Blogging Through The Gospels: John 12

Good morning, everyone! Welcome to John 12. In this chapter, Mary anoints Jesus with some very expensive nard, the Triumphal Entry occurs, Jesus predicts his death, and the Jews continue in their unbelief (again!).

Scripture:

"Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in him. But because of the Pharisees they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; for they loved praise from men more than praise from God." ~John 12:42-43

Observation:

Well, if "I" was one of those leaders, "I" would have cared less if I was put out of the synagogue, right? "I" would do the right thing and publicly confess my belief in Jesus, right? Ahhhhh....RIGHT. Still--I feel sorry for these leaders. They wanted to believe, but didn't do the right thing because they were afraid of what man could do. In short, verse 43 sums it all up: "for they loved praise from men more than praise from God."

Application:

Do I love "praise from men more than praise from God"? We all know what we should say, but would that be the truth??

Prayer:

Dear God, help me to learn to love praise from You more than praise from man. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen. 

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

In Their Own Words: Doug Hurley

Here's a very nice video featuring Doug Hurley, the pilot of STS-135. In it, he talks of how he became an astronaut, what was his biggest challenge in his astronaut career, and of what spaceflight is like. Another awesome NASA video!

~Photobug

P.S.--Remember, come to my actual blog to view this video.

In Their Own Words: The STS-135 Crew

Here's a very nice four-minute video which features the STS-135 crew. In it, they talk about how they got assigned to this final shuttle mission, what they think of it, and also of their mission patch. Really cool stuff! :)

STS-135 is currently scheduled to launch on July 8, 2011 at 11:26am. You can watch the launch on NASA TV.

~Photobug

P.S.--Remember, come to my actual blog to view this video.

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 11

Today's chapter--John 11--has just become one of my new favorite Bible chapters! Jesus raising Lazarus to life has to be at the top of anyone's list! Totally awesome story. OK. Onto our SOAP!

Scripture:

"When he heard this, Jesus said, "This sickness will not end in death. No, it is for God's glory so that God's Son may be glorified through it."" ~John 11:4

Observation:

I was really attracted to Jesus' reply here. Martha and Mary sadly witness Lazarus going downhill, and send a message to Jesus. Jesus replies that this sickness will not end in death. And then Lazarus dies. What were Martha and Mary thinking then? That's certainly something I hadn't thought about too much before.

Application:

I can really relate to this story right now. In the past week there has been just so many things going on for me--getting my drivers' permit, scheduling all my part-time jobs around each other, my current work, and so much more that it has seemed like nothing will ever work out. I'm sure that's how Martha and Mary felt too.

Just like them, I'm having to learn that God is in control, not I. I could never figure out how everything could work out--so many "what if's"--but God can. And he is! I was able to pass my written test and get my drivers' permit this morning (yay!!), and right now it looks like my work schedules will be working out fine. God is even throwing in some fun surprises for me, just because he can!

God wants the best for his people. We may not see how he can do it, but if we surrender and trust him, he will take charge and take care of our lives in a marvelous way.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for leading me to read this particular chapter on this particular day. I know that wasn't a coincidence. Once again, I surrender my all to you. Help me to trust in you more, and let you take charge and take care of my life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

The Final Flight

Above is a totally awesome video on Atlantis, STS-135, and the one-of-a-kind team that has designed, built, and serviced the Space Shuttle over the past three decades. This video covers Atlantis' history, what's planned for this final shuttle flight, and about the people that made it happen.

~Photobug

P.S.--Remember to come to my actual blog to view this video.

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 10

Welcome to John 10, everyone! This chapter covers Jesus' discussion on sheep (and the Good Shepherd), as well as the unbelief of the Jews.

Scripture:

"I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved." ~John 10:9

Observation:

Jesus is saying that He's the only way to be eternally saved--and that's true! Jesus is the gate to God. After sinning, we were forever separated from God, until Jesus--who's God & human all at the same time--came down to earth and died on the cross for our sins. Now we can come to Jesus, and be saved through him--our advocate in Heaven!

Application:

There's just one way to get to Heaven. Have you walked through and believed on the Gate?

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for your wonderful Bible that you have given me. Please help me to believe you more. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 9

Good morning, everyone! Welcome  to John 9! I must confess, chapters in which Jesus heals people have to be some of my favorite chapters ever. John 9 focuses on Jesus healing a blind man...it is such a beautiful story! Let's SOAP!

Scripture:

"As he went along, [Jesus] saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"

"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life."" ~John 9:1-3

Observation:

When I read these verses this morning, I just knew I had to SOAP on them. You see, before I was born I suffered a stroke, which gave me cerebral palsy. It's a rare version that affects me vertically--my right side is partially paralyzed. It's not bad at all--I can still do most whatever I want--but nevertheless it still there.

I really liked what Jesus said in verse 3: "This happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life." I know that even with having cerebral palsy, my disability has really been a blessing in disguise. For eleven years I was able to enjoy the company of a very sweet golden retriever service dog (Lauren), and when we lived in Texas I was able to ride at a horse riding stable just for handicapped people. Both Lauren and being able to ride horses were wonderful things that came with having a disability.

And I'm sure that God's not done using me yet! Perhaps the reason I have cerebral palsy is so I can be some sort of unique witness for God, I don't know. But I do know that God has a plan for my life!

Application:

You may not have cerebral palsy (I hope not!!!) or be blind, but we can always find ways that we are less privileged that someone else. Blah, blah, blah. Don't complain about your "disabilities", or what not. Remember that God has a plan for you, and he just might have let happen what you think is a "disability" so that he can use you even more. So that you can be even a greater, more powerful witness for him.

Prayer:

Dear God, help us not to complain about what we don't have, or how we're less privileged than someone else. Help us to see the big picture, and help us to be good witnesses for you. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

Getting Ready for the Final Flight

Here's a really cool four-minute video which shows STS-135 astronauts Chris Ferguson, Doug Hurley, Rex Walheim, and Sandy Magnus go through the TCDT (or Terminal Countdown Demonstration Test) for their mission. TCDT occurs just a few weeks before the planned launch day, and gives astronauts time to complete a practice countdown, landings, and emergency procedures.

For all those who are planning on watching the final launch of the Space Shuttle program, it's planned to occur at 11:26am on July 8, 2011. As always, you can watch it on NASA TV.

~Photobug

P.S.--Remember, come to my actual blog to view this video.

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 8

Good morning, everyone! Welcome to John 8! Today's Scripture passage is not the most, um, um, peaceful--as the Pharisees and Jesus are in constant contention! Let's SOAP.

Scripture:

"When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."" ~John 8:12

Observation:

In the last week or two, we have had almost constant thunderstorms. Every day, it seems like one comes, and more times than not, our power goes out too. For a few hours. If I don't have a flashlight myself, I'm telling you, I try to trail as closely as I can behind someone else who does!

I really, really like this verse, and the concept that Jesus is the light of the world. Just think pretend that the world is in one great big huge power outage, and the only light is Jesus. He truly is the light of the world. And it's just so awesome to think that whoever follows Jesus, will never be in darkness! And we won't just be in the light; we'll have the light of life! Cool!

Jesus is the light of the world, and his Word is a light to our path. See Psalms 119:105--

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path."

Jesus--the Light of this world. His Word--showing us where to go.

Application:

Are you in the Light, having a close relationship with your Savior?

Prayer:

Dear God, I know that you are the Light of this world, and through Your Word you tell me where to go and what to do. Help me to stay in your presence, stay in your light, and do what you would want me to do. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen. 

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

God Will Make A Way

This right here is one of my favorite songs ever! Such an awesome, comforting, and uplifting song. We sang it in church today, and that reminded me that you might enjoy it, too! :)

~Photobug

P.S.--Remember to come to my actual blog to view this video.

Who Am I? Clue: A Discouraged, Enlightened, Excited Disciple

Greetings, Israelite of Jerusalem! Christ is risen! Christ is risen! I saw him with my very own eyes! I must tell you how it happened!

I'm sure you've heard about how our chief priests and rulers arrested and crucified Jesus Christ three days ago, haven't you? You--like us--must have been in the deepest pit of despair. Many of us believed that Jesus was the promised Messiah, coming to deliver Israel! I'm sure you remember hearing about all the miracles that this Jesus of Nazareth performed. And just last week Sunday, I'm sure you were part of the crowd welcoming Jesus on a donkey into Jerusalem! That, my friend, was prophecy fulfilled! [Zech. 9:9, Luke 24:17-21]

I didn't have any major part in Christ's work, but I sure was an earnest believer. This afternoon, my friend and I were walking the seven miles from Jerusalem to our homes in Emmaus. We were so downcast, so discouraged as we trudged home. Suddenly another traveler comes up from behind us, and asks us what we were talking about. We tell him about the terrible events that have happened. Right then, this traveler starts explaining the Old Testament prophecies about the Christ, all the way from the beginning! This traveler shows to us from the Scriptures everything concerning Christ, and how Christ has fulfilled every prophecy to a T! [Luke 24:13-14, 17-27]

As this traveler brought forth all the prophecies concerning Christ, my friend and I knew that our hearts were burning within us. We had never heard the prophecies like this! Too soon my friend and I reached the turn off for Emmaus, this traveler seemed like he was going on further. It was very late in the evening tonight, so I invited him to my home for the evening meal. So this traveler accepted my invitation. [Luke 24:28-29, 32]

Very soon after we reached my home, my wife had prepared a meal complete with bread for me, my friend, and this traveler. Surprisingly, this traveler took hold of the bread and prayed, as if he were hosting the meal. As this traveler passed the bread to my friend and I, our eyes were opened! It was JESUS, the RISEN JESUS that had expounded the Scriptures to us! It was him with whom we had been walking and talking! Immediately, my friend and I bowed in worship. And then, quick as a flash, Jesus disappeared! [Luke 24:30-31]

We didn't give a second thought to Jesus disappearing. It was enough that we had seen Jesus ALIVE! Immediately leaving our meal, my friend and I raced the seven miles back here to Jerusalem to tell everyone that we could, that Jesus was ALIVE! [Luke 24:33]

Jesus is ALIVE, my friend! Christ has RISEN from the dead! Praise God!

I must go now, and tell many more people that Jesus is ALIVE. Spread the news fast, my friend! The story flows with the wind, and feet have wings! Tell everyone you meet that Jesus is ALIVE! 

If you still haven't figured out my name, my name is...

Cleopas

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 7

Happy Sabbath, everyone! I'm so glad that it's the weekend again! Good, busy week, but I'm ready for some rest and spiritual re-charging.

Today's chapter is John 7, which covers the confrontations between the Pharisees and Jesus when Jesus attended the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem. Let's SOAP!

Scripture:

"Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgement." ~John 7:24

Observation:

This is the conclusion of one of Jesus' arguments as he asks why the Jews will keep Moses' law and  circumcise a child on the Sabbath, and then lambaste him for healing the whole man on the Sabbath. Then Jesus utters today's text.

Application:

Even out of context, our Scripture for today is still very good advice. Anyone remember when Samuel was trying to anoint one of Jesses' sons as the next king of Israel? Well, God's choice certainly wasn't who Samuel thought he would be! Remember what God told Samuel about Jesse's other sons?

""Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." ~1 Samuel 16:7

Does that kinda remind you of what Jesus just said??

I don't know about you, but I know from personal experience that it is real easy to judge someone. See a new kid come into Sabbath School, I "think" it's very easy to tell who they are! I mean, c'mon, look at the clothes they're wearing! Look at this, look at that! And all that I "think" that person is, could be totally wrong. They could actually be the nicest person in the world! So it's very easy to judge people from mere, outward appearances, but God tells us that we shouldn't. That's a challenge we all need to work on.

Prayer:

Dear God, you know that it is too easy, almost second nature, for me to judge people by mere, outward appearances. I know that you don't want me to do that, and truly deep down inside me, I don't want to either. I surrender myself wholly to you--please help me stop judging people like I have been. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen. 

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

In Their Own Words: Sandy Magnus

Here's a really, really cool four-minute video featuring STS-135 astronaut Sandy Magnus. In it, she talks about becoming an astronaut, the challenges and joys of the profession, and what gravity means to her after being in space for months on end. Pure awesomeness! :)

~Photobug

P.S.--Remember, come to my actual blog to view this video.

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 6

John 6--Jesus feeding the 5,000 and walking on the water, plus a bunch of his teachings. Wow! A really packed chapter.

Scripture:

"Another one of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, spoke up, "Here is a boy with five small barley loves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?"" ~John 6:8-9

Observation:

Thousands of people were crowding around Jesus, eager to hear his teachings. Jesus knew that the people needed to eat, so he thought up a plan. Before revealing what he was going to do, however, he asked Phillip what to do. In character, Phillip doubted that they could feed the crowd, even with eight months' wages.

Then Andrew spoke up: "Hey Jesus, I found a little boy with some food, but will that really cover the crowd?" I like to hear him say. Both Phillip and Andrew doubted; but Andrew brought something to Jesus. More importantly, he brought someone who had something that Jesus could use.

The little boys' five small barley loves and two small fish was all that Jesus needed. Jesus blessed that food, and fed a crowd of at least 15,000 with it. And "just" with a little boys' lunch! Wow.

Application:

We may not have tons of talents or abilities that we can use for God. We may feel like we only have one or two; and as we take a look at them we think, How in the world can God use that?? But I have good news, folks: God can use whatever talents or abilities that you may have. Each person is different, and so God uses different people in different ways.

I feel like I must share a little bit of my personal testimony here, as it fits in so well with the lesson of today. Here goes:

Last year, around Christmas time, I was pondering what I should do for my quiettime once the new year (2011) began. I wasn't too sure, but I finally decided to read the book Messages to Young People. It's a book by Christian author Ellen White, and in it she talks about many things that are important to young people, especially how to live and grow in Christ. I knew it would be a fantastic read, and I thought that perhaps a few of my friends from Sabbath School might like to join me.

So I wrote out a reading plan. Reading approximately eleven pages a day, readers would finish the book in forty days. The starting date would be January 1, 2011. Really unsure of how all of this would work out, I started a Facebook group, and posted the reading schedule. My mom and I advertised about the Messages to Young People "Readathon" on our Facebook pages, as well as Mom talked about it on a homeschool mom e-mail list she is on. I really didn't do that much advertising at all.

In the two weeks from creating the group to starting the Readathon, 57 people signed up to read along with me. By the time we finished forty days later, there was 85 people reading Messages to Young People with me, including some from Canada, Australia, and the U.S.! It was an absolutely amazing experience to lead 85 excited people through Messages to Young People, and I saw for the first time how God had used me in a BIG way for him. I could see how this certainly wasn't my Readathon; it was God's Readathon that he was using to his glory. WOW! I didn't have much, but when I gave my little to God, he used me and my little in a BIG way.

You may just have a little. But dedicate it to God, and together you can accomplish a LOT!

Prayer:

Dear God, I know that I don't have a lot of talents or abilities. But I know that you can use the ones that I do have. I give those to you know--use me as you see fit, and help me to be a good witness for you. Amen. 

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 5

Good morning, everyone! Today's chapter is John 5--a healing, but mainly Jesus discussing various topics with the Pharisees. Let's SOAP!

Scripture:

"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." ~John 5:24

Observation:

Wow. Isn't that verse amazing? I just love that last part where Jesus says that those who hear and believe him have "crossed over from death to life"!! Let's unpack this verse a little bit.

"I tell you the truth"--"This is true stuff I'm gonna tell you now, everyone!"

"whoever hears my word and believe him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned"--

Sure, lots of people may hear God's word. They can sit through a sermon and not get anything out of it. It just goes in one ear and out the other! So lots of people hear God's word...but there's a smaller number that actually hear and believe--sure, these people hear God's word--but they do something about it, namely believe in God. These people--true Christians, doing everything they can to please God, and do what he says--will have eternal life. Wow. That's awesome!

Application:

Lots of people hear God's word. I'm sure you hear it, too. But do you believe it, and the God who sent it?

Prayer:

Dear God, help me not just to hear your Word, but to believe it and believe in You too. Amen. 

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

Meeting the STS-135 crew

Here's a very nice eight-minute video describing the four veteran astronauts that will be flying the Space Shuttle Program's final mission, STS-135 (due to launch July 8). In this video you learn how the crew grew up, how they became astronauts, and more! This is a really great video!! :)

~Photobug

P.S.--Remember to come to my actual blog to view this video.

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 4

Good morning, everyone! Today's Bible chapter is John 4, which focusing mainly on Jesus' interaction with a Samaritan woman. Very interesting conversation, you really should read it yourself! To whet your appitite, here's a selection of their conversation:

Jesus: "Go, call your husband and come back."

Woman: "I have no husband."

Jesus: "You are right when you say  you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true."

See John 4:7-26 for more!

OK. Onto our SOAP!

Scripture:

"Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman." ~John 4:27

Observation:

I know some of you may be wildly wondering at this point why I chose this verse. Understandable. From what I can tell, back in Bible times the Jews and Samaritans were bitter enemies. So for a Jewish man to be talking to--and can you believe it, asking for a cup of water from--a Samaritan woman, now that's unbelievable!

Application:

So you still may be wondering why in the world I decided to SOAP on this. That's fine! The point I'd like to make today is that we shouldn't cloister ourselves up in our own tight little groups, and not interact with anyone else. For you, "other people" may mean people of another race or religion. Or it could be something different. Only you know. My point here is that we need to include and interact with other people...even our supposed "enemies".

Prayer:

Dear God, please help me to interact with and witness to a broad range of people. Please give me the courage, strength, and knowledge that I need to do this. Amen. 

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 3

Welcome to John 3, everyone! This is quite possibly the best Gospels chapter that I have EVER read…this chapter is a treasure trove, packed full with spiritual gems!

If you haven’t read it yet, John 3 talks about Nicodemus’ nighttime interview with Jesus, and John the Baptist.  

I must say that I really admire John the Baptist for what he said in this chapter, and so I’ll do a little “pre-shower” on him before moving onto our SOAP.

OK. The situation is like this: both John and Jesus are in their ministry, baptizing people. John’s ministry is fading out, but Jesus’ ministry is gaining speed. Some of John’s disciples note that more people are coming to Jesus, rather than John. So they confront John about this. What does John say?

“A man can receive only what is given him from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, ‘I am not the Christ but am sent ahead of him.’ The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom’s voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less.” ~John 3:27-30

I must say, I was really impressed with what John said there at the end:

“He must become greater; I must become less.”

John had no ambitions to make people think that he was the Christ, or the most important person in this plan. He was simply the forerunner, telling everyone what was about to happen and who was coming. He was content with this role, did it well, and supported Jesus. All I can say is, that it must take a very humble man to say what John said. Wow.

OK, onto our SOAP! Our Scripture passage today comes from Nicodemus’ interview with Jesus—such beautiful truths and lyrical teachings. This is the part of John that I love the best—the beautiful, true teachings of Jesus. I don’t have room to quote all of what I love about John 3 here, but I’ve picked out the best of the best. Really, you should read it yourself!

Scripture:

“Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that everyone who believes him may have eternal life. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” ~John 3:14-17

Observation:

In the first part of this passage, Jesus refers to an event which occurred during the Israelites’ march through the desert. As an Israelite teacher, Nicodemus must have known this story well. For the rest of us, I’ll recap and give some background:

The Israelites had disobeyed God again. So God chose to let deadly desert snakes into the camp, who started killing off just about everyone. The Israelites cried out against Moses, and then God told Moses what to do: build a bronze snake, and put it on a pole. Hold it high above the people. Anyone who looks at the pole will live!

So that’s the background that Jesus and Nicodemus have as they discuss this snake-on-a-pole story. Jesus is saying that just like the bronze snake was lifted up, so too will Jesus be lifted up, so all can have not just temporary life, but eternal life. Wow.

Of course, we all know John 3:16, how God sent his only Son to us, so that any who believe would not perish but have eternal life. Isn’t that wonderful? Yes it is! But it gets better with the following verse:

“For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”

As much as I love John 3:16, I really like John 3:17. It’s such a comforting verse, that God didn’t send his Son down to earth with an iron rod to infer suffering and distress to everyone, no! God sent his son so that we could believe, be saved, and spend eternity with Him! Now that’s wonderful.

Application:

God has done so much for you, and he wants everyone to believe in his Son, be saved, and spend eternity with him. Will you believe in him?

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you so much for the Bible, and all the things I can learn. You are such an awesome God! Help me to believe on You more, and trust you in all the things I do. Amen. 

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 2

Well, I must admit, I almost didn’t write today because I couldn’t think of anything to write about! I’ve found one thing to SOAP about, so I’m going to go with that, but be prepared—it may not be all well thought out like my other posts!

Today’s chapter is John 2—on Jesus turning water into wine at a wedding, and Jesus clearing out the Temple.

Scripture:

“When the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.”” ~John 2:3

Observation:

I noticed that Jesus let the wine (well, I think it was actually more like grape juice, but for this case I’ll still call it wine) run out. Even when the wine did run out, and Jesus’ mother informed him of the crisis, he still didn’t appear all too keen on performing a miracle. But eventually, on his own time schedule, Jesus did perform a miracle and provided more wine. 

Application:

What I get from this story is that Jesus does supply our needs. Sure, it may not be on the time schedule that we want, but nevertheless, he does supply what we need. And we can count on that.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you so much that I could read this chapter. Thank you for reminding me that You will take care of my needs. Thank you so much for all that you do for me! In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen. 

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

In Their Own Words: Mike Barratt

Here is an awesome astronaut's tale of his two awesome spaceflights--one aboard a Soyuz, and another aboard the shuttle. We are talking about Mike Barratt--he flew to the ISS on Expeditions 19 and 20 in 2009, and STS-133 this past March. Barratt also discusses how a Soyuz and Shuttle launch were different, what flying Discovery's last mission was like, and more!

~Photobug

P.S.--you'll have to come to my actual blog to view this video.

Blogging Through The Gospels: John 1

Wow! We're finally in John, the last Gospel! Sad. :| But at least we still have three more weeks of blogging through the gospels! :)

Today, naturally, we start John with chapter 1. At the start (verses 1-5, 16-18) is just so lyrical and pretty. I really think you should read it! Anyway, John 1 talks about John and Baptist baptizing Jesus, and who Jesus was and why Jesus was here. John 1 also goes on to chronicle Jesus recruiting his first disciples.

Scripture:

"Jesus looked at him and said, "You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas" (which, when translated, is Peter)." ~John 1:42

Observation:

I don't know about your Bible, but in my Bible there's a footnote on John 1:42 which tells me that Cephas (Aramaic) and Peter (Greek) both mean rock. Just think, Jesus has just recruited his latest stumbling, bumbling disciple...and he renames him "rock". Peter, "Rock", would certainly become a rock for Christ, staying true to his God whether in preaching, healing, or crucifixion.

Application:

Just think, if every time you signed your name or paid a bill you wrote a word meaning "Rock for Christ" on it. Always being reminded of your duty to stay firm to God. What would you think of that? That's what Peter had.

Now, I have my suspicions that Peter didn't always think that he was too good of rock for Christ. Yeah, sure, he was a rock...and stayed put and blabbed a lot! He was totally in love with Jesus, but he still had many faults--just like us. It must have cut Peter to the core when Jesus looked at him, right after Peter denied Jesus three times. I've always read this story, and thought it was sad, but until I read about "Peter" meaning "Rock", I didn't realize really what it meant. Peter--the "Rock for Christ"--had denied his Lord. Not just not talking about him, keeping his mouth shut, but denying that he knew Jesus.

But the good news for Peter, and us, is that Jesus forgave Peter. Jesus still loved Peter, and fully reinstated him in his position as disciple and apostle. Later, Peter became a strong pillar, a firm rock for God, all the way to his death.

Take a moment now to think what you would feel, if your name was Peter. Every time you wrote it, you would be reminded of your commitment to God. Sometimes, you'd feel really bad when you messed up. We all do. But the important thing is that Jesus forgave Peter, he still loved Peter and wanted Peter to help him in his work. Jesus still loves us, too, when we mess up. When we come to him for forgiveness, he is more than ready to do it. Even if we mess up, we can still become firm "rocks" for God.

Prayer:

Dear God, please strengthen me to be a firm rock for you, to believe in you and share you no matter what. I know I'll mess up sometimes, but I also know that you will forgive me and keep on helping me be firm for you. Thank you for all that you do for me! Amen. 

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

Dishes

One of the great opportunities I've had this summer is to work in a local deli, washing dishes. While some may find this to be a boring or distasteful job, I find it to be quite the opposite. First of all, the job itself is very easy. People bring me their dirty dishes, and I scrub, dunk, and rinse the dishes through the various sinks till they're clean! Second, my co-workers are very funny and all around awesome. It's really a joy to work there!

As I've spent quite a lot of time thinking as I wash the dishes, I've realized how similar our spiritual lives are to dish washing  Let me explain.

There are two types of dishes that I wash at the deli. Some dishes are very easy to rinse off and wash; a short squirt of water and they're ready to be run through the sinks. The other kind of dish is harder to wash. This kind comes to me with much food baked and stuck on, and this kind takes much attention to get it clean. I'll spray it, but I must also fill this dish with water and let it soak for a while. After I wash several more dishes, I come back to this stubborn dish. I scrub it hard with my brushes until all the stuck-on food is off, and I can run it through with the other dishes.

In my analogy, we are the dirty dishes coming to God for cleansing. Sometimes, I feel like I'm a dish that has much nasty food stuck on, one which needs to soak and takes a long time to get clean!

God, the Great Dishwasher, has a loooooooooooooot more patience than I do. He's ready and willing to take you in, clean you up, and make you feel better. Read Psalms 51:7--

"wash me, and I will be whiter than snow."

Sometimes God's dishwashing process may not be the most happy thing. He may squirt us with the hot water of trials, or let us sit and soak for a while. Then God may scrub away the defaults in our character, so we can serve him better. It may hurt, we may not understand why God is doing something--but remember, if we could see the end from the beginning, we would have it no other way. God is transforming us from the dirty, sinful human beings that we are into his glorious masterpieces.

Otherwise known as clean dishes.

What about you? Are you willing to be cleaned by God?

Blogging Through The Gospels: Luke 24

Happy Sabbath, everyone! I'm so glad that it's the weekend. :) God has really done some marvelous things for me this week--but still, I'm glad it's Sabbath! :)

Today, we get to read and blog on Luke 24--the final chapter in Luke, on Jesus' resurrection and various appearances that day! I loved the whole chapter, but I especially enjoyed the story of how Jesus walked with Cleopas and his friend on the way to Emmaus. (Read the full story here.) So naturally, that's what I decided to SOAP on today...here goes, everyone!

Scripture:

"As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus acted as if he were going farther. But they urged him strongly, "Stay here with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over." So he went in to stay with them." ~Luke 24:28-29

Observation:

So. Cleopas and his friend are dejectedly walking home to Emmaus from Jerusalem. This "traveler", somehow unknowing what happened in the last few days, explains to these two disciples all the prophecies about Jesus, and how he fit and fulfilled all of them. Of course, we know that this "traveler" was Jesus. But they didn't know, or at least not at the time.

As Cleopas and his friend neared the turnoff for Emmaus, this "traveler" acted as if he were going farther. But Cleopas and his friend pleaded for this "traveler" to stay the night with them, as the day was already well-spent. This "traveler" came home with them, and soon Cleopas and his friend found out that they had just been talking with the risen Christ. My point is, that Cleopas and his friend wouldn't have known it was Jesus if they hadn't invited Jesus to their homes.

Application:

Jesus doesn't force his way into anybody's heart. He is very polite, waiting for an invitation. Cleopas and his friend would have never known that they were talking with Jesus if they hadn't invited him in. Do we miss countless blessings that Jesus is more than ready to bestow...when we don't invite him into our hearts?

Prayer:

Dear God, I invite you into my heart, and into my life. I totally give up control--come into me, and change me for the better! Help me not to miss out on the countless blessings you are ready to bestow. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/

Blogging Through The Gospels: Luke 23

Luke 23--it chronicles Jesus' journey from Pilate to the tomb. I've read this story before--blogged about it before--so today, it was a little hard trying to find something new to blog about. I'll certainly try my best here!

Scripture:

"One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: "Aren't you the Christ? Save yourself and us!"

"But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong."

"Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom."

"Jesus answered him, "I tell you the truth today, you will be with me in paradise."" ~Luke 23:39-43

Observation:

So what do we have here? Basically, three guys about to die. And one of them is Jesus. One of the criminals starts insulting Jesus, just like the priests, elders, and other Jewish leaders have done. But then the other criminal responds. He tells the first criminal, "Hey, we're getting what we deserved. This guy's done nothin' wrong!"
Then this criminal believes on Jesus and asks Jesus to remember him when Jesus' kingdom comes. Jesus assures him right then and there, that he would be in Jesus' kingdom. Wow.

Application:

Even as Christ was taking his last labored breaths, he was still comforting those in need. Most of us right now certainly aren't in as dire circumstances as Jesus was in. Do we show kindness to others? Jesus would want us to, and I certainly don't think we show kindness as much as we should.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you so much for dying for me and taking away my sin, so I can come live with you forever. Help me to be more kind to the people I meet, and be a better witness for you. Thank you! In Jesus' name, Amen. 

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P.S.--To learn more about this blogging-through-the-gospels program, or if YOU would like to join yourself (you're more than welcome-jump right in!!) go to: http://www.momstoolbox.com/ 

Shuttle Launch-to-Landing Highlights

Remember a while back, I told you I thought that the "STS-134 Ascent Highlights" video was the best video NASA had ever put out? Well, this video here takes second place in my mind, if not a tie. It's a nice 5-minute video showcasing launch, orbit, and landing highlights from various shuttle missions...with an awesome soundtrack! The shuttle era may be drawing to a close...but it's an amazing era, and it's just mind-boggling to think that the shuttle ever happened!

~Photobug

P.S.--Remember to come to my actual blog to view this video.