Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Mark 4 -- 5

Highlights:

You think you had a busy day! Jesus is teaching a crowd about spiritual growth and the Kingdom of God (Mark 4:1-34). At even (4:35) He calms the sea (4:39). Jesus rebukes demons, heals an issue of blood, and raises the dead (4:35 — 5:43)!
When Jesus entered Gadara, He was met by a man with an unclean spirit, Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him. . . . But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped Him (Mark 5:2-3,6). While this wretched unnamed man worshipped Jesus, he suddenly cried out: Torment me not (5:7). He craved to be delivered from his spiritual bondage. Then Jesus said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit (5:.

A strange paradox exists in the heart of a sin-filled soul that meets the Master. And we do not pretend to explain the awesome emotional experience of the Apostle Peter, when he realized his own sinfulness and Jesus' deity. He fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, Depart from me; for I am a sinful man, O Lord (Luke 5:.

The man possessed with demons demonstrates the limited power of Satan over the unsaved. The demon said that his name was Legion (a Roman legion consisted of 6,000 soldiers) (Mark 5:9), illustrating the overwhelming number of Satan's demons that can motivate and manipulate a lost sinner. But, how we praise the Lord that no one is too great a sinner to be saved and filled with the Holy Spirit! Oh, helpless sinner, how thankful you can be that God in His mercy is willing to transform you to enjoy life more than you could ask or think (Eph. 3:20). Regardless of how great a sinner you have been, do not fear to come near the Lord and Savior. He that . . . confesseth and forsaketh them (his sins) shall have mercy (be set free, be saved) (Prov. 28:13).

The powerful Saul of Tarsus, who had a legal permit to arrest Christians and have them put to death, also confessed: O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord (Rom. 7:24-25). What a miraculous transformation followed his conversion! Later, as the Apostle Paul, little did he realize that his letters written in prison to the churches would make up most of our New Testament which has inspired millions.

Just think! The man with a Legion of demons was delivered and was commissioned by Jesus: Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. And he departed, and began to publish . . . how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel (Mark 5:19-20).

Thought for Today:

But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost (Spirit) is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto Me . . . unto the uttermost part of the earth (Acts 1:.
Cross Reference:

For Mark 4:12: See Is. 6:9-10; Jer. 5:21; Ezek. 12:2.
Word Studies:

4:24 mete measure out, give to others; 5:19 suffered him not did not permit him.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Audrey Hash • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Official: Rep. Steven Rothman (NJ) • Country: Brazil (168 million) in South America • Major languages: Portuguese and Spanish • Religious freedom • 67% Catholic; 21% Protestant; 4% spiritist; .7% Buddhist; .7% Muslim; .15% Indigenous; 2.4% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for understanding of the Word of God as you read each day (Ps. 119:34).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:2

[Judy Harder]

Read Mark 6 -- 7

Highlights:

Like the disciples, we're all on a mission (Mark 6:7-13). Follow Jesus as He feeds the multitudes, walks on water, teaches inner holiness (6:30 — 7:23; Heb. 12:14). Even the crumbs of faith are rewarded (Mark 7:25-30).
Herod Antipas, son of Herod the Great who ruled when Jesus was born (Matt. 2:1), ruled Galilee during the time of John the Baptist's preaching ministry. Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just (godly) man and an holy (man), and observed him (kept him safely) . . . and heard him gladly (Mark 6:20). But, like his father, Herod Antipas failed to prepare his heart and life for the coming Messiah. John had said: Make straight the way of the Lord (John 1:23). He had called upon Herod and the people to repent of their sins and be baptized. Herod had repeatedly heard the Gospel, but he refused to accept the greatest Gift to mankind — Jesus Christ, the Holy Son of God. Herod had to know that, when Jesus appeared at the Jordan River to be baptized, John said to his disciples: Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world (1:29). At that time, most of John's followers left him and followed Jesus.

John recognized his subordinate mission and told his remaining disciples: He must increase, but I must decrease (3:30). Little did John realize how much he must decrease and that one of his admirers (Herod), who had heard him gladly, would soon consent to murder him. This horrifying sin is a warning of how dangerous it is to put off turning from sin and the crowd of unbelievers and receiving Christ as Savior and Lord of our lives. Jesus said: No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (Matt. 6:24).

It's a fact! Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation (II Cor. 6:2) to receive Christ as Savior and LORD of your life. Tomorrow may never come. King Agrippa said to Paul: Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian (Acts 26:28). But to go no further than being almost saved is to be completely and eternally lost.

John the Baptist could have lived a life of comfort and prestige if he had spoken with more diplomacy. However, he would rather relinquish life itself than to compromise his loyalty to God. John, like Moses, chose rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches . . . for he had respect unto (looked forward to) the recompence of the reward (Heb. 11:25-26).

Thought for Today:

He limiteth a certain day, saying . . . To day if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts (Heb. 4:7).
Cross References:

For Mark 7:6-7: See Is. 29:13. Mark 7:10: See Ex. 20:12; 21:17; Lev. 20:9; Deut. 5:16.
Word Studies:

6:25 charger a large dish; 7:19 purging all meats declaring all food ceremonially clean.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Rush Holt (NJ) • Country: Brunei (400,000) on the northern coast of Borneo • Major languages: Malay and English • Limited religious freedom • 66% Muslim; 19% Chinese religions; 6% animist; 4% Protestant; 4% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for boldness in telling others about the Lord (Ps. 119:46).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:2

[Judy Harder]

 Bible Pathways
       
Read Mark 8 -- 9

Highlights:

Whom say ye that I am? . . . Thou art the Christ (Mark 8:29). His suffering and death foretold (8:31-38; 9:30-32). Transfiguration (9:2-13). All things are possible to him that believeth (9:23).
Jesus took three of His disciples — Peter, and James, and John — and withdrew from the crowd to the mountaintop for prayer and fellowship with the Father. There on the mountain, He was transfigured (transformed) before them. And His raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them (Mark 9:2-3). His disciples also witnessed Moses the Lawgiver and Elijah the Prophet in fellowship with the Lord. Peter was anxious to perpetuate this season of spiritual fellowship by erecting three tabernacles (9:4-5). For he (Peter) wist (understood) not what to say; for they (the three apostles) were sore afraid. And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is My beloved Son: hear Him (9:6-7).

If Peter's desire had been granted, the worship which is due to Christ alone would have been divided between Himself and two of His saints. We are concerned that this may be the case in many Christian circles today. Oh, for a voice today that will again declare that Christ and His Word alone are our supreme authority and are sufficient to meet every need!

Christ is always to be central in our lives. He has no equal. The apostle's second error was that he wanted to remain on the mountain, but there was a cross to bear and a lost world to redeem. In fact, at that very moment, a poor demonic son in the valley was awaiting their return in order that he might be healed.

A soul's greatest satisfaction is to get past all lesser experiences to Christ Himself. Oh, how many have come short of the Savior's best because they were so intent on reading other books or seeking this speaker or that, this gift or that blessing. Many Christians can testify to years of being preoccupied with building strange "tabernacles" only to one day see no man any more, save Jesus only (9:! Just think of the transfiguration power of God that will affect the needy world once we point them to Jesus only!

The world by wisdom knew not God. . . . For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the Power of God, and the Wisdom of God (I Cor. 1:21-24).

Thought for Today:

God . . . hath . . . given Him a Name which is above every name: That at the Name of Jesus every knee should bow . . . And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Phil. 2:9-11).
Cross References:

For Mark 8:18: See Ezek. 12:2. Mark 9:44,46,48: See Is. 66:24.
Word Studies:

9:3 fuller . . . can white them launderer can bleach them; 9:12 set at nought rejected; 9:13 whatsoever they listed whatever they wanted; 9:45 halt trippled.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Andre Carson (IN) and Rep. Gary Miller (CA) • Country: Bulgaria (8.2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Bulgarian and ethnic languages • Newly opened to evangelism • 85% Eastern Orthodox; 12% Muslim Sunni; 1% Shi'a Muslim; .6% Catholic; .27% Protestant; .1% Armenian Gregorian; .03% Jewish; 1% Other • Prayer Suggestion: In times of trouble, pray and seek comfort in the Word of God (Ps. 119:50).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:3

[Judy Harder]

Read Mark 10 -- 11

Highlights:

Jesus' wise guidelines for human relationships (Mark 10:1-16,35-45). Joy for those who receive Jesus as Messiah (11:1-10), who said: My House shall be called . . . the House of Prayer (11:17).
Jesus, on His last journey to Jerusalem, told His disciples: The Son of Man shall be delivered unto the chief priests, and unto the scribes; and they shall condemn Him to death, and shall deliver Him to the Gentiles: And they shall mock Him, and shall scourge Him, and shall spit upon Him, and shall kill Him: and the third day He shall rise again (Mark 10:33-34). Despite this horrifying news, some of the disciples had their selfish hearts set on positions of importance. To the sons of Zebedee. . . . He said . . . What would ye that I should do for you? They said unto Him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one on Thy right hand, and the other on Thy left hand, in Thy glory (10:35-37).

It is of utmost importance that we search our own hearts concerning Jesus' response: Ye know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon them. But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister: And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many (10:42-45).

At the Last Supper, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands (John 13:3), Jesus prepared the water to wash the feet of His disciples according to the custom. But all twelve were full of thoughts of who should be greatest in the Kingdom (Luke 22:24-27). While their thoughts were upon their recognition and honor, the King used His own holy hands to wash His disciples' feet.

We need to remind ourselves that, the higher we rise in seeking to be like Christ, the lower we should willingly stoop to serve those around us.

A Christian should always be available to do what will please his Master since he belongs to his Master. He will even "wash the feet of a Judas" — show humility to those who wrong us. The Christ-like servant lives in the reality that to love and to serve like Jesus did is the highest privilege and brings the greatest joy, for it is doing the will of the Father (John 5:30).

Whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted (Luke 14:11).

Thought for Today:

And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all (Mark 10:44).
Cross References:

For Mark 10:6: See Gen. 1:27; 5:2. Mark 10:7-8: See Gen. 2:24. Mark 10:19: See Ex. 20:12-16; Deut. 5:16-20. Mark 11:9: See Ps. 118:26. Mark 11:17: See Is. 56:7; Jer. 7:11.
Word Studies:

10:1 by the farther side of beyond; people resort multitudes gather; 11:8 strawed spread, scattered.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Iva Jo Swinsburg • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Officials: Rep. Michael Quigley (IL), Rep. Gene Green (TX) and Rep. Martin Heinrich (NM) • Country: Burkina Faso (11 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and Sudanic tribal languages • Religious freedom • 48% Muslim; 33% belief in false gods, idolatry, and heathenism; 14% Roman Catholic; 5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Lift up your prayers to God with your whole heart (Ps. 119:58,145).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:3

[Judy Harder]

Read Mark 12 -- 13

Highlights:

Jesus skillfully deals with the Herodians (Mark 12:13-17), Sadducees (12:18-27), and Pharisees (12:28-44). We are to watch and pray (13:33).
Jesus was questioned by a scribe, who asked: Which is the first (foremost) Commandment of all (Mark 12:28)? Jesus answered him by quoting Deuteronomy 6:4-5. The first of all the Commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is One Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength (Mark 12:29-30). Jesus then quoted from Leviticus 19:18, saying: And the second is like (it), namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other Commandment greater than these (Mark 12:31).

The Hebrew word Elohenu is translated in English as our God. However, God chose to use the plural form, Elohim, meaning Gods, 2500 times in reference to Himself as the Self-Existent, One True God. This, then, is what the sacred proclamation to Israel literally says: "Hear, O Israel; The Lord our "Gods" is One Lord." Furthermore, the Hebrew word for One used here is also a solemn declaration that the Lord is a plurality in unity.. One ('echad) is a word which expresses one in the collective sense. It signifies a compound unity — not an absolute unity. For example, God said: Man . . . and . . . wife . . . shall be one flesh (Gen. 2:24). Even with numerous children, they are still called one family. The one Tabernacle (Ex. 36:13) included many individual parts. And many soldiers became one troop (II Sam. 2:25). However, there is a Hebrew word for one in the sense of an absolute one. It is the word yacheed. This word is never used to express the Godhead, although it is used many other times in Scripture.

This Truth which is available for all to know leaves no excuse for all who refuse to recognize Jesus as the One True God, the Creator of all things: By Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible . . . all things were created by Him, and for Him: And He is before all things, and by Him all things consist (Col. 1:16-17; John 1:1-3,14; Titus 2:13). Those who reject Jesus as God, and the Holy Spirit as the One who will guide you into all Truth (John 16:13) are, in fact, rejecting the revelation of God Himself as God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Jesus left no doubt as to who He is when He said: I and My Father are One (John 10:30; 5:18; 12:45; 14:9-11,20).

Thought for Today:

Thought for Today: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. . . . All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. . . . And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us (John 1:1-3,14).
Cross References:

For Mark 12:1: See Is. 5:2. Mark 12:10-11: See Ps. 118:22-23. Mark 12:19: See Deut. 25:5. Mark 12:26: See Ex. 3:3-6. Mark 12:29: See Deut. 6:4. Mark 12:30: See Deut. 6:5. Mark 12:31: See Lev. 19:18. Mark 12:32: See Deut. 4:35. Mark 12:33: See Deut. 6:5; Hos. 6:6. Mark 12:36: See Ps. 110:1. Mark 13:14: See Dan. 9:27; 11:31; 12:11. Mark 13:24: See Is. 13:10. Mark 13:26: See Dan. 7:13. Mark 13:27: See Deut. 30:4; Zech. 2:6.
Word Studies:

12:1 let it out rented it; 12:17 Render to Caesar give to Caesar; 12:34 durst dared; 12:42 two mites a farthing (a penny).
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Ambrose Printing Staff (Bible Pathway's printer) • Staff: Barbara Bivens • Government Official: Rep. Dennis Ross (FL) • Country: Burundi (6 million) in east-central Africa • Major languages: Kirundi and French • Losing religious freedom • 51% Roman Catholic; 12% animist; 11% Protestant; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for understanding as you read the Word of God (Ps. 119:73).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:3

[Judy Harder]

Read Mark 14 -- 16

Highlights:

Two days until Passover with Jesus as the ultimate Sacrificial Lamb (Mark 14:1). His prayer (14:36); His betrayal and arrest (14:10-11, 43-65); Peter's denial (14:66-72). Go . . . tell. . . . Go ye into all the world (16:7,15).
A banquet had been prepared for our Lord in Bethany in the house of Simon the leper (Mark 14:3). Among the invited guests were Martha who served (John 12:2) and her sister Mary. On a former occasion Mary had sat at Jesus' feet, and heard His Word (Luke 10:39). Jesus had said that Mary hath chosen that good part (10:42), for which she drew criticism from those who could not appreciate her depth of dedication. This time Mary, having an alabaster box of ointment of spikenard very precious . . . brake the box, and poured it on His head (Mark 14:3). She also anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair (John 12:3).

There was immediate reaction from the apostles, criticizing her conduct. Judas was first to criticize since he was a thief, and had the (money) bag (12:4-6). As treasurer, he didn't get the valuable gift. Judas had never recognized Jesus as Lord of his life. Consequently, he had the attitude that anything given to Jesus was a waste. Even though Jesus already knew what was in the hearts of the other disciples, He must have been disappointed when they joined Judas in complaining (Mark 14:4).

To find fault with Mary was to insinuate that the Lord approved of her so-called wasteful actions. If she were wrong in "wasting," He was wrong in permitting it. If the ointment had been sold, the money received could have provided her many luxuries of which she willingly deprived herself in order to honor her Lord. Mary set an example of self-denial that is much needed in a world where all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's (Phil. 2:21). Jesus commended her: She hath wrought a good work. . . . Wheresoever this Gospel shall be preached . . . this also that she hath done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her (Mark 14:6,9).

In the world's estimation, when someone gives his time, talent, or tithes for Christ and His Church, it is sheer waste. But once our eyes have been opened to the worthiness of our Lord, we will realize that nothing we do for Him or give to Him is wasted. That is the secret of pleasing God.

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven . . . For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matt. 6:19-21).

Thought for Today:

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing (Rev. 5:12).
Cross References:

For Mark 14:27: See Zech. 13:7. Mark 14:62: See Ps. 110:1; Dan. 7:13. Mark 15:24: See Ps. 22:18. Mark 15:28: See Is. 53:12. Mark 15:29: See Ps. 22:7-8. Mark 15:34: See Ps. 22:1. Mark 16:19: See Ps. 110:1.
Word Studies:

14:31 spake the more vehemently protested emphatically; 14:65 buffet Him hit Him with their fists; 15:15 scourged whipped; 15:38 twain two; 16:16 damned condemned to eternal hell.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Radio Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Government Official: Rep. Kurt Schrader (OR) • Country: Cambodia (12 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Khmer and French • Confused and unsettled at this time • 88% Buddhist; 3% animism and spirit worship; 2% Muslim; .6% Roman Catholic/Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Rise early in the morning to lift up your prayers to God and hope in His Word (Ps. 119:147).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:3

[Judy Harder]

Read Luke 1

Highlights:

Luke lays groundwork for non-Jews to understand the Truth about Jesus (Luke 1:4). Birth of John the Baptist foretold (1:5-25). Birth of Jesus foretold (1:26-45). John born (1:57-66); his mission (1:67-79), his growth (1:80). Angel declares Jesus Son of the Highest and Son of God (1:32,35). Mary divinely blessed (1:28,46-49).
The angel Gabriel proclaimed to Mary: Thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. . . . thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a Son, and shalt call His Name JESUS (Luke 1:28-31).

Later we see evidence showing why God would choose Mary to bear His Son. The Holy Spirit inspired her to exclaim: My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour (1:46-47). This is the highest kind of prayer, for it asks for nothing; it simply rejoices in praise and thankfulness: For He hath regarded the low estate of His handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For He that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is His Name. And His mercy is on them that fear Him from generation to generation. He hath shewed strength with His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich He hath sent empty away. He hath holpen His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy; As He spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever (1:48-55).

There are 15 quotations from the Old Testament in Mary's praise and prayer, which echoed Hannah's song (I Sam. 2:1-10) and Psalm 107:9: He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. This shows how much the Old Testament was known and loved in the home in which Jesus was reared. No wonder the angel Gabriel had told Mary: Thou hast found favour with God (Luke 1:30).

The hungry about whom Mary and the psalmist spoke are those who, like Mary, long for something that God alone can satisfy. The self-sufficient ones will always be sent empty away. Our spiritual hunger can be measured by the time we spend reading and obeying the Word of God. This, in turn, will prepare our hearts for prayer by revealing to us the Father's will. Then, as we pray according to His revealed will, God will be true to His Word and will answer our prayer. We will receive good things!

If ye keep My Commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's Commandments, and abide in His love (John 15:10).

Thought for Today:

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth (Col. 3:1-2).
Word Studies:

1:40 saluted greeted, embraced; 1:46 magnify exalt, praise; 1:54 holpen helped.
Cross References:

For Luke 1:17: See Mal. 4:5-6. Luke 1:50: See Ps. 103:17. Luke 1:53: See Ps. 107:9. Luke 1:71: See Ps. 106:10. Luke 1:76: See Mal. 3:1. Luke 1:79: See Is. 9:1-2; 59:8.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Bible Pathway Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Staff: Ben Wallace • Government Officials: Sec. Hilda Solis (Dept. of Labor), Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (RI), Rep. Pat Meehan (PA) • Country: Cameroon (15 million) in west-central Africa • Major languages: English and French • Pressure on Christians from authorities and Muslims • 28% Roman Catholic; 23% Muslim; 18% animism, divination, and animal sacrifices; 14% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Praise God for His mercy (Ps. 136:2).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:3

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     
Oct 21

Read Luke 2 -- 3

Highlights:

Angels declare the heavenly birth (Luke 2:9-14). Jesus presented in the Temple (2:21-24). Jesus, the plan of God to rescue mankind from eternal damnation (2:25-30). Jesus speaks (2:41-52). John prepares the way (3:1-22).
When Mary and Joseph had performed all things according to the Law of the Lord, they returned . . . to . . . Nazareth. And the Child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him. . . . And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast (Passover). . . . after three days they found Him in the Temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. . . . and His mother said . . .Thy father and I have sought Thee sorrowing. And He said . . . I must be about My Father's business (Luke 2:39-40,42,46,48-49). My Father's business is the focus of the first recorded words of Jesus. This reveals how the Holy Spirit guided His whole life through His devotion to His Father in heaven.

As a twelve-year-old boy in the Temple, He revealed His special relationship to the Heavenly Father. Just as His devotion to be about My (His) Father's business attracted Him to the Temple, His submission to His Heavenly Father led Him to submit to His mother Mary and to Joseph and to return to Galilee with them.

There is something awesome, beyond words to express, in the thought of Jesus as the Creator of all things submitting to earthly parents who were part of His creation. But Jesus Christ lived at home until He was thirty years old (3:23). During that time, as the custom was, Jesus — the Son of God — was a submissive Son of Mary and Joseph.

People whose lives are filled with vanity, selfish ambition, and prideful independence are always in a hurry to reject God-ordained parental authority. The prodigal son, whose only ambition was to give himself to riotous living, is an example (15:11-24).

Jesus did not have these kinds of attitudes. He did not murmur against the restraints of home. He did not insist to His parents or anyone else that He had His rights and was fully capable of making His own decisions. Instead, He was a joy to His parents. The Christian son and daughter who are living in submission to Christ will also experience the same satisfaction of living in subjection to their parents.

Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first Commandment with promise) (Eph. 6:1-2).

Thought for Today:

For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps (I Pet. 2:21).
Cross References:

For Luke 2:23: See Ex. 13:2,12. Luke 2:24: See Lev. 12:8. Luke 2:32: See Is. 9:2; 42:6; 49:6. Luke 3:4-6: See Is. 40:3-5.
Word Studies:

2:7 swaddling clothes linen cloth wrapped around an infant; 2:46 doctors the rabbis who were the instructors in the Law; 3:1 tetrarch ruler of a fourth part or one of four rulers of a country or province.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Lee Rutherford's birthday • Staff: Barbara Jean Lloyd • Government Officials: Rep. Jerry Lewis (CA) and Rep. Patrick Tiberi (OH) • Country: Canada (31 million) in North America • Major languages: English and French • Religious freedom • 47% Roman Catholic; 37% Protestant; 3% Eastern Orthodox; 2% cults; 1% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks to the God of heaven; His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever (Ps. 136:26).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:3

[Judy Harder]

Read Luke 4 -- 5

Highlights:

Note, the devil attacks when and where we're weakest. Read how Jesus overcame His temptation (Luke 4:1-13). Jesus says He is the "Messiah" of Isaiah 61:1-3, but the religious leaders reject Him. Why (Luke 4:18-30)? Miracles happen when Jesus is in the boat (5:1-11).
The ministry that has changed the world began in Nazareth, the hometown of Jesus. This first reported discourse of Christ was in the synagogue where, from His childhood, Mary and Joseph had faithfully brought Him each Sabbath. The Scripture was fulfilled in their ears that day as Jesus read Isaiah 61:1-2, that great prophetic passage concerning the Messiah.

The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the Gospel to the poor; He hath sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Luke 4:18-19). Jesus knew His purpose on earth was to do His Father's will as revealed in the Scripture that He read.

In that synagogue were those who had seen Him as a child, played with Him in the streets, and known Him as the carpenter. There He stood, a humble Galilean peasant, and alone He confronted a world full of blindness, asserting that He had the power and authority to heal all their suffering and sorrows. But He further explained how the compassion of God extended beyond their borders and unto all the world. He told how the Gentiles, after hearing His claim of Isaiah 62:1-2, could also receive the healing, sight, and liberty which He proclaimed (4:25-27).

The people's dreams of Jesus being a political Messiah were extinguished, and they became infuriated. In the whirlwind of their fury, they rose up, interrupting the synagogue service, and dragged Him to a cliff high enough to kill anyone who was thrown over it. But He passing through the midst of them went His way (4:29-30).

How tragic that the same people who first listened to Jesus and marveled at His gracious words were ready to kill Him when His Word exposed their prejudices.

The cynical unbelief displayed in Nazareth contrasted sharply with the simple faith of the widow at Zarephath and the obedience of Naaman the leper (4:25-27), both Gentiles. God answers prayer for anyone who believes in Him.

I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance (Luke 5:32).

Thought for Today:

He answered and said, Whether He be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see (John 9:25).
Cross References:

For Luke 4:4: See Deut. 8:3. Luke 4:8: See Deut. 6:13-14. Luke 4:10-11: See Ps. 91:11-12. Luke 4:12: See Deut. 6:16. Luke 4:18-19: See Is. 61:1-2. Luke 5:14: See Lev. 14:1-32.
Word Studies:

4:29 brow of the hill edge of a cliff; 5:9 draught catch; 5:27 a publican a tax collector for Rome; 5:36 rent bear.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. Haley Barbour (MS) and Rep. Patrick McHenry (NC) • Country: Cape Verde (405,000) 15 islands in the Atlantic Ocean, 390 miles off the coast of Africa • Major languages: Portuguese and Crioulo • Religious freedom • 91% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His loving-kindness and faithfulness (Ps. 138:2).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:3

[Judy Harder]

Read Luke 6 -- 7

Highlights:

The Son of Man is Lord also of the Sabbath (Luke 6:5). The twelve apostles chosen (6:12-16). The Sermon on the Mount (6:20-49). Foundation for life (6:47-49). Jesus heals the sick (7:1-10), raises the dead (7:11-18), forgives sin: Her sins, which are many, are forgiven (7:47).
Jesus went into a city called Nain. . . . there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. . . . And when the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not (Luke 7:11-13). The words: Weep not, were spoken before Jesus performed the miracle.

The Creator of Life stood face to face with the pallbearers of death. That procession was going one way — to the grave — and into their midst came Jesus, the One who is the Giver of the Resurrected Life.

No one in the procession of death pleaded with the Savior. No request was presented to Him. The only appeal was that of the deep sorrow and desperate emptiness which filled the mother's heart. Our need, our helplessness, and our sorrow touch the heart of the Lord Jesus with loving compassion even when we are so despondent that we cannot even think to pray.

Sometimes nothing seems emptier to a grieving person than the usual sincere, well-meant words of comfort from those who don't understand. How precious to know that the Lord is with us through the valley of the shadow of death (Ps. 23:4)! His words of comfort so often soften the harshness of our sorrow.

Jesus spoke just seven words: Young man, I say unto thee, Arise. And the young man sat up (Luke 7:14-15). Wherever that dead man's soul was, he heard and obeyed Christ's voice. This miracle demonstrated Jesus' power over the last enemy, death (I Cor. 15:22,26; Rev. 1:18).

This miracle gives evidence that when a person dies physically, it is not the end. We see in Christ's action here a prophetic forecast of the future when all the dead in Christ (believers who have died) will hear His voice and shall rise to join Christ — the Joy of heaven. Then we (Christians) which are alive also will be united Christ and will be reunited with our loved ones (I Thess. 4:16-17).

That miracle in Nain stands as a symbol of Jesus' purpose on earth: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10).

Jesus Himself declared: The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live (John 5:25).

Thought for Today:

Jesus said unto her, I am The Resurrection, and The Life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live (John 11:25).
Cross References:

For Luke 7:22: See Is. 61:1. Luke 7:27: See Mal. 3:1.
Word Studies:

6:11 communed discussed; 7:14 bier open coffin on which a corpse was carried to burial.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Central African Republic (3 million) in the center of the African continent • Major languages: French and Sangho • Religious freedom • 47% Protestant; 34% Roman Catholic; 12% animist; 3% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to reveal what is not pleasing to Him (Ps. 139:23-24).
Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 7:4