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Create Your Own Change

Jesus arranged a gathering at the home of a potential disciple. Based upon the words of Matthew, this turned into a large party with some Pharisees questioning Jesus’ association with the sinners in attendance. This is the context of the passage below. Jesus’ reply to his critics suggests that you can create your own change. While the sick, sinners and weak often need some kind of doctor, Jesus shares the secret of his success. The spiritually healthy rely on the Lord, following the words of Proverbs 3:5-6.

And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and [h][especially wicked] sinners came and sat (reclined) with Him and His disciples. 11 And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to His disciples, Why does your Master eat with tax collectors and those [preeminently] sinful? – Matthew 9:10-11

Not everyone has the ability to create their own change, especially co-dependents. Depending upon your personality type, complete change requires setting boundaries. Nonetheless, the apostle Paul compliments Jesus’ words in Romans 14:1-3. The weak or undisciplined require extra grace and patience. Despite past errors, flaws and mistakes, the weaker you become opens the door for Jesus to become strong, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10.

But when Jesus heard it, He replied, Those who are strong and well (healthy) have no need of a physician, but those who are weak and sick. 13 Go and learn what this means: I desire mercy [that is, [i]readiness to help those in trouble] and not sacrifice and sacrificial victims. For I came not to call and invite [to repentance] the righteous (those who are upright and in right standing with God), but sinners (the erring ones and all those not free from sin), Matthew 9:12-13.

Christians who are able to create their own change follow in the footsteps of Psalm 1:1-3. Based upon a letter written to the Church at Colosse, mature Christians create their own change through a daily Bible Study and proactive prayer life. Once believers are fully rooted in Jesus Christ, a genuine transformation is possible. As faith is established through trials, maturity and change is achievable according to James 1:2-4. While change is a byproduct of grace, the spiritually healthy continue to bear fruit.

by Jay Mankus

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Convincing Proof of the Resurrection

What historians often forget is that Jesus interacted with hundreds of people over a forty day period following the resurrection.  Although Jesus allowed Thomas to see and touch the scars from his crucifixion, these encounters went beyond the twelve disciples.  Luke, a first century doctor records public speeches where Jesus also spoke to others about heaven.

After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God, Acts 1:3.

While only a group of individuals witnessed Jesus’ ascension, evidence of Jesus’ resurrection was irrefutable.  However, this didn’t stop government and religious officials from trying to control this news from getting out, using a series of lies and bribes to prevent others from believing.  Despite this, countless apostles died for their faith throughout the first century.  Unfortunately, this plot has been successful over time, causing many to deny these facts.

While the women were on their way, some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened.  When the chief priests had met with the elders and devised a plan, they gave the soldiers a large sum of money, Matthew 28:11-12.

Perhaps the author of Hebrews saw this coming, suggesting many were living in disgrace, Hebrews 6:6.  This trend has continued, slowly chipping away at modern spiritual foundations, cheapening God’s grace by leaning on Jesus like a crutch when times get tough.  After these storms, several go back to their old ways as if nothing ever happened.  What these individuals are lacking is a personal faith, an encounter to see, touch and believe.  In view of those who have fallen away, don’t overlook the convincing evidence of Jesus’ resurrection.

by Jay Mankus

 

Dr. Md; Is There a Doctor in the House?

Illness can be a mystery, especially when no obvious symptoms are present.  One day you feel great; the next you struggle to get out of bed.  As more and more doctors retire after a generation of service, the desperate will continue to cry out for help, “is there a doctor in the house?”

And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.- James 5:15

Since 2012, I’ve battled a severe sinus infection that I can’t seem to shake.  Headaches, fevers and periods of fatigue have whittled away my faith of ever improving.  Perhaps, my condition are side affects from lyme disease that I first contracted in 1999.  Whatever the reason for my recent ailments, I pray that a doctor will come to my rescue with the correct diagnosis and cure.

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul. – 3 John 1:2

Nonetheless, sometimes God allows a person to suffer without any signs of recovery.  According to 2 Corinthians 12:7, the Lord struck the apostle Paul with a thorn in his flesh.  This condition prevented Paul from becoming proud during his successful ministry on earth.  Despite crying out for healing, his request did not get answered.  Although I am currently waiting for insight, all I can do is trust God that one day soon my pain will fade away.

by Jay Mankus

 

When Dreams Fade Away

Children tend to grow up with wild imaginations, dreaming of becoming a doctor, professional athlete or a wealthy entrepreneur.  However, as time ticks away, ambition is often replaced by more realistic goals.  Sure, dreams still exist in your mind, but negativity, pessimism and tough luck cause dreams to fade away from your memory.

A few years ago, I was passionate about completing my first novel.  Before I typed a word, vivid ideas rushed into my head, inspiring my will to complete this May 15th, a deadline for a major contest in Hollywood.  Unfortunately, a long cold spring, filled with racing to see all 3 of my children play sports has drained my desire to do anything.   With May in the rear view mirror, a spark for finishing this book needs to be rekindled before my thoughts vanish.

Sometimes, the Bible seems too good to be true, as readers silently murmur, “yeah right?”  Nonetheless, a weeping prophet writes of a special day in Jeremiah 29:11.  When the day of doubt sets, there is hope of prosperity.  If you’ve lost the will to carry on, don’t quit yet.  Cling to the promise of Galatians 6:9-10 so that like Walt Disney once said, “one day your dreams will come true!”

by Jay Mankus

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