Living in the flesh -- it's all about fighting with one another; being the top dog - coveting what others have. All of this causes such tension in our souls and takes away the rest and peace God has planned for us.
I love Paul's reminder that no one owns a position -- one lays the foundation, the other builds on that. Each serves differently -- good stuff.
And all our "highest" thoughts are worthless (vs 20) so why are we boasting? It's when we are weak that we become strong by leaning into Him.
Chris 4:3 reminded me of what we talked about yesterday -- not worrying about what humans thought -- and hello; how well put "the ever changing human standard" Letting God be our only judge, the supreme judge -- "the voice of God will speak to each of us the only praise that will ever matter" and THAT praise coming after He's seen those buried motives, thought, and deeds" I can only say, "create in me a new heart"
Yes, I felt like the whole reading tied into my last week or so and especially yesterday. I have to say, after reading what Paul said in the first part of 3 that I am spiritually immature. My one caveat thought is this: is he referring to spiritual comparing or jealousies? So is he just speaking to the church. It would seem so from the context and since the letter is to the church in Corinth.
I see us do this a lot. We go to an event or have a pastor that really ministers to our hearts and spiritual needs at that point in time. Instead of taking that for just the blessing that God intended, we hold on as if that is the only person/place that can minister to us. Therefore, we refuse to grow further or at best hinder our growth until we realize what we have done.
We also tend to discount other's thoughts on the matter if a different person/place ministered to them. We try to compare our "person" to theirs or our experience to theirs instead of just rejoicing in the fact that we were blessed and encourage each other more. I have definitely fallen into this category. Hopefully, I will remember this instruction from Paul next time I'm tempted to do this.
I too liked the part about the only praise that matters coming from God. Why do I look for the every changing approval of men! Ugggh, I get so fed up with myself sometimes!
It's really neat to see Paul's humility here in 4. Only God matters. Only His team, only His kingdom, only His will. Paul had everything and was willing to give it up and be stoned by the very people who had once touted him as the next big religious leader. He really got it.
I'm so thankful for the Bible and the different stories/people that God brings back to me when I'm struggling in a situation. It's always just what I need.
Joseph is one of my favorite Bible stories. But I do like how The Voice brings out the importance of the story of Judah & Tamar.
It seems to be an odd insert in the middle of Joseph's tale. Scripture is honest, even about the terrible mistakes made by people. It has to be that honest in order for us to appreciate the redemption that happens. It gives me hope to see that it is even possible and I can imagine it gives hope to many others as well. It is so encouraging to me.
39:21 is what stood out to me today. "But the Eternal One remained with Joseph and showed him His loyal love..." So many times in trials, I wonder why God has punished me or abandoned me when it's just the opposite. As the song says "not for a moment, did You forsake me..."
I think it's for just that mentality that God allows the trials to come to me. Only as I realize He is still there, do the trials become bearable. And let's face it, it's not going to get easier to be a Christian but much, much harder. If I can't hang in there now when it's pretty cushy, how am I going to make it through the really tough times that are coming? I have to remember that He remains with me through trial. His Presence = His Peace. I have to let go of my control and fall into His everlasting arms that are always underneath me.
today I appreciated this comment on the reading, "Lust and lies, deception and prostitution do not frustrate God's plan; in fact God has a way of taking them, redeeming them, and including them within HIs greater will.
Interesting to me that the things I disdain might be the very things God uses to bring about his will - - all things work together I think it is said; this is very hard for me to understand, but I guess that is what faith is all about.
What a contrast, as noted, between Reuben & Judah compared to Joseph. Joseph was determined not to dishonor God - - maybe he was influenced by the disrespect he witnessed in his early life.
I know that it is the way of Bible times for a daughter to marry and live with the husband's family. But I have to wonder if it made Ruth's mother sad that Ruth chose Naomi over her, her land, her people, her gods. I wonder if Ruth's mother even knew that she had a grandson - probably not.
Ruth 3:18 After Ruth and Naomi made their wishes and hopes known -- they didn't push or manipulate, rather -- they waited. "Now you must wait, daughter. We must wait and see what happens. Be at peace" Good council!
I love the illustration of the kinsman-redeemer and how that refers to Jesus. I never understood that connection until about a year ago.
Definitely no Twitter to spread the news back then. When they said goodbye it makes sense that they wept so much because they really never did expect to see each other again in this life.
I really like this version of the Bible. Takes some of my favorite things and makes them even better.
Psalms 27:1 "The Eternal is my light amidst my darkness..." even when I'm lost in my own dark world, God still searches for me with a light (Himself) to woo me back in spite of myself. So very thankful for this.
v5 "His house is my shelter and secret retreat. It is there I find peace in the midst of storm and turmoil. Safety sits with me in the hiding place of God...." Reminds me of Sabbath when I was in His house, creation, listening to the wind howl all around me, but not touching me. I was hid and had an awesome time with Him sitting right beside me. I get such a great and very different perspective when I go out in His house of nature a talk with Him.
28:7 "...when I learn to rest and truly trust Him, he sends His help..." I am in this process, I think we all are. But to whom else can I go and get the same quality of help?
I love the praise of 29. He is so worthy and definitely deserves ALL the credit for all the good in my life. Thank You my Eternal.
I love Psalms -- who would have thought that David could have effected so many generations -- even me! "To live with HIm all of my days - in the shadow of His temple" The temple is where God is -- so here on the earth, I'm in His shadow -- I like that, because He is over me, casting the shadow on me. "To behold His beauty and ponder HIs ways" "in the company of His people" WAIT - where did the people come in?? Hee hee! When I think of my time with God - it's typically solitude, no distractions; but David points out I can double the pleasure when I am focused with others on Him! (not on each other - - that simply doesn't work)
"His house is my shelter and secret retreat" Chris - I think you'd agree that His house is nature -- where we can regenerate -- "It is there I find peace" I just soaked in this for awhile.
"The prodding of my heart leads me to chase after You" I wish this was always true -- sometimes my heart is tangled up in world/personal problems and the chasing stops -- I sit down and focus on the unimportant. Lord -- keep me chasing after YOU - prod my heart - and let me listen carefully.
This part is hard for me to write. "My father and mother have deserted me, yet the Eternal will take me in" Now I had the most LOVING parents EVER -- no complaints there - no desertion; but in a way, when my mom died, when my dad remarried -- I felt deserted; orphaned. I know that there was nothing intentional on their part there -- but it's what welled up in me, so this text, "the Eternal will take me in" draws such a sweet picture for me. Thank you Lord.
Yes, nature is definitely His house. In your last paragrahp, I can see how you would feel that way. It is good that the Bible speaks to us in every need we have.
Ok, Job. I always applaud him when he vents on his friends since they are so harsh on him. I tried to put myself in their shoes as I read Z's response. As far as their history goes, they have pretty much seen the righteous blessed and the wicked punished. They have the history of the flood and maybe Sodom/Gomorrah has happened. I think they are contemporaries of Abraham or maybe they are before.
But Eden was shut down to humans as soon as we sinned. So they are speaking from what they know and from known history. Job has pressed his relationship with God farther then they have though - obviously.
Gives me a bit more understanding about them when I see where they are coming from. Also a warning not to be content with the status quo. Don't wonder or look around if no one else is going deeper, but pursue God with all my heart - like we read yesterday - chase Him. This relationship is between me and Him, no one else in between so it's up to the two of us to keep it going. And we all know that He is constantly pursuing me so I need to keep myself open to Him. The only one limiting our relationship is me, my expectations, my control. I need to let go in order for us to grow.
OK -- in all of his misery, I had to chuckle at Job's words in 19: "What I would give to have my words taken down, to have them inscribed for posterity on a scroll" Boy howdy, did that wish ever come true!! How many millions of people have poured over and pondered his words!
Through all of his abandonment, the words to the song are: "I know my Redeemer lives" It was the one "Hope" he clung to -- not his friends, family, wealth, position - that was wiped out; Job's confusion came from the silence of God -- but he hung on.
and his longing: "I will see God. I, myself, will see Him" I want this to be my focus today and this week - -
I only read Is 55 and then 53 because of some stuff. I really like the wording in Voice of 53. It reminded me what God and I were talking about Sabbath in Jesus' life. It was the Divine in Jesus, God living in Him, that drew people to Him. God arranged everything, John's announcement (ancient Twitter and Facebook), the disciples responding to Him when He called them, the crowds, etc. He just followed His Father's plan for Him.
55:5 reiterates that as well: "Now you will issue a call to nations from all over the world—people whom you do not know and who do not know you. They will come running, because of Me, your God because the Eternal, the Holy One of Israel, has made you beautiful." God living in me is what truly makes me beautiful. Like Mandisa sings, don't bet on looks, talents or clothes, I want the One they can't see to be the definition of me. Not there yet but that's were the encouragement of 55 comes in.
55:8-11. His plans CANNOT fail. Mine always seem to. BUT, if I let go and live in a trusting relationship with God, like Jesus did.. "So it is when I[God] declare something. My word will go out and not return to Me empty, but it will do what I wanted; it will accomplish what I determined."
And v12 says I will be led home in peace. I believe this is the peace that comes from resting in my God-made yoke. Home is heaven...definitely not here.
Is 51 had some great stuff -- vs 6 reminded me that EVERYTHING I put my trust in here on the earth will be gone -- smooshed; but God's salvation is for all time -- so Linda, put your focus in what matters:)
I liked the counsel in 7 as well: "Don't be afraid of people's scorn. Don't let their dismissive criticism, bitter anger, or hatred get you down. For they'll come to nothing. and on to v 12 "I am the One who comforts you and gives you peace. So why are you afraid of human beings?"
And here's where they get the words from the God of Angel Armies I think - 52:12 "There's no need to be anxious - the Eternal One goes before and behind you. The God of Israel paves the way with assurance and strength. He watches your back" WOW -- that is awesome! All we need to do is stay centered in His will and His love!!
There's a LOT in 52 (13-15) and of course 53 that talk about Jesus' hardships and why He will go through them. I always think when I read these about how Jesus must have poured over them - reading about his future; pretty weighty words
How bout this in 54:6 "God is pulling you close"
55 offers us the water (like Jesus did when he was here) and then God puzzles "I don't understand why you spend your money for things that don't nourish or work so hard for what leaves you empty" and you know -- I guess I wonder the same thing!! The world programs us from the start, and we miss so very much. Sorry God -- slow me down to stay in the center - I love You!
Good thoughts Chris -- I LOL at the John/facebook/twitter! and I went back and highlighted 55:12 that you brought out -- to be led home in peace; ahhhhhh - - keep my focus up, that's where and Who my peace comes from. I like being led to -- not forcing my way; seems like everything about God is gentle, easy - - if we surrender ourselves:)
This is the best part of the gospel - the victory over sin. But what it cost! I would totally be asleep with the disciples. What if Jesus had given in and slept instead of pressing through and pleading, surrendering to His Father? Sometimes we do need rest, but there are times when it's better to lose sleep, have a schedule change and surrender, wrestle with God in prayer for that surrender. It promises a better outcome than many hours of sleep.
I just love visualizing Jesus' interaction with everyone around Him in His final hours. He was secure that He was Beloved of His Father and so He still ministered, He did not seek pity. Just amazing. Amazing surrender, security and sacrifice - all for me. I am overwhelmed.
How alone Jesus must have felt, when Mary annointed him -- the disciples complaining at the expense (for HIM!), Judas off to betray him, the leaders plotting His death -- it's interesting that the 2 people that stepped forward in these last days of His life to bring encouragement weren't the 12 -- it was a woman that had struggled with prostitution and devil-possession and a thief.
Yet -- he shares communion with those 12; they had their own form of struggles - it was called pride; maybe their pride stemmed from the fact that they were with Jesus all the time -- instead of surrender, they fell toward entitlement - ah the devil's traps are so many. I think Peter's pride really shows when Jesus tells him about his 3 denials. He is embarrassed - and his feelings are hurt that Jesus doesn't trust him. Instead of surrender, he argues.
I always love how Jesus promises not to drink the juice again until we're all together.
And Jesus example of surrender - not my will but Yours be done; that's where I want to be - and I'm far far from it; I know I have a lot of lessons of surrender ahead of me.
Did you notice that both Jesus and the high priests called Judas friend? One was said with pity, one was said with scorn.
I was thinking about Jesus saying today you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of God's power and glory and coming on heavenly clouds" When that earthquake came, when the leaders received the reports from the guards, the dead that were raised -- I'm sure they daily had to live with what they knew was to come - - what a horrible ending for them, knowing they'd plotted and murdered God.
Pilot was weak; letting the crowd make his decision - -
the leader's jeer "let Him climb down from the cross - then we'll believe Him" I think that was another temptation from Satan -- not to go through with it. Hitting Jesus with temptation at His lowest point - what focus, determination and love He showed -- O how He loves us so . . .
This version makes it sound as though the guards heard what the angel told the Marys - that Jesus had been raised; I didn't catch that b4 - it would have added a new slice of evidence/truth about what really happened - the leaders must have been really squirming, as I'm sure the guards were pretty shaken.
Simply put - "I will be with you, day after day, to the end of the age." Thank you Lord - I need you every hour.
Living in the flesh -- it's all about fighting with one another; being the top dog - coveting what others have. All of this causes such tension in our souls and takes away the rest and peace God has planned for us.
ReplyDeleteI love Paul's reminder that no one owns a position -- one lays the foundation, the other builds on that. Each serves differently -- good stuff.
And all our "highest" thoughts are worthless (vs 20) so why are we boasting? It's when we are weak that we become strong by leaning into Him.
Chris 4:3 reminded me of what we talked about yesterday -- not worrying about what humans thought -- and hello; how well put "the ever changing human standard" Letting God be our only judge, the supreme judge -- "the voice of God will speak to each of us the only praise that will ever matter" and THAT praise coming after He's seen those buried motives, thought, and deeds" I can only say, "create in me a new heart"
Yes, I felt like the whole reading tied into my last week or so and especially yesterday. I have to say, after reading what Paul said in the first part of 3 that I am spiritually immature. My one caveat thought is this: is he referring to spiritual comparing or jealousies? So is he just speaking to the church. It would seem so from the context and since the letter is to the church in Corinth.
ReplyDeleteI see us do this a lot. We go to an event or have a pastor that really ministers to our hearts and spiritual needs at that point in time. Instead of taking that for just the blessing that God intended, we hold on as if that is the only person/place that can minister to us. Therefore, we refuse to grow further or at best hinder our growth until we realize what we have done.
We also tend to discount other's thoughts on the matter if a different person/place ministered to them. We try to compare our "person" to theirs or our experience to theirs instead of just rejoicing in the fact that we were blessed and encourage each other more. I have definitely fallen into this category. Hopefully, I will remember this instruction from Paul next time I'm tempted to do this.
I too liked the part about the only praise that matters coming from God. Why do I look for the every changing approval of men! Ugggh, I get so fed up with myself sometimes!
It's really neat to see Paul's humility here in 4. Only God matters. Only His team, only His kingdom, only His will. Paul had everything and was willing to give it up and be stoned by the very people who had once touted him as the next big religious leader. He really got it.
I'm so thankful for the Bible and the different stories/people that God brings back to me when I'm struggling in a situation. It's always just what I need.
Joseph is one of my favorite Bible stories. But I do like how The Voice brings out the importance of the story of Judah & Tamar.
ReplyDeleteIt seems to be an odd insert in the middle of Joseph's tale. Scripture is honest, even about the terrible mistakes made by people. It has to be that honest in order for us to appreciate the redemption that happens. It gives me hope to see that it is even possible and I can imagine it gives hope to many others as well. It is so encouraging to me.
39:21 is what stood out to me today. "But the Eternal One remained with Joseph and showed him His loyal love..." So many times in trials, I wonder why God has punished me or abandoned me when it's just the opposite. As the song says "not for a moment, did You forsake me..."
I think it's for just that mentality that God allows the trials to come to me. Only as I realize He is still there, do the trials become bearable. And let's face it, it's not going to get easier to be a Christian but much, much harder. If I can't hang in there now when it's pretty cushy, how am I going to make it through the really tough times that are coming? I have to remember that He remains with me through trial. His Presence = His Peace. I have to let go of my control and fall into His everlasting arms that are always underneath me.
today I appreciated this comment on the reading, "Lust and lies, deception and prostitution do not frustrate God's plan; in fact God has a way of taking them, redeeming them, and including them within HIs greater will.
ReplyDeleteInteresting to me that the things I disdain might be the very things God uses to bring about his will - - all things work together I think it is said; this is very hard for me to understand, but I guess that is what faith is all about.
What a contrast, as noted, between Reuben & Judah compared to Joseph. Joseph was determined not to dishonor God - - maybe he was influenced by the disrespect he witnessed in his early life.
I know that it is the way of Bible times for a daughter to marry and live with the husband's family. But I have to wonder if it made Ruth's mother sad that Ruth chose Naomi over her, her land, her people, her gods. I wonder if Ruth's mother even knew that she had a grandson - probably not.
ReplyDeleteRuth 3:18 After Ruth and Naomi made their wishes and hopes known -- they didn't push or manipulate, rather -- they waited. "Now you must wait, daughter. We must wait and see what happens. Be at peace" Good council!
I love the illustration of the kinsman-redeemer and how that refers to Jesus. I never understood that connection until about a year ago.
Definitely no Twitter to spread the news back then. When they said goodbye it makes sense that they wept so much because they really never did expect to see each other again in this life.
ReplyDeleteI really like this version of the Bible. Takes some of my favorite things and makes them even better.
Psalms 27:1 "The Eternal is my light amidst my darkness..." even when I'm lost in my own dark world, God still searches for me with a light (Himself) to woo me back in spite of myself. So very thankful for this.
v5 "His house is my shelter and secret retreat. It is there I find peace in the midst of storm and turmoil. Safety sits with me in the hiding place of God...." Reminds me of Sabbath when I was in His house, creation, listening to the wind howl all around me, but not touching me. I was hid and had an awesome time with Him sitting right beside me. I get such a great and very different perspective when I go out in His house of nature a talk with Him.
28:7 "...when I learn to rest and truly trust Him, he sends His help..." I am in this process, I think we all are. But to whom else can I go and get the same quality of help?
I love the praise of 29. He is so worthy and definitely deserves ALL the credit for all the good in my life. Thank You my Eternal.
I love Psalms -- who would have thought that David could have effected so many generations -- even me! "To live with HIm all of my days - in the shadow of His temple" The temple is where God is -- so here on the earth, I'm in His shadow -- I like that, because He is over me, casting the shadow on me. "To behold His beauty and ponder HIs ways" "in the company of His people" WAIT - where did the people come in?? Hee hee! When I think of my time with God - it's typically solitude, no distractions; but David points out I can double the pleasure when I am focused with others on Him! (not on each other - - that simply doesn't work)
ReplyDelete"His house is my shelter and secret retreat" Chris - I think you'd agree that His house is nature -- where we can regenerate -- "It is there I find peace" I just soaked in this for awhile.
"The prodding of my heart leads me to chase after You" I wish this was always true -- sometimes my heart is tangled up in world/personal problems and the chasing stops -- I sit down and focus on the unimportant. Lord -- keep me chasing after YOU - prod my heart - and let me listen carefully.
This part is hard for me to write. "My father and mother have deserted me, yet the Eternal will take me in" Now I had the most LOVING parents EVER -- no complaints there - no desertion; but in a way, when my mom died, when my dad remarried -- I felt deserted; orphaned. I know that there was nothing intentional on their part there -- but it's what welled up in me, so this text, "the Eternal will take me in" draws such a sweet picture for me. Thank you Lord.
Yes, nature is definitely His house. In your last paragrahp, I can see how you would feel that way. It is good that the Bible speaks to us in every need we have.
ReplyDeleteOk, Job. I always applaud him when he vents on his friends since they are so harsh on him. I tried to put myself in their shoes as I read Z's response. As far as their history goes, they have pretty much seen the righteous blessed and the wicked punished. They have the history of the flood and maybe Sodom/Gomorrah has happened. I think they are contemporaries of Abraham or maybe they are before.
But Eden was shut down to humans as soon as we sinned. So they are speaking from what they know and from known history. Job has pressed his relationship with God farther then they have though - obviously.
Gives me a bit more understanding about them when I see where they are coming from. Also a warning not to be content with the status quo. Don't wonder or look around if no one else is going deeper, but pursue God with all my heart - like we read yesterday - chase Him. This relationship is between me and Him, no one else in between so it's up to the two of us to keep it going. And we all know that He is constantly pursuing me so I need to keep myself open to Him. The only one limiting our relationship is me, my expectations, my control. I need to let go in order for us to grow.
OK -- in all of his misery, I had to chuckle at Job's words in 19: "What I would give to have my words taken down, to have them inscribed for posterity on a scroll" Boy howdy, did that wish ever come true!! How many millions of people have poured over and pondered his words!
ReplyDeleteThrough all of his abandonment, the words to the song are: "I know my Redeemer lives" It was the one "Hope" he clung to -- not his friends, family, wealth, position - that was wiped out; Job's confusion came from the silence of God -- but he hung on.
and his longing: "I will see God. I, myself, will see Him" I want this to be my focus today and this week - -
I was thinking the same thing when I read it!
ReplyDeleteI only read Is 55 and then 53 because of some stuff. I really like the wording in Voice of 53. It reminded me what God and I were talking about Sabbath in Jesus' life. It was the Divine in Jesus, God living in Him, that drew people to Him. God arranged everything, John's announcement (ancient Twitter and Facebook), the disciples responding to Him when He called them, the crowds, etc. He just followed His Father's plan for Him.
55:5 reiterates that as well: "Now you will issue a call to nations from all over the world—people whom you do not know and who do not know you. They will come running, because of Me, your God because the Eternal, the Holy One of Israel, has made you beautiful." God living in me is what truly makes me beautiful. Like Mandisa sings, don't bet on looks, talents or clothes, I want the One they can't see to be the definition of me. Not there yet but that's were the encouragement of 55 comes in.
55:8-11. His plans CANNOT fail. Mine always seem to. BUT, if I let go and live in a trusting relationship with God, like Jesus did.. "So it is when I[God] declare something. My word will go out and not return to Me empty, but it will do what I wanted; it will accomplish what I determined."
And v12 says I will be led home in peace. I believe this is the peace that comes from resting in my God-made yoke. Home is heaven...definitely not here.
Is 51 had some great stuff -- vs 6 reminded me that EVERYTHING I put my trust in here on the earth will be gone -- smooshed; but God's salvation is for all time -- so Linda, put your focus in what matters:)
ReplyDeleteI liked the counsel in 7 as well: "Don't be afraid of people's scorn. Don't let their dismissive criticism, bitter anger, or hatred get you down. For they'll come to nothing. and on to v 12 "I am the One who comforts you and gives you peace. So why are you afraid of human beings?"
And here's where they get the words from the God of Angel Armies I think - 52:12 "There's no need to be anxious - the Eternal One goes before and behind you. The God of Israel paves the way with assurance and strength. He watches your back" WOW -- that is awesome! All we need to do is stay centered in His will and His love!!
There's a LOT in 52 (13-15) and of course 53 that talk about Jesus' hardships and why He will go through them. I always think when I read these about how Jesus must have poured over them - reading about his future; pretty weighty words
How bout this in 54:6 "God is pulling you close"
55 offers us the water (like Jesus did when he was here) and then God puzzles "I don't understand why you spend your money for things that don't nourish or work so hard for what leaves you empty" and you know -- I guess I wonder the same thing!! The world programs us from the start, and we miss so very much. Sorry God -- slow me down to stay in the center - I love You!
Good thoughts Chris -- I LOL at the John/facebook/twitter! and I went back and highlighted 55:12 that you brought out -- to be led home in peace; ahhhhhh - - keep my focus up, that's where and Who my peace comes from. I like being led to -- not forcing my way; seems like everything about God is gentle, easy - - if we surrender ourselves:)
ReplyDeleteThis is the best part of the gospel - the victory over sin. But what it cost! I would totally be asleep with the disciples. What if Jesus had given in and slept instead of pressing through and pleading, surrendering to His Father? Sometimes we do need rest, but there are times when it's better to lose sleep, have a schedule change and surrender, wrestle with God in prayer for that surrender. It promises a better outcome than many hours of sleep.
ReplyDeleteI just love visualizing Jesus' interaction with everyone around Him in His final hours. He was secure that He was Beloved of His Father and so He still ministered, He did not seek pity. Just amazing. Amazing surrender, security and sacrifice - all for me. I am overwhelmed.
How alone Jesus must have felt, when Mary annointed him -- the disciples complaining at the expense (for HIM!), Judas off to betray him, the leaders plotting His death -- it's interesting that the 2 people that stepped forward in these last days of His life to bring encouragement weren't the 12 -- it was a woman that had struggled with prostitution and devil-possession and a thief.
ReplyDeleteYet -- he shares communion with those 12; they had their own form of struggles - it was called pride; maybe their pride stemmed from the fact that they were with Jesus all the time -- instead of surrender, they fell toward entitlement - ah the devil's traps are so many. I think Peter's pride really shows when Jesus tells him about his 3 denials. He is embarrassed - and his feelings are hurt that Jesus doesn't trust him. Instead of surrender, he argues.
I always love how Jesus promises not to drink the juice again until we're all together.
And Jesus example of surrender - not my will but Yours be done; that's where I want to be - and I'm far far from it; I know I have a lot of lessons of surrender ahead of me.
Did you notice that both Jesus and the high priests called Judas friend? One was said with pity, one was said with scorn.
I was thinking about Jesus saying today you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of God's power and glory and coming on heavenly clouds" When that earthquake came, when the leaders received the reports from the guards, the dead that were raised -- I'm sure they daily had to live with what they knew was to come - - what a horrible ending for them, knowing they'd plotted and murdered God.
Pilot was weak; letting the crowd make his decision - -
the leader's jeer "let Him climb down from the cross - then we'll believe Him" I think that was another temptation from Satan -- not to go through with it. Hitting Jesus with temptation at His lowest point - what focus, determination and love He showed -- O how He loves us so . . .
This version makes it sound as though the guards heard what the angel told the Marys - that Jesus had been raised; I didn't catch that b4 - it would have added a new slice of evidence/truth about what really happened - the leaders must have been really squirming, as I'm sure the guards were pretty shaken.
Simply put - "I will be with you, day after day, to the end of the age." Thank you Lord - I need you every hour.