Honest Reflections

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Judges 9:22-10:18 ESV, Luke 24:13-53 ESV, Psalm 100:1-5 ESV, Proverbs 14:11-12 ESV

Daily Verse: “And their eyes were opened, and they recognized him And he vanished from their sight.” “Luke 24:31 ESV)

GINOMAI (1096) + APHANTOS (855): “Ginomai: “to become” Aphantos, means literally, ‘to cause to disappear, put out of sight.”[i]

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[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (pp. 48, 59)) Thomas Nelson

Out of sight.

After Jesus’ resurrection, He appeared to Cleopas and a friend on the road to Emmaus. However, the men didn’t recognize Jesus at the time. As they traveled along the road, Jesus revealed all the Scriptures concerning Himself. When they sat down for dinner together that night, God opened their eyes, the men recognized Jesus, and He vanished.

In the moment of recognition, not only did they recognize Jesus, but the men realized Jesus overcame death. Within the hour, Cleopas and his friend left to tell the disciples of the miraculous events, spreading the news of Jesus’ resurrection.

Heart eyes.

Before Jesus opened the men’s physical eyes, He first opened their spiritual eyes. By teaching them the scriptures as they walked, Jesus reinvigorated their faith. At the time, Cleopas grieved because Jesus didn’t fulfill his expectations, But Christ showed Cleopas through the scriptures that He had. They already believed by the time God opened their eyes to Jesus’ physical presence.

Faith comes without seeing Jesus knew we would live life on earth without His physical presence. Contemporary followers of Christ rely on God’s “living and active” (Hebrews 4:12 ESV) Word to “light [our] path” (Psalm 119:105 ESV). The scriptures don’t fail us; in them, we discover Jesus.

Just because we can’t see Jesus beside us doesn’t mean He’s not present Cleopas, and his friend couldn’t see Jesus, but He walked with them for hours Trust in Jesus; He promises never to leave you. Jesus keeps His Word; look in the scriptures, you’ll see.

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[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010) The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (pp. 48, 59)) Thomas Nelson

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Judges 8:18-9:21 ESV, Luke 23:44-24:12 ESV, Psalm 99:1-9 ESV, Proverbs 14:9-10 ESV

Daily Verse: “Now when the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God, saying, “Certainly this man was innocent!” (Luke 23:47 ESV)

HEKATONTARCHES (1543): “The captain of one hundred men-centurion.”[i]

Captain of men.

Many times, the Bible mentions Centurions.  Soldiers with 100 men under their command.  Not raised in the military, one of my walking buddies spent her life serving our country.  Retired Navy, she tells me about life on the ship with hundreds of other sailors when we walk.  Everyone understood their place and the need to follow orders.  Centurions gave the orders, expecting them to follow.

Each day, Centurions carried the weight of their men’s lives on their shoulders.  When a commander sends his troops into battle, more than likely, not all of them will return alive.  What they believe determines what they do.  For the Centurion in today’s verse, witnessing the death of Jesus changes his opinion.  When the leader’s opinion changes, so do his actions.

Accept change.

When the Centurion realized Jesus’ innocence, his worldview changed.  Luke doesn’t say what happened next, other than they grieved deeply, disturbed by Jesus’ death.  Undoubtedly, life change occurred for all who witnessed Jesus’ resurrection.

Encountering Jesus in your life will change it in ways you can’t imagine.  As you pursue life to the fullest with Christ, you will become a new creation, fulfilling your God-given purpose.  As you blossom, others will notice and want what you have.  They will seek you out, asking questions about what they see.

Even if you’re not the captain of 100 men, you have a circle of influence.  Family and friends witness more than you think. You never know how a kind word or gesture will draw someone to the Savior.  Introducing others to Jesus encourages them to join the journey of pursuing Him and finding life like never before.

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[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p.79) Thomas Nelson

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Judges 7:1-8:17 ESV, Luke 23:13-43 ESV, Psalm 97:1-98:9 ESV, Proverbs 14:7-8 ESV

Daily Verse: “and said to them, “You brought me this man as one who was misleading the people. And after examining him before you, behold, I did not find this man guilty of any of your charges against him.” (Luke 23:14 ESV)

ANAKRINO (350): “Scrutinize, investigate, interrogate, determine.  As a verb, means ‘to judge,’ and sometimes has the meaning to ask a question.”[i]

Investigative scrutiny.

Pilate, talking to the religious leaders, shared his conclusions about Jesus; He did nothing wrong.  After questioning him, Pilate could find no fault with the King of Jews. Innocent but condemned by man, Pilate had no choice but to deliver Jesus to the people.

Have you ever wrongly convicted someone?  I have.  Instead of asking questions, I made conclusions. Wrong assumptions damaged relationships in my life, some beyond repair.  We live in a quick-to-judge world; we all fall prey to it.  Instead of seeking answers, we create false narratives and accept them as truth.

Ask questions.

Recently, I watched a docuseries about a fallen pastor.  In a video clip, he challenged his congregation to read the Bible for themselves, don’t trust him at face value.  Unfortunately, the young pastor struggled with fame and fortune, as many do, leading to his demise.  But his words ring true.

In today’s world, people don’t ask enough questions.  Following Jesus makes you realize, He mastered the art of questioning.  When challenged, Jesus often answers the question with a question, forcing the other person to think.

Instead of making assumptions, ask questions.  Talk to God about the things that don’t make sense in this world, seek His word for answers.  When someone gives you advice, view it through the lens of scripture.  Does it align with what God’s word says?  If not, you might want to ask more questions.

Our limited view skews our perspective.  Ask questions to get the complete picture.

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[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p.21) Thomas Nelson

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Judges 6:1-40 ESV, Luke 22:54-23:12 ESV, Psalm 95:1-96:13 ESV, Proverbs 14:5-6 ESV

Daily Verse: “And when they had kindled a fire in the middle of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat down among them.” (Luke 22:55 ESV) 

HAPTO (681): “A primary verb; prop. To fasten to, i.e. (spec)) to set on fire-light (3x), kindle (1x).  To fasten to, hence of fire, ‘to kindle” denotes in the middle voice.”[i]

Set on fire.

Poor Peter, I always feel sorry for him when I think of this scene.  Jesus journeys to the cross while Peter sits by the fire, denying Him, waiting for unfolding events.  Yet Jesus loved Him.

Kindling, small pieces of wood bundled together, starts fires.  Peter’s response, grouped with his next two, began a spark of denial.  Having walked with Christ for three years, Peter denies Jesus three times at this pivotal moment.  How Peter could quickly turn on the Savior, I don’t know.  Yet, we do the same thing.  Without thinking, falling for the temptation to put ourselves first, we deny Christ, just like Peter.

Kindle intentionally.

Ron and I purchased a stainless steel outdoor fire pit for our deck.  The first night we built a fire, we invited a friend over. Immediately, we realized the type of wood we had didn’t work well in the fire pit.  Our friend, experienced with the firepit, said we needed white birch, a hardwood that didn’t pop as much.

The type of wood you use determines the fire.  Hardwoods burn longer than softer woods, making more efficient fires.  When we kindle actions of love together, like hardwoods, they create sparks that turn into infernos, changing the world.

As you move through your day, imagine building a fire from acts of love.  Every kind gesture bundles together to start a blaze of affection. Show up for the people in your life repeatedly.  Each time, adding more kindling to the fire, encouraging it to flourish.

Love grows with each kind act.  Don’t underestimate how one spark can fuel an inferno.

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[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p.40) Thomas Nelson

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Judges 4:1-5:31 ESV, Luke 22:35-53 ESV, Psalm 94:1-23 ESV, Proverbs 14:3-4 ESV

Daily Verse: “And he said to them, “When I sent you out with no moneybag or knapsack or sandals, did you lack anything?” They said, “Nothing.” (Luke 22:53 ESV)

APOSTELLO (649): “This word means to order (one) to go to a place appointed: Jesus sent by the Father, the apostles sent by Jesus, messengers are sent, servants are sent, angels.  To allow one to depart, that he may be in a state of liberty.”[i]

Appointed place.

Jesus sent the disciples on a mission, first with nothing, then with supplies. Spreading the Gospel becomes their lives work.  Jesus knows, once He ascends, the job will become more challenging.  All but John die terrible deaths as they fulfill Jesus’s order to go to their appointed places.

We have a choice when we follow Jesus; will we go where He sends us? 

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20 ESV)

Go

When Jesus commands you to go, go.  More than likely, God’s first mission for you entails loving the people He gave you.  Start with your family and friends.  Love them as Jesus loves you.  Watch your relationships blossom as you put their needs before yours, keeping soft hearts to the offenses they cause, loving them unconditionally.

The disciples went all over the world, sharing the Gospel.  Some people’s callings take them to remote places, but our calling doesn’t take us as far most of the time.  Walking into the next room and loving the person right before us becomes our mission.

Remember, Jesus never leaves you.  “I am with you always, to the end of the age” (vs. 20). God never sends you alone; He goes where you go.  God guides us to new adventures, He provides all we need for the journey, and He travels with us.  When we get our marching orders, follow quickly.  Don’t waste a moment; live life to the fullest, going wherever God sends you.

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[i]  Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p.254) Thomas Nelson

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Judges 2:10-3:31 ESV, Luke 22:14-34 ESV, Psalm 92:1-93:5 ESV, Proverbs 14:1-2 ESV

Daily Verse: “And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19 ESV)

ANAMNESIS (364): “Means a remembrance and is used in Christ’s command in the institution of the Lord’s Supper. Not in memory of as in remembering a deceased loved one, but in an affectionate calling of the Person Himself to mind.” [i]

Affectionate recalling.

When Christ told us to “Do this in remembrance of me,” He wanted us to do so with affectionate recollection.  In other words, warmly think of what Jesus did for you.  He bore our sins and gave us new life in Him with grace.

When I affectionately recall Jesus, I think of the storms He’s brought me through.  When I feared losing my job, I clung to God’s promise:

“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:19 ESV)

Supplies every need.

As I maneuvered through the storm of job layoffs, I realized Jesus supplies every need, not just jobs.  When anxiety began to raise its ugly head, I’d meditate on Paul’s words to the Philippians until calm returned to my soul.  Day after, whatever my need, Jesus provided.

Over the years, one verse continued to draw me closer to Jesus.  Every time I take communion, I remember Christ’s provision for me in all things, my affection growing deeper with each step of faith I take.

Recalling Jesus reminds us of who meets all our needs.  First, Jesus forgave us our sins, reconnecting us with our heavenly Father.  Then, He gives us all we need to live our lives fully.  Only when we place our eyes on Jesus can we receive the gifts He offers.

Affectionately recall how Jesus changed your life.  Thank Him for meeting all your eternal and earthly needs.

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[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p.22) Thomas Nelson

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Judges 1:1-2:9 ESV, Luke 21:29-22:13 ESV, Psalm 90:1-91:16 ESV, Proverbs 13:24-25 ESV

Daily Verse: “But watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a trap.” (Luke 21:34 ESV)

KRAIPALE (2897): “This word signifies the giddiness and headache resulting from excessive wine-bibbing, a drunken nausea; the disgust and loathing that arise from drinking too much wine. Used only once in the Bible.”[i]

Overindulgent headache.

Anyone who has drunk too much understands the headache which comes from overindulging.  Jesus warns us not to drink in excess because we’ll lose focus.  Instead of watching for Jesus’ return, we’ll miss the moment.

No one knows when Jesus will come again.  God tells us to keep an eye out for Jesus’ return.  At any moment, life on earth can change forever.  Staying alert means living life in moderation, aware God moves in the span of a heartbeat.

Don’t add trouble.

In the world, we will have trouble; drunkenness only causes more problems.  Losing our inhibitions after a few drinks never helps.  Recovering from the effect of alcohol can waste the day; take it from someone who knows. The extra drink seems like the right idea, but the following day brings nothing but regret.

“All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.” (1 Corinthians 6:12 ESV)

Learn what moderation means for you.  Seek God in prayer, asking Him for guidance.  Don’t miss out on Jesus because of momentary pleasure.  Keep your eyes on the Savior, don’t miss a thing He has for you.

Building a healthy lifestyle happens one decision at a time.  Following Jesus happens in steps, not miles.  Choose wisely, apply Jesus’ teachings to your life one decision at a time.

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[i] [i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p.144) Thomas Nelson

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Joshua 24:1-33 ESV, Luke 21:1-28 ESV, Psalm 89:38-52 ESV, Proverbs 13:20-23 ESV

Daily Verse: “Jesus looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the offering box” (Luke 21:1 ESV)

DORON (1435): “Means to give and is used of gifts presented as an expression of honor, for the support of the temple and the needs of the poor, offered to God.” [I]

Bless God.

Gifts from God come in many forms: money, talents, time, health. Giving out of abundance doesn’t sacrifice anything, but God notices when we give our all. Jesus saw the widow give everything she had, and He commended her.

Offering our gifts back to God blesses Him.  God gets the glory when we illuminate His light to the world. Using our talents to love God and others shines a flashlight into the darkness, bringing hope.

Discovering our gifts takes time and effort. Tithing, giving ten percent of our first fruits to God, can apply to more than money. We can give away our time and possessions to those in need.

Jesus gave all.

People take for granted how much Jesus gave for them. What cost us nothing cost God everything. As a practicing Christ-follower, I’ve heard the resurrection story repeatedly. Truly grasping the torture and humiliation Jesus endured for my sake didn’t happen until I became an adult. Understanding brings humility as I think of my sins that Jesus bore in agony.

You will never outgive God; He’s already given more than any of us ever will. Honoring our Creator by using the talents He gave us to serve others blesses Him. 

Discover your gifts. Honor God by using them to draw others to Christ. Jesus notices our offerings, large or small. God knows the sacrifice that comes with the gift. Without a doubt, God will bless you when you give all.

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[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p.74) Thomas Nelson

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Joshua 22:21-23:16 ESV, Luke 20:27-47 ESV, Psalm 89:14-37 ESV, Proverbs 13:17-19 ESV

Daily Verse: “There came to him some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection,” (Luke 20:27 ESV) 

ANASTASIS (386): “Denotes a raising up, or rising; literally, “to cause to stand up on one’s feet again.”  Of resurrection from the dead.”[i]

Stand up.

Resurrection, the ability to stand up on one’s feet again, brings us back to life.  When Jesus died on the cross, His resurrection overcame death.  Taking the first step of faith toward Jesus means accepting His resurrection as true.  Christ stood up after dying, defeating death once and for all.

Jesus also helps us get back on our feet each day.  When life’s challenges overwhelm us, getting out of bed becomes a mountain to climb.  Depression, fear, anxiety all strive to keep us down.   But in Christ, we have victory. 

Resurrection experience.

Recently, Satan attacked at one of my vulnerable moments.  Unkind words took me off guard, causing me to spiral down a negative rabbit hole.  Sharing my pain with friends, I received a life-giving text from a sister in Christ, instantly healing my hurting heart.

God worked through my friend to put me back on my feet when one of the devil’s fiery darts brought me to my knees.  Every day, Jesus gives us the strength to fight the good fight.  He helps us stand tall in God’s armor, resisting the enemies’ attacks. 

When life knocks you to your knees, turn to Jesus.  Give Him the pain you feel, allow God’s resurrection power to help you stand again.

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[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p. 23) Thomas Nelson

2 minute read.

Daily Reading: Joshua 21:1-22:20 ESV, Luke 20:1-26 ESV, Psalm 89:1-13 ESV, Proverbs 13:15-16 ESV

Daily Verse: “And they were not able in the presence of the people to catch him in what he said, but marveling at his answer they became silent.” (Luke 20:26 ESV)

THAUMAZO (2296): “This word means to wonder, wonder at, and hence to be had in admiration.”[i]

Wonder admiringly.

Religious leaders know no bounds in their pursuit of discrediting Jesus.  Sending in spies, pretending sincerity, they asked Jesus sneaky questions to try and trap Him.  But God knows the plans of men, and with barely the blink of an eye, Jesus defeats them with His words, rendering them silent.

Watching Jesus in action does cause one to marvel.  Miracles begin to happen when we apply God’s word to our lives.  The impossible becomes possible when God gets involved.

From the pit of the valley, Jesus helped me find the mountaintop.  Like Jesus, I have people in my life constantly trying to trap me with my words.  Not believers, they continuously attack my faith, looking for chinks in the armor.  But with Jesus, my weakness becomes strength, chinks don’t exist.

Put on God’s armor.

Protect yourself against naysayers by clothing yourself in God’s attire.  Ground yourself in God’s truth, wearing righteousness as your breastplate and the gospel of peace for shoes, always at the ready.  Carry the shield of faith to extinguish the devil’s fiery darts. Allow the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit to protect you, remaining constant in prayer (Ephesians 6:10-18 ESV).

As you become comfortable in God’s armor, you’ll marvel more at His works in your life.  Watching as God defeats the enemy attacks will encourage and uplift you.  Truth destroys lies as God reveals it in your life.

When people attack your faith in Jesus, respond with love.  Don’t take their words personally; remember, we battle not against flesh and blood but spiritual forces.  Pray for them, asking God to illuminate their lives with His truth, letting them marvel in His wondrous works.

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[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p. 113) Thomas Nelson