| Over the years, countless songs have expressed the ideal manner in which to regift Jesus to a lost and dying world, Luke 19:10. Camp fire songs like “Pass It On” convey how a little spark from the love of God can produce a spiritual fire within another human being. Hymns such as “Be Not Afraid” supplies a message of hope for those who follow Jesus, promising rest for weary souls. Modern lyrics from hits like “If We Are the Body” by Casting Crowns questions why acts of believers in Christ aren’t consistent with the words of Scripture, Romans 12:4-5. | ||
| http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJL7Eis0Rb0 | ||
| The concept of regifting refers to giving or handing down something that you don’t need anything or find appealing. Unfortunately, this mentality influences who we love, for how long and the extent to which faith is displayed. Consequently, innocent bystanders are confused by inconsistencies within the church and by those who claim to be Christmas worshipers. Thus, poor examples of regifting Jesus will leave many at home this holiday season. | ||
| http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zeTpISSA5x8 | ||
| If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, then the quality of regifting Jesus lies within your heart. Philippians 2:4 suggests that wounded individuals might need to heal before they can begin to successfully impact others for the good. Whatever your current condition is, may you look to the Lord for strength, Philippians 4:13. During these weak moments in life, may the power of the Holy Spirit empower you to regift Jesus in a genuine and loving manner. | ||
Tag Archives: faith
Regifting Jesus
Grace With Obedience
The apostle Paul introduced the doctrine “by grace through faith” in Ephesians 2:8-10. The context of Paul’s message refers back to his words to the church in Rome. In human terms, it’s impossible for man to keep the Jewish law, Romans 3:9-12, as sin past down through the curse on placed upon Adam in Genesis 3 prevents anyone for deserving or earning eternal life on their own merits, Romans 6:23. Only when an individual places their trust in an unseen Messiah, is heaven a reality, by grace through faith in Christ Jesus.
On the other side of the spectrum, we find James, the earthly brother of Jesus. Based upon his actions mentioned in the 4 gospels and his only book, one of the catholic letters, readers will hear what they think is a contrary teaching. Possibly reflecting of his own lack of faith, not believing his brother was the son of God, the Lord’s brother places an emphasis on actions inspired by faith, James 2:14-26. Prior to Jesus’ resurrection, James was void of any belief. However, James points out that true faith, breeds action. Each go hand in hand, as once an individual claims to have faith but does not convey or display it, they are merely living a lie as James himself did until his big brother rose from the grave.
Finally, Moses relays words directly from God in Exodus 23:24-26 to the Israelites on their way to receive the promised land. God’s initial expectations are to follow the first few commandments, mainly to avoid creating or worshiping other gods or things on earth. In return for obedience, God will bless food, water and the health of his people. One might suggest this is the origin and inspiration behind saying grace before you eat today, seeking blessing from the Lord of all. Beyond this, the Lord promises to protect babies in their mother’s womb and supply long life as long as faith and obedience are woven together. Regardless of where your allegiance lies, may the Holy Spirit guide you with a spirit of obedience accompanied by grace.
by Jay Mankus
Empty Hands
When disaster, tragedy or the unexplainable strikes an innocent soul, God often get’s the blame. Accusations, complaining and questioning follow as people search for answers beneath the rumble left behind. In the background, overhearing these conservations, the Lord is disappointed, by empty hands, always taking yet never giving.
Lost in history are the words at the end of Exodus 23:15, “no one is to appear before me empty handed.” During the good times in life, God is like a friend we lose touch with, too busy to carve out any time in our daily schedule. Pride puffs up our minds, thinking we are the reason for success. Solomon was right in Proverbs 16:18 as pride foreshadows our fall, as individuals come crashing back to earth.
One could make the assumption that part of Jesus’ teaching in the parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30 relates to bringing God our best, not just the leftovers. Exodus 23:19 illustrates what full hands resemble, offering up your first fruits to God. Modern examples could be giving Jesus your first moments awake each morning, listening God’s Word first thing or giving your first paycheck of the month to the local church.
The next time you are tempted to grumble against the Lord, ask yourself this question. Did I give God my full, partial or little attention today? Depending upon your reply, maybe you need to fill your hands before you lift them up to the Lord in prayer. When you learn to give, God will pay it forward in His time, Ecclesiastes 3:11. As for now, gather before a poor witness causes countless to scatter from the faith, Matthew 12:30.
by Jay Mankus
The Wizard of Ur
On August 25th, 1939 the Wizard of Oz opened in theaters across the United States of America. This film is based upon the 1900 children’s book written by Frank Baum. The wizard in this classic flick is portrayed like a modern day politician, promising the world, but unable to deliver anything. Dwelling in his palace, the Wizard of Oz was haughty, too good for the average citizen, deceiving his people to support his luxurious lifestyle.
In Genesis 12:1, the Wizard of all wizards, introduces himself to a man from Ur. Before physically building a kingdom, this wizard promises Abram a great nation, full of his offspring. The only problem with this amazing offer is that the person on the receiving end was elderly and his wife barren. Without any ruby slippers or good witches to make this couples’ dream come true, the power of God’s divine intervention changed the course of history.
Several hundred years later, this promised land was within reach for Abraham’s descendents. The only thing standing in their way was a desert and a deserted faith, putting God’s plan on hold temporarily. At this crossroads, God appears like the Great Wizard in Exodus 20:18-21. These verses incite fear, prompting the cowards to run away and hide. Yet, in the end, God has prepared a place, beyond the rainbow, John 14:2-3. This paradise is not limited to the Jews; rather its for all who believe, John 20:30-31. May the Holy Spirit make your eternal wishes come true, 1 John 5:13.
by Jay Mankus
Faith Like A Bread Crumb
In many avenues of life, a person of faith may be viewed as a dreamer, with good intentions yet far from reality. Other optimistic individuals may be seen as crazy, with loose wires some where in their brains. Although opinions may not be shared or spoken to their face, skepticism abounds as many have given up hope of believing in a God who does not meet their expectations or perceived needs.
Matthew 15:21-28 introduces the world to an outsider, a Canaanite whose culture was known for worshiping the devil. Without any background about her, it appears that her nation’s god, Baal, had not been able to heal her child. Thus, hearing that the circus was in town, Jesus’ earthly ministry, she pushes her way through the crowd. Like a union boss during a strike at his plant, this desperate woman made her way to Jesus’ disciples, demanding a face to face encounter. Not taking no for an answer, the disciples throw their hands up in the air, giving up, encouraging Jesus to send this woman on her way.
Jesus gave this Canaanite every opportunity to go home. Jesus kindly reminds her that his initial mission was to come for the lost sheep of Israel. Considered dogs by Jewish culture, he bluntly asks, “why should I waste my time with you,” possibly referencing his earlier words in Matthew 7:6. Yet, each time she came back with a reply more determined than before, refusing to take no for an answer. Finally, with faith like a bread crumb, this persistent woman receives the answer so longed to hear. Living out the words of Matthew 7:7-12, she specifically asked God, seeking Jesus day after day and when no or not now was the answer, she kept knocking until her daughter was healed. As you start tomorrow, don’t forget to seek a faith like a bread crumb.
by Jay Mankus
Green Pastures of Prayer
Psalm 23:2 implies several things about the relationship between a sheep and his shepherd. The expression “makes me lie down” suggests a sheep has submitted to his master. This commitment yields an individual’s power of control over to their shepherd, acknowledging total surrender. Like an act of faith, this decision essentially communicates that you have embraced God’s ways, a sign you have turned over a new lease on life to the Lord of heaven and earth. In return, Jesus promises a future which contains green pastures.
Mark 1:35-39 is a real life example of Psalm 23. Jesus models an ideal prayer life, early in the morning, in solitude, without the distractions of the world to interrupt your connection with God the Father. Although some may claim there know exactly what they want to do and where they expect to go on a specific day, the Shepherd knows best. While praying, the Holy Spirit showed Jesus where to go and what to do, Mark 1:38. As a result, the disciples experienced the green pastures of prayer during their 3 years with Jesus before his death, resurrection and ascension. The only question remaining is, can modern followers of Jesus find similar blessings?
Although opinions vary, I believe beyond the walls of doubt exists a lush oasis, waiting for your arrival. However, daily obstacles often keep you from day dreaming of such a place. Nonetheless, once you wade through the stresses of life, a shepherd stands guard at a gate. This entrance to a promised land, illuminates the truth of the Word of God. Accessible by prayer, may you see for yourself the green pastures awaiting for God’s children. When prayer inspires tithing, the floodgates to heaven on earth will open, Malachi 3:10-12. Come now will the grass is still green…
by Jay Mankus
On the Other Side of the Door
Deep inside a broken heart, desperation moves an individual to a closed door. On the verge of change, an action is required to remove the burden from an unclean woman. Contemplating what to say, faith leads her to turn the knob, hoping to leave the nightmares of the past behind, outside for good. With a jar of perfume in hand, she risks embarrassment, passing shocked faces on the way before approaching Jesus.
by emilysincerely.wordpress.com
Inquiring minds begin to gossip in the corners of Lazarus’ house. Dressed to invoke sinful thoughts, this prostitute opens up a pint of pure nard, kneeling beside Jesus. Oblivious to judgmental hearts and wandering eyes, this woman came to do what she felt compelled to do, wash Jesus’ feet. Using her long hair as a towel, she humbles herself before the son of God, adding fuel to an already tarnished reputation, giving religious leaders enough justification to put their plans for crucifixion into motion.
This encounter in John 12:1-11 is like a scene from a play, lived out every day in communities, schools and the workplace throughout the country. When a person wants to change their identity, God is willing, yet his people often allow prejudices to keep their hearts from forgiving and forgetting, Matthew 6:14-15. Although freedom exists on the other side of the door, Revelation 3:20, welcoming arms may not be receptive to your conversion. May the Barnabas’ of this generation serve as a voice of reason, greeting anyone who turns the knob to get to the other side of the door, Acts 9:26-28.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 