will tell you he is a light to this world. He radiates love and kindness. A true pure soul. I pray that God continues to bless him and guard him with his angels in Jesus Name Amen

Love Your Enemies

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“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. Matthew 5:38-39

One of the toughest lessons we learn from Jesus is to love our enemies. It’s difficult when people have wronged us it’s our natural instinct to seek revenge on them. But as Jesus is telling us we need to hold ourselves to a higher standard, take the higher ground. Instead of retaliating just shake it off and hold your peace.

Usually when we engage in the conflict its escalates it even further. As Christians we need to learn to be the peacemakers, to try to defuse a potential explosive situation not add fuel to the fire.

And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. Matthew 5:40-42

Most of us, we work hard for the things we have and God rewards us for working hard with honesty and integrity. However we just need to make sure our possessions don’t end up possessing us. If you see someone in need, if its possible help them out. Doesn’t always mean giving them money either, maybe they just need a friend or a ride to work. The little things can sometimes be the biggest blessings to someone

If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:46-48

It’s easy to love our family and friends but to love your enemies is a daunting task. Jesus showed us a great example of this when he was crucified on the cross, instead of cursing his enemies he prayed for them and said “Father Forgive them for they know not what they do”

We need to strive to be like Christ, just as Jesus said strive to be perfect just as God is. We know its impossible to be perfect but we can strive for perfection, set the bar high, love your enemies in Jesus Name Amen

Thank you Veterans!

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Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13

Today is Veterans Day, a day when we need to honor our real true heroes of this nation, past and present. Today’s society defines hero as a reality star or pop star. But if you want to see a true definition of a hero look no further than the men and woman who sacrificed it all for you!

I’m proud to say my Father is a hero, a Vietnam Veteran who spent 3 years in Hell for all of us. Without him I wouldn’t be able to even write this devotional, think about it. You have freedoms in the country including religion and speech because of heroes like my Dad, don’t let anyone take those freedoms away. They were not gained in vain.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

Jesus sacrificed his life so we can have eternal life, this is called “Agape” which is the highest form of love that is not selfless but sacrificial and spiritual. Jesus showed us what the ultimate act of love is, it’s an act not just a feeling.

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Theres a time for everything, Veterans have been through the worst of times, let’s support them and help them see a time of healing and peace. We know that the only Peace for our soul is thru Jesus Christ, let them see that Peace through you.

Honor and Thank all Veterans today, past and present. Remember the sacrifices they suffered and the sorrows they had to bear for all of us. May God give them faith , hope , and love in Jesus Name Amen

Blessings Stored In Heaven

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The faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world–just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God’s grace. Colossians 1:5-6

When we truly understand God’s grace that has been delivered to us by our Lord Jesus Christ, then we have expectations of blessings from Heaven. We know we can overcome the world because Jesus has already overcame the world.

Notice the scriptures says “hope stored up for you in heaven” As I taught in an earlier devotional, the original Greek word for Hope is Elpida which mean expectation. So we can expect blessings from Heaven when we store them up thru prayers and thanksgiving to God.

For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, Colossians 1:9-10

We can’t underestimate the power of prayer, its your greatest weapon. When we pray from the heart, our prayers release and aroma of sacrifice to God (2 Corinthians 2:15)

Just like in the Old Testament when they used to burn incense for a pleasing aroma for God, your prayers to God release a pleasing aroma to God.

being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of his holy people in the kingdom of light. Colossians 1:11-12

We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength, we all have heard this, but we need to believe it , think it , and live it. The power of The Holy Spirit has been giving to us all from God, welcome The Holy Spirit into your life today.

For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. Colossians 1:13-14

The atonement sacrifice of Jesus has rescued us from the condemnation of death. Satan has a dominion of darkness right here on Earth and its looking to devour you like a Lion. But thru Christ we are victorious, give praise and thanksgiving daily to our Heavenly Father and store up the blessings in Jesus Name Amen

Parable of The Fig Tree

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Then he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. Luke 13:6

The parable of the barren fig tree is very short and simple, yet it describes perfectly the relationship between God, Jesus, and Man.

We are Gods creation, which we represent the Fig Tree. God not only made us in him image but expects us not to follow the ways of Satan. Sin only produces bad fruit which equals death.

So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’ Luke 13:7

God makes its very clear those who continue to follow Satan and live a life a sin will be cast into the lake of fire. But the good news is we have an advocate, a redeemer.

Because of the blood of Jesus we are worthy to stand before God. What fruit are you bearing in your life? If God looked at your life would he consider you fruitful or barren?

“‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.'”  Luke 13:8-9

Because of Jesus we can live, our past sins have been forgiven. But the journey doesn’t end there, when we accept Jesus into our hearts we become transformed and begin producing good fruit by faith , hope , and love of Christ.

Remember Fear of The Lord is the beginning of wisdom and understanding, if we don’t respect our Maker how can he respect us? It’s a Father/Child relationship. Be obedient and faithful to God and he will give you everlasting life in Jesus Name Amen

Together As One

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Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. John 10:25-26

Jesus was once again being attacked for being The Messiah. Many refused to believe or accept Jesus because they would rather accept their religion and rituals.

This is still true today, many still deny Jesus as Christ even though he rose from the grave and conquered death. But us that do listen know he is The Good Shepherd and we are his sheep.

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. John 10:27-28

Jesus cares for us just like a Shepherd cares for their flock. When we obey his commands and follow him we are giving the gift of eternal life.

But there are wolves out there looking to devour us, we must be careful and who are following and listening to. As we are instructed by God to “Test the Spirits”

My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.  I and the Father are one.” John 10:29-30

Again here Jesus identifies the Trinity as He and God are one. If God is for us, who can than be against us? Our God is an awesome God, he is the creator of The Heavens and The Earth, just in your Father, follow Jesus and you will have eternal life.

Again his Jewish opponents picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus said to them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father. For which of these do you stone me?” John 10:31-32

But even after all the miracles and great works Jesus had performed in the name of God, they still chose to kill him. The only one who can give us eternal life, had his life taking away by for your sins.

Which are you today? Are you one of Jesus sheep listening to his voice or are you a wolf looking to devour? Some might say I’m neither, this isn’t true. If you only follow yourself this is self-worship, which is the core beliefs of Satan. There is only way to eternal life, there is only one way to The Father and its in Jesus Name Amen

The Word of God

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Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. Matthew 24:35

Many cast doubt or validity of The Bible, the Word of God. But as Jesus promised his Word will never pass away. That means we can have confidence that the Bible we are reading today is still the same Word of God spoken back then.

But many will say why there are so many translations of The Bible? You first need to understand that many Hebrew and Greek words could have multiple English translations.

For example the greek word agape means love (NIV) and charity (KJV) therefor both translations are correct even though there different English words.

God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill? Numbers 23:19

It’s always important to remember God is the potter and we are the clay, just because we don’t understand doesn’t mean we shouldn’t obey.

We know the Bible is truth because God doesn’t lie. As Jesus said we shall know the truth and the truth shall set us free. When we listen to Gods word it breaks the chains of sin and corruption of this world.

The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” Isaiah 40:8

Just as Jesus said, God said thru Isaiah. This world and everything in it will eventually pass away but Gods Word and his Kingdom are eternal.

Many today will say the Bible is outdated and not relevant to today’s world. But know God has seen everything under the Sun, there is nothing new or a surprise to him. Gods word is still the same today, yesterday, and forever. It does not change to conform to the sins of the world

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17

The Word of God is a gift to guide us to eternal life. Our Lord Jesus was a gift who is the living Word and gave us grace. God does not change, the sins that were an abomination from The Torah are still an abomination today.

In an ever-changing world, God and his Word are a foundation we can build and trust on. Follow Jesus because he is the truth, life, and the way in Jesus Name Amen