Hey downpour, my break has been relaxing so far, but I cannot wait for school to start again, and I cannot wait to see your pretty faces again!
Before going into the scripture, I have a poem to share with you, it's on a Christmas greeting card, and this past Sunday, the pastor--Pastor Smith at my home church shared this with us. And I saw Debbie and Andy:) so the card says,
If what we need the most is knowledge, God would sent us a educator;
If what we need the most is technology, God would send us a scientist;
If what we need the most is money, God would send us an economist;
If what we need the most is pleasure, God would send us an entertainer;
But what we need the most is forgiveness, so God sent us a savior.
So back to John 12
After Jesus saved Lazarus from death, He had supper with Lazarus. Martha was serving, and Mary used the best perfume and anointed Jesus. This should be a time when they were all focusing on how great Jesus was and what good deed he made, but Judas Isariot, has to comment on Mary's perfume, and challenge her why she kept the best to herself. Jesus knows what he's thinking and prophesied his death. The next big event that happened in this chapter is Jesus going into Jerusalum--the Triumphal entry, and a large crowd of people who went to the supper at Lazarus's praised Him, and in the crowd were a lot of Jews. And the donky prophesy became true. :) I am really encouraged by the people who had faith in Jesus, like Martha, Lazarus, Mary, and the Jews who came out and met Him when he was entering Jerusalem. And on the contrary, we see Judas. However, after thinking about it, I am here praising the faithful, but a lot of times I'm just like Judas, who know Jesus is the savior, still I fail him. I am not in the position to Judge Judas, or anyone. However, Juses, the only person who can judge said that he did not come o judge the world but to save the world (v. 47). A lot of times, it's so easy for me to judge, that it's become a habit, and this verse just reminded me that I should not do it.
Back track... Jesus entered Jerusalem, and some Greeks came to see him. Here is something I didn't understand, because Jesus said in verse 24: Truly, truly, I say to you , unless a grain of wheat falls in to the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. why is that? and why is he speaking this to the Greeks?
In verse 35 and 36, Jesus told the people the Light will not remain too long, and He told the people to walk in the Light when it's still there, and become "sons of Light." In the later verse--Verse 46, Jesus said out loud that He has come as the Light in to the world. I feel like that He doesn't usually do this--saying things flat out, He usually says things in parables, and let the people interpret. He is saying the most serious thing--I am God-- flat out. At this stage when people are discussing how to kill Jesus, they can use this and get Him, and Jesus knew this Himself and he still said that fearlessly. When I read that I was thinking how many of us know our purpose in life, and how many of us are willing to submit to God's plan for us? Jesus did it, even though he know that the plan for Him was death, He still faced it.
I need to keep in mind that Jesus is the Light of the world, and what He said was what God wanted Him to say. Therefore, I need to follow what the bible says.
alright, hope all of you had another good day. I'll see you soon:)
Monday, December 29, 2008
JOHN 11
Chapter 11 is about how Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. Without summarizing the whole chapter, what stands out to me the most is how much Jesus loves Lazarus, Mary and Martha. It's tempting to first judge Jesus when he doesnt take off right away to see Lazarus when he hears that he's sick, but that gets dispelled as we realize that Jesus has a purpose and reason for everything. I think the reason for delaying his visit to Lazarus is so that Jesus can manifest his power in an even greater way. Healing a sick person is not as miraculous as raising the dead, and perhaps this is part of how God wants to reveal his greater power and glory.
But let's go back to the point of how I was really comforted by the fact that Jesus is deeply moved and really loves Lazarus and his family. It says that when he saw Mary cyring and the rest of the Jews crying for Lazarus, he was "deeply moved in spirit and troubled", and then the famous verse "Jesus wept". This shows me that Jesus was hurting too and he can relate to us. When we are suffering and deeply pained, he cries with us. He isn't just this God who is up in heaven, completely removed from our situations, but he is a God who was on this earth and has gone through many of the things we go through now, such as rejection, pain, disbelief from people, abandonment, etc.. This gives me greater hope as I pray for my family and diff. situations that come my way because I know this God, my God, really cares for me and loves me. And when he performs miracles and answers our prayers, I know that it's not just to prove his power and worth (although there is the aspect of glorifying himself) but because he loves us and wants to heal us as well.
---
Overall, my time at home has been so hectic. I am now in Jersey City, and fully moved in. I am amazed at my parents' diligence and how unlazy they are ! I remember it literally took months for me to be fully moved in, and they only took literally 3 days. When the cable guy came to install cable today, he asked us, Oh you must've lived for here for a while now, and we were like actually no we just got here Friday. He was shocked ! I'm sososo thankful that I was here when they moved because we bonded so much. We've been spending so much time packing, cleaning, moving, unpacking, cleaning, shopping, and cooking that I haven't really seen anyone else yet. I think i'll catch up with people this coming week. I'm glad that I can do my part and really help them with the diff. things that need to get taken care so that they don't worry about it while they are working. So overall, I'm so glad to have experienced the move with them.
If you can continue to pray for my family, and that my mom can find a new church !!
Can't wait to see you all in the new year !
Tina
But let's go back to the point of how I was really comforted by the fact that Jesus is deeply moved and really loves Lazarus and his family. It says that when he saw Mary cyring and the rest of the Jews crying for Lazarus, he was "deeply moved in spirit and troubled", and then the famous verse "Jesus wept". This shows me that Jesus was hurting too and he can relate to us. When we are suffering and deeply pained, he cries with us. He isn't just this God who is up in heaven, completely removed from our situations, but he is a God who was on this earth and has gone through many of the things we go through now, such as rejection, pain, disbelief from people, abandonment, etc.. This gives me greater hope as I pray for my family and diff. situations that come my way because I know this God, my God, really cares for me and loves me. And when he performs miracles and answers our prayers, I know that it's not just to prove his power and worth (although there is the aspect of glorifying himself) but because he loves us and wants to heal us as well.
---
Overall, my time at home has been so hectic. I am now in Jersey City, and fully moved in. I am amazed at my parents' diligence and how unlazy they are ! I remember it literally took months for me to be fully moved in, and they only took literally 3 days. When the cable guy came to install cable today, he asked us, Oh you must've lived for here for a while now, and we were like actually no we just got here Friday. He was shocked ! I'm sososo thankful that I was here when they moved because we bonded so much. We've been spending so much time packing, cleaning, moving, unpacking, cleaning, shopping, and cooking that I haven't really seen anyone else yet. I think i'll catch up with people this coming week. I'm glad that I can do my part and really help them with the diff. things that need to get taken care so that they don't worry about it while they are working. So overall, I'm so glad to have experienced the move with them.
If you can continue to pray for my family, and that my mom can find a new church !!
Can't wait to see you all in the new year !
Tina
Saturday, December 27, 2008
This is really good
I don't know how to get the video to show directly in the blog, but this is really good!
It has chinese subs, so those of you who wants to practice chinese... have fun!!
Here is the link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtweZxNGk1Y&feature=PlayList&p=3432C5A7074F5175&playnext=1&index=7
It has chinese subs, so those of you who wants to practice chinese... have fun!!
Here is the link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtweZxNGk1Y&feature=PlayList&p=3432C5A7074F5175&playnext=1&index=7
John 10
Hey everyone, hope all of you had a good Christmas and have been enjoying your breaks! ive been stuck at home in bipolar michigan weather (it's 60 today and 30 tomorrow..) and boredom has driven me to doing a lot of baking and cooking. other than that, my cousins are staying over for a few days so i've gotten to catch up with them as well as some friends from high school.
So the first part of John 10 is a story that Jesus tells about a shepherd and his sheep. he says that anyone who climbs in to the sheep pen by some other way besides through the gate is "a thief and a robber." these people were those who came before Jesus, those who come "only to steal and kill and destroy" (v. 10). Jesus, of course, is the shepherd, and these sheep are his followers. He illlustrates the idea of the sheep only obeying the shepherd because they recognize his voice and will run away strangers because they do not recognize their voices. a verse i found very reassuring was when the shepherd also "calls his own sheep by name" in verse 3. this just reminds me that God really knows each and every single one of us, it's not some higher authority with a bunch of faceless followers, which is present in other religions. it goes to show that what we have is not just a religion, but ultimately a relationship with God. he wants to know us, his sheep, and for his sheep to know him (v. 14). Jesus also talks about how he is the gate to the sheep pen, "whoever enters through me will be saved" (v. 9).
The second part takes place at the Feast of Dedication in Jeruselum. the Jews still do not believe that Jesus is Christ, even though Jesus has told them many times, and has done many miracles in God's name. they and the pharisees are so stuck to their rules and the strict laws they have formed that they do not believe that Jesus, a man, could be who he claims to be. in verses 34-36, Jesus is saying that they are being hypocritical. the reference to Psalm 82:6 "i have said you are gods" is written in teh context of God's followers being "sons of the Most High" ..but i don't understand how the two connect to each other. could someone explain this?
this is something i really struggle with, putting my faith in God. He lays out all the evidence just like Jesus and his miracles in the passages we've been reading, He hears my prayers, i can see what and all that He has provided, but sometimes i'm just very full of doubt. this is something i really need to work on, so if you guys could pray for me about that please. thank you!
i'm not sure if i covered everything, please add some of your thoughts!
hope you all enjoy the rest of your breaks!
So the first part of John 10 is a story that Jesus tells about a shepherd and his sheep. he says that anyone who climbs in to the sheep pen by some other way besides through the gate is "a thief and a robber." these people were those who came before Jesus, those who come "only to steal and kill and destroy" (v. 10). Jesus, of course, is the shepherd, and these sheep are his followers. He illlustrates the idea of the sheep only obeying the shepherd because they recognize his voice and will run away strangers because they do not recognize their voices. a verse i found very reassuring was when the shepherd also "calls his own sheep by name" in verse 3. this just reminds me that God really knows each and every single one of us, it's not some higher authority with a bunch of faceless followers, which is present in other religions. it goes to show that what we have is not just a religion, but ultimately a relationship with God. he wants to know us, his sheep, and for his sheep to know him (v. 14). Jesus also talks about how he is the gate to the sheep pen, "whoever enters through me will be saved" (v. 9).
The second part takes place at the Feast of Dedication in Jeruselum. the Jews still do not believe that Jesus is Christ, even though Jesus has told them many times, and has done many miracles in God's name. they and the pharisees are so stuck to their rules and the strict laws they have formed that they do not believe that Jesus, a man, could be who he claims to be. in verses 34-36, Jesus is saying that they are being hypocritical. the reference to Psalm 82:6 "i have said you are gods" is written in teh context of God's followers being "sons of the Most High" ..but i don't understand how the two connect to each other. could someone explain this?
this is something i really struggle with, putting my faith in God. He lays out all the evidence just like Jesus and his miracles in the passages we've been reading, He hears my prayers, i can see what and all that He has provided, but sometimes i'm just very full of doubt. this is something i really need to work on, so if you guys could pray for me about that please. thank you!
i'm not sure if i covered everything, please add some of your thoughts!
hope you all enjoy the rest of your breaks!
JOHN NINE
Hi DownPour fam! sorry I couldn't post earlier, I have barely been home all day.
(no excuses I know.) I hope you guys all had a WONDERFUL Christmas! Mine was very low key which I always enjoy.
Ended up seeing Slumdog Millionaire with some HMCC people and i HIGHLY recommend it. It's so beautiful - the story, the visuals, the music, everything....it's really awesome. I'd put it in my top five.
So John 9 is about how Jesus heals a blind man.
I think one of the things that is stressed in this passage is how the man that is blind is born blind. The header is "Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind," which is repeated in John 9:1, and brought up again in verse 2, when Jesus' disciples ask Jesus about the cause of his blindness.
I thought it was interesting how being blind was seen as a punishment. That the disciples thought the man or his parents had to have sinned in order for this man to be blind. It was as though blindness from birth was out of the question. But Jesus states in verse 3 that his blindness was to display God's work in his life. Which to me, when I read this, was like...we shouldn't view this blindness as a negative thing because God will redeem his situation and through this redemption, God's glorly will be revealed.
And then if you think about blindness in the spiritual sense. When we are blind, we have an inability to see. With an inability to see, we cannot walk in the light because we are in darkness. And because we are in darkness, we sin. So ultimately, blindness = sinning. But we are sinning because we can't help the fact that we're blind, and like it says in John 9:41, we are not guilty of this sin. We do not know of the light because we have never experienced it.
However, God heals us our of blindness. I like the word "heal" because it's to make sound or healthy. And when you are healthy, it is a desirable/beneficial state to be in. You want to be healthy, no one wants to be sick. So to be healed of our blindness is showing that the right state to be in is one where we're walking in the light.
Oook that is like overarching, ultimate thought that I got from this passage.
I was also kind of stuck on this issue of how NOBODY believed the healed blind man. They wouldn't believe what he was saying so they had to bring in his parents. And his parents were too scared to speak and acknowledge Jesus, so they said that their son was of age. And being of age means that he's old enough to speak for himself...which goes back to how no body believed him....
and I didn't really understand John9:39. So if anyone wants to explain it to me. I understand the beginning part of it when Jesus says "Fod judgement I have come into this world, so that the blind will see..." But I don't understand the last part of it when he says, "and those who see will become blind." anyone?
alrighty...I guess that's all I have to offer on this passage....
Everyone, have a super New Years Eve/New Years!! See you in 2009!!! Can't wait to see all of your faces ^_____^
(no excuses I know.) I hope you guys all had a WONDERFUL Christmas! Mine was very low key which I always enjoy.
Ended up seeing Slumdog Millionaire with some HMCC people and i HIGHLY recommend it. It's so beautiful - the story, the visuals, the music, everything....it's really awesome. I'd put it in my top five.
So John 9 is about how Jesus heals a blind man.
I think one of the things that is stressed in this passage is how the man that is blind is born blind. The header is "Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind," which is repeated in John 9:1, and brought up again in verse 2, when Jesus' disciples ask Jesus about the cause of his blindness.
I thought it was interesting how being blind was seen as a punishment. That the disciples thought the man or his parents had to have sinned in order for this man to be blind. It was as though blindness from birth was out of the question. But Jesus states in verse 3 that his blindness was to display God's work in his life. Which to me, when I read this, was like...we shouldn't view this blindness as a negative thing because God will redeem his situation and through this redemption, God's glorly will be revealed.
And then if you think about blindness in the spiritual sense. When we are blind, we have an inability to see. With an inability to see, we cannot walk in the light because we are in darkness. And because we are in darkness, we sin. So ultimately, blindness = sinning. But we are sinning because we can't help the fact that we're blind, and like it says in John 9:41, we are not guilty of this sin. We do not know of the light because we have never experienced it.
However, God heals us our of blindness. I like the word "heal" because it's to make sound or healthy. And when you are healthy, it is a desirable/beneficial state to be in. You want to be healthy, no one wants to be sick. So to be healed of our blindness is showing that the right state to be in is one where we're walking in the light.
Oook that is like overarching, ultimate thought that I got from this passage.
I was also kind of stuck on this issue of how NOBODY believed the healed blind man. They wouldn't believe what he was saying so they had to bring in his parents. And his parents were too scared to speak and acknowledge Jesus, so they said that their son was of age. And being of age means that he's old enough to speak for himself...which goes back to how no body believed him....
and I didn't really understand John9:39. So if anyone wants to explain it to me. I understand the beginning part of it when Jesus says "Fod judgement I have come into this world, so that the blind will see..." But I don't understand the last part of it when he says, "and those who see will become blind." anyone?
alrighty...I guess that's all I have to offer on this passage....
Everyone, have a super New Years Eve/New Years!! See you in 2009!!! Can't wait to see all of your faces ^_____^
Thursday, December 25, 2008
John 8
Merry Christmas!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope all of you are enjoy your time with your families and with God and your home church communities!! Christmas can be such a great family time event, and since we are often away at school, it is a time to cherish (even if time with family is not always as smooth as possible). So as for me, I went to a Catholic mass last night with my sister, her husband, and my 2 month old nephew!!! He is adorable by the way. Yes, I did grow up going to Catholic mass, went through the whole Batism, Reconsiliation, and Catocism series, and rather liked the Catholic Church. However, I wasn't growing in my faith the way that maybe I should have been, so my current roomate (who went to high school with me) invited me to a Weslyn youth group..and I suppose the rest is history? Anyway, the point is that I still love going to the Catholic Church with my family and I feel very at home with that style of service. Our sermon was about how we are supposed to emulate Christ in the way we love others and are generous. These two things can show people how we are Christlike. God is the way, the truth, and life. We can help be the way people become interested in learning more about God by being loving, without asking anything in return, and being generous (in all ways, not just financially). It was probably something like sermons we've all heard before, but it was particularly moving!!! I just wanted to share that with you all.
As far as my break goes, I arrived in Phoenix, Arizona on December 18th. My mom stayed at my sister's house for about 6 days (but she got here before me) and we have had lots of family time. Christmas is lots of fun with a newborn around. Side note: I like to hold my nephew a lot, even when he is sleeping! The time I've spent with my family has truly been a blessing, especially since I don't have enough of it normally! I will be here through New Year's and then student teaching begins!!!
So, I will quit rambling and talk about John 8 :)
So the first part of this passage (v. 1-11) is about the woman caught in adultery. Regardless of her sin, or our sin, Jesus did not hold her sin agaist her. No matter what sin we commit, Jesus will forgive us and love us as long as we believe in and follow him.
The next passage is about how the only one who should pass judgement is God. Even though we often say that we are looking at the actions of the person, and not the person, I feel like it is often easy to end up judging the person as well. However, that is not what we are to do. We are to love all people, regardless of their transgressions (since we have committed a few ourselves).
v.44 struck me as harsh. Your father is the devil!!! Man...most of what Jesus said from this point forward was hard for the Jewish people to hear, which is probably why they wanted to stone him. They were convinced he was possessed, since his views were so different from the customs and norms they were used to. Since Jesus was somewhat different from the norm, they were nervous about him (which I guess is part of why people can be apprehensive of Christianity). Let's be children of God, and have our hearts respond to God in a way that we let show through in the way we treat and care for others! Love on people today! After all, its Christmas day!! Have a great holiday everyone! If you want to add anything on, feel free to do so..this is just getting long and my belly is grumbling.
As far as my break goes, I arrived in Phoenix, Arizona on December 18th. My mom stayed at my sister's house for about 6 days (but she got here before me) and we have had lots of family time. Christmas is lots of fun with a newborn around. Side note: I like to hold my nephew a lot, even when he is sleeping! The time I've spent with my family has truly been a blessing, especially since I don't have enough of it normally! I will be here through New Year's and then student teaching begins!!!
So, I will quit rambling and talk about John 8 :)
So the first part of this passage (v. 1-11) is about the woman caught in adultery. Regardless of her sin, or our sin, Jesus did not hold her sin agaist her. No matter what sin we commit, Jesus will forgive us and love us as long as we believe in and follow him.
The next passage is about how the only one who should pass judgement is God. Even though we often say that we are looking at the actions of the person, and not the person, I feel like it is often easy to end up judging the person as well. However, that is not what we are to do. We are to love all people, regardless of their transgressions (since we have committed a few ourselves).
v.44 struck me as harsh. Your father is the devil!!! Man...most of what Jesus said from this point forward was hard for the Jewish people to hear, which is probably why they wanted to stone him. They were convinced he was possessed, since his views were so different from the customs and norms they were used to. Since Jesus was somewhat different from the norm, they were nervous about him (which I guess is part of why people can be apprehensive of Christianity). Let's be children of God, and have our hearts respond to God in a way that we let show through in the way we treat and care for others! Love on people today! After all, its Christmas day!! Have a great holiday everyone! If you want to add anything on, feel free to do so..this is just getting long and my belly is grumbling.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
John 7
Hey Downpour!
My break has been pretty productive so far. I've wrestled pretty much every day, ate some good food, watched a couple movies, caught up with family and friends, worked on some internship prep stuff, rested, etc. I still want to make time for a personal retreat of some sort to reflect on last semester and look to this semester (may need some accountability on this one). Wrestling makes me especially tired these days since my body isn't used to getting this beat up anymore, so I've been taking power naps here and there. So far, things have been going somewhat well with my family. I think the hardest part for me is to just sit, listen, and pray when I see and hear things that just eat at me instead of trying to jump in and be the savior of my family. I've learned over and over again in the past that I'm simply not their savior, so just need to keep reminding myself of that and lifting them up to the real Savior. Aside from that, there a lot of good things too--my brother has been spending more time at home, we all sat in the same car together to go watch Seven Pounds last night, I told my old wrestling coach that I am a Christian now (funny how the conversation got to this point, but I'll have to tell you that story another time), I had lunch with a friend and his girlfriend and he actually brought the conversation to religion and he ended up buying an apologetics book to read in his family car ride to Florida, I drove another Jewish friend somewhere and I actually got to talk to him about the stuff we're reading right now (John), I went to Border's yesterday and ran into a person who I spoke with over the summer and he was just telling me how great God's timing has been in his life and about all the the crazy stuff that has been happening to him, etc. Soooo many things to praise God for, so I don't mean to just acknowledge or highlight the bad.
But ok, John 7...
v. 6: Therefore Jesus told them, "The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right."
This verse just reminded me of God's timing and how perfect it is. Maybe it's just American culture, but I know I have a tendency to want things now. This could relate to my family, my friends, my career, or even just my own selfish pleasure or gratification. But usually when I don't know what's on God's heart and don't pray about it, I find myself in a place I don't want to be. Jesus had God's heart and was patient with God's timing even though everyone around him was telling him something different.
vv. 12-15: Among the crowds there was widespread whispering about him. Some said, "He is a good man." Others replied, "No, he deceives the people." But no one would say anything publicly about him for fear of the Jews. Not until halfway through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. The Jews were amazed and asked, "How did this man get such learning without having studied?"
There was an undercurrent of bickering about Jesus (sounds like gossip to me), but the only reason people wouldn't say anything publicly was because the were afraid what the Jews might think of them or might do to them. Jesus, however, knowing that the Jews might kill him (v.1), got up and started teaching. He didn't care what people might think of him or what people might do to him, but he knew it was now God's timing for him to speak and he did. And what happened? "The Jews were amazed...." I have to constantly remind myself not to fear man, but to fear God. I think it's so easy to get caught up in what others might think of me to forget that the only thing that matters is what God thinks of me. Does God know that I fear Him more than man and will stand firm and speak boldly and courageously for Him when he opens the doors for me? Or will I fear man too much and just be another gossiper in the background where no one is able to be amazed by the glory of God?
v. 39: By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.
I think I take the Holy Spirit for granted a lot of times. Back then, the Spirit was only with few people--Jesus, Moses, David, the prophets and perhaps few others. When people were prophesying in Moses' camp, people were freaking out and telling Moses to stop them. Numbers 11:29 says, "But Moses replied, 'Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the LORD's people were prophets and that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!'" Looking at what Moses and so many other people filled with the Spirit did for God, I feel like I belittle what the Holy Spirit can do through me. It's the same Spirit in me that was in all these great men and women of God. If only I would completely trust and obey the things (big and little things) God has called me to do, there is no end to what God can do through me.
vv. 50-51: Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who was one of their own number, asked, "Does our law condemn anyone without first hearing him to find out what he is doing?"
In John 3, Jesus taught Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a teacher of the law. Now, when his fellow Pharisees are deciding to kill Jesus, Nicodemus stands up for him. I doubt this would have occurred if Nicodemus did not first personally encounter Jesus. I'm just amazed at how God is always sovereign and how he intertwines different people's lives together. It was no accident that Jesus taught Nicodemus. It was no accident that Nicodemus was in a powerful position to defend Jesus. In the same way, it is no accident that we have come to know Christ. It is no accident that we attend the school that we do, we have the family and friends that we do, we are part of this church and life group, we are in the classes or clubs that we are in, we have the past that we do, we are going through what we're going through right now, etc. Whether it be to teach, rebuke, correct, train, test, refine, or send us, God is sovereign in what he is doing in our lives.
Sorry for the lengthy blog. Hope all of you are having an awesome break! Merry Christmas Eve!
Much Love,
Eric
My break has been pretty productive so far. I've wrestled pretty much every day, ate some good food, watched a couple movies, caught up with family and friends, worked on some internship prep stuff, rested, etc. I still want to make time for a personal retreat of some sort to reflect on last semester and look to this semester (may need some accountability on this one). Wrestling makes me especially tired these days since my body isn't used to getting this beat up anymore, so I've been taking power naps here and there. So far, things have been going somewhat well with my family. I think the hardest part for me is to just sit, listen, and pray when I see and hear things that just eat at me instead of trying to jump in and be the savior of my family. I've learned over and over again in the past that I'm simply not their savior, so just need to keep reminding myself of that and lifting them up to the real Savior. Aside from that, there a lot of good things too--my brother has been spending more time at home, we all sat in the same car together to go watch Seven Pounds last night, I told my old wrestling coach that I am a Christian now (funny how the conversation got to this point, but I'll have to tell you that story another time), I had lunch with a friend and his girlfriend and he actually brought the conversation to religion and he ended up buying an apologetics book to read in his family car ride to Florida, I drove another Jewish friend somewhere and I actually got to talk to him about the stuff we're reading right now (John), I went to Border's yesterday and ran into a person who I spoke with over the summer and he was just telling me how great God's timing has been in his life and about all the the crazy stuff that has been happening to him, etc. Soooo many things to praise God for, so I don't mean to just acknowledge or highlight the bad.
But ok, John 7...
v. 6: Therefore Jesus told them, "The right time for me has not yet come; for you any time is right."
This verse just reminded me of God's timing and how perfect it is. Maybe it's just American culture, but I know I have a tendency to want things now. This could relate to my family, my friends, my career, or even just my own selfish pleasure or gratification. But usually when I don't know what's on God's heart and don't pray about it, I find myself in a place I don't want to be. Jesus had God's heart and was patient with God's timing even though everyone around him was telling him something different.
vv. 12-15: Among the crowds there was widespread whispering about him. Some said, "He is a good man." Others replied, "No, he deceives the people." But no one would say anything publicly about him for fear of the Jews. Not until halfway through the Feast did Jesus go up to the temple courts and begin to teach. The Jews were amazed and asked, "How did this man get such learning without having studied?"
There was an undercurrent of bickering about Jesus (sounds like gossip to me), but the only reason people wouldn't say anything publicly was because the were afraid what the Jews might think of them or might do to them. Jesus, however, knowing that the Jews might kill him (v.1), got up and started teaching. He didn't care what people might think of him or what people might do to him, but he knew it was now God's timing for him to speak and he did. And what happened? "The Jews were amazed...." I have to constantly remind myself not to fear man, but to fear God. I think it's so easy to get caught up in what others might think of me to forget that the only thing that matters is what God thinks of me. Does God know that I fear Him more than man and will stand firm and speak boldly and courageously for Him when he opens the doors for me? Or will I fear man too much and just be another gossiper in the background where no one is able to be amazed by the glory of God?
v. 39: By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified.
I think I take the Holy Spirit for granted a lot of times. Back then, the Spirit was only with few people--Jesus, Moses, David, the prophets and perhaps few others. When people were prophesying in Moses' camp, people were freaking out and telling Moses to stop them. Numbers 11:29 says, "But Moses replied, 'Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the LORD's people were prophets and that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!'" Looking at what Moses and so many other people filled with the Spirit did for God, I feel like I belittle what the Holy Spirit can do through me. It's the same Spirit in me that was in all these great men and women of God. If only I would completely trust and obey the things (big and little things) God has called me to do, there is no end to what God can do through me.
vv. 50-51: Nicodemus, who had gone to Jesus earlier and who was one of their own number, asked, "Does our law condemn anyone without first hearing him to find out what he is doing?"
In John 3, Jesus taught Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a teacher of the law. Now, when his fellow Pharisees are deciding to kill Jesus, Nicodemus stands up for him. I doubt this would have occurred if Nicodemus did not first personally encounter Jesus. I'm just amazed at how God is always sovereign and how he intertwines different people's lives together. It was no accident that Jesus taught Nicodemus. It was no accident that Nicodemus was in a powerful position to defend Jesus. In the same way, it is no accident that we have come to know Christ. It is no accident that we attend the school that we do, we have the family and friends that we do, we are part of this church and life group, we are in the classes or clubs that we are in, we have the past that we do, we are going through what we're going through right now, etc. Whether it be to teach, rebuke, correct, train, test, refine, or send us, God is sovereign in what he is doing in our lives.
Sorry for the lengthy blog. Hope all of you are having an awesome break! Merry Christmas Eve!
Much Love,
Eric
Bridge to Life
Hey Downpour!
Just wanted to share this video with all of you! Enjoy!
Merry Christmas Eve!
Eric
Just wanted to share this video with all of you! Enjoy!
Merry Christmas Eve!
Eric
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
its not my day
hey everyone its tina. its not my day to post but i wanted to post anyway.
well first things first, i just got home today and let me just say within about 10 minutes i was already crying. it was just so hard to see my grandma's room empty (she moved out today!) and just the rest of the house just in packing mode. sighh .. i tried so hard to keep it in and be strong but i think i felt much better after i cried it out. now we're just all watching tv together in the living room since the tv is still working and sleeping together in the living room. we'll be moving 12/27. please please pray for me and my family that we will be able to get through this time together and draw close to one another.
anyway, my other reason for posting is that i thought we could maybe comment on each other's blogs, even if its just a "amen. cooool. thats sweeeet. you're mean." or anything else that you could think of because i think reading the blogs is just as important as writing the blogs. but so far ive been soooooo super blessed by everyone's blogs !! keep em coming !
thank you for reading. now comment.
well first things first, i just got home today and let me just say within about 10 minutes i was already crying. it was just so hard to see my grandma's room empty (she moved out today!) and just the rest of the house just in packing mode. sighh .. i tried so hard to keep it in and be strong but i think i felt much better after i cried it out. now we're just all watching tv together in the living room since the tv is still working and sleeping together in the living room. we'll be moving 12/27. please please pray for me and my family that we will be able to get through this time together and draw close to one another.
anyway, my other reason for posting is that i thought we could maybe comment on each other's blogs, even if its just a "amen. cooool. thats sweeeet. you're mean." or anything else that you could think of because i think reading the blogs is just as important as writing the blogs. but so far ive been soooooo super blessed by everyone's blogs !! keep em coming !
thank you for reading. now comment.
Monday, December 22, 2008
John 5
Hi all! =) hopefully you guys are all enjoying urself at home!! I guess me and dan switched sections haha so thats y 6 is before 5 hehe. so i have a house guest here during break. shes a family friend that goes to university of virginia and is staying with me over break (she just got here last night). its actually my first time actually getting to know her, because i think the last time we saw each other was when i was like 1-2 years old. we have baby pics together, but now we finally meet. im probably going to take her somerset after dinner =).
so john 5 is basically about Jesus healing this sick man. the man had not been able to function normally (or has been sick) for about 38 years, and Jesus heals him. he picks this man to demonstrate his power. he gives the man a new opportunity to start a new life.
Although it is the time of the Sabbath, Jesus tells the healed man to get up, pick up his mat, and walk. When others see the man not resting on the Sabbath day, they question his actions. The man replies that someone else made him do it, they question who made him do such a thing. Later Jesus visits the man at the temple and tells him since he was given another chance to be well, he should stop sinning. he shows that God will help those who are faithful and willing to work for his help and care.
The later sector of the passage, tells us that the Jews persecuted Jesus because he was doing things on the Sabbath and was calling God his own Father. Basically they totally didnt believe him and thought he was making himself equal with God. Jesus truthfully explains that he is the Son and is powerless without God. he does what God would do. For those who do not honor the Son does not honor God, the one who sent Jesus. He hints at sacrifice at the cross and says that later those who believe will be blessed. This verse really stood out to me, for it definitely reminds you to believe in him, and also shows how naive people can be. the Bible hints several times at the sacrifice of Jesus and yet it is often ignored.
"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. 25 I tell you the truth, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live."
John has been sent to testify the truth and people believe him, yet Jesus's testimony contains more weight than that of John's and still people deny him. He notes the irony in this, for people study the bible diligently, read scriptures that testify about him, and are still able to refuse the Son of God.
soooo overall the chapter reminds us to truly believe in Jesus and reminds us of the sacrifices he has made to take away our sins and allow us to have a connection with God. it tries to help us remember the reason why we study the bible and not just read it for face value.
alrite sry if this sounds a bit rushed =/ i have to run. but hope you guys are having the best time ever! see you all once we get back!!! =). remember to stay warmmmmmmmm!
miss u all bye!! =D
so john 5 is basically about Jesus healing this sick man. the man had not been able to function normally (or has been sick) for about 38 years, and Jesus heals him. he picks this man to demonstrate his power. he gives the man a new opportunity to start a new life.
Although it is the time of the Sabbath, Jesus tells the healed man to get up, pick up his mat, and walk. When others see the man not resting on the Sabbath day, they question his actions. The man replies that someone else made him do it, they question who made him do such a thing. Later Jesus visits the man at the temple and tells him since he was given another chance to be well, he should stop sinning. he shows that God will help those who are faithful and willing to work for his help and care.
The later sector of the passage, tells us that the Jews persecuted Jesus because he was doing things on the Sabbath and was calling God his own Father. Basically they totally didnt believe him and thought he was making himself equal with God. Jesus truthfully explains that he is the Son and is powerless without God. he does what God would do. For those who do not honor the Son does not honor God, the one who sent Jesus. He hints at sacrifice at the cross and says that later those who believe will be blessed. This verse really stood out to me, for it definitely reminds you to believe in him, and also shows how naive people can be. the Bible hints several times at the sacrifice of Jesus and yet it is often ignored.
"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. 25 I tell you the truth, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live."
John has been sent to testify the truth and people believe him, yet Jesus's testimony contains more weight than that of John's and still people deny him. He notes the irony in this, for people study the bible diligently, read scriptures that testify about him, and are still able to refuse the Son of God.
soooo overall the chapter reminds us to truly believe in Jesus and reminds us of the sacrifices he has made to take away our sins and allow us to have a connection with God. it tries to help us remember the reason why we study the bible and not just read it for face value.
alrite sry if this sounds a bit rushed =/ i have to run. but hope you guys are having the best time ever! see you all once we get back!!! =). remember to stay warmmmmmmmm!
miss u all bye!! =D
Joint Winter Retreat: Poured Out
Hey Downpour!
Just wanted to remind you guys of the Joint Winter Retreat coming up from Friday night, January 16th - Sunday afternoon, January 18th.
It will be during Martin Luther King Weekend, so we won't have classes that Monday. Winter semester will just be starting, so we shouldn't have exams or anything to worry about either. Plus "Poured Out"..."Downpour"...I think God is telling us something!
Early registration ends January 4th!
Facebook event here!
Hope you're all having an awesome, restful, and fruitful break!
Eric
Just wanted to remind you guys of the Joint Winter Retreat coming up from Friday night, January 16th - Sunday afternoon, January 18th.
It will be during Martin Luther King Weekend, so we won't have classes that Monday. Winter semester will just be starting, so we shouldn't have exams or anything to worry about either. Plus "Poured Out"..."Downpour"...I think God is telling us something!
Early registration ends January 4th!
Early (ends 1/4):
Student: $79
Non-Student: $89
Regular (after 1/4):
Student: $89
Non-Student: $99
Facebook event here!
Hope you're all having an awesome, restful, and fruitful break!
Eric
John 6
John 6
This is just a side note, but while reading John 6, I got soooooooooooo hungry. I just woke up, and as Jesus kept mentioning “bread of life,” I was sitting in front of my computer drooling. So I am making dumplings while writing this post! =)
Update about myself: I am eating, trying to get back in shape, researching, and catching up with friends. Oh by the way…I got my GRE psychology score (the test I was bummed about b/c I thought I failed), but surprisingly I did really really really well. For the people who prayed….God listened!!! Thank you for praying for me guys!!!!!
John 6 began with Jesus feeding the 5000. In this section, the last verse really spoke out to me,” Jesus, knowing that they intended to make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.” Recalling Pastor Victor’s sermon yesterday on learning to be served by Christ, rather than always serving him, I was a bit shocked at how I never allowed Jesus to work in my life. Always complaining, interrogating his deeds in prayer, and even yelling at him to do certain things, the story of Jesus feeding the 5000 brought peace in my life. I will now be more mindful of being served by Jesus with my hands tied, rather than trying to throw a fit all the time. HAHA
Okay, now I am eating the dumplings. Yum…
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the word” (v. 51). The word (aka bible I presume) is full of promises God gives to his people. The security of his promises and obeying God is found through his death and resurrection. Jesus promises eternity for those who eats his flesh…which is manifested through the word. The personal application I take from this segment is…read yooo bible daily!
Alright beautiful people! I hope you guys are having fun and smiling hardcore.
BYE!!!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
John 4
Andy and I standing outside of Cinderella's castle(where Walt Disney got his idea for the palace.)
GREETINGS FROM GERMANY! :)
hello my fellow friends, I hope all is doing well. Andy and I just got back from our trip down to Garmisch where we got to go and travel to Munich, see Hitler's Olympic stadium, Dauchau concentration camp, visit a gorge, see Cinderella's castle and so much more!! You are all greatly missed and I wish you were all here to see the beautiful sites with us! Although, it has been very rainy here the whole time we have been here.
Alrighty... John 4:
Ahhh the infamous parable of Jesus with the Samaritan woman- Jesus went through the town of Samaria and sat down by the well to grab a drink of water. As he was sitting a Samaritan woman approached to draw water from the well. He turned to her and asked for a drink of water. she replied, "you are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" v.9 (And if I can remember correctly, Jews do not affiliate with Samaritans because Samaritans were products of interracial marriage, and back in those days- it was highly looked down upon.) Jesus then proposes the question to her and asks that, "if you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water." v. 10. The Samaritan woman then questioned where she could get this living water and questioned if Jesus was greater than Jacob and his sons. Jesus then replied with such wisdom and said that whoever drank water from the well will be thirsty again and whoever drinks the wate that Jesus gives- "...in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life." v 14. Then Jesus provides truth and tells the Samaritan to bring her husband but she said she had none, Jesus said she was right because she had 5 husbands.
Jesus preached to this Samaritan woman and told her of the Messiah coming and she said that she will believe when He comes and explains everything to her, Jesus throws in the kicker and says, "I who speak to you am He." To me, this really spoke out the gospel of truth and that we cannot hide from it. The following passages, Jesus expalin and describes to the Jews and even his own disciples that the time is NOW! There is never a wrong time to spread and share the gospel. We have been given the fruit and they are all ready for harvest, " Do you not say, 'For mounths more and then the harvest?' I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest." v. 35 Jesus shares with us the time to share the good news is now, there is never a momnt too soon. One verse that really stuck out to me was, "I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefts of their labor." v. 38.
Throughout the rest of the chapter, it explains the good deeds of Jesus and His miracles. It exempifies to me the abudance of God's love and how it overflows, we shoud not keep it all to ourselves but instead to grow and harvest more in God's abundance we need to reap others and share the love and good news. Perfect timing for the holidays, I think we can really learn from the words of this passage an apply it in our lives- even if we find it hard to do; you never know God can provide miracles. I hope I provided some insight, I know it's not everythig but let me know what you guys think!!
Miss you all! Love,
Debbie
Saturday, December 20, 2008
John 3
Hey Downpour!
Sorry for the late post. I have been busy all day. I had a Bible Study Workshop in the morning and just got back from the Bulls game a while ago. Break is going well. Just hanging out with the family and catching up with some friends. Got a chance to hang out with Sarah Karen, Lara, Dlai, John Eom for last night. They came out to my home church to see our Christmas cantata. Don't have much really planned for the break. Hope everyone is doing well!
Ok, John 3:
The passage is separated in two parts. The first part is about Jesus conversation with Nicodemus and the second part is John's testimony of Jesus.
The chapter first starts out by Nicodemus commenting on Jesus miracles. The passage continues with Jesus confirming his gifts are from God and He tells Nicodemus that one needs to be born again. Nicodemus is confused so he questions Jesus about being born again. Jesus stressed that one needs to submit to this invisible creation that is moving the visible or else it is impossible to enter the the kingdom of Heaven. Just like the wind, you can hear it rustling through the trees, but you have no idea where it comes from or will go next. God, is the baptism into new life.
Nicodemus is still confused and Jesus questions his position as a teacher and tells Nicodemus that it is pointless to tell him things of God when he does not even see the things that are tangible.
16“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. 17 God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.
God didn't send Jesus in the world just so He could condemned it. He had sent Jesus to help bring people back to peace and make everything right. When he came into the world, everyone went toward darkness because they had little interest in pleasing God. These people do not want their sins to be exposed.
In the second part, John was confronted and told that there was some one else that is baptizing and people are going to him instead. He took this opportunity to share his testimony that there is someone else much greater than him that is the Messiah. He was just sent before the Messiah to get things ready. As Jesus gets greater and more recognition, John must become less.
Jesus was sent by the Father. Since the Father loves the Son so much, he entrusted everything to Him. This is why, who ever trust the Son will also receive everything that the Father gives.
Sorry for the late post. I have been busy all day. I had a Bible Study Workshop in the morning and just got back from the Bulls game a while ago. Break is going well. Just hanging out with the family and catching up with some friends. Got a chance to hang out with Sarah Karen, Lara, Dlai, John Eom for last night. They came out to my home church to see our Christmas cantata. Don't have much really planned for the break. Hope everyone is doing well!
Ok, John 3:
The passage is separated in two parts. The first part is about Jesus conversation with Nicodemus and the second part is John's testimony of Jesus.
The chapter first starts out by Nicodemus commenting on Jesus miracles. The passage continues with Jesus confirming his gifts are from God and He tells Nicodemus that one needs to be born again. Nicodemus is confused so he questions Jesus about being born again. Jesus stressed that one needs to submit to this invisible creation that is moving the visible or else it is impossible to enter the the kingdom of Heaven. Just like the wind, you can hear it rustling through the trees, but you have no idea where it comes from or will go next. God, is the baptism into new life.
Nicodemus is still confused and Jesus questions his position as a teacher and tells Nicodemus that it is pointless to tell him things of God when he does not even see the things that are tangible.
16
God didn't send Jesus in the world just so He could condemned it. He had sent Jesus to help bring people back to peace and make everything right. When he came into the world, everyone went toward darkness because they had little interest in pleasing God. These people do not want their sins to be exposed.
In the second part, John was confronted and told that there was some one else that is baptizing and people are going to him instead. He took this opportunity to share his testimony that there is someone else much greater than him that is the Messiah. He was just sent before the Messiah to get things ready. As Jesus gets greater and more recognition, John must become less.
Jesus was sent by the Father. Since the Father loves the Son so much, he entrusted everything to Him. This is why, who ever trust the Son will also receive everything that the Father gives.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
John 2
Hey Downpour! Because I'm so technologically challenged, it took me about last half hour and multiple text msgs and a call to Eric for me to figure this out. (Thanks, Eric) So, I'm still in AA.
But it's okay because I know that Tina, Karen and Jeff are here too bahaha. Leaving today and a severe ice/snow storm is hitting AA at 4 a.m. so pray that I do get home...because...I want to go home lol. Although I've been in the deserted campus, I've been hanging out with Karen :) She cooked for me, we watched My Sassy Girlfriend, and went to Karaoke. Daron and Jeff dropped by too. Other than that, I worked at the hospital and cleaned my dorm finally...ahahah...
Okay, so in chapter 2, Jesus performs his first miraculous sign: turning water into wine. When the wine made by Jesus is tasted by the master of the Banquet, he remarks to the Bridegroom, "Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much drink; but you have saved the best till now." (v.10) I think this tells that whatever Jesus provided with, or brought out was/is the best of all. Anything man-made cannot compare to what has been made possible by Jesus.
Second part tells about Jesus, with a whip, clearing the Temple of men selling things and exchanging money. He has meant to keep the house of God sacred, to retain its purpose. This serves as a reminder for all of us who attend church that church exists to serve God. At the undergrad retreat past October, Pastor Jimmy (HMCC Evanston-Chicago) informed our freshmen class Remedy of the purpose of church. He reminded us that the church existed to make disciples, observe ordinances of the Lord, teach the Bible and discipline it's people. Church must not be solely for place of social gathering, and followers of Christ must BE the followers, not just claim that they are, which would make them hypocrites. (So many church back home in Houston were like this and I've observed separation within church and people falling out of faith as a consequence. Which includes me too.)
Lastly, the Jews who were corrupting the Temple demands Jesus for a miraculous sign to prove his authority of driving them out. "Jesus answered them, 'Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.' " (v.19) Jesus is talking about his resurrection from the grave. Remember Jesus himself, rising from the dead in 3 days IS a miracle. So why keep asking for a miraculous sign? I think this boils down to tell us to have strong faith.
I would like to know what you brothers and sisters of mine think about this. Please do feedback. I'm in need of help. omg. Other than that, Happy Holidays!
John 1
HI F.R.I.E.N.D.S.!! how are all of you doing?
I'm still jetlagged and feeling zombie-like. It's been raining like crazy daily and there's even flash flood alerts. um... yeah. So no sun and no shine for me... so i guess God is a fair God... as always. lol .Anyway, it's like still 1.00pm here and before i realized it's already 6pm eastern time. I got a shock. That means half the day's already gone for most of you. eeeeek!
John 1's basically a 'grand opening' for what's to come in the book. John the baptist had to go around drawing crowds to himself to make his message known. Before the people would hear what he had to say, they had to grill him for his qualifications first.
20He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, "I am not the Christ."
Another things that impressed me was how easily the people believed when Jesus told him who He was. I think Jesus chose His disciples because they were available and willing. They were willing to believe the moment Jesus went up to them to reveal His identity. Instead of questioning Him, it really didn't take much for them to believe the words Jesus spoke. They were ready to believe. They were ready to follow.
48"How do you know me?" Nathanael asked.
Jesus answered, "I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you."
I know these are some areas in which i could work on. for sure.
I'm still jetlagged and feeling zombie-like. It's been raining like crazy daily and there's even flash flood alerts. um... yeah. So no sun and no shine for me... so i guess God is a fair God... as always. lol .Anyway, it's like still 1.00pm here and before i realized it's already 6pm eastern time. I got a shock. That means half the day's already gone for most of you. eeeeek!
John 1's basically a 'grand opening' for what's to come in the book. John the baptist had to go around drawing crowds to himself to make his message known. Before the people would hear what he had to say, they had to grill him for his qualifications first.
20He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, "I am not the Christ."
21They asked him, "Then who are you? Are you Elijah?"
He said, "I am not."
"Are you the Prophet?"
He answered, "No."
22Finally they said, "Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us.
What do you say about yourself?"
23John replied in the words of Isaiah the prophet,
"I am the voice of one calling in the desert, 'Make straight the way for the Lord.' "
24Now some Pharisees who had been sent 25questioned him,
"Why then do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?"
26"I baptize with water," John replied, "but among you stands one you do not know.
27He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie."
and then it occurred to me that for John to be declaring to the people to prepare themselves for Jesus' coming, it took him not just faith but as well as humility and patience. It took faith because he had to believe in it himself. Patience because... he had to continue preaching it whether the people would believe him or not. I guess for me if someone were to question my credentials when i am announcing something of such IMPORTANCE, i must admit, I would be..... not be a very pleasant person... hahah. but John knew what he had to do, and he continued to proclaim to all to prepare for His arrival, and did so with humility. He knew how to not even place any attention on himself but to turn it all to Jesus. He called himself nothing but a "voice of one calling in the dessert". He knew how to minimize himself, and maximize Jesus.
Another things that impressed me was how easily the people believed when Jesus told him who He was. I think Jesus chose His disciples because they were available and willing. They were willing to believe the moment Jesus went up to them to reveal His identity. Instead of questioning Him, it really didn't take much for them to believe the words Jesus spoke. They were ready to believe. They were ready to follow.
48"How do you know me?" Nathanael asked.
Jesus answered, "I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you."
49Then Nathanael declared, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel."
For myself, sometimes even when i feel like God is telling me to do something, i sometimes wonder to myself if that really is God and hesitate to follow what i hear. But Andrew, Simon, Philip, and Nathaniel were all just quick to obey and quick to follow.I know these are some areas in which i could work on. for sure.
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