Day 365: Revelation 19-22

If getting through the middle section of Revelation was difficult, it was SO worthwhile to read these final chapters about the victory of God and the defeat of Satan! More than ever I feel like I am seeing the Bible as a whole story, not a bunch of little stories. Love it!

Well, I purposely finished up the readings a couple of days early since I am heading out to California this afternoon and will not have internet access until January 2. I am so glad that I took this on in 2009. I will confess that there were days when I felt like the reading was just something to mark off my list for the day. When I felt this way, I was usually convicted that this is not at all how God wants me to view His word. But the end result in my opinion is that it was so TOTALLY worth it. I feel like I have a good picture of God's relationship with man, and with me. Like I said, the Bible is one long story of God's pursuit of us. He loves us so stinking much and everything good or bad that happened along the way was for that ultimate reason. There is a 'plot' that blows away any fiction book that I have ever read...and I have read some good ones. And what makes it even better is that I see myself in the story! I can't claim that for any other book I have read.

So now what? Well, I am kind of certain that no one else is reading this blog anymore. But it serves more as a journal for me and I am okay with that. I am going to begin again in Genesis. I am considering reading the Message translation this time, partly because I want something a little different and partly because I want to do it without relying on my study Bible footnotes so much. I did love the chronological journey, so I will stick with that.

I would love to drag some others with me on the journey...for no other reason but to bless their lives as well.

Maybe someday my kids will read my ramblings as they take on reading the whole Bible. That would be really cool. (Not so much my ramblings, but that they are deep in the Word!)

God, thank you so much for the gift of the Bible. I cannot imagine how we would be stumbling along through life if we did not have it. Thank you for showing me things this year. I know there is more you want me to see and I am ready and eager! I love you, too.

Day 364: Revelation 12-18

I am just not totally sure what to make of the whole story of the woman and the dragon. The footnotes in this section are really long and I am not diving in to them right now.

I have read the Left Behind books so this stuff is not really 'new' to me. I think it is good for us to be aware of, but it is definitely not there for us to worry about.

I do notice that all throughout this book, there is worship...by angels, by witnesses, by creatures.

Day 363: Revelation 6-11

Being a mom who has had to wash (or try to wash!) blood stains out of clothes many times. Not an easy task. And yet in chapter 7 "they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the lamb." I imagine most robes were a dingy grey color during the time this was written. This is just symbolic that Christ does something for us that we could NEVER do for ourselves by making us pure and wiping away our sins.

It is just one amazingly awful thing after another. I find the locusts especially scary....5 months of pure torture by those nasty things!

I find it hard to believe that people were not turning to God left and right through all this awful stuff.

Day 362: Revelation 1-5

For each book, my study Bible gives the purpose of the book., For Revelation it says "to reveal the full identity of Christ and to give warning and hope to believers." I am going to try and keep this in my mind as I read through it.

Beautiful image of Jesus in 1:13-18.

I think all of these letters to the churches hold something for us. Have I forsaken my first love? Am I lukewarm? Do I compromise my faith>? Am I superficial?

I cannot even begin to imagine the beauty of God's throne as it is described in chapter 4! And the worship!

Although there is so much mystery around this book of the Bible, there is enough there to give us a glimpse of what is to come. And if this is only a glimpse.....man, are we in for something incredible!

Day 361: 2/3 John

In 2 John he says that he has much more to say that he will tell them in person. That makes what he DID write that much more important and urgent from my view. 2 things made the letter...show love by being obedient and watch out for false teachers. Both are really strong reoccurring themes in the letters, but in this situation, John felt it couldn't wait.

3 John is taking care of some business...commending one brother for his hospitality (doing great things for people, even if they are strangers) and reprimanding another brother for pride and gossip.

My take away from today? I should be more about encouraging and confronting sin. These were obviously urgent things to John and they should be to me.

Day 360: 1 John

As I read through the first chapter, I get a really good glimpse of this radical love we are to have for one another. It is SO different than the love that is defined by the world. "Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."

When I try to wrap my mind around the statement "God is love," I always fall short.

Love 1 John and want to read it again soon.

Day 359: 2 Peter; Jude

"His divine power has given us EVERYTHING we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness." That is not just 'he helps us' or 'he is a great addition' to our lives. He give us EVERYTHING we need for life! But there is more to that sentence...'through our knowledge of him.' That seals the deal for me. I am not done with daily reading when I finish this year up. I am absolutely going to keep going.

And then the next verses go on to say that this knowledge will be ineffective and unproductive if they are not practicing goodness, self-control, godliness, brotherly kindness and love. I don't ever want to reach that point either.

Harsh words for false teachers in Chapter 2!

The doxology shouldn't be skipped over at the end of Jude. I love the first part. "To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy..." Being sinless is so hard for me to even imagine! But that is how I will appear to God THROUGH CHRIST. Awesome.

Day 358: 2 Timothy

"Therefore I endure everything for the elect, that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus." Once we are saved, our main purpose is to point others to Christ. Anything we have to endure seems insignificant in this light when we consider what is at stake!

The list at the beginning of chapter 3 seems to be so true today. The first part is kind of the root of all of it my opinion: lovers of themselves.

Day 357: Hebrews 11-13

Good explanation of Old Testament blood sacrifices being replaced by the one-time sacrifice of Christ in chapter 9.

I can understand why the author had to really hammer in the point "sacrificing once for all". These people were so used to the routine of sin-sacrifice-sin-sacrifice, that it was probably somewhat hard for them to grasp the concept that they didn't have to do that anymore.

10:19-25. Too much to type out here, but I could read these verses every day!

Here is a good note for chapter 11: Two words describe faith: sure and certain. These 2 qualities need a secure beginning and ending point. The beginning point of faith is believing in God's character-he is who he says. The end point is believing in God's promises-he will do what he says. When we believe God will fulfill his promises even though we don't see those promises materializing yet, we demonstrate true faith.

Day 355: Hebrews 1-6

The author uses perfect scripture selections to support his argument that Christ is greater than the angels. I wish I was able to do that to support my arguments.

"But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness." I need to be about this! Encouraging people is just not to make them feel good or even to elevate myself in their eyes. It is actually NECESSARY for their spiritual health. This is an eye opener for me. And how often do I have to do this? Every today!

One of my favorite verses is Hebrews 4:16.

Day 354: 1 Peter

"In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope...and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade." No matter how awesome anything on earth is when it is new (a house, car, shoes, etc.), it eventually gets old, wears out, gets ruined. There is only one thing that is different. Our eternity with God.

"Love one another deeply, from the heart." Do I do this? I'm afraid too often not.

Again and again this theme of living as aliens in this world. I know how I feel when staying in a different city in a hotel. I feel somewhat "off", out of sorts, not entirely sure of my surroundings. I should always feel that way about even my house and places I go all the time. This isn't my home. I'm just visiting!

Day 353: Titus

These are harsh words for people who in my mind "play church." "They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good."

I am so glad the power to live as a Christian comes from the Holy Spirit. 2:12 "It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live the self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, while we wait for the blessed hope." We so often think we have to make all these changes in our lives ourselves!

Day 352: 1 Timothy

A good note for 6:10 (love of money is the root of all kinds of evil). Greed leads to all kinds of evil; marriage problems, robbery, blowups in partnerships. To master greed, you must control it at its root. Get rid of the desire to be rich. I would say am further along in this battle than I used to be. I am very content with what I have, and if anything....I could live with far less.

Day 351: Philippians

Paul has such great prayers in his greetings. I love these parts: "that your love may abound more in knowledge and depth of insight, that you may be able to discern what is best."

This book is exactly what I needed to read today!! There is so much encouragement crammed in these 4 chapters. "I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things." "I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me." "But our citizenship is in heaven." "I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances."

Day 350: Ephesians

The first chapter of Ephesians is so rich! Just like kids love to hear about when they were born, I love to hear how God chose ME before he even created the world. How cool is that!

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." THAT is why we were created. Not so we can occasionally do something good and then feel good about ourselves...."yay me....look how much I helped that person." NO! That is our whole purpose and should be the norm of our lives, not the occasional thing.

I think that 3:17-19 is a good prayer for so many who would call themselves Christians and sit in church most Sundays but don't totally get it. "I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge-that you may be filled to the measure of all fullness of God." Amen.

And this is a good prayer for me: 6:19-20 "Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should."

There is SO much in Ephesians that I could comment on! It doesn't seem fair that we have to read it all in one day.

Day 349: Colossians; Philemon

I have always loved Col 1:17. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. God is creator AND sustainer of all things.

It is hard to think of some people as "enemies in your minds and alienated from God." They can be people who are kind and giving and 'good' people by the world's standards. But if they are not in Christ, they are enemies of God. "When you were DEAD in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your sinful nature, God made you ALIVE with Christ." "Set your minds on THINGS ABOVE, not on EARTHLY THINGS." "You have taken off your OLD self and put on the NEW self." Paul really uses a lot of contrasting in this letter I notice.

Day 348: Acts 27-28

I like when Paul refers to God as "the God whose I am and whom I serve" in 27:23.

Chapter 28:26-27. I know people like this, unfortunately. "You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people's heart has become calloused' they hardly hear with their ears and they have closed their eyes."

Day 347: Acts 24-26

I love Paul and how he takes advantage of EVERY opportunity to share the gospel, no matter where he is or who his audience might be!

Day 346: Acts 20:4-23:35

That is a bizarre story about the guy falling asleep while Paul is teaching and then falling 3 stories out the window and dying....then raised from the dead when Paul throws himself on Eutychus.

What an emotional goodbye to the Ephesian elders. I can really picture it.

I find it interesting and cool that Paul didn't play the "I'm a Roman citizen get-out-of-jail-free card" until after he had addressed and witnessed to everyone. He could have just told them first that they couldn't hold him, but instead he took an opportunity that he had.

Day 345: Romans 14-16

"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus, so that with one heart and mouth you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ." Why does this "unity" seem so elusive in our church? I don't know if I would go so far as to say there are divisions, but it just doesn't feel like everyone is cheering each other on in life. People are okay just walking by each other in the halls sometimes without acknowledgement. And these are people who know each other's names and have at least a casual relationship. It should be an awesome reunion each time our church gathers yet it sometimes doesn't feel much different than attending an open house at school or some other type of event. I am going to try and be more deliberate in this area.

Day 344: Romans 11-14

I am intrigued by the verse that says salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious. Surely that is not the ONLY reason.

I think this is an important verse....You do not support the root, but the root supports you. I think many Christians can be come arrogant and think that God moving forward in the world is dependent upon them.

I'm sure the concept of 'living sacrifice' had a whole different meaning to the original hearers of this letter! Here were people who had practiced animal sacrifice and now they were hearing that their very everyday lives were what God wanted.

Chapters 12-14 have such powerful guidelines for living, and especially loving people.

Day 343: Romans 8-10

"I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with that glory that will be revealed in us." Not worth comparing. We compare everything...everything is relative to everything else in our world. But here is Paul who was suffering so much more than I do for the gospel and he says the difference is so great that it is not even worth a comparison!

I think of the loving way in God's word that he promises that nothing can separate us from his love. (8:35-39) I need to communicate this to my kids more.

Chapter 9 definitely speaks to election.

Day 342: Romans 4-7

To me Chapter 4 really flies in the face of what some denominations believe about baptism being a requirement for salvation. This chapter talks about circumcision being a work and that Abraham was 'saved' before he was circumcised. Why should baptism be viewed differently?

Romans is so rich in helping understand the whole transaction of Christ between God and us. However, for me anyways, I am seeing that it has to be read really slowly and pondered. There is so much to process. Most pages in my Bible have more footnotes than text on each page!

5:18-19 are good verses to understand the big picture....Adam through Christ.

Love Romans 6.

Chapter 7 was so important for the people to grasp as they made the transition of living under the law to living under the Lordship of Christ. They had to understand the connection.

Day 341: Acts 20:1-3; Romans 1-3

Love this..."I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes." I need to constantly repeat that verse in my head. I know that this idea has given me courage in certain situations before. It is SO not about me, it is ALL about God.

In 1:32, I am reminded that people who choose a life of sin still know about God's righteousness and the 'death penalty.' That is just hard for me to grasp. I mean I know I consciously choose sin sometimes. But routine repentance and forgiveness are a part of my life.

2:16 "the day when God will judge men's secrets". We have so many opinions of people based on how we see them behave and what we hear them say. And based on those observations, we 'judge' that person and even draw conclusions as to the state of their heart. God has total access to so much more information. We are totally misjudging people so often.

3:28 "justified by faith apart from observing the law." Why? (1) faith eliminates the pride of human effort, because faith is not a deed we can do, (2) faith exalts what God has done, not what people do, (3) faith admits that we can't keep the law or measure up to God's standards - and we need help, and (4) faith is based on our relationship with God, not our performance for God.

Day 340: 2 Corinthians 10-13

In chapter 11 on false apostles, I thought this was a good note: Our impressions alone are not an accurate indicator of who is or isn't a true follower of Christ; so it helps to ask these questions:

1. Do the teachings confirm scripture (Acts 17:11)
2. Does the teacher affirm and proclaim that Jesus Christ is God who came into the world to save people from their sins? (1 John 4:1-3)
3. Is the teacher's lifestyle consistent with Biblical morality? (Matthew 12:33-37)

Day 339: 2 Corinthians 5-9

This verse has been coming at me from several different places lately (I love when that happens!) "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation' the old has gone, the new has come." My notes say we are not merely reformed, reeducated, or rehabilitated - we are re-created, living in vital union with Christ. At conversion we are not merely turning over a new leaf; we are beginning a new life under a new Master.

I think everyone reads the part about being yolked with non-believers as referring to marriage. I think it does, but I also think it applies to other relationships as well. Not that we shouldn't associate with non-believers, but when it comes to big commitments...marriage, business, close friendships, we should seriously look at their heart.

Does this verse strike anyone else? "Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. They urgently pleaded with us for the PRIVILEGE of sharing in this service to the saints." People who had the least, gave the most. AND they considered it a privilege. That is incredible and maybe even more counter-culture today than it was then.

Day 338: 2 Corinthians 1-4

I like this verse: "For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing." Here is what my notes say. When Christians preach the gospel, it is good news to some and repulsive news to others. Believers recognize the life-giving fragrance of the message. To nonbelievers, however, it smells foul, like death...their own.

I also like that we are a letter from Christ, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. LOVE IT!

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Day 337: 1 Corinthians 15-16

Paul said that he died every day. This must sound so weird to non-believers. Good teaching on the resurrection. I have some good notes on why Paul even had to teach this. Most Greeks did believed only in resurrection of the soul...not the body. The church at Corinth was deeply steeped in Greek culture.

I don't totally understand the section on spiritual bodies and natural bodies, but that's okay. I will. :-) The "therefore" to that whole section is 15:58. Stand firm. Always give yourself fully to the work of the Lord. You KNOW that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Day 336: 1 Corinthians 12-14

When I look at our church and at the same time read 12:18 "In fact God has arranged the parts of the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be," it is amazing to me. Every single believer in our church was placed there by God for a specific purpose. But then my heart aches for those who are just sitting in a seat and not fulfilling their purpose. The love chapter is right in there with it regarding how we are to use our gifts. My gifts were not given for MY benefit. They were given for Grace Fellowship's benefit. By not using my gifts, I am hurting other people. Sin isn't just DOING something malicious. It is also not fulfilling God's purpose for me. It is 'stealing' from other believers and ultimately sinning against God.

Day 335: 1 Corinthians 9-11

Working for a church, chapter 9 is good news for me. Sometimes I feel like some of the work I do is just my serving my own church. Why should I get compensated for it when others don't? This chapter assures me that it is okay.

"I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings." To me this is such a grey area. To become like the world just enough to appeal to outsiders, yet not embrace what the world represents. That is a challenge.

Convicting words in chapter 11 concerning taking the Lord's Supper in an inappropriate state of mind.

Day 334: 1 Corinthians 5-8

Chapter 5 talks about sexual sin and even boasting about that sin. I think this happens today as well. Certain things are not just accepted, but they are celebrated! So why not boast! Certain sins become a source of pride....as if the sin itself is not bad enough.

Convicting words about honoring God with your body. Chapter 6 is mainly talking about sexual immorality, but there are so many other areas that fit this admonition....eating, drinking, exercise, even cutting which so many teenagers are doing now. Honor God with your body.

In chapter 7 Paul sure is a proponent of remaining single, isn't he? Makes it sound pretty appalling!

Day 333: 1 Corinthians 1-4

Chapter 1 is making me think about wisdom. People who we and the world look at and say are really smart, but don't know God.....it's all worthless knowledge and in the end means absolutely nothing. Yet, someone who is not "worldly" smart, yet knows God has EVERYTHING in the end. It's really no different than storing up earthly possessions...none of those things matter.

What an awesome thing: "But we have the mind of Christ."

Chapter 4 is somewhat confusing to me to read...anyone else?

Day 332: Acts 18:19-19:41

I love the name "The Way." It sounds so contemporary!

The book of Acts reads like a great adventure story to me. All the travels, and 'bad guys', and great wins. Like the book of Genesis, I think much of it would make a great movie.

I like how often Paul finishes stating his plans with 'if it is God's will.' So often I don't think like this. In my mind I am thinking 'if I can make it work' or 'if that is the way it actually works out.' Paul saw God's hand at work in ALL areas of his life. I want to be more like that.

Day 331: 1/2 Thessalonians

It is a good reminder in chapter 2 to be gentle when sharing the gospel. Sometimes it is hard to reconcile bold and gentle in one act, but both are required.

4:11-12 is a good reminder concerning our jobs. How we do our job is a witness to others. "so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders."

Final instructions in many of the letters are like the grand finale of fireworks! They are like a whole bunch of really powerful statements one right after another.

• pray continually
• give thanks in all circumstances
• be joyful always
• test everything
• hold on to the good
• encourage the timid
• warn those who are idle
• help the weak
• be patient with everyone

Day 330: Acts 17-18:18

There is so much to be learned about evangelism in these chapters about Paul and others traveling around and spreading the Good News. He knows when to walk away. He knows when to find common ground with people. He knows how to approach those who are already "religious." He knows when to stick around and be persistent. My take away from this is that there is no mold for sharing your faith. You have to learn to read the situation and then adapt to that scenario.

Day 329: Galatians 4-6

I love that I am God's child and also an heir! (v. 7)

It is interesting to think about the sinful nature and the Spirit (chapter 5). "they are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want." Sometimes I can sense this battle going on in myself. Some people may just see it as 'weighing the pros and the cons', or decision making but I think there is more at play than that. This scripture says as much.

Day 328: Galatians 1-3

"Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ." Therein lies my problem so much of the time. I am too worried about what others will think. I am fearful of offending them with the gospel. Why??

If you read through chapter 3 very carefully and methodically, it makes a lot of sense concerning the law and the promise. "So the law was put in charge to lead us to Christ that we might be justified by faith. Now that faith has come, we are no longer under the supervision of the law."

Day 327: Acts 15-16

I think it is a good example that Paul and Barnabas wanted to go follow up with the churches they had started. Discipleship is a process not an event.

Great and familiar stories within these chapters.....Lydia's conversion, Paul and Silas praising God in prison with the resulting earthquake and conversion of the jailer, Timothy joining up with Paul and Silas.

Day 326: James

Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials. Wow, that is so hard to remember. It is not just saying be comforted by God's peace to get through tough things. We are supposed to consider it PURE JOY. That sure gets your attention at the beginning of this great book.

V. 15 desire.....sin.....death It is a progression that we need to be aware of every day.

Good reminders in chapter 2 about showing favoritism. I would love to be able to see all people with God's eyes. We have so many biases in the way we treat people.

One of the best claims in all of scripture: "I will show you my faith by what I do."

There are so many great verses in James. "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to you." "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective."

Day 325: Acts 13-14

I guess I don't remember the part about Paul being stoned and dragged out of the city because they thought he was dead! 7 chapters ago he was having Stephen stoned and here he is being stoned himself for the same cause of Christ. Amazing change!!

Day 324: Acts 11-12

I love the 12:5. "So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him." That verse alone shows the power of prayer. Just the word 'but' makes me see that it had an affect. And of course the rest of this chapter shows that it did!

I also love the scene when Peter shows up at the house where the believers are earnestly praying for him in prison. How awesome to see your prayer answered so clearly and so immediately.

"But the word of God continued to increase and spread." No matter what the situation, no matter what people who opposed the Christians did to them. Is the same true today?

Day 323: Acts 9-10

The concept of "persecuting God" caught my attention. The terms just don't seem to fit together. Persecuting to me means suffering and how can God suffer? But the context is when Saul is persecuting early Christians. Since these people in The Way are the "body of Christ", it makes perfect sense.

I think it is so typical that people were skeptical of Saul/Paul. They, like us, are so unwilling to believe that God really changes people. Yeah we use the sound bites of "new creation" and say we believe them, but so often we don't really think someone truly changes.

I love the way the whole vision with the clean and unclean animals and the story with Cornelius fit together. God uses different ways, sometimes simultaneously, to communicate things to us!

Day 322: Acts 7-8

As I read Stephen's account of most of Genesis and Exodus, it strikes me what a crazy story this all really is! And it also strikes me Who is at the center of all of it. Why should the story (which is still unfolding today) be any different? Because we make is different and fail to notice Who is at the center.

I think there are still people today who think they can "buy" their salvation like Simon the sorcerer.

Love the story of Philip and the Ethiopian. Great evangelism example.

Day 321: Acts 4-6

"When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished." Maybe simple people with great faith have more credibility than the "geniuses" of our society?

Love the prayer for boldness in chapter 4. Here are some suggestions for boldness from my notes:

1. Pray for the power of the Holy Spirit to give you courage.
2. Look for opportunities in your family and neighborhood to talk about Christ
3. Realize that rejection, social discomfort, and embarrassment are not necessarily persecution
4. Start where you are by being bolder in small ways.

Day 320: Acts 1-3

I love that when people heard about Jesus from Peter "they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other apostles 'Brothers, what shall we do?'" It is not enough for us to be sorry for our sins, we must let God forgive them, and then we must live like forgiven people. So many people miss this crucial next step.

What a powerful claim in 3:15. "You killed the author of life, but God raised him from the dead."

Day 319: Luke 24; John 20-21

I have heard that it is harder for scientists to have faith in God. And today we read Dr. Luke's account. All of his medical training must have screamed out to him that people who are dead DO NOT rise again. And yet we don't see any skepticism at all in this account.

Interesting that Luke does not include the Great Commission. But he does include the wonderful story of the travelers on the way to Emmaus.

I think John 20: 23 could be misinterpreted. It sounds like Jesus is giving the disciples the power to forgive sins. My notes say that Jesus was giving them the privilege of telling new believers that their sins have been forgiven because they have accepted Jesus' message. We have that very same privilege! Why don't I use it more?

Thank you God for the Gospels and the stories they hold so that we can know that Jesus is God and He is our way to You.

Day 318: Matthew 28; Mark 16

I am contemplating the concept inMatt 28:8. "afraid, yet filled with joy." I find it hard to reconcile experiencing these to things at once.

Sometimes I think I should hang cards printed with the great commission all over the place to remind me of this COMMAND. When someone is leaving or dying, their last words are very important. This was Jesus' final command to me.

What do you think it means in Mark 16:12? "Jesus appeared in a different form." My notes don't say anything about this.

Day 317: Luke 23; John 18-19

I find the whole process with Pilate and Herod interesting. They both seem like such cowards to me. And do you ever wonder what Barabbas went on to do after he was released? He was a murderer and just allowed to walk away.

Here is a note...The graphic detail of Jesus' death are especially important in John's record because he was an eyewitness.

Day 316: Matthew 27; Mark 15

Man, those chief priests sure weren't getting it right. Judas finally has remorse for what he has done, but rather than helping him to seek forgiveness for his sin, their response is "That's your responsibility." Obviously that didn't sit too well with Judas.

This story never gets old. As I read it this time, I am looking back at the 2 inches of pages I have just read this year and thinking about Christ's sacrifice as a part of the whole story. Everything was leading up to what just happened. And everything that happens from this page on, is filtered through the lens of what just happened. Powerful.

Pilate actually did a favor by posting those guards to make sure the body wasn't stolen! People today might still hold to that theory if Pilate hadn't placed those guards.

Day 315: John 14-17

Chapter 14 is the best teaching in the Bible on the trinity (without ever using the word trinity) in my opinion.

Concerning the vine and the branches, here is what my notes say: Christ is the vine, and God is the gardener who cares for the branches to make them fruitful. The branches are those who claim to be followers of Christ. The fruitful branches are true believers who by their living union with Christ produce much fruit. But those who become unproductive-those who turn back from following Christ after making a superficial commitment- will be separated from the vine. Unproductive followers are as good as dead and will be cut off and tossed aside. I am interested to see how eternal security fits into this. To me it sounds like those branches are connected to Christ at one point and then cut off.

I love "Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete." And "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

It is the verses in the middle of 17 where I know that Jesus explains why as believers we are so out of sync with the world. "They are not of the world any more than I am of the world." We are not supposed to feel totally at home and comfortable here.

The last part of 17 is Jesus praying for ME! How cool is that!!!!

Day 314: Luke 22; John 13

I picture the last supper as this really emotional time when Jesus gets to be with his disciples for the last time and share important things with them before he is killed. And what do the disciples do? Immediately they go down the path of which one of them will be greatest in the kingdom! But again Jesus seems to be patient in dealing with them. We are so egocentric, aren't we???

I find it interesting that only John includes the footwashing portion of the last supper. This was such a radical thing for the disciples to experience, yet it is only mentioned one time.

Day 313: Matthew 26; Mark 14

My notes point out that the act of Mary pouring perfume on Jesus and "wasting" a year's worth of salary may have been the proverbial straw that broke the camel's back for Judas. As treasurer, Judas was counting on an important position in Jesus' new government. But now he realized that this new kingdom was spiritual rather than physical or political. The betrayal seemed to be more of a political and financial play so he went that direction.

For some reason I had it in my head that Peter denying Christ happened after the crucifixion. My Bible has some really good notes for the details of how Peter denied Him, but I won't go into that.

Day 312: Matthew 5

These 3 parables each paint a part of the picture of what it means to be ready for Jesus' return and how to live until he comes.

10 Virgins = every person is responsible for his or her own spiritual condition

Loaned Money = necessity of using well what God has entrusted to us

Sheep and Goats = importance of serving others in need

I think the interesting thing about sheep and goats is that they can happily live alongside one another their whole lives...they eat the same food, enjoy the same lifestyle. It is not until it is time to be sheered, that they are separated out. Another place to look at this separation is Ezekiel 34:17-24.

Day 311: Matthew 24

Although this is pretty much the same reading as we did yesterday, a verse jumps out at me. "Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved." I think true love is becoming more and more rare in our world. We are selfish far more often than we are selfless. How can this person benefit me? What am I getting out of this relationship? No benefits?....move on. Here is what my notes say: With false teaching and loose morals comes a particularly destructive disease - the loss of true love for God and others. Sin cools your love for God and others by turning your focus on yourself. You cannot truly love if you think only of yourself.

Day 310: Mark 13

I think that all of this teaching by Jesus about the end times can be summed up in the last 2 verses of chapter 13. "If he comes suddenly, do not let him find you sleeping; What I say to you, I say to everyone: 'Watch!'" I don't want Jesus to show up and find me asleep at the wheel. Why do we live our lives like we have all the time in the world. I pray that I would live with more of a sense of urgency. This morning could be my last!!

Day 309: Matthew 23; Luke 20-21

I am reading the woes in Matthew 23 and looking for myself. Unfortunately I am finding me. I know there are areas of my life where the inside doesn't match the outside. I know I am a hypocrite at times. I know these things were not placed in the Bible just to show the hearts of the Pharisees....it was to warn us about doing the exact same things.

Day 308: Matthew 22:; Mark 12

In case you don't see it, here is the trap the religious leaders were setting for Jesus concerning paying taxes. If he said to pay the taxes, the Pharisees would say he was opposed to God, the only king they recognized. If he said to not pay the taxes, the Herodians would hand him over to Herod on the charge of rebellion. It seems like there is one trap after another along the way for Jesus. It's all about the timing, though.

My notes say that the Pharisees had classified over 600 laws. Jesus told them that basically if you obey the greatest commandment (Matt 22:37-40), you will obey them all. I'm sure this was too simplified for them to understand. They prided themselves on trying to follow 600 laws and they thought pretty highly of themselves in regards to keeping and enforcing them all.

Day 307: Mark 11; John 12

A note concerning the passage about asking for anything and it will be given to you: God will answer your prayers but not as a result of your positive mental attitude. Other conditions must be met: (1) you must be a believer, (2) you must not hold a grudge against another person, (3) you must not pray with selfish motives, and (4) your request must be for the good of God's kingdom. To pray effectively, you need faith in God, not faith in the object of your request. If you focus only on your request, you will be left with nothing if your request is refused. Interesting.

The fact that they wanted to kill Lazarus as well (John 12:10) shows how desperate they were becoming. They had sunk so far into sin that they don't even seem to be thinking rationally anymore. What had Lazarus done wrong?

Day 306: Luke 18:15-19:48

The rich young man's immediate response to selling everything he has is what jumps out at me this time. "When he heard this, he became very sad, because he was a man of great wealth." I used to hold on to my stuff much tighter, having not grown up with a lot of extra. But now giving doesn't make me sad. In fact I think I could give a whole lot more away than I do and it would be exciting! I read a great book by Randy Alcorn called the Treasure Principle and it has really changed my views on earthly possessions and money.

The people were probably not happy to hear that Zacchaeus was both a son of Abraham and lost. To them heritage was everything. In Christ's kingdom, your earthly ancestry is irrelevant. God has no grandchildren, only children is a true statement.

The parable of the king's 10 servants is always a convicting one. What am I doing with all the resources the king has given me? He is returning.....how will he respond with how I have used his resources?

Day 305: Matthew 20-21

Love the parable of the workers paid equally. NONE of us deserve to be saved. Why do we think we deserve anything we get in this life or the next?

I think people who get upset when we sell things in the church need to look closer at the story of Jesus clearing the temple. The automatically think this story supports their argument. I don't think it does. These people were corrupt and taking advantage of the worshipers. When we are selling things it is to support mission work or to advance ministry. No one is being taken advantage of.

"If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer." I think the stronger our belief, the more likely our prayers will be in line with God's will, and then God will be happy to grant them.

Day 304: Matthew 19, Mark 10

So I am reminded that any man who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, and marries another woman commits adultery. Yet, the vast majority of people who divorce, do so for other reasons. I am assuming that this only applies to believers. I think that people who divorce so easily do not buy into the who "become one flesh" things. God was serious about this and our vows should be vows. Man, people are selfish!

I am rich. The whole camel through the eye of a needle thing scares me sometimes. Am I doing enough? Not that there is an "enough", but am I doing what God wants me to do?

Do you wonder who WILL be seated at the left and right of Jesus in heaven? Do you think it will be James and John?

Day 303: Luke 17:11-18:14

Jesus points out again and again, through stories and through situations that God's grace is for everybody. By once again pointing out that a Samaritan was the healed leper who was thankful, he was once again throwing it in the faces of those who believed that God's grace was just for the Jews.

The 2 men who prayed in chapter 18 were SO different. I wonder how humble my prayers are?

Day 302: John 11

I love how Jesus knew that Lazarus would be alive again and he still was deeply moved in spirit and troubled and even wept. My notes say this could have been one of 2 things: he empathized with their grief OR he was troubled at their unbelief. I believe it was the first. Anyone who does not associate deep emotions with God is missing such an important characteristic. So many people equate emotions with weakness. I guess I think just the opposite.

I chuckle at the brief prayer right before Jesus calls Lazarus from the tomb. It's like he is saying "Hey dad, I know we are together on this thing, but I need to say this just because other people are watching me right now." Cute.

Day 301: Luke 16-17:10

I had to definitely read the footnotes on this parable about the shrewd manager. It just wasn't clicking for me this morning.

I am really pondering the verse that says you cannot serve God and money. What does serving money look like in MY life. I know I am guilty of it, but sometimes it is such a grey area....how much is too much? Wants vs. needs? Planning for the future vs. hoarding? Then Jesus says this which really gets me: "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's sight." I think I can justify a WHOLE lot.

Day 300: Luke 14-15

When Jesus teaches about seeking honor in chapter 14, there are 21 good lessons. (1) Service is more important than status, and (2) God opens his kingdom to everyone. Still good lessons for us.

Concerning counting the cost before becoming a disciple of Jesus....I'm not sure I, or anyone I know, truly knew what signing on for Jesus entailed. Maybe some people who are very knowledgeable or people who know they will suffer for their faith have a clue of what the cost is, but I think in general it is a process of learning after you turn your life over.

I love the "lost" parables in Luke 15. Here is a good note: In the first 2 stories, the seeker actively looked for the coin and the sheep, which could not return by themselves. In the 3rd story, the father watched and waited. He was dealing with a human being with a will of his own. Like the father in this story, God waits patiently for us to come to our senses.

Day 299: Luke 12-13

When Jesus gives the example of the rich man who stores up so much treasure so he won't have to work any more, what do you think that says about how we save for retirement? That has always kind of puzzled me.

And then He goes straight into the section about worrying about how our needs will be supplied. It is such a blurred line between good planning/stewardship and worry/oversaving.

I love when Jesus calls Herod "that fox"!! Funny..

Day 298: Luke 10-11; John 10:22-42

A good note on 10:2. In Christian service, there is no unemployment. God has enough work for everyone. Don't just sit back and watch others work - look for ways to help with the harvest.

I feel like 10:17-24 is a little glimpse into one of the really special moments between Jesus and his followers. It was definitely a high point for the 72 who returned from ministry. And I just LOVE Jesus' response.

Concerning how Jesus tells us in 11:8 to be bold in prayer, here is an EXCELLENT note: Persistence, or boldness, in prayer overcomes our insensitivity, not God's. To practice persistence does more to change our hearts and minds than his, and it helps us understand and express the intensity of our need. Persistence in prayer helps us recognize God's work.

Day 297: John 9:1-10:21

I love this note from my Bible concerning the disciples questioning why a man was born blind: If God took suffering away whenever we asked, we would follow him for comfort and convenience, not out of love and devotion. When you suffer from a disease, tragedy, or disability, try not to ask, "Why did this happen to me?" or "What did I do wrong?" Instead, ask God to give you strength for the trial and a clearer perspective on what is happening. But in my opinion, we may never get that clearer perspective.

I love this part about the shepherd and the sheep. I was listening to a pastor on the radio the other day teaching on this. He said that sheep have 4 main characteristics. They are DUMB (you never see a sheep trained for the circus). They are DIRTY (they have no way to keep themselves clean). They are DIRECTIONLESS (they will wander around with no real goal or destination or purpose). And they are DEFENSELESS (they have no way to protect themselves against predators). I thought WOW! That is so like me! If we look at ourselves with these 4 characteristics in mind, no wonder we so desperately need a shepherd! People that lived in that culture probably understood this analogy far more that people living in a city and maybe seeing a sheep at a petting zoo do. I am so thankful that I have a good shepherd directing my life!

Day 296: John 7-8

In chapter 7, I can just imagine Jesus getting more and more frustrated with the Jews at the feast. I'm not sure most men would have been able to hold it together!

In case you don't understand how the Pharisees and teachers of the law were trying to trap Jesus in chapter 8 with the woman caught in adultery, here is what my note says:

The leaders were using the woman as a trap so they could trick Jesus. If Jesus said the woman should not be stoned, they wold accuse Jesus of violating Moses' law. If he urged them to execute her, they would report him to the Romans, who did not permit the Jews to carry out their own executions.

"Before Abraham was born, I am." I love that statement! (I bet the grammar teachers are stumped by it though!)

Day 295: Matthew 18

As I read Matt 18:15-20, I am struck by the phrase "If your brother sins against you". I think these verses have always been used to support confrontation of sin in general. Is that accurate? Or does this method of confrontation only apply when the sin is against me personally? Hmmm.

The Parable of the unforgiving debtor always hits me square between the eyes when I read it. I think a lot of it comes down to having varying degrees of sin in my mind. Someone does something to me "bigger" than what I think I have been personally forgiven by God for, and therefore I am hesitant to forgive. This is dead wrong.

Day 294: Matthew 17; Mark 9; Luke 9:28-62

I think many people use the story about the disciples not being able to drive a demon out because they don't have enough faith as the basis for their argument 'some people don't get well, because they don't have enough faith.' I'm not sure this is the same thing and may be one of the most dangerous misuses of scripture. I have heard people say this about others and it always rubs me the wrong way, although I am not sure how to accurately respond.

Good note on Mark 9:24. "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!" The attitude of trust and confidence that the Bible calls belief or faith is not something we can obtain without help. Faith is a gift from God. No matter how much faith we have, we never reach the point of being self-sufficient. Faith is not stored away like money in the bank. Growing in faith is a constant process of daily renewing our trust in Jesus.

Day 293: Matthew 16; Mark 8; Luke 9:18-27

Apparently the Pharisees and Sadducees weren't satisfied with all the miracles Jesus was performing and they wanted bigger and better. Jesus knew, though, that they wouldn't believe no matter what her performed.

I am surprised Jesus didn't want to just shake the disciples in 16:5-12. They probably thought they were doing such a good job remembering the loaves and fishes, when that had nothing to do with what Jesus was telling them!

"For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me and for the gospel will save it."

Day 292: Matthew 15; Mark 7

A good note about the the first section in Matt 15: We work hard to keep our outward appearance attractive,m but what is in our hearts is even more important. The way we are deep down (where others can't see) matters much to God. What are you like inside? When people become Christians, God makes them different on the inside. He will continue the process of change inside them if they only ask. God wants us to seek healthy thoughts and motives, not just healthy food and exercise.

Day 291: John 6

I think too often, like Philip, I limit myself by practicality. Philip's response with feeding the thousands was, "We don't have that kind of money." I think too often I think too small, and I don't allow for room for God to act in a situation.

It must have been such a radical thing for the people to hear that all they had to do was "to believe in the one he has sent." Up to this point, there was so much that was required by the law. This must have seemed 'too easy' to them and therefore unbelievable. But then he goes into the whole 'eat my flesh and drink my blood' speech, which probably totally blew their minds!

Day 290: Matthew 14; Mark 6; Luke 9:1-17

I love the story of walking on water. "Then those who were in the boat worshipped him, saying, 'Truly you are the Son of God.'" Can you image worshipping Jesus as He stands right in front of you? How cool that is going to be some day!

It is so hard to look at these stories from this angle and wonder why the disciples didn't get it. "They were completely amazed, for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened." But then I wonder if the disciples aren't looking at me from "their angle" and wondering why I don't get things and why I miss so many opportunities and things that God has for me.

Day 289: Matthew 9-10

In the story at the beginning of chapter 9, I notice that Jesus' main concern is the man's spiritual health, rather than his physical health. I need to be reminded of this, especially when people are suffering physically. As consuming as pain can be, there is still something much more important.

I am thinking about the instructions Jesus gives to the 12. Basically he is telling them that if people don't listen to your words or welcome you (or your message), you should move on. What does this say to us about being persistent with people who continue to say no to God? Are we supposed to or is there a better way to spend that time?

And shrewd as snake and gentle as doves. THERE is a tough balance.

Day 288: Matthew 8:14-34; Mark 4-5

It's hard to comment on much when we are reading what we just read in the other Gospels.

I really enjoy these stories of miraculous healings that Jesus performed. I especially like the 2 that are interwoven in Mark 5: Jarius's daughter and the woman who touches Christ's garment. I also really like Jesus' words. "Don't be afraid; just believe."

Day 287: Matthew 13; Luke 8

Matthew 13:15 seems so appropriate for people that I know today. "For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them."

I'm sure that the Pharisees did not like hearing that that the kingdom of heaven is like yeast. In the Old Testament, yeast was not symbolically a good thing from what I recall.

Luke 8:18 "Therefore consider carefully how you listen." Interesting thought.

I think Jesus' response the main healed fro demons is cool. The man wants to then start traveling with Jesus, but Jesus tells him to "Return home and tell how much God has done for you." So often I am tempted to hang with 'church people.' They are who I feel most connected with. But that is not necessarily who God want me to spend all my time with.

Day 286: Matthew 12:22-50; Luke 11

"He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters." Another statement that highlights the absolutes in God's kingdom. You can't be lukewarm or just 'play the God game' sometimes. It is ALL IN. The alternative? You are against God.

I think Jesus' response to the woman who called out in Luke 11:27-28 illustrates that our relationship God is far more important than that with our family on earth. Unfortunately, unbelievers don't get this and it can cause a lot of heartache.

Day 285: Matthew 11

I can relate to John the Baptist having doubts. In those dark times (John is in prison), your mind starts to wander and question. I think the good thing is that John still turns to Jesus to be reminded of who he is.

It is interesting that we are skipping around within the gospels. I guess I always assumed that they were written chronologically.

Day 284: Matthew 8:1-13; Luke 7

I am thinking about Luke 7:4-6. "This man deserves to have you do this (be healed) because he loves our nation and has built our synagogue." I am assuming that these our just outward signs of the man's faith in God, but it still kind of bugs me because it implies that we "deserve" anything good at all from God. My notes don't really say anything about this, but I would be curious if anyone knows more.

Love the story of the woman annointing Jesus' feet and his response to her and to the Pharisee's.

Day 283: Matthew 5-7

Some good notes on the Sermon on the Mount: In it, Jesus proclaimed his attitude toward the law. Position, authority, and money are not important in his kingdom-what matters is faithful obedience from the heart. The Sermon on the Mount challenged the proud and legalistic leaders of the day. It called them back to the messages of the Old Testament prophets who, like Jesus, taught that heartfelt obedience is more important than legalistic observance.

How radical it must have seemed (and still seems?) that sinning happens in our thoughts. Things like anger and lust. I think many self-righteous people just skip over this part of His teachings. "I'm not hurting others, so what is the harm...." Maybe it is just me, but I was struck recently by how incredible it is that God "hears" all my thoughts. I was praying silently, and thought...God is hearing me!!! I don't think science will ever advance to the point where we can totally mind-read, yet God knows all of this stuff! Sorry....maybe I'm the only one who is amazed by this stuff.

I am reminded again about the importance of not doing things to receive any type of "earthly acclaim". How often does this motivate me? It says that when we do, we receive NO reward from our Father in heaven.

It is interesting how certain parts of this sermon speak louder to me than others. I am sure it is because they are things that I am not winning at right now in my life. It really is a narrow gate...isn't it?

Day 282: Matthew 12:1-21; Mark 3; Luke 6

Based on the wheat on the Sabbath incident, it makes it sound like the Pharisees were literally following Jesus and the disciples around. I can picture them taking a shortcut through a wheat field, grabbing a snack on the way and these old Pharisees peaking through the rows of wheat, saying "Aha! We caught you!!!" If it wasn't so pathetic, it would be amusing.

Somehow I don't remember reading Mark 3:20-21. His family came to get him and take charge of him and told people "He is out of his mind." I knew they didn't really recognize who he was during these times, but this is interesting. I have to think how his family felt at the end of chapter 3 when he basically puts other believers 'above' his own birth family.

Luke 6:30 is making me stop and think. "Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back." This is pretty radical and extreme. I'm not sure a day goes by when I don't hear about a need or a request for money or something.

Love this: "For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks."

Day 281: John 5

I find it interesting that the man by the pool who was healed had no idea who Jesus was, even after he was healed and questioned by others. I thought belief in the "healer" was required. Hmmm. The Jews then, when confronted with both a miracle and a broken law (Sabbath), chose to focus on the law. How many miracles do we miss because we are trying to make things fit into our neat orderly way of viewing life?

I find these verses very convicting: "You diligently study the scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life." Heart knowledge should trump head knowledge. Actions should trump study.

Day 280: Mark 2

I can see why they thought Jesus was being blasphemous by forgiving people's sins. If you didn't believe the guy was God, that is just not something that people would be claiming.

I think it is so amusing that the Pharisees referred to people as "sinners". As if they themselves were not sinners. I think some Christians even hold to that thought process today. "there are sinners and there are believers." Yikes.....slippery slope and scary outlook if you ask me.

Day 279: John 2-4

"Then they believed the Scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken." After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. They must have had a ton of 'aha!' moments after the resurrection.

When Jesus told Nicodemus that he must be born again to see the kingdom of heaven, this was a radical idea for the times. (And it really still is if you think about it!) It was revolutionary that the kingdom was personal, not national or ethnic, and its entrance requirements are repentance and spiritual rebirth.

There is just so much in the paragraph in John 3 (16-21). I can sit for an hour and just meditate and think about these verses.

John the Baptist speaking at the end of chapter 3 shows such great humility, summed up in the statement "He must become greater; I must become less." I have been around several Christian leaders who this was definitely not the case for.

I wonder if the Samaritan woman is the first non-Jew to have a life changing encounter with Christ.

Day 278: Matthew 4; Luke 4-5; John 1:15-51

Wow, the crowd sure changed in Luke 4. In v. 22 all spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words. In v. 28 they were furious and wanted to throw him off a cliff! Why the change? basically he was telling them that sometimes God chose to reach Gentiles rather than Jews. Why do we sometimes not want everyone to be saved?

I am thinking about Simon Peter's reaction to Jesus causing them to catch so many fish. "Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!" When something happens in my life that can only be a result of God, is my first reaction to see my shortcomings in light of God's perfection? Should it be?

"But Jesus often withdrew to quiet places and prayed." Often. I want to be more like that.

Day 277: Matthew 3; Mark 1; Luke 3

From notes: Why did John attract so many people? He was the first true prophet in 400 years! He had strong words for his audience - they too were sinners and needed to repent. The people were expecting a prophet like Elijah and John seemed to be the one.

The book of Mark just jumps right into things, doesn't it? By the end of chapter 1, already so much has happened! I love the stories of one healing after another. I think we tend to become desensitized to this stuff that we have heard so many times. But it is amazing!

A note...Matthew's genealogy goes back to Abraham and shows that Jesus was related to all Jews. Luke's genealogy goes back to Adam, showing that Jesus is related to all humans. This is consistent with Luke's picture of Jesus as the Savior of the whole world.

Day 276: Matthew 2; Luke 2:39-52

Maybe you have heard this before but scholars think there is read significance in the 3 gifts the Magi brought to Jesus. Gold was a gift for a king, incense was a gift for a deity, and myrrh was a gift for a person who was going to die. These gifts may have provided the financial resources for the trip to Egypt and back.

I always enjoy this one and only story we have about Jesus as a 12 year old kid. Somehow it helps with my view of His human-ness.

Day 275:Matthew 1; Luke 2:1-38

An interesting note: Matthew breaks Israel's history into 3 sets of 14 generations, but there were probably more generations than those listed here. Genealogies often compressed history, meaning that not every generation of ancestors was specifically listed. Thus the phrase the father of can also be translated "the ancestor of." Hmmm...I have never heard this before. But I did feel like I recognized many more names in this list this time!

As I read in Luke, I am struck again just how amazing this is!!! "Today in the in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord." A baby who is God. We should constantly be amazed at this!!!!

Day 274: Luke 1; John 1:1-14

After reading the OT for the last 9 months and seeing the story unfold, I can definitely see why they called these books Gospels or Good News! So much stuff we had to go through to get to this point. But then, look how much that same "stuff" extends on the other end of the cross as well. I really am getting a good glimpse at how the whole story of God's creation on earth reads. Even though I know the end of the story (I feel like I peeked at the end of a good fiction book!), the process leading up to that ending is just as important and not to ever be missed. I love it!

This part of John that we read today is some of my favorite scripture. At first it sounds kind of confusing to read, but there is so much contained in these 14 verses.

Day 273: Malachi

Can you believe it!?! If you are reading this, I assume you are right there with me and we have read the entire Old Testament! I have loved the journey. For me, reading chronologically has been the coolest thing....to get the whole story, the way it unfolded. I am quite excited to move on to the New Testament. Hmmmm....after 9 months we are going to have a baby tomorrow! HA! Okay, on to Malachi....

In chapter 1 the sacrifices were displeasing to God because the people were (1) trying to be as cheap as possible, (2) not caring how they offered a sacrifice, and (3) being outright disobedient to what God required. I wonder which of these I am most guilty of. Is this how God views our offerings when when begrudgingly throw $20 in the offering plate because it is all we think we can afford after we just went and spent $50 at a restaurant the night before?

God was really angry with the priests and rightly so. When people look to you to learn God's will, that is a huge responsibility!

"I hate divorce." It doesn't get any clearer than that.

Why can't more people accept God's challenge concerning tithing in 3:10? He tells us to test Him! When he says "He will throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. All the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land." Who doesn't want that!?!??!

See you in a few hundred years.....tomorrow.

Day 272: Nehemiah 11-13; Psalms 126

I imagine the celebration and dedication of the wall was similar to that of completing the temple. It was a time of fresh starts and new hope for the people. I was surprised to read that Nehemiah was not there for the dedication and celebration! Then when he returns to Jerusalem he finds things already getting messed up. It sure doesn't take long. I do have to admire Nehemiah for his boldness in confronting sin.

Day 271: Nehemiah 8-10

I love that they didn't just read the law. They 'made it clear and gave the meaning to that the people could understand what was being read.' Then the people wept at hearing God's Word. Why? Because they were convicted and realized how far from the mark they were. Do I experience that same conviction on a regular basis?

An interesting concept of public confession in chapter 9...

Day 270: Nehemiah 6-7

Sanballat and Tobiah were trying all kinds of schemes to make sure that wall didn't get completed! First they tried to attack his character and then they tried to get him to break the law by entering the temple to hide. I wonder how non-believers today try to thwart our plans when we are doing God's work. I'm not so sure they set out knowingly to get in God's way, but just be not understanding why we do what we do, they may ridicule or discourage us. Hmmm.

Day 269: Nehemiah 1-5

This is the last of the historical books in the Old Testament. It records the history of the 3rd return to Jerusalem after captivity, telling how the walls were rebuilt and the people were renewed in their faith.

The prayer in chapter 1 is a great illustration of effective prayer. My notes point out that it includes (1) praise, (2) thanksgiving, (3) repentance, (4) specific request, and (5) commitment.

Kind of impressive in chapter 3 when we hear that the high priest jumps right in and helps with building! I like a leader who isn't to great to get down into the trenches. Then at the end of chapter 5 it says that Nehemiah was also in there doing labor. He wasn't just the general contractor...he was doing whatever it took to get this job accomplished.

Day 268: Ezra 7-10

Ezra returned to the land with a 2nd group of exiles, 80 years after Zerubbabel. Ezra found the temple rebuilt, but the lives of the people in shambles. Ezra rayed for guidance and then followed through with action.

As I read the chapter on intermarriage, I see how this can sometimes be taken out of context. God does not oppose us marrying people of other cultures. He is against marrying non-believers. I think Ezra's prayer in 9 is a good example of praying for the sins of others. Ezra was probably not guilty of these sins, but yet he prayed "we" and "us".

Day 267: Esther 6-10

What an amazing story this is to read. And since we recently learned that fictional writing didn't even exist during this time period, we can know this really happened. It definitely does have that Hollywood feel to it though, doesn't it?

My Bible has a really cool chart entitled How God Works in the World which draws from Esther. It is too much too post here, but if you have a Life Application Bible, check it out.

Day 266: Esther 1-5

An interesting fact about this book: No name, title, or pronoun for God appears in it. This caused some church fathers to question its inclusion in the canon. But God's presence is clear throughout the book. It is a story of the profound interplay of God's sovereignty and human will.

I love the verse that is probably the most famous from this book: 4:14. "And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?" That same line could be said to all of us in so many situations. God places us in circumstances and places for specific purposes....His purposes. It is up to us to be tuned in and to ACT!

I am loving the drama as it unfolds....can't wait to see what happens tomorrow.

Day 265: Zechariah 8-14

Again, I love 8:2. "I am very jealous for Zion; I am burning with jealousy for her." Verses like this just let me know how much I am loved by God.

According to my notes, Zechariah gave several prophecies about Israel's future, which describe the 1st and 2nd coming of Christ. This book contains more about eh person, work and glory of Christ than the other minor prophets combined.

Day 264: Zechariah 1-7

"Return to me," declares the Lord Almighty, "and I will return to you." As it always is with God, we need to make the first step.

I love the symbolism in chapter 3. Satan standing beside Joshua the priest and he is clothed in dirty garments while Satan is pointing out his sins. But because Joshua is repentant and turning to God, God forgives his sins and gives him rich new beautiful garments! LOVE IT!

Towards the end of chapter 6, it talks about the Branch (messiah) who will come and that he will be a priest-king. This was a foreign concept to them because they had always had a king to rule their nation's political life and a priest to rule its religious life.

"When I called, they did not listen; so when they called I would not listen." How can people expect God to just come running to meet their dire needs when He has been calling them all along and they don't listen?

Day 263: Haggai

This little book has always spoke powerfully to me about priorities and getting them straight. Just like the Israelites were putting their own homes and comfort before serving God (by re-building the temple), I too often do the same kinds of things. The result in Haggai is being dissatisfied with their 'stuff'. I think the same is true for me. If I get caught up in stuff that really has little to do with God, I am rarely satisfied and often want more.

Day 262: Ezra 4-6; Psalm 137

I am picturing the half built temple and all kinds of complications that arise. At one point (end of chapter 4) my notes point out that 10 years went by. I think I have some projects like that around my house! As I read through chapter 5, it sounds like they are asking for a copy of the building permit from King Darius. Kind of humorous.

Day 261: Ezra 1-3

Some day I am going to have figure out why the books of the Bible are in the order they are. We jumped back really far to get to Ezra and yet it is still chronological.

The Israelites who returned from exile were "everyone whose heart God had moved." My notes say that inner changes lead to faithful actions. The captives had been humbled and 'purified' to continue in God's ultimate plan.

At the end of chapter 3, I am trying to imagine what the worship was like with the shouts of joy and the sound of weeping all running together. The Holy Spirit can stimulate us both to rejoice over the goodness of his grace and to grieve over the sins that require him to correct us. When we come into the presence of Almighty God, we may feel full of joy and thanksgiving, yet at the same time feel sobered by our shortcomings.

Day 260: Daniel 10-12

I am fascinated with the idea that each country has a "prince". These are evil angelic 'princes', or demons. And then there are 'good' angels who re going to battle with them. I'm sure some of this was motivation for Frank Paretti and Randy Alcorn's books. Both, whom I really enjoy.

I am totally lost as I read chapter 11.

Day 259: Daniel 7-9

Whew! Thank you for footnotes! Upon reading through chapter 7, I would not have had a clue what everything represented. Even the section entitled "interpretation of the dream" is confusing to me. I do definitely recognize the switch to end times prophecy which is in there though.

Don't be confused in 8:17. The 'time of the end' is not end times like I originally thought. It refers to the period of time from the end of the exile until the 2nd coming of Christ. i.e. the period we are still in. Interesting.

I really like Daniel's prayer in chapter 9. What a great example.

Day 258: Daniel 4-6

Nebuchadnezzar sounded like he was praising God, but he did not believe in Him completely or submit to Him alone. My notes say profession doesn't always mean possession.

How hard must it have been for Daniel to interpret to the kings such bad news from the interpretation of dreams! I think I would have been tempted to just keep my mouth shut or make something positive up since they could have me killed if they wanted to.

I love the lion's den story! "May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!"

Day 257: Daniel 1-3

Okay, we get 2 days of Daniel that are easier to understand and then 2 days that I think are somewhat challenging. I had some friends who did a 6 month Kay Arthur study of Daniel and they told me how difficult it was. We'll see....

Don't know if it is helpful or not, but here is what my Bible says the purpose of this book is:

To give a historical account of the faithful Jews who lived in captivity and to show how God is in control of heaven and earth, directing the forces of nature, the destiny of the nations, and the care of his people.

How demeaning to have your name changed! Daniel meant 'God is my judge' and his new name, Beltshazzar meant 'Bel, protects his life' (Bel was the chief Babylonian god). It was similar for his 3 friends as well.

I love how the first thing Daniel did when given a difficult task (interpreting the king's dream) was to pray. And not only that, but get your friends to pray with you. And then he makes sure he lets the king know that the interpretation is only possible with God's help.

We get some false hope for Nebuchadnezzar when he gives honor to Daniel's God. If only this was enough to turn him around...but the very next thing he did was build a huge idol to be worshiped.

LOVE the fiery furnace story.

Day 256: Joel

Actual locusts or an invading army? I think Joel could be seeing either one.

Love this: Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.

I thought 2:28-32 sounded familiar. This is what Peter quotes in Acts concerning Pentecost and the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Joel talks about the 'Valley of decision' in 3:14. This is a good way to view earth, then and now. Every single person who has ever lived has to at some point in their life make a decision for our against God.

Day 255: Ezekiel 46-48

I am so glad that worship is not as rigid and "strict" as it was in chapter 46. I think some people still cling to this somewhat by wanting old-style ritualistic worship services...as if somehow God will only find worship acceptable if done in a particular way. They are so much more concerned with externals than internals.

I love the ending of this book! And the name of the city from that time on will be: THE LORD IS THERE.

Here is the conclusion from my notes:

The book of Ezekiel begins by describing the holiness of God that Israel had despised and ignored. As a result, God's presence departed from the temple, the city and the people. The book ends with a detailed version of the new temple, the new city and the new people-all demonstrating God's holiness. The pressures of everyday life may persuade us to focus on the here and now and thus forget God. That is why worship is so important; it takes our eyes off our current worries, gives us a glimpse of God's holiness, and allows us to look toward his future kingdom. God's presence makes everything glorious, and worship brings us into his presence.

Thanks Zeke....well done.

Day 254: Ezekiel 44-45

44:4  "I looked and saw the glory of the Lord filling the temple of the Lord, and I feel face down."  As I think about this, I wonder when the last time was that I truly worshiped God with absolutely every part of my being?  Outside thoughts tend to creep into my head and there is always a part of me that I hold back.

It seems that in these chapters, God is retraining his people concerning worship.  It really doesn't seem to be anything new or different than back in Leviticus, but now that they have learned their lesson through the exile, they basically have to start from scratch.

Day 253: Ezekiel 42-43

Ezekiel was so privileged to see what he saw.  It must have been so overwhelming to "see" so much suffering and judgment, but the joy he must have experienced when he "saw" God's glory return to the temple and the people!

My notes say that 43:18-27 was a vision that simultaneously flashes back to Mount Sinai and forward to Mount Calvary.  Cool.  When the people returned from exile, they would seek forgiveness through the sacrificial system instituted in Moses' day.  Today, Christ's death has made the forgiveness of our sins possible, making us acceptable to God.

Day 252: Ezekiel 40-141

There is lots of speculation as to whether the temple described is a literal temple or symbolic of either the true worship of God by the Christian church right now or symbolic of the future and eternal reign of God when his presence and blessing fill the earth.  To me it seems pretty descriptive if it is symbolic.  Hmmm.  Plus I'm not sure how it can describe the future when it talks about sacrifices....we don't and won't need those anymore.

Day 251: Ezekiel 38-39

My notes helped to clarify who Gog is.  Well, actually they say there are differing views on this account.  It may happen at the end of human history.  Gog may be be a symbol of all the evil in the world.  Whether symbolic or literal, Gog represents the aggregate military might of all the forces opposed to God.  Regardless of when this battle will occur, the message is clear:  God will deliver his people-no enemy can stand before his mighty power.  As I read through this, I think about all who have come against Israel as a people and a nation, yet they still stand today.  Yet ANOTHER proof that God is true and his Word is accurate.

The last 2 verses of 39 are a great promise.  My notes say that this speaks of Pentecost.

Day 250: Ezekiel 35-37

One of the biggest claims against Edom was that they rejoiced when God's people suffered.  Do I ever secretly rejoice when something bad happens to someone, just because I think they deserve it?

In chapter 36, my notes say that the mountains of Israel were symbolic of Israel's strength.  God promises to make them 'prosper more than before.'  I think that even after a trial in our lives, we usually come out on the other side even better than before the trial happened.  God ultimately wants the best for us.

In 36:21-23, I learned that God did not punish Israel as much for their sake, as He did for the reputation of His holy name.  Ultimately, he wanted the whole world to come to Him, and if they though Israel could do whatever they wanted, then they would not have a very high view of God.  Interesting.

I love the promises that God makes at the end of chapter 37.

Day 249: Ezekiel 32-34

I like the title of this section beginning in chapter 33!  Messages of Hope (chapters 33-48).  I feel like we are ready for some of that after the last 32 chapters.  Although, I guess in a way even the first part of Ezekiel gives me hope because it reminds me that God will judge and punish evil.

33: 31-32 are convicting.  It really speaks to hypocrisy.  And also to why I think, unfortunately, many people come to church.  My notes ask this question: Have you reduced church services to the level of entertainment, or does your worship truly have an impact on your life?

Chapter 34 speaks of leaders who take care of themselves far better than they care for their flock.  Of course we know that God will soon send them a perfect shepherd for His flock!

Day 248: Ezekiel 28-31

A first in chapter 28 this just seems like it is just another prophecy about a kingdom or a king, but it is evident that Zeke is talking about Satan.  Of course my footnotes and a previous Bible study helped me figure this out.  :-)

Interesting thoughts when I read about the sin Egypt committed by saying "The Nile is mine; I made it."  We are so guilty of the exact same thing.  We thing we earned everything we own.  We deserve it, we worked for it, and then we cling too tightly to it and it becomes a great source of pride.

Day 247: Ezekiel 24-27

Killing Ezekiel's wife was a symbolic act and Ezekiel was not aloud to grieve.  I find this odd.  And what an obedient guy!

The prophecies in 25 end with the statement "Then they will know that I am the Lord."  They needed to see that God wasn't just doing all of this for His pleasure or just to 'be mean.'  He had an ultimate purpose.  That that might know who He is..... and that they would KNOW Him.

Tyre was guilty of pride.  foot note: "Unwarranted conceit or pride in our own accomplishments should be a danger signal to us.  God is not against our finding pleasure or satisfaction in what we do; he is against arrogant, inflated self-esteem that looks down on others.  We must acknowledge God as the basis and source of our lives.

Day 246:Ezekiel 22-23

In chapter 22 it says that God will make Jerusalem an object of scorn to the nations and a laughingstock to all the countries.  I wonder how these others viewed them.  I can't imagine it did much to point them towards God.  But then again at this stage in history, I think it was all about Israel.

A strong image of God's refining furnace and calling the people dross.

Wow.  Chapter 23 is a powerful allegory for what Jerusalem and Samaria had been doing and how God viewed it.

Day 245: Ezaekiel 20-21

Chapter 20 is a good reminder of all the times that God could have (and maybe should have) given up on the Israelites for their rebellious ways and idolatry.  I'm sure that this story could continue on through history and God could say the same thing for every generation since Ezekiel.  His mercy never ceases to amaze me.  We so take it for granted!

Day 244: Ezekiel 18-19

Chapter 18 makes me think of people I have known who excuse sin in their life because of a previous generation.  Sure, I know there can be consequences that can carry on to children, but I think Ezekiel clearly states that a person's salvation is entirely up to him.  It is no different than we saw in the cycle of good and bad kings.  Each person must decide for himself whether they will follow God or choose another path.

In case you don't have footnotes for chapter 19:

lioness = kingdom of Judah

1st cub = King Jehoahaz

2nd cub = either King Jehoachin or King Zedekiah

This illustration showed that for Judah, there was no hope for a quick return from exile, and no escape from the approaching Babylonian armies.

Day 243: Ezekiel 16-17

The allegory in chapter 16 reminds me of a book I read years ago by Kay Arthur called Israel, My Beloved.  She took the whole story of God and Israel and personified it into a love tory between 2 people.

I think stories like this really bring home to me how hurtful sin and idolatry are to God.  We tend to think that God is so powerful that any little thing I do can't really possibly hurt God or make him jealous.  But reading stories like this remind me of how in love God is with me and what He did to make me His.  How could sin NOT be a big deal!?!?!

I had to read the footnotes for the eagle story to get who it was talking about.

Day 242: Ezekiel 13-15

Can you imagine how hard your job would be if you were a true prophet of God and all these other people were going around making claims like "The Lord declares...." but spreading lies?  The people must have been so confused!  No wonder they chose to listen to the ones they wanted to hear rather than the tough message!  We have truth on our side today, but we are also fighting so many conflicting messages, that at times probably sounds way more appealing.

Day 241: Ezekiel 9-12

I find the whole marking of God followers vs. those who are not in chapter 9 interesting.  Just like marking the doorpost at the first passover, just like the markings at the end of time for believers and for followers of Satan.

A note: "God's glory departed from the temple and was never completely present again until Christ himself visited in in New Testament times.  God's holiness required that he leave the temple because people had so defiled it.  God had to completely destroy what people had perverted in order for true worship to be revived."  This shows me that sinful areas of my life have to be COMPLETELY excised in order for God to fill in those spaces.

Day 240: Ezekiel 5-8

"Then they will know that I am Lord." (6:14)  What will it take today for people to realize that God is who He says he is?  

I feel like I am beginning to really understand idolatry better as I am reading through the Old Testament this time.  It is brought up so often that it so clear how much God hates it.  Now the real challenge is determining what the idols are in my life and working, with God's help, to eliminate them.

As God shows Ezekiel scene after scene in chapter 8, my footnote asks this question:  "How comfortable would you feel if God held an open house in your life today?

Day 239: Ezekiel 1-4

Settle in and get comfortable.  Looks like we are going to hanging out with Zeke for the next 2 weeks.  :-)

Interesting that we get the 'freakiest' vision thus far in scripture and the usual 'Be not afraid' doesn't go with it.  I find the intersecting wheels to be the most interesting.  My notes say this represents the presence of God being everywhere and seeing everything.

Wow, God uses the word rebel and rebellious a ton in the first part of chapter 2.  But I think that is a nice word compared to what he could rightly call them.

God had Ezekiel do some pretty radical illustrations of sin and judgment for the people.

Day 238: Lamentations 3:37-5:22

As I read this I think about wealth and prosperity.  We even use words like "security" to describe it.  But we can see how quickly it can all be gone.  I guess there is a certain peace of mind when you know how much you have in your bank, and barring anything big and out of the ordinary happening- you will be fine for a period of time.  But letting that security get in the way of our 'security' in God is so wrong.  It could all disappear tomorrow and what is left in a persons life is the only thing that will make one person different from the next.  

Interesting last verse.....restore us.....unless you are angry beyond measure.  I'm sure that was what it felt like.  And definitely what they deserved (and us too!)