Today’s Scrip-Bit 18 November 2010 Joel 2:28‏

18 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Joel 2:28.     And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour our my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.
 
Oh Friends, I guess the Spirit finally thought it was time for this Sermon from the Basement. (smile) I don’t consider myself a preacher, though my children feel I preach all the time. Anyway, what follows is something I pieced together over the last couple weeks, obviously with the Spirit’s help and leading. The ideas came from different places, as you’ll eventually see, but for some reason, just morphed into this whole that I jotted down. Every so often I’d consider using it as the basis for the Bit, but the Spirit usually nixed the idea. Today, however, when I had something else in mind, the Chief Guide made me pull it out and search for a suitable Bit. So that’s the background. Now here’s the message: Recently I was listening to a sermon on t.v. ‘The Hour of Power,’ and the pastor declared that during the week he had spent time with the Lord asking what message He wanted conveyed to His people. The answer he received was to tell His people to start dreaming again. Wow! What an awesome insight my people! It’s a message that we all need to hear and implement because with all the negative nonsense going on in our world, unfortunately our dreams have been left by the wayside to die. And that’s not a derogatory criticism, since the angry, unhealthy, fearful atmosphere currently existing in our world is certainly not conducive to dreams or dreaming. But the sad fact is that when our conditions are not conducive to dreams, that’s the time we really need to dream. Just like when times are rough, that’s the time we need to dig down deep and bring out all our faith to the forefront. That’s because once we stop dreaming, figuratively speaking, we become dead in the water, just floating along lifelessly and aimlessly wherever the tide will take us. However Friends, that’s not acceptable from the followers of Jesus, who should always be doing, reaching for heights of excellence, not aimlessly drifting like the tumbling tumbleweed in the desert wind. Remember it’s our dreams that keep us healthily alive, that fill us with hope, faith, encouragement, great expectations and a steadfast vision of a brighter tomorrow. And since out Bit is taken from a section on the outpouring of God’s Spirit upon His people, if we want to truly experience God’s generous blessings, in fact His extravagant outpouring, then we seriously need to get back to dreaming, for the basis of all our dreams is God’s Word. Now the second part of that message was that God indicated we should not only begin dreaming again, but also to dream big, dream large-scale scenarios. And logically speaking that’s the only way we can dream, for dreams by nature are things we cannot do in our everyday situations, they’re above our present capability. And the rational behind dreaming big is that the bigger we dream, the more hope, faith, hard work, perseverance, determination and diligence we need to invest in those dreams to bring them to pass, to fruition, to reality. Now the second aspect of the Sermon from the Basement, I heard listening to Bubba, Joel Osteen. Hn, hn! My mother and I refer to him as Bubba. And Bubba was encouraging us to talk to our mountains. Yes Friends, those dreams, those difficulties that rise up against us, sometimes seem like mountains; so high, so impregnable, that we often dejectedly think or say, ‘Woe is me! I cannot overcome that mountain.’ But remember two things my people: That with God, NOTHING is impossible. And secondly, that God SPOKE the world into existence. That means, our words, spoken out loud, therefore contain much power. Oh Friends, there’s awesome power in the Word! So we have to speak to our mountains. In Jesus’ Name, we must command them to get out of our way, to leave us alone, be gone, get thee behind me mountain! (smile) And to help us do this, here’s the Mountain Mover’s Prayer, penned by Dr. Robert H. Schuller of the Hour of Power fame. ‘Lord, when I face a mountain, do not let me quit. Give me the strength to keep on striving until I climb over, find a pass through, or tunnel underneath. And if my best efforts fail, give me the patience to stay and the perception to see the possibilities of turning my mountain into a gold mine, with your help. Amen.’ So Friends, we have to start dreaming again, dreaming large, and talking sternly, in Jesus’ Name, to those elements that keep keeping us from realizing those dreams. But there’s also a third aspect to the message I received. And it’s to put a little LOVE in our hearts, my people. Through some strange coincidence, read God’s plan, a few days later I heard the old duet by Annie Lennox and Al Green that I hadn’t heard in ages; ‘Put a little LOVE in your heart,’ and right there the whole Sermon gelled. How can we doubt the Lord’s mysterious and miraculous ways eh mih breddren? Three separate incidents, over about a ten day period, suddenly came to my mind as the basis for a Bit. All I can say is Wow! I obviously chuckled when the idea was planted, but was even more surprised when I took the time to write it down. Oh Friends, I’ve forgotten the exact words of the song, and can’t seem to find it on my computer. But the basic aspects are; when we see others in trouble, don’t hesitate, lend a helping hand, put a little LOVE in your heart. And the awesome result? The world will be a much better place for all of us. And that’s the Sermon from the Basement my people. Hope it makes sense, and does edify us all. (smile) In a nutshell: We must return to dreaming; dreaming large; talking to our mountains, because there’s power in the Word of God and our words; and then, put just a li’l bit a LOVE in our hearts. That’s the catalyst to tie it all together, and make a better place of this world for all of us to enjoy. Till tomorrow then Friends, God in favour, take care, and stay sheltered under His protective wings. Much LOVE!…to dream…oh to dream big dreams…to move mountains…and people…with LOVE…the LOVE of Christ…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 17 November 2010 Psalm 119:50‏

17 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Psalm 119:50.    This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.
 
Oh Friends, another day has dawned; dark, cloudy and rainy in my area, but my heart is bright and singing with joy, offering thanks and praise to the Most High God Jehovah. That’s because I’m alive, and though my circumstances can certainly be improved upon, yet I have a roof over my head, clothes to wear and food to eat; three basic things necessary for comfortable living, which a majority of the earth’s population so sadly lack. And you Friends, if you too have the basics for living, then please join with me and joyfully shout: ‘All praise be to thee O Lord, the great and generous God, who gives us all things that we may enjoy them, that we may also magnify and glorify your Holy Name! Amen!’ But Friends, even if we don’t have all the fixings for a comfortable life, even if we’re suffering and afflicted in serious ways, we still ought to give thanks, because we know for certain that the negative circumstances will eventually pass, and a new day of peace, health and prosperity will dawn in our lives. But to do that in a positive manner, we have to immerse ourselves in the Word, where all our hope, and all the promises of our God lie. Our Bit tells us that, but to understand it properly, we have to read the verses before and after it. ‘Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast cause me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me (given me life). The proud have had me greatly in derision: yet have I not declined (turned aside) from thy law.’ (Ps.119:49-51) Yes my people, the unbelievers will laugh at and mock us when we stick to the Word during our times of affliction. But little do they know the awesome power that resides in the promises and pronouncements of Infinitely Everything! And all God’s people gratefully declared: ‘Glory Hallelujah! Thank Him for His faithfulness to the sinful children of men!’ Yes mih breddren, there’s nothing that cheers and comforts the hurting heart and brings upstanding hope to the sorrowful soul like the Word! Here are a couple of those encouraging passages. We all know those great, uplifting words of Bruh David from Psalm 27: ‘Wait (in faith) on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.’ (Ps.27:14) Oh Friends, if there’s one passage in the Good Book to live our lives by, that’s it! Just surrender your lives to the Lord and wait patiently on Him! We can do no greater thing! Now don’t forget Isaiah’s great promise on behalf of our God either. It’s another amazing piece of uplifting scripture: ‘But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.’ (Is.40:31) WOW! Truly words of wisdom and hope mih people! Though the world’s imploding and exploding around us, we ought not to fear and worry, for the Lord has promised to look after all those who trust in and wait on Him. And as usual Friends, I’m chuckling at the underhand tactics of the Spirit because He’s calling for a personal testimony. I never intended to divulge this current affliction, but I guess, in hindsight, that’s why He led me to that Bit, since my present situation falls squarely under it. One of my knees is acting up something terrible, causing me severe pain whether I’m walking, sitting, sleeping or standing, but the ole fella’s pressing on regardless. ‘Thanks be to God!’ Unfortunately I have another month to wait before I have surgery on it. And this is one time I’m certainly practicing what I’m preaching: I’m holding fast to the promises of the Word, knowing from personal experience that the Lord, for whatever reason, is doing a work in me, and that some day, if I stand steadfast and strong in faith, He will work everything out for my good. Oh Friends, the Lord has brought me through more painful situations than this, so why wouldn’t He continue to do so eh? The annoying thing about my old knee is that the pain’s so inconsistent and temperamental. One moment I’ll be going along fine, then all of a sudden I’ll shout out in agony, as I did a couple minutes ago, when a spasm of pain unexpectedly shoots through my knee. Another time, it’s just there constantly and nothing I do improves it. Steups! It’s so frustrating, that sometimes I querulously ask: ‘What now Lord? What’s the purpose? I don’t think I need to learn any lessons this might teach.’ Hn, hn! But the answer never satisfies me, for it’s always: ‘Take time mih lad, take time.’ So I just steups, sigh, grin and bear it. Can’t do anything else anyway. No Friends, it’s not easy, but if we have faith, even as a grain of mustard seed, we can do anything in God’s name! And we’ll end this stirring Bit with some more uplifting words, this time from Bruh Paul, on the bearing of infirmities, both our own and those of others, as he talks about unity in Christ. ‘We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities (weaknesses) of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let everyone of us please his neighbour for his good to edification (being built up). For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. For whatsoever things were written aforetime (beforehand) were written for our learning, that we through patience (perseverance) and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Now the God of patience and consolation (comfort) grant you to be like-minded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.’ (Rom. 15:1-6) And all God’s people raised their hands and eyes to heaven and joyfully shouted: ‘AMEN!’ Yes my brethren, for us to be successfully united in Christ, we must all bear the burdens of life, ours and those of other believers, hopefully, in faith, with patience and perseverance, using our Saviour as the glowing example. So let’s all pledge to do that nuh, so that our God can be glorified and magnified, for that’s our basic purpose here on earth. Till tomorrow then, God willing, please go in faith, hope, LOVE and peace. Much LOVE!…the greatest antidote for affliction…the Word…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 16 November 2010 Proverbs 30:11‏

16 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Proverbs 30:11.    There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.
 
Oh Friends, more mysterious workings of our God, right off the bat! After writing the Bit, I usually remove all the bookmarks marking the passages I’ve quoted. Somehow though, yesterday I forgot to remove the special one marking the current Bit and found it still marking yesterday’s, Proverbs 29:16. So, the opportunist that I am, I decided to scan the opened pages for something worthwhile. Oh Friends, a few seconds later my eyes collided with these words of Augur: ‘There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.’ And something inside of me suddenly went ‘Wow! That’s this generation he’s talking about!’ And after a split second’s contemplation, I knew that those challenging words were meant to be Today’s Bit. Oh my people, if we’re truthful, we’ll all agree that this generation has the least respect for their parents than any that’s ever gone before. And again, if we’re truthful, we’ll acknowledge that a large portion of the blame for this outrageous, ungodly behaviour lies with us, the parents. That’s because we never taught them to honour and respect their parents as the Good Book dictates. Please note that holding parents in esteem was so important in our God’s eyes that he made it one of the original Ten Commandments. ‘Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.’ (Ex.20:12) Yes Friends, it’s right there in glorious black and white! But note also, the admonition unto parents: ‘And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.’ (Deut.6:6-7) Obviously my people, we haven’t done as the Good Book says, for if we’d taught them diligently and spoken the Word in all our daily doings, our children would not have strayed as far from it as they have. Oh Friends, unfortunately, because of this serious downfall on our part, I’ve heard of children actually cursing their parents; directing the f-word and many other unpleasant ones to their parents faces. That truly saddens me, but the fact is if we hadn’t made life so easy for them, without teaching them the real respect, honour, appreciation and responsibility that they owe to their parents, it wouldn’t be as bad as it is. Granted, on individual merit, many parents don’t deserve the accolades due to parents, but this in no way lessens the children’s responsibility. A Christian child ought to honour their parents regardless of the circumstances. As the old people would say; if you raise a child right, they usually stay right. At least they know the difference between right and wrong. Sadly though, many of this generation don’t have a clue as to what’s really right or wrong. They simply hold on to whatever they, their friends or the ungodly world says is right. I heard about this son, sitting beside his father’s bed in the hospital, I’m not sure if the father was actually dying or just very ill, but instead of reaching out to his father, this son and his greedy lawyer were already making plans to carve up the father’s estate. Ah Lord eh! I also heard about this daughter who never visited or paid any attention to her elderly parents, but when the parents took an extended Florida vacation, she was quick to lambaste them for spending her inheritance. The gall and ‘boldfaceness’ of some of these children eh! And that’s a true story, shared with me by the sister of the same obnoxious ingrate. Oh mih people, what’s going to become of the next generation of children eh, if this one is so disrespectful? I shudder to think that they can be any worse, but if you look around, you’ll notice that the young ones are indeed more disrespectful than their parents. Enough of me though, let’s hear what the Good Book has to say on the subject. And in the law concerning acts of violence, Moses stipulates: ‘And he that curseth his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death.’ (Ex.21:17) Yuh see people, cursing your parents was considered such a serious matter back then, that it was judged worthy of an automatic death sentence. Leviticus expands on it: ‘For every one that curseth his father or his mother shall be surely put to death: he hath cursed his father or his mother; his blood shall be upon him.’ (Lev.20:9) And Cousin Sol ominously declares: ‘Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure (deep) darkness.’ (Prov.20:20) And whenever possible Friends, we like to close with the definitive word of Jesus on a topic. Hear Him lambaste the hypocrite scribes and Pharisees on this one, as he talks about the things that defile a man. ‘And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition. For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death (be put to death). But ye say, if a man shall say to his father or mother, It is Corban, that is to say a gift (dedicated to the temple), by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; he shall be free. And ye suffer (allow) him no more to do aught (anything) for his father or his mother. Making the word of God of none (no) effect through your tradition which ye have delivered (handed down): and many such like things do ye.’ (Mark 7:9-13) Yes my people, the ole crooks managed to legally worm their way out of supporting their parents. Please, let’s not follow their unrighteous example. Oh Friends, though we’ve made such a sinful mess of this generation, and it might be a tad late to reclaim them, I’m imploring us to let’s work diligently and prayerfully to avoid the same thing happening to the next one. We certainly don’t need the downfall of that one on our conscience too. So start teaching your grandchildren, RIGHT NOW, about honour and respect for their parents, even if they don’t deserve it. That’s the only way the Lord’s word will take fruitful root in their hearts. Till tomorrow when we meet again, God in favour, go safely with Him. Much LOVE!…a parents’ most important job…teach their children the Word…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 15 November 2010 Proverbs 29:16‏

15 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Proverbs 29:16.    When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.

Oh Friends, unfortunately it’s Monday, meaning we have to go back out to slave amongst Beelzebub and his evil cohorts for our daily bread. But that’s good, because it grants us the outstanding opportunity to be a good witness for our wonderful God amongst the iniquity workers. So with that good news under our belt, (smile) let’s lustily and proudly proclaim our Monday Morning Battle Hymn. ‘Oh Lord God Almighty, Creator of the universe and all therein! We, your humble servants, praise your Holy Name and thank you that this Monday morning we have jobs to go to; jobs we don’t like, jobs that are unfair, difficult and even dangerous, but which serve a useful purpose here on earth; keeping lives and families together. We also thank you Father for the renewed vitality and enthusiasm you’ve wrought in our weary souls over the last two days. It’s that rejuvenation of Spirit which allows us now to sally forth with confidence into the evil, ungodly world that surrounds us, to begin a new week of work, constantly buffeted and bombarded by the enemy’s wicked taunts, wiles and lies. But heavenly Father, we’re not afraid, for we know we’re invincible, sure conquerors, once we’re wearing your powerful, protective spiritual armour. We surrender our all to you, and humbly ask that you let your aura of LOVE, the Holy Spirit, lead and guide all your servants as we go out to meet the enemy in battle. Fill us with steadfast faith, so that we can make worthwhile inroads into the enemy’s ranks, and thereby further your glorious kingdom. We pray this in the Holy Name of your Son, and our Saviour, Jesus Christ. AMEN!’ Oh my people, please let that prayer empower and embolden us to step sprightly into enemy territory and accost the evildoers with LOVE; a la Jesus, because that’s the only way this battle will be truly won, and the fighting thoroughly ended, for if we fight fire with fire, we will all be destroyed. Yuh know, in looking for a Bit tonight, I passed over a few that seemed worthwhile, but this one struck the right chord in my spirit, and I now realize why. ‘When the wicked are multiplied, transgression increaseth: but the righteous shall see their fall.’ The Bit just ties in nicely to our Monday morning return to work amongst the great mass of transgressors out there. And it’s so true, it isn’t funny, for when the number of evildoers increase, so too does their evil doing. Just look at the last fifty years in our society’s history, and we’ll see that truth prevail. Fifty years ago there weren’t as many evildoers as there are now, and consequently our society was not as sinful. Hn! But with the rapid and tremendous increase in wrongdoers, sin has also rapidly multiplied, until now it’s coloured not only our society, but the entire world; turning us in to one of the most sinful and ungodly generations to ever walk Mother Earth. But fear not my Friends, for as our Bit rightly states: ‘but the righteous shall see their fall.’ And all God’s people joyously trilled: ‘Glory Hallelujah!’ Yes Friends, if we stand strong and steadfast in faith, the Lord will eventually destroy the wicked. And hopefully there won’t be too many, since through our diligent LOVING and righteous efforts, we would have already brought most of them to redemption through faith in Jesus Christ. Wow mih people! What a day that will be eh! Now let’s check out some scripture that backs up all our contention. We’ll begin with Psalm 37, where Bruh David tells us about the true state of the wicked. ‘Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices (schemes) to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise (way) to do evil (it only causes harm). For evildoers shall be cut off (destroyed): but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth.’ (Ps.37:7-9) Truly words of wisdom my Friends! Do not be worried or angry over the works of the wicked, even when they seem to be prospering in their wickedness, for their prosperity will be short-lived, and the righteous will benefit from their sad demise at the Lord’s hands. Hear some more appropriate words from Psalm 37: ‘The wicked watcheth the righteous, and seeketh to slay him. The Lord will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. Wait on the Lord and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it.’ (Psalm 37:32-34) And isn’t that gospel my brethren! The wicked lurks in wait for any opportunity to do the righteous harm, but our great and wonderful God will not allow it to happen. If we stay in faith, we will eventually be exalted when the Lord destroys the evildoers. Now listen to some profound words from that man of great faith, the prophet Isaiah, from the song of praise by the redeemed. That’s us my people! Praise the Lord! ‘And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.’ (Is.25:9) Oh folks, what a day of glory that shall be! However Friends, if we want to see that joyful day, then we have to do like Bruh David advises in Psalm 27, ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation.’ We must: ‘Wait (in faith) on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.’ (Ps.27:14) Yes Friends, that’s the secret to a successful, righteous life! So mih people, now that we have on the spiritual armour and the adrenalin’s a pumping, let’s go out into the evil world and give Lucifer and his wicked cronies’ heck! Show them the sterner stuff that true believers are made of! Till tomorrow then, when we’ll talk again, God in favour, walk safely and steadfastly with Him. Much LOVE!…as we are faithful to Him…so will the Lord God Jehovah be faithful to us…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 14 November 2010 Ezekiel 18:20‏

14 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Ezekiel 18:20.    The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.

Oh Friends, no wonder we love our leaders so! Hn! What’s the outcome of the Seoul G.20 Conference? Nada! Nothing! They agreed to disagree, so the good ship ‘Global Economy and Trade’ will continue to drift aimlessly, while seriously listing to starboard, until the proverbial heifer dust hits the fan, then we’ll belatedly rush into crisis mode. And the sad fact is that we all know what’s required to right the listing ship; the few haves have to come down a step or two, so that the many have not’s can move up a step or two. But it just goes to show that all the hogwash we talk about the global scale of things is just that, because when it comes down to the nitty gritty, our small minded, parochial national interests always come first. Just like so many of us believers, the world leaders talk a good global talk but refuse to walk it. And Friends, have you heard about the 97 thousand dollars that the U.S Government gypped their Canadian counterpart, for a second hand two-ring table seating sixty something that was previously used at the Pittsburgh G.20? Now the Canadian Government can’t even give it away. In the first place it was made of particleboard, and it’s simply too big for normal, everyday use, plus it’s going to cost an arm and a leg to store it. Not to mention a whole set of other stuff extravagantly bought for the conference that nobody wants to buy now.  Oh Friends, don’t even talk about some of the horror stories of police abuse and override of authority, and the ineptitude, incompetence and dictatorial behaviour of some government mandarins that’s coming out of the inquiries into Toronto’s G.20 fiasco. If only half of those stories are true, then several heads, from top to bottom deserve to roll. Unfortunately though, after spending much time and money on these inquiries, nothing much in the form of justice is going to happen. A few low station scapegoats might get their wrists slapped, but nowhere near the retribution that’s justified. And sadly, the 2010 G.20 Conference will forever be an indelible blot on Toronto and Canada’s human rights history. I guess we’ll just have to wait until the Lord administers His justice for the perpetrators to get their rightful comeuppance. For as our Bit clearly states: ‘The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity (guilt) of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. ‘Yes people, in the Lord’s good time, we shall all receive our just rewards. And today we’ll finish up with this Bit, where we were discussing the last parts. Listen to Bruh Paul on the subject: ‘Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and long-suffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgement of God; Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that are contentious (self-seeking), and do not obey the truth, but obey unto unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation and anguish upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile. For there is no respect of persons with God.’ (Roman’s 2:4-11) And isn’t that the truth my brethren! The Lord doesn’t care who you are, if you disobey, then you’ll pay the price. Oh Friends, if those words didn’t touch your hearts and give you reason to pause and consider your own lives, then hear the definitive word on it all from Jesus. ‘For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then shall he reward every man according to his works.’ (Matt.16:25:27) Oh my people, there’s nothing more that I can add to those words of the Master. I’ll simply close by pleading to us all to be very aware and very careful of our actions, for in due course, when the Master comes again, this time in unsurpassed glory, we shall have to answer to Him for every one of them. Till we talk again tomorrow then, God in agreement, walk safely under the shadow of His protective wings. Much LOVE!…when hard ears pickney doh hear…deh feel…and grievously too…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 13 November 2010 Ezekiel 18:20‏

13 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Ezekiel 18:20.    The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.

Oh Friends, what’s happening with our leaders eh? Where are there minds at? While tension is thick around the whole world, with Christians being murdered in Baghdad for their faith, vicious criminals committing violent crimes worldwide under the guise of religion, a cholera epidemic in Haiti, etc. etc, 32 of them are meeting for two days in Seoul, South Korea, at another G20 conference, with a retinue of thousands, only to bicker and argue and come up with nothing concrete or practical to implement, causing more riots, demonstrations and police brutality, like recently happened in Toronto. Don’t even talk about that nuh, because we’re still suffering the backlash, the aftermath of that travesty, and will for some time to come. Can’t they understand that these high level meetings produce nothing worthwhile but are certainly a powerful magnet for those dissatisfied with any and everything and those solely interested in anarchy? Oh Friends, we’ve got to seriously pray that they come to their senses soon and make some right decisions yes, because the world is slipping back into a trade and monetary crisis. Debt is overwhelming all over, but nobody wants to band their jaw and tighten their belts and work to get it down. Let’s hope we all wake up soon and realize that our world has become a small global village, what with all the modern technology and communication, international trade and financial interconnectedness. That means, unless everyone pulls together, we’ll all go under together! As our Bit so tersely puts it: ‘The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity (guilt) of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.’ And that’s the awesome truth my people! Those are the Lord’s terms, and if we don’t abide by them, then death and destruction will be our lot. We’ve already looked at the first two parts, let’s look at the last two now: ‘the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.’ They mean exactly what they say my brethren. Both groups of people will receive rewards and /or punishment for their behaviour. Let’s check out some scriptures that paint a better overall picture, beginning with a passage from Cousin Sol’s awesome prayer at the dedication of the temple in Jerusalem. ‘Then hear thou in heaven, and do, and judge thy servants, condemning the wicked, to bring his way upon his head; and justifying the righteous, to give him according to his righteousness.’ (1 Kin.8:32) Yes my people, it’s the basic law of our God; whatever we sow, we eventually reap. We can’t expect to sow peas and reap corn. Likewise we can’t sow evil and reap righteousness. Listen to Isaiah, re judgement on Judah: ‘For Jerusalem is ruined (has stumbled), and Judah is fallen: because their tongue and their doings are against the Lord, to provoke (rebel against) the eyes of his glory. The show of their countenance (the look on their faces) doth witness against them; and they declare their sin as Sodom, they hide it not. Woe unto their soul! For they have rewarded (brought) evil unto themselves. Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings. Woe unto the wicked! It shall be ill with him: for the reward of his hands shall be given him (done to him).’ That picture is as clear as day Friends! Judah and Israel brought their calamity upon themselves through their sinfulness. And they were boldfaced enough to flaunt it. I’m sure you can see the tremendous similarities between Israel and Judah in Isaiah’s time and the wickedness that’s currently perverting our once godly society, with it being trumpeted just as blatantly all over God’s creation. And since God’s words and laws don’t change, what do you think will happen to our sick, lustful, evil, blasphemous, ungodly society? I won’t answer that, because it speaks for itself. But I was just reminded of something I read in the papers: ‘Amazon sells pedophile guide.’ That’s the headline in the Thursday Star Entertainment Section. The Book’s titled: ‘The Pedophile’s Guide to Love and Pleasure: a Child-Lover’s Code of Conduct.’ Amazon is selling that self-published e-book on line through their Kindle department. How sick can we get eh? And hear the author’s argument, one Phillip R Greaves II, that pedophiles are misunderstood, as the word literally means to love a child. He says it’s only a crime to act on sexual impulses toward children, and offers advice that purportedly allows pedophiles to follow the law. Ah mih people, what is our world coming to eh? A book on how to abuse children! Then we wonder why our world is rapidly falling apart, being systemically destroyed. Really Friends, yuh think the good Lord going to sit on His throne and allow that nonsense for long? I doubt it. However, time and space have run out on us, so we’ll have to continue this Bit tomorrow, if God’s in agreement. Till then, please walk safely with Him and be very aware and careful of your acts, whether they are righteous or wicked. Much LOVE!…wickedness brings short term pleasure…but righteousness commands eternal joy…

 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 12 November 2010 Ezekiel 18:20‏

12 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Ezekiel 18:20.    The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
 
Oh Friends, I’m hearing more shouts of ‘Praise the Lord!’ than I’ve heard in a long while. Yes, I know it’s Friday, and everybody’s just dying to get home for a brief spell of down time. Well since it’s Friday, let’s chant our Friday Chant nuh! And people, we chanting with plenty vim and vigour to show our appreciation! (smile) ‘Oh Lord, thanks for getting me safely through another week of work! It hasn’t been easy, but with your generous help, I made it through. Now, please help me to get sufficient fun, fellowship, rest and relaxation in these two short days off, so that I can be renewed and refreshed in soul, body and mind, to go back out and do it all over again next week, furthering your glorious kingdom with each step I take. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.’ Ah mih breddren, every so often we need stuff like that to keep us going, to lift our spirits, add some much needed encouragement to our worn and tired souls, to put a smile on our faces and a little chuckle in our hearts, for without those things, our lives would be just one, long, dreary, drawn out negative process. And the seriousness of our Bit doesn’t help matters either. ‘The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity (guilt) of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.’ Wow! What a serious, no nonsense pronouncement! Ah mih people, our God is a good God, but sin just goes against the very grain of His nature,  thus He abhors it and those who are steeped in it. But He’s also a just and righteous God, so He won’t let one person suffer for the sins of another. Yesterday we looked a the first part of the Bit; ‘The soul that sinneth, it shall die.’ Today we’ll check out the second part; ‘The son shall not bear the iniquity (guilt) of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son.’ Now that’s a very important piece of scripture Friends, for it clearly states that every individual is totally responsible for the sinful acts they commit, and will have to pay the price themselves. Sin isn’t something we can shift from one person to another. That’s only happened once; when the Father weighed down Jesus, like Atlas, with the burdensome sins of the whole world, so that we could be redeemed and made right with Him. And all God’s people joyfully cried out: ‘Thank you Lord!’ Yes Friends, we should be eternally grateful for that vast outpouring of LOVE that the Father showed for us. So I don’t understand why we still go out of our way to sin and antagonize Him, when we know what’s He’s done for us, and His abhorrence of sinful behaviour. But as the Bit says, everybody will have to answer for their own wrongdoing. Now let’s look at some scripture that gives us practical insight into the topic. Remember, the Good Book is a practical tool for practical living. Almost all the answers for living a wise and sensible life are to be found in there, as either successfully lived or messed up by another living, breathing soul. It’s not rhetorical, fairy tale stuff, but real life occurrences from which we are expected to learn. Hear Moses on the subject while laying down the law of domestic relations, as dictated by the Father. ‘The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, neither shall the children be put to death for the fathers: every man shall be put to death for his own sin.’ (Deut.24:16) Nothing can be clearer than that Friends! We all have to individually pay the piper for the tunes we’ve danced to. Yesterday we saw the practical application of that principle when Amaziah, king of Judah slew the unfaithful servants who killed his father, but left their children alone, as it says in the Law of Moses. That story is also told in 2 Chronicles 25:3-4. Yes my people, all the principles in the Good Book have very practical applications. They haven’t been put there just for nice reading, but for our education, encouragement and guidance, as words to live by. And having tried to hammer home that point, successfully I hope, let’s check out this last passage on the guilt of sons and fathers. This time Jeremiah is the spokesman, expounding on Judah’s restoration. ‘And it shall come to pass, that like as I have watched over them, to pluck up, and to break down, and to throw down, and to destroy, and to afflict; so will I watch over them, to build, and to plant, saith the Lord. In those days they shall say no more, The fathers have eaten a sour grape, and the children’s teeth are set on edge. But every one shall die for his own iniquity: every man that eateth the sour grape, his teeth shall be set on edge.’ (Jer.31:28-30) Oh my brethren, that scripture is so important that it’s written in several places of the Good Book, so please don’t ignore it, for you do so at your own peril, putting your salvation and everlasting life with Jesus in jeopardy. And we’ll end on a light note. Here ah talking to mih West Indian Friends in particular. That talk about setting teeth on edge, just reminded me that that hasn’t happened to me in many years. Remember in our youth how that happened all the time, because we’d be constantly eating sour fruits; like cherries, plums, green mangoes, tamarinds, golden apples (pommecytere, june plum) and a host of other teeth edging stuff. Now them was the days! Sin and ungodliness were mere figures of speech to us. Oh Friends, we can make it that way again if we’re seriously willing to try…for our children’s sake. But we all have to work together, if it’s going to happen. More tomorrow on this Bit. Till then go safely with God. Much LOVE!…at the end…Peter won’t be able to pay for Paul…Paul will have to pay for himself…

Today’s Scrip-Bit 11 November 2010 Ezekiel 18:20‏

11 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Ezekiel 18:20.    The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
 
Oh Friends, today when I sat down to write the Bit, I opened the Good Book at Jeremiah 18. As usual, I looked around for any special signs or worthwhile passages. Obviously my eye caught the 20th verse, and a little reaction happened in my soul. But I complained, well more suggested, (smile) that the passage seemed a tad too long and convoluted. However, the Spirit seemed insistent that we consider its contents. So who am I to argue with the Living God eh? (smile) And the Bit does make some good points that all believers should definitely know and adhere to, if they want to see the Lord’s face at the end. ‘The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.’ Hn! Certainly strong words my people. Now the first, and possibly most important fact is: ‘The soul that sinneth, it shall die.’ Friends, there are no ifs, ands and buts attached to that statement. You don’t receive the Lord Jesus as your personal Saviour, you mock the One True God and do the things He abhors and prohibits, then your soul is in grave danger of eternal death and damnation. Hear what happened when Amaziah, the son of Joash, reigned in Judah. His first act, after consolidating power, was to execute the unfaithful servants who slew his father. (2 Kin.12:20) ‘But the children of the murderers he slew not: according unto that which is written in the book of the law of Moses, wherein the Lord commanded, saying, The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, nor the children be put to death for the fathers; but every man shall be put to death for his own sin.’ (2 Kin.14:6) Yes my people, the children of sinners should not pay for their father’s sins, or vice versa, though we do that all the time in this life. Just look at how we treat the family of those who commit serious crimes, or even go to jail for minor things! We automatically paint them with the same negative brush as their relatives. And though some of them may indeed follow in their family’s footsteps, we should not automatically scorn them, or immediately hold them guilty by association. A good example of the Lord’s action in this area is also found in 2 Kings. We refer to the time Hilkiah, the high priest, found the book of the law in the Lord’s house when they were rebuilding it. It seems that the inhabitants of Judah at that time were unfamiliar with the Law of Moses, since most of their previous kings worshipped heathen gods. The Law of Moses here refers to the Pentateuch; the first five books of the Bible – Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. However, when this book was found and read to king Josiah, he tore off his clothes, for he was highly perturbed by the anger that God seemed to hold for the people of Judah because of their father’s terrible sins. So he sent a delegation to the current prophet(ess) Huldah to enquire of God’s purpose and direction for the people. (2 Kin.22:8-14) Here is Huldah’s reply: ‘Thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will bring evil (calamity) upon this place, and even upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the words of the book which the king of Judah hath read: Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched. But to the king of Judah which sent you to inquire of the Lord, thus shall ye say to him, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, As touching the words which thou hast heard; because thine heart was tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the Lord, when thou heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become a desolation and a curse, and hast rent (tore) thy clothes, and wept before me; I also have heard thee, saith the Lord. Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers (cause you to join your ancestors in death), and thou shall be gathered into thy grave in peace (die a natural death); and thine eyes shall not see the evil which I will bring upon this place. And they brought the king word again.’ (2 Kin.22:16-20) Yes Friends, because Josiah’s right heart was troubled and humbled before the Lord, he was granted peace in his days, though the people of the land would eventually be punished for their evil deeds. That certainly talks to God’s powerful sense of justice and righteousness; not punishing his children for the sins of others. And we’ll close with one more passage on the topic. ‘Behold, all souls are mine, as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth, it shall die.’ (Ezek.18:4) Oh my people, those are the words of our God, put into the prophet Ezekiel’s mouth long, long ago, and remember His Word never changes, which means they still hold true today. So please, let’s take them very seriously and surrender our souls, our entire lives with reverence and adoration unto the Lord, so that it may be well with us at the end. More tomorrow on this Bit, God willing. Till then, carefully consider the Word, for it means what it says, and walk safely with the Lord. Much LOVE!…remember…the wages of SIN…is DEATH…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 10 November 2010 Matthew 5:2‏

10 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Matthew 5:2.    And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying…
 
Oh Friends, how I wish I could be like Jesus; pick up my pen and teach you all with the authority and calmness of spirit that He had. (smile) But unfortunately none of us can match His charisma and authority, which doesn’t mean we ought not to try and get ourselves as close as humanly possible, for that’s that whole raison d’être behind our Christian exercise; to become more like Jesus with each passing day. A fine Bruh Paulian sentence! (smile) And though it’s truly a huge undertaking, as followers of Jesus, we are duty bound to undertake it, and if we’re truly serious, then, with His help, we’ll be fairly successful. But to fulfill that role we need to do the things He did. And I’m still amazed every time I see how cool, calm and collected He was, though the outward pressure was mounting everyday as His time drew nearer. One of the things that made Him so calm and sure was His constant communication with His heavenly Father. Throughout the gospels we see Him taking time to be alone with the Father, to talk to Him and ask for much needed strength, vitality and guidance. Now if Jesus, the Son of God, could do that despite His own godly attributes, why can’t, or don’t we, mere mortals, do the same eh? Why do we feel we’re too big to talk to our Creator and God about our needs and problems? It’s just foolish pride, arrogance and stupidity on our part, my people! While on earth, Jesus made no attempt at self-aggrandizement, He gave all the glory to God, and so should we. And here’s a quote that I’ve intended to use for some time, but never did. I guess the Lord didn’t think it appropriate until now. It’s attributed to the 26th President of the U.S. the multi-faceted Theodore Roosevelt (1858-1919): ‘It’s the little things well done that make up a truly good life.’ And that’s gospel mih brethren! We expect the big things to cause big problems, but it’s the little things that really frustrate us, and get our stress levels up. But when we get them right…ahhh! We experience such feelings of relief and worthiness. And yuh know Friends, doing the little things right was Jesus’ trademark. He was always kind, friendly, never condescending or patronizing, hobnobbed with rich and poor, saint and sinner, Jew and Gentile, but was never hypocritical either. He always called a spade a spade, though He’d try to do it in such a manner that you’d not take extreme umbrage at His remarks. Oh Friends, how many of us can say that we do the little things right eh? Not too many I estimate, if we’re truthful about it. For we bad-talk each other, gossip, are rude and unmannerly, look down on others not as wealthy or physically endowed as us, and a host of other small, seemingly insignificant things, which, when put into proper context are very significant, for they do cause a lot of strife and resentment amongst the human family. We’re all way too hypocritical. We dislike others and form negative opinions simply because of their differences in race, culture or creed. Sometimes we dislike and resent people on sight, without knowing a single thing about them. As the old people would say, ‘just because our blood didn’t take them.’ And because of that we treat them with less respect, kindness and LOVE than we should. And though some of these dislikes on sight turn out to be correct, in most cases the opposite is true; we end up liking these people very much. Oh my people, if there’s one thing Jesus never did was disrespect others. He might not like you, or what you stood for, but He always treated you as a child of His Father. And that’s the way we ought to treat each other! Some of you must be asking what has all of this got to do with our Bit: ‘And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying…’ because you haven’t heard Jesus open His mouth yet? And the answer is everything, for Jesus didn’t only teach by word of mouth, but more importantly by the way he conducted Himself, by His lifestyle, His Christ-like or Christian way of life. And that’s exactly how we His followers should be teaching too; by the way we live our everyday lives, more so than spouting a lot of scripture, then living a worldly, ungodly, lustful lifestyle. As I keep saying, that’s the main downfall of Christianity; the vast difference between what we say and what we do. Jesus showed us the perseverance and steadfastness we need to adopt in one particular example of His teaching; when He taught in His hometown of Nazareth. We’ll use Mark’s version. ‘And he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him. And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought (performed) by his hands? Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Judah, and Simon? are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin (relatives) and in his own house. And he could there do no mighty work, save (except) that he laid his hands on a few sick folk (people), and healed them. And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went round about the villages teaching.’ (Mark 6:1-6) Oh Friends, I’m sure this hurt and disappointed Jesus more than any other rejection He received in His ministry, because it was His own people whose disbelief was so great. And though they were astonished at His wisdom, their inferiority complex did not allow them to belief that such a bright, shining diamond could have been mined in their area. Aren’t we all like that though, tending to reject the accomplishments of those close to us? We certainly are! Jesus’ people, according to Luke, were so angry, they ‘rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him unto the brow of the hill whereon their city was built, that they might cast him down headlong (over the cliff). But he passing through the midst of them went his way.’ (Luke 4:29-30) Wow! What a reaction from your own people! Re the scholars, there are cliffs in Nazareth, which is some 1000 feet above sea level. They’re not sure though whether it was a miraculous deliverance, or Jesus just stared them down and with His overwhelming personality and presence, walked away untouched. And we’ll close with one last exclamation on Jesus’ teaching; when He went up to Jerusalem as a man to celebrate the Passover. The Pharisees sent some of their henchmen to arrest Him as He taught in the temple, but they did not do so because His time had not yet come, and they were afraid the people would riot. However, when they returned to their Pharisee masters, and were asked why? ‘The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.’ (John 7:46) And that’s the gospel truth my people! Let’s remember it and conduct our lives to suit. Till tomorrow then, God in favour, walk safely under His protective wings. Much LOVE!…a true Christian…one who not only talks…but also walks…like Christ did…
 

Today’s Scrip-Bit 9 November 2010 Matthew 5:2‏

09 Nov 2010 Leave a comment

by randyobrien50 in Inspirational Living

Matthew 5:2.    And he opened his mouth and taught them saying…
 
Oh Friends, I’m chuckling early tonight. Whenever I open the Good Book to seek a Bit, I usually scan the pages it opens at first, to see if it’s a sign, or if there’s anything worthwhile. Many times it’s been a sign, or I’ve found worthwhile stuff. Tonight I opened it at Jeremiah 16, and though there were useful passages, they were all negative; talking about death, destruction and captivity. I contemplated it for a minute or so, then shook my head and said, ‘No Lord, I can’t keep bombarding the people with negative stuff. They need something a little more encouraging and uplifting.’ Hn, hn!Thankfully, the Spirit didn’t seem to object, so I happily moved on, and was led to this Bit about Jesus. Oh Friends, I don’t know about you all nuh, but I just LOVE Jesus’ style; cool, suave, unflappable and somewhat reserved, never too high or too low. It reminds me of my father. In all the years I knew him, I never saw him angry and annoyed, or lose his cool. Whatever the problem, though he might not like it, he always seemed to deal with it in a calm, reasonable, sensible manner. I never truly appreciated his calm, impeccable, unflappable demeanour before, but these days, I often wish I could be like him. But I guess I was just born to be a brawling, angry, loudmouth, though the Lord’s working on me. Yes children, He is, though you all might not think so. (smile) And the amusing part of it all is that my wife claims when she first met me, she thought I was so sweet and quiet, never said much. Now, many years later, she’s constantly telling me to shut up. (smile) But getting back to El Numero Uno, Jesus. The Bit says: ‘And he opened his mouth and taught them saying…’ What did He say to them? ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.’ (Matt.5:3-4) And He went on to teach them the Beatitudes, which we all know is how He began the  famous Sermon on the Mount. But check this out mih people. When Jesus was finished with the Beatitudes, He went on to expound about; the salt of the earth, the light of the world, on the law, on anger, on adultery, on divorce, on oaths, on LOVE for enemies, on alms giving, on prayer, on fasting, on treasures in heaven, the light of the body, trusting one master, on judging others, the golden rule, the strait gate, false prophets, on turning away hypocrites at heaven’s gate, and on the two foundations, rock and sand. Wow! Friends, can you imagine any preacher today getting up and speaking so candidly and so authoritatively on all those topics in one sermon? Not on yuh life! Most of them can barely cover one topic, much less all those. But Jesus did it; in His inimitable teaching style too, thus the following reaction from the crowd. ‘And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine (teaching): For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.’ (Matt.7:28-29) Yes mih people, our Lord and Saviour just had a completely different style, one we’d all do well to try and imitate; cool, calm and comforting. And the fact of the matter is that wherever He went, people were astonished at His wisdom and His ability to clearly put over His thoughts and ideas. The first instance of this unbelievable poise and wisdom shows up when He’s just twelve. He went up to Jerusalem with His family for the Passover, but did not go back home with them. When His parents discovered He was missing, they returned to Jerusalem to look for Him, and three days after their initial departure, found Him in the temple ‘sitting in the midst of the doctors (teachers), both hearing and asking them questions.’ (Luke 2:46) Imagine that nuh people; at 12, Jesus was reasoning with the learned men in the synagogue. And what was their reaction? ‘And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.’ (Luke 2:47) So at 12, Jesus was indeed holding His own with the literati, the learned class. Now what would our reaction be to such an occasion or event eh? Here’s Jesus’ parents reaction. ‘And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us (done this to us)? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing (anxiously).’ (Luke 2:48) But by age 12 Friends, Jesus was already hot to trot on His avowed mission. ‘And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist (knew) ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?’ (Luke 2:49) Poor parents! Sounds like most of today’s children. ‘And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.’ (Luke 2:50-52) Oh Friends, most of us would want to knock His block off for telling us nonsense at 12, re being about his father’s business. Wasn’t I His father? You think I could have told my mother that, though she was so nice and sweet. No way! I’d possibly lose a couple teeth. But thankfully, the Lord gave Jesus’ parents, especially Mary, discernment to understand, well not really understand, but to realize that they had a unique child, and it was best to just keep their cool and take the matter in stride. I guess one could say that was Jesus’ coming out moment. Anyway, time and space are upon us. I do hope though that this gives us a little more insight into Jesus’ character and style, and that we’ll all try our best to emulate Him. As usual, the Spirit led the way, because I never planned to quote all those verses at the end. But His reasoning was sound, so like the obedient son that I am, I obeyed. (smile) We’ll continue this tomorrow, God willing of course, for both the Spirit and I have much more to say. Till then, please walk safely with the Lord. Much LOVE!…it would be so great…if all of us…could be cool like Jesus…
 

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