Welcome to a new edition of the Weekend Sermon. I hope and pray that everyone is doing very well today.
The storms in my area produced very heavy rainfall. There was a lot of flooding in the area, but thanks be to God, my house was fine. Thank you for your prayers in this matter. There is a small chance of storms today, and I would ask that you pray that these won't be bad. Pray for those that were affected by the flooding.
In prayer this week, please pray for those affected by the fires in the Western part of the United States. Also, continue to pray for those affected by the fires in London, Spain and Portugal.
Please continue to pray about the cholera epidemic in Yemen. This has become quite severe. This nation needs peace, and it needs aid to reach it so that more people do not become sick.
Continue to pray for peace in the very troubled areas of our world. Libya, Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan all need our continued prayers for peace and stability.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us all pray that the message of the love and grace of Jesus will reach those in Vietnam and North Korea.
For the past several weeks, we have been studying the parables of Jesus. Today, we are going to study a passage that some regard as a parable and some do not.
In Matthew 25, Jesus tells parables about the coming of the end of time when He will return in power and great glory. We have already studied the parable of the wise and foolish virgins, and we will study the parable of the talents in the near future. In verses 31-46, Jesus gives us an account of what will happen when He returns in His glorious Second Coming.
Jesus said that when He returns, He will separate the nations as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. Jesus will say to the ones on His right hand that they will inherit the kingdom. When He was hungry they gave Him something to eat. When He was naked, they clothed Him. When He was thirsty, they gave Him drink. When He was a stranger, they welcomed Him.
Those on the right hand did not know when they had done any of these things. Jesus said that when they had done it to the least of those among them, they had done it as unto Him.
On the other hand, those on the left were not allowed into the Kingdom. They did not do those things that the others had done. Jesus said that when they did not do good to the least among them, they did not do it as unto Him.
I do not think that this is a parable. While some think that this is an allegory of the last judgment, I take Jesus at His word and believe that this will take place when Jesus returns at His Second Coming.
One thing that I would like to point out is that this is not a judgment of individuals. Jesus says that He is going to judge the nations of the world according to the way that they treated the least that were among them. We don't have full detail of how this will take place. But, I am confident from these words of Jesus that it is going to happen.
I know that nations are made up of individuals. However, in the Bible, nations are condemned by the Lord for not doing what is right. One place that we see this is in the book of Amos where the Lord speaks judgment on the nations that surrounded Israel and on the nation itself. I think that this judgment may be on those who were in a position of authority within a nation. It was their responsibility to care for the least of these. Ezekiel 34 is a passage that does speak about what God expects from leaders.
The Lord expects that a nation will take care of the poor, weak and those that are the most vulnerable in a society. The leaders are to provide for the needs of their citizens and keep them safe from the exploitation of the powerful and the wealthy. Those that do not do this, will one day face the judgment of the Lord.
Right now in this world, there are nations whose leaders are not taking care of those who are the least among us. It is outrageous that in a nation as wealthy as the one that I live in that there are so many homeless people. Many do not have adequate healthcare, and many do not have enough to eat. It seems that in some nations, the leadership tries to do everything that they can to help the rich and powerful at the expense of the poor, sick and vulnerable. This, of course, is not the teaching of the Scripture, and it is certainly not following the example and teachings of the Lord Jesus.
While I think that this passage has its most direct meaning to the nations and their leaders, I believe that this passage also speaks to us as individuals. We as individual followers of Jesus have the obligation to help the least among us.
This passage has a special meaning to me. When I graduated from college, the commencement speaker spoke about this passage. He urged all of us to devote our lives to helping others and to trying to make this world a better place. That message and that challenge has stayed with me throughout the years.
I hope that everyone who reads this blog will try to find some way to help those who are in need. Try to find a way to make this world better. Volunteer, give, pray do all that you can to help those who need you.
Also, I hope that all Christians who have the opportunity in the nations where they live will advocate for social and economic justice. Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. I believe that it is what the Lord expects of us all.
Next week, we will continue with our series on the parables. The message will be about a parable that no one doubts is a parable. On Monday, I will post the verses. I will have a review of a dog book on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Friday, June 30, 2017
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Book Review -- Hero: Hurricane Rescue
Before I begin the book review, I would like to ask everyone to pray that the storms expected for my area over the next two days will not be bad. We have had storms upon storms this year. I thank you for your prayers on my behalf.
The book that I am reviewing today is the sequel to a book I reviewed earlier on the blog. "Hero: Hurricane Rescue" by Jennifer Li Shotz tells the continuing story of a boy named Ben and his dog Hero. Hero was the police dog that had worked with Ben's Dad on the Gulfport police force. When it was time for Hero to retire, Hero became Ben's pet.
In the first book, Hero helped Ben and his friends to break up a dog fighting ring. In this book, Hero and Ben must locate a missing friend who has ventured into the forest during a hurricane.
This book is full of adventure, and the author keeps the story and the excitement moving. As in the first book, Hero proves to be a remarkable dog who is able to help his comrades out of many dangerous situations.
This is a well-written book geared towards those who are about 10 years old and up. There is nothing objectionable in either book, and I would recommend the Hero books for those who like adventure stories and stories about heroic dogs.
The book that I am reviewing today is the sequel to a book I reviewed earlier on the blog. "Hero: Hurricane Rescue" by Jennifer Li Shotz tells the continuing story of a boy named Ben and his dog Hero. Hero was the police dog that had worked with Ben's Dad on the Gulfport police force. When it was time for Hero to retire, Hero became Ben's pet.
In the first book, Hero helped Ben and his friends to break up a dog fighting ring. In this book, Hero and Ben must locate a missing friend who has ventured into the forest during a hurricane.
This book is full of adventure, and the author keeps the story and the excitement moving. As in the first book, Hero proves to be a remarkable dog who is able to help his comrades out of many dangerous situations.
This is a well-written book geared towards those who are about 10 years old and up. There is nothing objectionable in either book, and I would recommend the Hero books for those who like adventure stories and stories about heroic dogs.
Monday, June 26, 2017
Verses For the Week
Isaiah 43:2a -- "When you pass through the waters I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers they will not sweep over you."
Romans 8:38-39 -- "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."
John 15:13 -- "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends."
Romans 8:38-39 -- "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."
John 15:13 -- "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends."
Friday, June 23, 2017
Weekend Sermon -- The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree
Thank you for stopping by to read the Weekend Sermon this week. I hope that everyone is having a very good week.
I am thankful that we haven't had any bad storms in my area. I've been working hard to keep the house up and work on writing. My job is going a little bit better. I will just have to see how things go. I am still looking for the right opportunity. I would appreciate your prayers on this matter.
In prayer this week, let us continue to remember to pray for the families affected by the fire in London. Pray for those who mourn, and pray that those without homes will quickly find accommodation. Also, pray for those affected by the fires in Portugal. I know from the blog statistics page that there are a couple of people who read the blog in Portugal, and I pray that everyone is safe.
Let us continue to pray for peace in this world. Syria is a mess and needs prayer desperately. Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, South Sudan and Ukraine also need prayers for peace.
For our prayer focus countries this week, please be in prayer for Bosnia and Gambia. Pray that people in these nations will hear the message of Jesus' love.
Today, we are continuing with our series of messages on the parables of Jesus. The parable that we will examine today is not controversial, but there are two distinct ways in which this parable is interpreted. I would like to explore these two interpretations and then explain why I believe one interpretation is more correct than the other.
The parable of the barren fig tree goes like this. A man who owned an orchard planted a fig tree. One day, he came to look for figs on the tree, but the tree had not produced. The owner said to the gardener. I've had this tree for three years. This tree has yet to produce any fruit. Cut down this tree so that it quits just taking up space. At this point, the gardener said to the owner that they should give the tree one more year. The gardener said that he would fertilize the tree and tend it. If there was no fruit the next year, then they would cut it down.
Now, when I was in Bible college and seminary, the interpretation of this parable I learned went something like this. The fig tree represented the nation of Israel. Israel had been chosen by God to be a light to the nations. Israel was to follow God and His laws. By doing this, Israel would draw people to the True and Living God.
Unfortunately, Israel often was not an influence, but it was influenced by the godless nations around it. Often, the people of Israel would turn to idols and turn away from the Lord.
In Jesus day, Jesus did not think that the nation and its religious leaders were living up to the truth. Jesus said that if the people did not repent, judgment would come. Jesus predicted the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple which occurred in 70 AD.
Jesus' earthly ministry was the last chance for the people to repent. By accepting the Messiah, they would truly fulfill their mission from God. If they rejected the Messiah, their role would be taken by the church which would take the message of the Lord to the world.
Now, there is a different interpretation for this parable that I've heard in sermons and read in some commentaries recently. This interpretation goes something like this. The owner of the vineyard is God. Those who are in sin are represented by the barren fig tree. The gardener who asks for more time for the fig tree is Jesus.
In this interpretation, Jesus as our advocate works with us through His lovingkindness to bring people to repentance and faith. He will never give up on anyone. Jesus desires everyone to be saved and produce fruit.
I find the second interpretation of this parable to be interesting. I certainly don't think that there is anything wrong with this view. However, within the context of Luke 13, I believe that the first interpretation is the correct one.
Just before Jesus told this parable, the people had asked Jesus opinion about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. Jesus said that unless the people repented, they too would likewise perish. Then, Jesus told the parable of the barren fig tree. It seems that the parable was mostly directed to those living in Jesus' time.
There is one lesson that we need to learn that is common to both of these interpretations. The Lord is merciful. He does not want one sinner to perish, but He desires that all should come to repentance and faith. The Father wants us to come to Him so much that He sent His only begotten Son into the world so that whoever believes in Him might have eternal life.
No matter who you are, you can turn your life over to Jesus Christ right now. You can repent and make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life. He will forgive you, and through Him, you can have fellowship with the Father who is in Heaven.
Some people wonder why the Lord has delayed His Second Coming for so long. I believe that it might have something to do with the fact that the Lord wants as many people as possible to come into His kingdom. He is patient and longsuffering.
I think that there is another lesson that we can draw from this parable that applies to the people of God. Just as the people of Israel were called to be a light to the nations, so too are we called to be light in a dark place. When we fail to produce fruit for the Lord, we do not let our light shine. We are not living up to our responsibility. The Lord wants us who are His followers to be fruit producing Christians.
To produce spiritual fruit, we need to abide in Jesus who is the vine. Jesus speaks about this extensively in John 15. We need to be communicating with Jesus every day through prayer and meditation. We need to be in the word reading the words of Jesus and putting His teachings and commandments into practice.
Both of these views on this parable are interesting. I don't know which view you will find most accurate, but I do encourage you to study more about it.
Next week, I will post the verses on Monday, and I will have a review of dog book on Wednesday. On Friday, I will post the sermon. It will be about a passage that some consider a parable while others think that it is something that will actually take place. May God bless you all. Amen.
I am thankful that we haven't had any bad storms in my area. I've been working hard to keep the house up and work on writing. My job is going a little bit better. I will just have to see how things go. I am still looking for the right opportunity. I would appreciate your prayers on this matter.
In prayer this week, let us continue to remember to pray for the families affected by the fire in London. Pray for those who mourn, and pray that those without homes will quickly find accommodation. Also, pray for those affected by the fires in Portugal. I know from the blog statistics page that there are a couple of people who read the blog in Portugal, and I pray that everyone is safe.
Let us continue to pray for peace in this world. Syria is a mess and needs prayer desperately. Iraq, Libya, Afghanistan, South Sudan and Ukraine also need prayers for peace.
For our prayer focus countries this week, please be in prayer for Bosnia and Gambia. Pray that people in these nations will hear the message of Jesus' love.
Today, we are continuing with our series of messages on the parables of Jesus. The parable that we will examine today is not controversial, but there are two distinct ways in which this parable is interpreted. I would like to explore these two interpretations and then explain why I believe one interpretation is more correct than the other.
The parable of the barren fig tree goes like this. A man who owned an orchard planted a fig tree. One day, he came to look for figs on the tree, but the tree had not produced. The owner said to the gardener. I've had this tree for three years. This tree has yet to produce any fruit. Cut down this tree so that it quits just taking up space. At this point, the gardener said to the owner that they should give the tree one more year. The gardener said that he would fertilize the tree and tend it. If there was no fruit the next year, then they would cut it down.
Now, when I was in Bible college and seminary, the interpretation of this parable I learned went something like this. The fig tree represented the nation of Israel. Israel had been chosen by God to be a light to the nations. Israel was to follow God and His laws. By doing this, Israel would draw people to the True and Living God.
Unfortunately, Israel often was not an influence, but it was influenced by the godless nations around it. Often, the people of Israel would turn to idols and turn away from the Lord.
In Jesus day, Jesus did not think that the nation and its religious leaders were living up to the truth. Jesus said that if the people did not repent, judgment would come. Jesus predicted the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple which occurred in 70 AD.
Jesus' earthly ministry was the last chance for the people to repent. By accepting the Messiah, they would truly fulfill their mission from God. If they rejected the Messiah, their role would be taken by the church which would take the message of the Lord to the world.
Now, there is a different interpretation for this parable that I've heard in sermons and read in some commentaries recently. This interpretation goes something like this. The owner of the vineyard is God. Those who are in sin are represented by the barren fig tree. The gardener who asks for more time for the fig tree is Jesus.
In this interpretation, Jesus as our advocate works with us through His lovingkindness to bring people to repentance and faith. He will never give up on anyone. Jesus desires everyone to be saved and produce fruit.
I find the second interpretation of this parable to be interesting. I certainly don't think that there is anything wrong with this view. However, within the context of Luke 13, I believe that the first interpretation is the correct one.
Just before Jesus told this parable, the people had asked Jesus opinion about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. Jesus said that unless the people repented, they too would likewise perish. Then, Jesus told the parable of the barren fig tree. It seems that the parable was mostly directed to those living in Jesus' time.
There is one lesson that we need to learn that is common to both of these interpretations. The Lord is merciful. He does not want one sinner to perish, but He desires that all should come to repentance and faith. The Father wants us to come to Him so much that He sent His only begotten Son into the world so that whoever believes in Him might have eternal life.
No matter who you are, you can turn your life over to Jesus Christ right now. You can repent and make Jesus Christ the Lord of your life. He will forgive you, and through Him, you can have fellowship with the Father who is in Heaven.
Some people wonder why the Lord has delayed His Second Coming for so long. I believe that it might have something to do with the fact that the Lord wants as many people as possible to come into His kingdom. He is patient and longsuffering.
I think that there is another lesson that we can draw from this parable that applies to the people of God. Just as the people of Israel were called to be a light to the nations, so too are we called to be light in a dark place. When we fail to produce fruit for the Lord, we do not let our light shine. We are not living up to our responsibility. The Lord wants us who are His followers to be fruit producing Christians.
To produce spiritual fruit, we need to abide in Jesus who is the vine. Jesus speaks about this extensively in John 15. We need to be communicating with Jesus every day through prayer and meditation. We need to be in the word reading the words of Jesus and putting His teachings and commandments into practice.
Both of these views on this parable are interesting. I don't know which view you will find most accurate, but I do encourage you to study more about it.
Next week, I will post the verses on Monday, and I will have a review of dog book on Wednesday. On Friday, I will post the sermon. It will be about a passage that some consider a parable while others think that it is something that will actually take place. May God bless you all. Amen.
Thursday, June 22, 2017
Some Various Thoughts
If a person can have a favorite verse in the Bible, I think that I have two. Hebrews 13:8 is a very important verse to me. It states, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever." To me, this means that the way that Jesus acted in the New Testament is the same way that He is today. The promises Jesus made while He was here on earth are valid now and will be in the future.
I've been going through a very hard time the last few weeks. As I've mentioned before, I've had problems with depression since my teenage years. By God's grace, I've been able to make it through. One of the promises that Jesus made was that He would never leave us and He would never forsake us. I am grateful to the Lord that He had been near me and helping me to make it through these last few days. I do not know where I would be without Jesus in my life. He is my Lord and Savior, and He is the one who sustains me throughout each day. I am thankful that He is always with me.
I am also thankful for the fact that Jesus provides us with people and animals to help us to make it through life. Jesus knows when we need a friend.
My other favorite verses are found in John 11:25-26 where Jesus speaks about the fact that He is the resurrection and the life. I know that those whom I have loved here on earth are now in Heaven with the Lord Jesus. I know that one day I will be reunited with them all because Jesus conquered death, hell and the grave through His glorious resurrection.
I hope that you all have a favorite verse or verses that you can reflect upon that help you through life and help you in your walk with the Lord.
On another note. There are some bad storms in the southern part of the United States right now. Please be in prayer for those who are affected by these storms. Also, please be in prayer for the people in Portugal affected by the forest fires.
There are supposed to be some potentially bad storms once again in my area. I would ask that you please pray that these would not be too bad in my area. Thank you always for your prayers.
I've been going through a very hard time the last few weeks. As I've mentioned before, I've had problems with depression since my teenage years. By God's grace, I've been able to make it through. One of the promises that Jesus made was that He would never leave us and He would never forsake us. I am grateful to the Lord that He had been near me and helping me to make it through these last few days. I do not know where I would be without Jesus in my life. He is my Lord and Savior, and He is the one who sustains me throughout each day. I am thankful that He is always with me.
I am also thankful for the fact that Jesus provides us with people and animals to help us to make it through life. Jesus knows when we need a friend.
My other favorite verses are found in John 11:25-26 where Jesus speaks about the fact that He is the resurrection and the life. I know that those whom I have loved here on earth are now in Heaven with the Lord Jesus. I know that one day I will be reunited with them all because Jesus conquered death, hell and the grave through His glorious resurrection.
I hope that you all have a favorite verse or verses that you can reflect upon that help you through life and help you in your walk with the Lord.
On another note. There are some bad storms in the southern part of the United States right now. Please be in prayer for those who are affected by these storms. Also, please be in prayer for the people in Portugal affected by the forest fires.
There are supposed to be some potentially bad storms once again in my area. I would ask that you please pray that these would not be too bad in my area. Thank you always for your prayers.
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
Book Recommendations
I am currently reading some good dog books that I will be reviewing on the blog in the upcoming weeks. For today's post, I just wanted to give a couple of recommendations regarding some animal books that I have enjoyed over the years.
The book that really caused me to become engaged in wildlife conservation and caring for the environment was "Tiger: Portrait of a Predator" by Valmik Thapar. Mr. Thapar has also written several other tiger books including "The Secret Life of Tigers"
I would also recommend all of the wildlife books written by George Schaller and Alan Rabinowitz. They have written extensively about tigers, lions, jaguars and a host of other animals. John Seidensticker is another author who has written books about tigers that I've enjoyed.
For those like me who love elephants, Cynthia Moss and Raman Sukumar have written good books about this magnificent species.
These are just a few of the authors and books about animals that I've enjoyed over the years. I hope that you will read some of these, or some other good wildlife books. I hope that they will make you think about how wonderful these animals are. We need to make sure that these animals are protected and that they will continue to thrive on this planet.
The book that really caused me to become engaged in wildlife conservation and caring for the environment was "Tiger: Portrait of a Predator" by Valmik Thapar. Mr. Thapar has also written several other tiger books including "The Secret Life of Tigers"
I would also recommend all of the wildlife books written by George Schaller and Alan Rabinowitz. They have written extensively about tigers, lions, jaguars and a host of other animals. John Seidensticker is another author who has written books about tigers that I've enjoyed.
For those like me who love elephants, Cynthia Moss and Raman Sukumar have written good books about this magnificent species.
These are just a few of the authors and books about animals that I've enjoyed over the years. I hope that you will read some of these, or some other good wildlife books. I hope that they will make you think about how wonderful these animals are. We need to make sure that these animals are protected and that they will continue to thrive on this planet.
Monday, June 19, 2017
Verses For the Week
Before I post the verses, I just wanted to thank everyone for their prayers over the last few days. My area had a lot of storms. Many people had a lot of damage. I am thankful that my house did not have any damage. Thank you Lord. Please pray for those recovering from the storms.
Isaiah 40:29 -- "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."
Psalm 46:1 -- "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble."
Isaiah 40:29 -- "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."
Psalm 46:1 -- "God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble."
Saturday, June 17, 2017
Update
The storms last night and this morning were very bad. There is a lot of damage in the area. My house is OK so far. For this I thank the Lord. Tonight there are supposed to be even worse storms. I would ask that you please pray for my area that these storms will not be too bad. Thank you all for all of your prayers.
Friday, June 16, 2017
Weekend Sermon -- The Parable of the Lost Son
Welcome to another edition of the Weekend Sermon. I am glad to be able to post the sermon this week. As I've said before, it is the highlight of my week to be able to spread the message of the Lord Jesus. I hope and pray that everyone who reads this blog is doing very well.
I am thankful that the storms last night were not too bad. I thank you for your prayers on this matter. We are supposed to have bad storms over the next two evenings, so I would ask that you would please pray that these storms will not be too bad. Thank you.
Please continue to pray for my neighbor as he recovers. I am thankful that he is doing much better, and I think he will be home fairly soon.
This week, I learned of two alarming situations. I heard a report that there are several cases of polio in central Africa. I also heard that cholera is becoming quite a problem in Yemen. Please pray that these two areas can get the aid that they need and that these diseases can be brought under control.
Also, please pray for those affected by the terrible fire in London. Pray that those who are injured may recover quickly. And pray that those who have lost their homes will find the aid and help that they need.
Also, please pray for those affected by the terrible fire in London. Pray that those who are injured may recover quickly. And pray that those who have lost their homes will find the aid and help that they need.
Continue to pray for peace in the troubled areas of this world. Pray for peace in Syria especially as that area continues to have significant warfare.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us remember to pray for those in Azerbaijan and Egypt. Pray that many people in these nations will respond to the message of Jesus' love.
Today, we will continue with our series of messages on the parables of Jesus focusing on the parable of the lost son also known as the parable of the prodigal son. This is one of the most preached texts in the New Testament. However, I believe that we can always learn something from the Word of the Lord no matter how many times we hear or read a message.
For those who aren't familiar with this parable, it goes like this. A man had two sons. One day, the younger son came to his father and asked for his inheritance even before his father died. The father gave the boy his inheritance. The younger son left home and spent his money foolishly on immoral living. Eventually, the money ran out and a famine struck the land where the younger son was living. The young man got a job feeding pigs, but he was still in a desperate situation.
Finally, the young man realized that he might be accepted back at the father's house. He decided to go back home, beg for mercy and hope to get back in as just a servant if nothing else.
One day, while the young man was still a long way off, the father saw him coming down the road. He ran to greet the son and accepted him back home. To celebrate his son's return, the father held a party for his son who had returned.
When the older son found out what was going on, he became furious and would not go in and celebrate. The father came out to the older boy and said to him that now all that the father had was his, but it was right to celebrate because the son that was lost was now found.
There are three central characters in this story, and I would like to discuss what I think we can learn from each of them.
Let's start with the father. The father in this story represents our own loving Heavenly Father. In this parable, the father respected the free will of the younger boy. He did not prevent him from leaving the father's house. In the same way, our Father has given us free will to accept or reject His love. We can abide in Him and serve Him, or we can decide to go our own way and do what we want to do regardless of the consequences.
The father in the parable was always willing to accept the son back if he decided to return home. Our Heavenly Father longs for His wayward children to return to Him. He wants people everywhere to come to their senses and realize how much He loves them and wants to forgive them and welcome them into the embrace of His love.
The father in this parable did not condemn the younger son. He forgave him and welcomed him home. As Jesus said, whoever comes will not be cast out.
Now we move on to the younger son, the prodigal son. He represents all of us who like sheep have gone astray. Each of us has turned to his or her own way. When we sin, we turn away from the Lord and are in rebellion to His will and plan. Most of us soon learn that sin has its consequences. Thankfully, just like the prodigal, we can decide to repent and go back to the Father's house. We can place our trust in the finished work of Jesus on the cross and turn to Him in repentance and faith. When we trust in His Son, the Father in Heaven welcomes us into His Heavenly kingdom.
The older son also has lessons to teach us. To me, this older son represents people in the church who don't think God can save certain types of people. They are bound up in their rigid ways of thinking. They act just as the religious leaders did in Jesus day. Instead of being pleased when people come to faith in Jesus Christ, they are resentful that "those" type of people are coming into the church. Of course this is not the attitude that any Christian should have. The Bible says that the angels in Heaven rejoice when someone turns back to God. That should be our attitude. We should join the angels in rejoicing.
You may be like the younger son and you have left the father's house and have lived a life opposed to the things of God. The Father in Heaven is waiting for you to come. He sent His Son the Lord Jesus to die on the cross to save us from our sins. If you will turn to Jesus in repentance and faith, the Father in Heaven will accept you into His Home in Heaven. I hope that you will give your life over to the Lordship of Jesus Christ today.
Next week, we will continue with our series of messages on the parables of Jesus. We will study a parable that has two very different interpretations depending on what commentaries you read. On Monday I will post the verses, and I hope to have a review on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Thursday, June 15, 2017
Prayer Request and Update
We are expecting some very bad storms in my area again tonight. Would you please pray that these are not bad and don't cause any problems? Thank you.
I also wanted to update you on something I asked you all to pray about in the Weekend Sermon. My neighbor is now out of the hospital. He has been moved into a rehabilitation center and he is expected to make a full recovery. Please pray for him as he recovers and as he mourns the loss of his wife. Thank again.
I also wanted to update you on something I asked you all to pray about in the Weekend Sermon. My neighbor is now out of the hospital. He has been moved into a rehabilitation center and he is expected to make a full recovery. Please pray for him as he recovers and as he mourns the loss of his wife. Thank again.
Wednesday, June 14, 2017
Book Recommendations
Just a view days ago, I came across an old program that was an interview with author and veterinarian James Herriot. I had never had the opportunity to see an extended interview with him, and as he is my favorite writer, I was very happy to get to see this. By the way, you can see this interview on YouTube.
I know that I've written about the Herriot books, and other books written by veterinarians here on the blog in the past. However, there are new readers coming to the blog, so I thought I would just mention and recommend some of the veterinarian books that I've enjoyed.
Of course, the books by James Herriot are my favorite. "All Creatures Great and Small" is the first book in the series. The others in order are, "All Things Bright and Beautiful", "All Things Wise and Wonderful", "The Lord God Made Them All" and "Every Living Thing". "James Herriot's Yorkshire", is a great book to see pictures of the countryside of which Herriot writes about so well.
There are also collections of his stories about dogs, cats, other animals, and some of his stories have been adapted into children's books. I would also recommend the "All Creatures Great and Small" television series. My Mom and I would watch these programs on Sunday evenings on the local PBS channel. We were always happy when there was a new episode.
Another veterinarian whose books I've enjoyed left the veterinary profession and became a minister in the Church of Scotland. His books are "Vet in the Vestry" and "Poultry In the Pulpit"
Nick Trout is another veterinarian who has written some interesting books. I've enjoyed reading his books, "Tell Me Where it Hurts" and "Love is the Best Medicine".
I know that I've written about the Herriot books, and other books written by veterinarians here on the blog in the past. However, there are new readers coming to the blog, so I thought I would just mention and recommend some of the veterinarian books that I've enjoyed.
Of course, the books by James Herriot are my favorite. "All Creatures Great and Small" is the first book in the series. The others in order are, "All Things Bright and Beautiful", "All Things Wise and Wonderful", "The Lord God Made Them All" and "Every Living Thing". "James Herriot's Yorkshire", is a great book to see pictures of the countryside of which Herriot writes about so well.
There are also collections of his stories about dogs, cats, other animals, and some of his stories have been adapted into children's books. I would also recommend the "All Creatures Great and Small" television series. My Mom and I would watch these programs on Sunday evenings on the local PBS channel. We were always happy when there was a new episode.
Another veterinarian whose books I've enjoyed left the veterinary profession and became a minister in the Church of Scotland. His books are "Vet in the Vestry" and "Poultry In the Pulpit"
Nick Trout is another veterinarian who has written some interesting books. I've enjoyed reading his books, "Tell Me Where it Hurts" and "Love is the Best Medicine".
Monday, June 12, 2017
Verses For the Week
John 11:25-26 -- "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die."
Philippians 3:20-21 -- "For our citizenship is in heaven, for which we eagerly await for the Savior the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself."
Philippians 3:20-21 -- "For our citizenship is in heaven, for which we eagerly await for the Savior the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body according to the working by which He is able even to subdue all things to Himself."
Saturday, June 10, 2017
Additions to the Weekend Sermon
Sometimes I post the Weekend Sermon and then later in the day I will think of additional things that I wanted to put in the sermon. Most of the time, I don't come back and change anything, but today I wanted to discuss the topic of forgiveness from our parable this week in a little more detail.
In the sermon, I mentioned that it is not always easy to forgive others, but it is what we have to do because that is the example that has been given to us by Jesus. There are a few instances in my own life when I have found it hard to forgive.
As I've mentioned on the blog in the past, I grew up in an extremely fundamentalist home. Growing up in this atmosphere made me so depressed that I almost gave up. When I was old enough to do what I wanted to do, I left that atmosphere and learned about the true Jesus and His love. The Lord allowing me to find my good friend Toby during this time really helped me.
Often, some of the bad feelings from these days creep in on me, and I find myself getting upset all over again. I've found that what I've had to do is just release all of this from the past and just forgive those who were so negative and mean when I was young. It is one of the ways that I've found to get past all of that. It's not easy.
Another time in my life when I found it hard to forgive was when one of my good friends and I had a serious disagreement. We didn't speak to each other for a long time. We'd been friends since we were seven years old, so we had shared many things in life. One day, I just decided that it wasn't right for us to be acting this way to one another. I decided to call him and apologize and try to make things right. We both forgave each other, and in the last few years that my friend was alive, our friendship was stronger than ever.
This friend of mine died last year. I am so glad that we reconciled. What if we hadn't? I don't like to think about that.
Now, there is something that I'm not sure I've forgiven someone for, and I am working on it with the Lord's help. When my friend Toby first came to live with me, he was in a sad state. His teeth were all messed up, and he had several chronic health problems. The worst thing is that he was afraid that someone would hurt him if he was sick and vomited. He had some serious gastrointestinal problems. Someone had been very mean to him just because he was sick. I've found it very hard to forgive the person that made him feel that way before he came to me. Someday I might be able to work this out. I keep trying.
Now, sometimes it is hard for people to forgive themselves. Sometimes we don't do the things that we want to do, and we don't live up to what we expect from ourselves. We just have to realize the we aren't perfect. All we can do is try to do our best as we rely upon the Lord to give us strength. The Lord knows our weaknesses. He is not looking to condemn us. He wants to love and help us. He will forgive us when we ask Him to.
The last thing I want to mention is that sometimes we have to let go of our disappointment with the Lord. I don't mean by this that the Lord has done wrong by any of us. What I mean is that sometimes our lives don't go the way we planned. The Lord has led us in another direction. We have to accept what He wants for us and not hold on to our own plans.
These are just a few additional thoughts that I wanted to add. I hope that they help in some way. Thanks for reading the blog.
In the sermon, I mentioned that it is not always easy to forgive others, but it is what we have to do because that is the example that has been given to us by Jesus. There are a few instances in my own life when I have found it hard to forgive.
As I've mentioned on the blog in the past, I grew up in an extremely fundamentalist home. Growing up in this atmosphere made me so depressed that I almost gave up. When I was old enough to do what I wanted to do, I left that atmosphere and learned about the true Jesus and His love. The Lord allowing me to find my good friend Toby during this time really helped me.
Often, some of the bad feelings from these days creep in on me, and I find myself getting upset all over again. I've found that what I've had to do is just release all of this from the past and just forgive those who were so negative and mean when I was young. It is one of the ways that I've found to get past all of that. It's not easy.
Another time in my life when I found it hard to forgive was when one of my good friends and I had a serious disagreement. We didn't speak to each other for a long time. We'd been friends since we were seven years old, so we had shared many things in life. One day, I just decided that it wasn't right for us to be acting this way to one another. I decided to call him and apologize and try to make things right. We both forgave each other, and in the last few years that my friend was alive, our friendship was stronger than ever.
This friend of mine died last year. I am so glad that we reconciled. What if we hadn't? I don't like to think about that.
Now, there is something that I'm not sure I've forgiven someone for, and I am working on it with the Lord's help. When my friend Toby first came to live with me, he was in a sad state. His teeth were all messed up, and he had several chronic health problems. The worst thing is that he was afraid that someone would hurt him if he was sick and vomited. He had some serious gastrointestinal problems. Someone had been very mean to him just because he was sick. I've found it very hard to forgive the person that made him feel that way before he came to me. Someday I might be able to work this out. I keep trying.
Now, sometimes it is hard for people to forgive themselves. Sometimes we don't do the things that we want to do, and we don't live up to what we expect from ourselves. We just have to realize the we aren't perfect. All we can do is try to do our best as we rely upon the Lord to give us strength. The Lord knows our weaknesses. He is not looking to condemn us. He wants to love and help us. He will forgive us when we ask Him to.
The last thing I want to mention is that sometimes we have to let go of our disappointment with the Lord. I don't mean by this that the Lord has done wrong by any of us. What I mean is that sometimes our lives don't go the way we planned. The Lord has led us in another direction. We have to accept what He wants for us and not hold on to our own plans.
These are just a few additional thoughts that I wanted to add. I hope that they help in some way. Thanks for reading the blog.
Friday, June 9, 2017
Weekend Sermon -- The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant
It is once again time for the Weekend Sermon. I hope that everyone is doing well. I would like to thank everyone for reading the blog, and I would like to thank you all for your prayers over the last few weeks.
I have been feeling a lot better over the last few days. I am able to breathe well, and I haven't been as tired. I am working hard on writing, and I had some more poetry accepted for publication for which I am grateful to the Lord.
Last week, my neighbors who live three houses down from me were driving home from church when they were in a terrible car accident. The wife died and her husband is still in intensive care. Please pray for this family during this difficult time.
Please continue to pray for peace in the world. Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen and Iraq all need our prayers for peace.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us remember to pray for Chad and Bhutan. Pray that people in these two nations will hear the message of the love of Jesus.
Today, we will continue with our ongoing series of messages on the parables of Jesus. For today's message, we will examine what the parable of the unforgiving servant has to teach us.
The occasion of this parable begins when Peter asked Jesus a question about forgiveness. Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who had sinned against him. Peter thought that he was being radical when he mentioned that one should forgive someone seven times. Imagine Peter's shock when Jesus told him that he should not forgive seven times but that Peter should forgive others seventy times seven times.
In order to further illustrate his point, the Lord Jesus told the parable of the unforgiving servant. In this story, a man owes a huge debt to the king. The man has no way to pay back his debt. The king orders that he be sold along with his family in order to pay the debt. The debtor pleaded and begged for mercy. The king was moved by the man's pleas, and the king forgave the great debt that was owed.
Later, this man who was forgiven of such a large debt found a fellow servant who owed him a small amount. The man who had been forgiven seized the other servant and demanded that he repay his debt. When the other servant begged for mercy, the man who had been forgiven did not extend mercy. He had his fellow servant thrown into debtor's prison.
When the other servants saw what had happened, they informed the king. The king was furious, and he ordered that the servant who had been forgiven be brought before him. The king called him a wicked servant telling him that he should have forgiven just as he had been forgiven. The king then handed him over to prison until the debt was paid.
This parable teaches an extremely important lesson to us. All of us have been forgiven, and all of us need to practice forgiveness.
We are just like the servant who owed a huge debt that we could never repay. That is why Jesus came in order to take away our sins and provide us forgiveness and salvation. We could never save ourselves, and we could never be forgiven without the sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross.
When we reflect on how much we have been forgiven of, we should praise and thank the Lord for his mercy and grace.
Even after we have come to repentance and faith in Jesus, we often fail to follow the teachings and the commandments set forth by the Lord Jesus. We need to be forgiven for sins of commission and omission. Thankfully, we can go to the Lord and receive His forgiveness whenever we fall into temptation and sin.
Since we have been forgiven of such a great debt, we as believers in Jesus must be people who forgive others for what they do to us. As Jesus said in the Lord's Prayer, we should pray forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. As Jesus says at the end of this parable, the Father will not forgive us if we are not willing to forgive our brothers and sisters.
Forgiveness is hard. When someone hurts us very badly, we don't want to forgive them even if they ask us to. However, that is not following the example or teaching of Jesus. Jesus even forgave those who crucified Him saying, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do."
I know in my own life that not forgiving others for what they have done to me only leads to more hurt. It is best to let things go. Leave things in the hands of the Lord and be willing to move on.
I don't know if you have someone in your life that you need to forgive. I pray that you will ask the Lord Jesus to give you the strength to offer forgiveness so that the relationship can be healed.
This week,, remember how many times the Lord has forgiven you. Be grateful for the Lord's amazing grace, and give Him all the glory, honor and praise.
Next week, we will continue with our series on the parables of Jesus. I will post the verses on Monday, and I will have a book review on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
I have been feeling a lot better over the last few days. I am able to breathe well, and I haven't been as tired. I am working hard on writing, and I had some more poetry accepted for publication for which I am grateful to the Lord.
Last week, my neighbors who live three houses down from me were driving home from church when they were in a terrible car accident. The wife died and her husband is still in intensive care. Please pray for this family during this difficult time.
Please continue to pray for peace in the world. Syria, Afghanistan, Yemen and Iraq all need our prayers for peace.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us remember to pray for Chad and Bhutan. Pray that people in these two nations will hear the message of the love of Jesus.
Today, we will continue with our ongoing series of messages on the parables of Jesus. For today's message, we will examine what the parable of the unforgiving servant has to teach us.
The occasion of this parable begins when Peter asked Jesus a question about forgiveness. Peter asked Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who had sinned against him. Peter thought that he was being radical when he mentioned that one should forgive someone seven times. Imagine Peter's shock when Jesus told him that he should not forgive seven times but that Peter should forgive others seventy times seven times.
In order to further illustrate his point, the Lord Jesus told the parable of the unforgiving servant. In this story, a man owes a huge debt to the king. The man has no way to pay back his debt. The king orders that he be sold along with his family in order to pay the debt. The debtor pleaded and begged for mercy. The king was moved by the man's pleas, and the king forgave the great debt that was owed.
Later, this man who was forgiven of such a large debt found a fellow servant who owed him a small amount. The man who had been forgiven seized the other servant and demanded that he repay his debt. When the other servant begged for mercy, the man who had been forgiven did not extend mercy. He had his fellow servant thrown into debtor's prison.
When the other servants saw what had happened, they informed the king. The king was furious, and he ordered that the servant who had been forgiven be brought before him. The king called him a wicked servant telling him that he should have forgiven just as he had been forgiven. The king then handed him over to prison until the debt was paid.
This parable teaches an extremely important lesson to us. All of us have been forgiven, and all of us need to practice forgiveness.
We are just like the servant who owed a huge debt that we could never repay. That is why Jesus came in order to take away our sins and provide us forgiveness and salvation. We could never save ourselves, and we could never be forgiven without the sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross.
When we reflect on how much we have been forgiven of, we should praise and thank the Lord for his mercy and grace.
Even after we have come to repentance and faith in Jesus, we often fail to follow the teachings and the commandments set forth by the Lord Jesus. We need to be forgiven for sins of commission and omission. Thankfully, we can go to the Lord and receive His forgiveness whenever we fall into temptation and sin.
Since we have been forgiven of such a great debt, we as believers in Jesus must be people who forgive others for what they do to us. As Jesus said in the Lord's Prayer, we should pray forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors. As Jesus says at the end of this parable, the Father will not forgive us if we are not willing to forgive our brothers and sisters.
Forgiveness is hard. When someone hurts us very badly, we don't want to forgive them even if they ask us to. However, that is not following the example or teaching of Jesus. Jesus even forgave those who crucified Him saying, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do."
I know in my own life that not forgiving others for what they have done to me only leads to more hurt. It is best to let things go. Leave things in the hands of the Lord and be willing to move on.
I don't know if you have someone in your life that you need to forgive. I pray that you will ask the Lord Jesus to give you the strength to offer forgiveness so that the relationship can be healed.
This week,, remember how many times the Lord has forgiven you. Be grateful for the Lord's amazing grace, and give Him all the glory, honor and praise.
Next week, we will continue with our series on the parables of Jesus. I will post the verses on Monday, and I will have a book review on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
Wednesday, June 7, 2017
Book Review -- A Dog Called Hope
I thought that the book that I am reviewing today was tremendously good. "A Dog Called Hope" written by Jason Morgan and Damien Lewis tells the story of Jason Morgan and an extraordinary service dog named Napal.
Jason Morgan suffered terrible injuries in an accident while serving in the US military. His back was broken, and he was in incredible pain on a daily basis. During his recuperation, his wife left him with three young boys to raise. Anyone facing these hardships would of course be upset. However, things started to turn around for Jason when a Labrador named Napal came into his life.
Napal was a service dog trained by Canine Companions for Independence. This organization trains dogs to help people facing a variety of hardships.
In the beginning of the book, Napal is just a puppy being raised by Jim Siegfried. Jim suffered paralysis when just a young man, but instead of getting a service dog of his own, Jim became a puppy raiser helping to train up the young dogs before they went to their placements. I thought that adding the story of Napal's time with Jim was a great. It really added depth to the story.
After Napal comes into Jason Morgan's life, Jason begins to interact more with others. He begins to train for wheelchair athletic events, and he becomes a speaker helping to spread the message about the importance of service dogs.
This is a very well-written book. Damien Lewis is a well-known writer of dog books. I've reviewed three of his other books here on the blog. Sergeant Rex, The Dog Who Could Fly and Judy are also very good with Judy being exceptionally good.
I would recommend this book to everyone who likes an inspiring story. It always amazes me when I read about the difference that dogs can make in someone's life. They can be trained to do so many things. One of their most important ways that dogs help, and this was true with Napal, is that they provide emotional support and help us to make it through the hard times. My dog Toby did that for me.
Jason Morgan suffered terrible injuries in an accident while serving in the US military. His back was broken, and he was in incredible pain on a daily basis. During his recuperation, his wife left him with three young boys to raise. Anyone facing these hardships would of course be upset. However, things started to turn around for Jason when a Labrador named Napal came into his life.
Napal was a service dog trained by Canine Companions for Independence. This organization trains dogs to help people facing a variety of hardships.
In the beginning of the book, Napal is just a puppy being raised by Jim Siegfried. Jim suffered paralysis when just a young man, but instead of getting a service dog of his own, Jim became a puppy raiser helping to train up the young dogs before they went to their placements. I thought that adding the story of Napal's time with Jim was a great. It really added depth to the story.
After Napal comes into Jason Morgan's life, Jason begins to interact more with others. He begins to train for wheelchair athletic events, and he becomes a speaker helping to spread the message about the importance of service dogs.
This is a very well-written book. Damien Lewis is a well-known writer of dog books. I've reviewed three of his other books here on the blog. Sergeant Rex, The Dog Who Could Fly and Judy are also very good with Judy being exceptionally good.
I would recommend this book to everyone who likes an inspiring story. It always amazes me when I read about the difference that dogs can make in someone's life. They can be trained to do so many things. One of their most important ways that dogs help, and this was true with Napal, is that they provide emotional support and help us to make it through the hard times. My dog Toby did that for me.
Monday, June 5, 2017
Verses For the Week and Some Various Thoughts
The first thing that I want to do on today's post is to thank the Lord for allowing me to get some poetry accepted for publication with a literary journal. I am very happy about this.
Today is the day when my friend Toby passed away many years ago now. I wanted to share a picture of him that I have posted previously. It will be at the end of this post. I still miss him every day.
And now for the verses:
Proverbs 17:17 -- " A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity."
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10a -- "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up."
Today is the day when my friend Toby passed away many years ago now. I wanted to share a picture of him that I have posted previously. It will be at the end of this post. I still miss him every day.
And now for the verses:
Proverbs 17:17 -- " A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity."
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10a -- "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up."
Friday, June 2, 2017
Weekend Sermon -- The Parable of the Two Sons
Welcome to the Weekend Sermon. I thank you for taking the time to read the posts this week. It is my hope and prayer that everyone is having a very good week.
The storms this week came very close to my house. Thanks be to God, there was no damage to my home and property. No one that I know of was hurt in any of the storms. I appreciate your prayers regarding this matter.
I am still trying to locate a job that will not be so stressful. So far, I just haven't found what I am looking for. Please pray that I will be able to find something that is suitable.
In prayer this week, please continue to pray for peace in this troubled world. Pray for peace in Syria, the Philippines, Iraq and South Sudan. Continue to pray for peace in Afghanistan as this country continues to experience war and violence. Pray for an end to terrorism and hate around the world.
I heard last week that there was some fairly serious flooding in Sri Lanka. Let us pray that those who were affected by this will receive the aid that they need.
On June 8, the people of Great Britain will go to the polls and elect a new parliament. Please pray that voters will have wisdom regarding this matter.
Also, please pray that people will respect and want to care for the environment. I was greatly distressed by the decision made by the US President this week. Hopefully, others will want to make this world a better place.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for the nations of Senegal and Uzbekistan. Pray that many in these nations will hear about the love of Jesus.
Today, we continue with our series of messages about the parables of Jesus. We will focus today on the parable of the two sons found in Matthew 21:28-32. This parable had a specific meaning for the time in which Jesus told it, and it continues to have an important meaning for those of us living today.
The parable goes like this. A man had two sons and he asked both of them to go and work in the vineyard. The first son said that he would go, but then he didn't. The second son said no, but later, he changed his mind and worked in the vineyard. Jesus asked which son did the will of the father. Of course it was the second. Then Jesus said that the tax collectors and the prostitutes were entering the kingdom before the religious leaders because they repented at the teaching of John the Baptist. However, the religious leaders heard and did not believe his message.
This parable had a specific message in Jesus day. First of all, God had chosen Israel from among all other nations of the world to be a light to the world. God wanted them to spread His message among others. However, when Jesus came to earth, the religious leaders were preaching a message of exclusion. They were not spreading the light. On top of that, they refused to recognize Jesus as the Messiah when He appeared among them.
On the other hand, those who had been excluded by the religious leaders, they were the ones who responded to the preaching of John the Baptist and they were the ones that recognized Jesus for who He really was. Those who turned to Jesus in repentance and faith would be the ones who would enter the eternal kingdom. The ones who heard the message but did not believe would not inherit the eternal Kingdom of the Lord.
So, what can we learn from this parable today. I think that there are at least a couple of applications. First of all, many people are like the first son. They say that they are willing to do the will of the Lord. However, they just go off and do what they want to do, and they do not do the will of the Lord or follow the teachings and the commandments of the Lord Jesus.
So often I've seen people make a profession of faith in the Lord, but their works do not demonstrate a true profession of faith. This is what James was speaking about when he said that faith without works is dead. He said show me your faith by your works.
On the other hand, there are people who are like the second son. They hear the word of the Lord and the message of salvation, but they at first do not believe. However, many later will come to faith in Jesus, and they will follow the Lord Jesus with all of their heart, soul, mind and strength.
Another application of this parable has to do with the church. The church has been given a mission by the Lord Jesus. The church is to spread the message of Jesus' love and help to make this world a better place and help people. However, many churches are not fulfilling this mission. They claim to follow Christ, but they have ceased to do much for Him. On the other hand, there are many churches where there is a fresh wind of the Spirit blowing. They are filled with a deep love of Jesus and they want to obey His commandments and teachings. They are honoring the way of the Lord.
Finally, this parable speaks to me about doing what the Lord had called me to do. I believe that the Lord has a will for each of us. It is up to us to surrender to the Lord's will. In this respect, we should not be like other son in the parable. We should hear the will of the Lord and then do it. We should say here am I Lord, send me.
I don't know what the Lord has called you to do in life. However, I do know that you will not be truly happy until you are doing what Jesus has called you to do. I hope that you will find a way to start doing what He has called you to do today.
Next week, we will continue our series in the parables of Jesus. On Monday, I will post the verses. I will have a book review on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
The storms this week came very close to my house. Thanks be to God, there was no damage to my home and property. No one that I know of was hurt in any of the storms. I appreciate your prayers regarding this matter.
I am still trying to locate a job that will not be so stressful. So far, I just haven't found what I am looking for. Please pray that I will be able to find something that is suitable.
In prayer this week, please continue to pray for peace in this troubled world. Pray for peace in Syria, the Philippines, Iraq and South Sudan. Continue to pray for peace in Afghanistan as this country continues to experience war and violence. Pray for an end to terrorism and hate around the world.
I heard last week that there was some fairly serious flooding in Sri Lanka. Let us pray that those who were affected by this will receive the aid that they need.
On June 8, the people of Great Britain will go to the polls and elect a new parliament. Please pray that voters will have wisdom regarding this matter.
Also, please pray that people will respect and want to care for the environment. I was greatly distressed by the decision made by the US President this week. Hopefully, others will want to make this world a better place.
For our prayer focus countries this week, let us pray for the nations of Senegal and Uzbekistan. Pray that many in these nations will hear about the love of Jesus.
Today, we continue with our series of messages about the parables of Jesus. We will focus today on the parable of the two sons found in Matthew 21:28-32. This parable had a specific meaning for the time in which Jesus told it, and it continues to have an important meaning for those of us living today.
The parable goes like this. A man had two sons and he asked both of them to go and work in the vineyard. The first son said that he would go, but then he didn't. The second son said no, but later, he changed his mind and worked in the vineyard. Jesus asked which son did the will of the father. Of course it was the second. Then Jesus said that the tax collectors and the prostitutes were entering the kingdom before the religious leaders because they repented at the teaching of John the Baptist. However, the religious leaders heard and did not believe his message.
This parable had a specific message in Jesus day. First of all, God had chosen Israel from among all other nations of the world to be a light to the world. God wanted them to spread His message among others. However, when Jesus came to earth, the religious leaders were preaching a message of exclusion. They were not spreading the light. On top of that, they refused to recognize Jesus as the Messiah when He appeared among them.
On the other hand, those who had been excluded by the religious leaders, they were the ones who responded to the preaching of John the Baptist and they were the ones that recognized Jesus for who He really was. Those who turned to Jesus in repentance and faith would be the ones who would enter the eternal kingdom. The ones who heard the message but did not believe would not inherit the eternal Kingdom of the Lord.
So, what can we learn from this parable today. I think that there are at least a couple of applications. First of all, many people are like the first son. They say that they are willing to do the will of the Lord. However, they just go off and do what they want to do, and they do not do the will of the Lord or follow the teachings and the commandments of the Lord Jesus.
So often I've seen people make a profession of faith in the Lord, but their works do not demonstrate a true profession of faith. This is what James was speaking about when he said that faith without works is dead. He said show me your faith by your works.
On the other hand, there are people who are like the second son. They hear the word of the Lord and the message of salvation, but they at first do not believe. However, many later will come to faith in Jesus, and they will follow the Lord Jesus with all of their heart, soul, mind and strength.
Another application of this parable has to do with the church. The church has been given a mission by the Lord Jesus. The church is to spread the message of Jesus' love and help to make this world a better place and help people. However, many churches are not fulfilling this mission. They claim to follow Christ, but they have ceased to do much for Him. On the other hand, there are many churches where there is a fresh wind of the Spirit blowing. They are filled with a deep love of Jesus and they want to obey His commandments and teachings. They are honoring the way of the Lord.
Finally, this parable speaks to me about doing what the Lord had called me to do. I believe that the Lord has a will for each of us. It is up to us to surrender to the Lord's will. In this respect, we should not be like other son in the parable. We should hear the will of the Lord and then do it. We should say here am I Lord, send me.
I don't know what the Lord has called you to do in life. However, I do know that you will not be truly happy until you are doing what Jesus has called you to do. I hope that you will find a way to start doing what He has called you to do today.
Next week, we will continue our series in the parables of Jesus. On Monday, I will post the verses. I will have a book review on Wednesday. May God bless you all. Amen.
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