He is risen !

FAITH:

John 20:1-31

Tombs in ancient times were closed by a circular stone across the mouth of a cave. Mathew tells us that authorities sealed the tomb and guarded it (Matthew 27:66). When Mary saw the stone rolled away, she was shocked and amazed. She ran to tell Peter and John.

The resurrection of Jesus is true. We worship a living Savior and can live forever because he does.

There is something about a living testimony that gives us courage. Once we see someone else emerging form life's dark tunnels we realize that we, too, can overcome.........

In the eyes of humanity, death was still the black veil that separated them from joy. There was no victory over this hooded foe. Its putrid odor invaded the nostrils of every human, convincing them that life was only meant to end abruptly and senselessly.

It was left to the Son of God to disclose the true nature of this force. It was on the cross that the showdown occurred. Christ called for Satan's cards. Weary of seeing humanity fooled by a coverup, he entered the tunnel death to prove that there was indeed an exit. And, as the world darkened, creation held her breath........

Christ emerged from death's tunnel, lifted a triumphant fist toward the sky, and freed all from the fear of death.

"Death has been swallowed up in victory!"
by Max Lucado

Applying it: Pretend for a moment that you are a prisoner of a heartless regime, working in a labor camp, awaiting your execution. Overnight you are liberated, almost miraculously. Life is yours again. Describe the feelings. Now be glad, for Jesus has done that for you if you have made him Lord of your life.
Exploring it: Resurrection---Matthew 22:31-32; John 11:25; Acts 1:22; 4:2; 4:33; Romans 1:4; 6:5; 1Peter 1:3; 3:21

FRIENDS:

Thank you for the sweet surprise of Easter morning. We are thankful that when you arose from your sleep of death, you didn't go immediately to heaven, but instead you went and visited people. This visit of love reminds us that it was for people that you died. We praise your name for that sweet surprise. In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
APRIL 12
Mark 5:1-20; 1 Cor 9:1-12; Psalms 82; Judges 1-3
APRIL 13
Mark 5:21-43; 1 Cor 9:13-27; Psalms 83; Judges 4-5

~Judges~
It was a nation born out of a passion for religious freedom. Free practice of faith had been oppressed and forbidden in the old country. The people longed to be in a place where they could worship God as they desired.

So they left. Willing to battle the fears of the unknown in exchange for freedom. Only a small portion of those who began the journey survived it.

When the travelers reached the new country they celebrated. They gave thanks to God and raised him for guiding them to their new home.

But their new home was not a peaceful place. Nearby enemies attacked and years of battles ensued. The settlers, however, were men and women of faith and courage. With time they sank their roots in the new land and began a new life.

The first generation of settlers were hearty people. Though the hardships were great, their faith was greater. God answered their prayers and established them in the new land.

With time the new land was divided into states, and leaders were assigned to each region. The population grew, and the boundary of the country expanded.

But with growth of the land and the passage of the decades, two troubling trend's began.

The first was the disappearance of values. Early settlers had a common conviction as to what was right and wrong. The family was the core of society. Religion was the source of faith. Education was the highest task.

But by the end of the first hundred years in the new land, these virtues had begun to wane....the family was under attack; sophisticated thinkers mocked religion.

The second alarming trend was the inconsistency of moral leadership. Early leaders---capable military and skillful politicians---were also men of God. Men prone to spend time in prayer and meditation. Men who listened to God and earnestly tried to follow his will.

Such leadership became rare, however. The nation we look at now lacks moral leadership. Leaders squabble and steal. Others are lazy and spoiled. There are even cases of national leaders accused of making sexual advances to women.

Though the nation has a glorious past, it is hidden in a cloudy present.

Sound familiar? Sound like any nation you know? Sound like us? It sounds like ours, could be ours, might be ours, but I didn't get the profile out of the newspaper. I read it in the Bible. In the Book of Jedges.

Judges chronicles the dark ages of Israel, the death of Israel. The death of the heart. A three hundred-year era which "everyone did what seemed right" (Judges 21:25)

Not a pretty story. Not intended to be. It's intended to be a warning. A warning of what happens when God is ignored and passions are worshiped.

A warning for our times.

FOOD:

How about a little pineapple salsa to go with that ham for something a little different?

Pineapple Salsa

1 (8 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
2 tablespoons orange marmalade
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
2 teaspoons seeded, finely chopped jalapeño
2 teaspoons Mexican lime juice
1/4 teaspoon salt

Stir all ingredients together until well blended. Cover and
refrigerate until serving time. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Makes about 1 cup.

FUN:

Guess I shouldn't have had that second helping of scalloped potatoes !

Jesus sent the Comforter in His place...

FAITH:

John 14:1-31

Jesus knew that the disciples were troubled at the thought of his departure. He reassured them by teaching about the Holy Spirit, who would help them.

Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to be our helper during our service to God.

When ever I teach on the subject of personal holiness, I always stress that we are responsible to obey the will of God, but that we are dependent upon the Holy Spirit for the enabling power to do it. The same principle applies in the realm of trusting God. We are responsible to trust Him in times of adversity but we are dependent upon the Holy Spirit to enable us to do so.

Again, let me emphasize that trusting God does not mean we do not experience pain. It means that we believe God is at work through the occasion of our pain for our ultimate good. It means we work back through the Scriptures regarding His sovereignty, wisdom, and goodness and ask Him to use those Scriptures to bring peace and comfort to our Hearts. It means above all, that we do not sin against God by allowing distrustful and hard thoughts about Him to hold sway in our minds. It will often mean that we may have to say, "God, I don't understand, but I trust You."
by Jerry Bridges

Applying it: The Holy Spirit won't always remove your obstacles, but he will give you the strength to overcome them. What obstacles do you face as you try to serve God? Are you weak, bashful, unorganized, or alone in your work? Take a bold step and let the Holy Spirit guide you through.
Exploring it: The Counselor----Ezekiel 39:29; Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8; Romans 8:26-27; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; Ephesians 6:18

FRIENDS:

Father, You've given us such a great promise, the promise of salvation. Forgive us when we sometimes put more hope in the things of this earth than in the incredible promises of your heaven. In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
APRIL 10
Mark 4:1-20; 1 Cor 7:17-40; Psalms 80; Joshua 22-23
APRIL 11
Mark 4:21-41; 1 Cor 8; Psalms 81; Joshua 24

FOOD:

From someone on one of my Internet food groups
Homemade Vegetable Wash/Preserver That Works! (Spray or Soak)

I have been using this for years don't know why I never thought of posting it here on the site earlier, this really works and works very well! no chemicals 100% natural and will remove dust and dirt and kill any little bugs and bacteria not to mention it costs only pennies to make and when used as a soak it will help preserve your veggies so that they will last quite a lot longer --- there is really no servings to this recipe so of coarse the serving amount is only estimated --- because of the fresh lemon juice any unused spray may be refrigerated until used again, I just usually use up the 1 cup and then discard the rest --- the exact amounts do not really matter a little more will not hurt, I really don't even bother to measure I just eyeball everything --- if you are using a smaller bowl then reduce the vinegar to 2 Tbsp and salt to 1 Tbsp it will work just as well
5 min prep

Ingredients:
SPRAY
1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 Tbsp baking soda
1 cup water

SOAK
1/4 cup vinegar
2 Tbsp salt

Method:
For the spray; put all ingredients into a spray bottle (be careful as it will foam up) shake gently to mix, then spray on veggies or fruit allow to sit for about 2-5 minutes then rinse under cold water.

For soak; fill a clean sink or a large basin with cold water; add in vinegar and salt, then swish around with hands (you may also do this in a large bowl). Place the fruit and/or veggies in and allow to sit for 25-30 minutes although I have even left soaking for over an hour (this will not effect the flavor at all, the vinegar cleans and the salt draws out any little bugs, dirt and other small unwanted things, it also will remove some of the wax. Rinse under cold water and dry.

FUN:

" I wonder if I will always have to Scotch Tape on my Easter Bonnet?"

Flying Lesson

FAITH:


In celebration of my 100th post I am doing one of my favorite stories. It may be familiar to some of you but I just have to do it again.

HOW TO WAIT FOR ANSWERS TO PRAYER

Is there in your life a cherished heart's desire taken to God over and over again in prayer, yet still unfulfilled? If so, link hands with the rest of us, and with all prayer-warriors across the centuries! No wonder Jesus had so much to say about persistence in prayer, along with His clear teaching that sometimes we will have to wait for God to move.

It's that waiting that can be so hard. Where can we find the needed patience? I think in the end it all comes down to trust. We have to trust the Lord even when we wonder why He delays.

Recently my friend Marge shared an experience where the Lord spoke directly to her about this question of patience. Marge and her husband had been given the frightening news that he had Parkinson's disease. It was the sort of dread disease that Marge has always especially feared.

The entire family gathered, anointed their father and husband with oil, asked the Lord for His healing, then made a deliberate act of turning the situation over to Him.

Marge's heart questioned, "Until such time as our family sees this prayer answered, how can I leave this problem in God's hands and not snatch it back. How can I keep enough peace of mind not to let worry and fear impede or stop my daily work?"

God answered her question directly in an experience Marge had aboard a plane bound for Cleveland, waiting for takeoff....

As she settled into her seat, Marge noticed a strange phenomenon. On one side of the airplane a sunset suffused the entire sky with glorious color. But out of the window next to her seat all Marge could see was the sky dark and threatening.

The plane's engines began to roar, and a closed in feeling came over Marge. Long since, she had learned at such moments to be still and listen within. Then the gentle Voice spoke, "You have noticed the windows," He said, even in the roar and thrust of the takeoff. "For a while now, your life will contain some happy, beautiful times, but also some dark shadows.

"Here's a lesson I want to teach you to save you much heartache and allow you to abide in Me' with continual peace and joy....You see, it doesn't matter which window you look through this plane is still going to Cleveland.

"So it is in your life. You have a choice. You can dwell on the gloomy picture. Or you can focus on the bright things in your life and leave the dark, ominous situations to Me. I alone can handle the dark ones anyway. And the final destination is not influenced by what you see or feel along the way.

"Learn this, act on it and you will be released, able to experience the 'peace that passes understanding' even, My joy."

Marge's sharing is helping me to handle my "meanwhiles." Not one of us finds it easy to put our problems into His hands that completely. But only in that way does our trust in Him grow. And you and I will yet have our demonstration of the glory of God.

Lord, thank You for this beautiful assurance when the skies are darkest.
by Catherine Marshall

This wonderful story came to me during and got me through some of the darkest days of my life. I don't remember who gave it to me but I read it over so may times that I had to re-copy it because it was hard to read. And yes, it is so true. While I am not perfect at doing so, I am able to put things in God's hands and go on with life. I am 12 years away from our family's personal tragedy and while we still suffer the pain of loss at times, it is bearable most of the time. And much good has come out of it.
I love doing this devotional blog and I only hope that occasionally you are blessed with something I have chosen to share. God Bless you for sticking it out with me to 100 posts.

FRIENDS:

Father, Thank you for being patient with me. For the many times I mess things up and you are still there for me. I am grateful. When I am not wise in my spending, You still provide my needs, when I stumble, you hold me up. You protect me from harm's way. Forgive me for my thoughtlessness and the times I mistreat you. Help me to think before I act and thank you for your forgiving love. You are truly my heavenly Father. In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
APRIL 8
Mark 3:1-19; 1 Cor 6:12-20; Psalms 78:40-72; Joshua 18-19
APRIL 9
Mark 3:20-35; 1 Cor 7:1-16; Psalms 79; Joshua 20-21

10 Things To Be Thankful For
1. When God uses you
2. The feeling you get when you see a friend
3. Daffodils in a drinking glass
4. When you know that Spring is here
5. Enjoying morning coffee on the deck
6. Volunteers who work well together
7. Staying in your robe all day
8. Scones with butter and marmalade and a cup of tea
9. Having experience
10. Doing this blog

FOOD:

Hamburger Cabbage Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 large onion, chopped (1 cup)
1/2 cup uncooked instant rice
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 can condensed tomato soup (CAN use Rotel spicy tomatoes instead)
1/4 cup water
4 cups coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage

Place coleslaw mix in ungreased slow-cooker

Cook beef and onion in 10-inch skillet over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes,
stirring occasionally, until beef is brown; drain.

In a bowl mix together the rice, salt, pepper, soup and water. Add drained
beef. Pour all over cole slaw mix in slow-cooker.

Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 4 hours or until hot and bubbly.



FUN:

It finally happened, Barbie turned 50 in March.

FAITH:

LUKE 22:1-71

Jesus prophesied about his coming death and tried to prepare his disciples. Christ's death signaled the rebirth of humanity and redemption from sin.

Jesus was determined to obey his father and to die in our place for our sins.

Jesus. The man. The bronzed Galilean who spoke with such thunderous authority and loved with such childlike humility.

The God. The one who claimed to be older than time and greater than death.

Gone is the pomp of religion, dissipated is the for of theology. Momentarily lifted is the opaque curtain of controversy and opinion. Erased are our own blinding errors and egotism. And there he stands.

Jesus. Have you seen him? Those who first did were never the same.

"My Lord and my God!" cried Thomas.

"I have seen the Lord," exclaimed Mary Magdalene.

"We have see his glory," declared John.

"Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked?" rejoiced the two Emmaus-bound disciples.

But Peter said it best. "We were eyewitnesses of his majesty."

His majesty. The emperor of Judah. The soaring eagle of eternity. The noble admiral of the Kingdom. All the splendor of heaven revealed in a human body. for a period over so brief, the doors to the throne room were open and God came near. His Majesty was seen. Heaven touched the earth and, as a result, earth can know heaven. In astounding tandem a human body housed divinity. Holiness and earthliness intertwined.

This is no run-of-the-mill messiah. His story was extraordinary. He called himself divine, yet allowed a minimum wage Roman soldier to drive a nail into his wrist. He demanded purity, yet stood for the rights of a repentant whore. He called men to march, yet refused to allow them to call him King. He sent men into all the world yet equipped them with only bended knees and memories of a resurrected carpenter.

We can't regard him as simply a good teacher. His claims are too outrageous to limit him to the company of Socrates or Aristotle. Nor can we categorize him as one of many prophets sent to reveal eternal truths. His own claims eliminate that possibility.

Then who is he?

Let's try to find out. Let's follow his sandal prints. Let's sit on the cold, hard floor of the cave in which he was born. Let's smell the sawdust of the carpentry shop. Let's hear his sandals slap the hard trails of Galilee. Let's sigh as we touch the healed sores of the leper. Let's smile as we see his compassion with the woman at the well. Let's cringe as we hear the hissing of hell's Satan. Let's let our voices soar with the praises of the multitudes. Let's try to see him.

Has it been a while since you have seen him? If your prayers seem stale, it probably has. If your faith seems to be trembling, pperhaps your vision of him has blurred. If you can't find power to face your problems, perhaps it is time to face him.

One warning. Something happens to a person who has witnessed his Majesty. He becomes addicted. One glimpse of the King and you are consumed by a desire to see more of him and say more about him. Pew-warming is no longer an option. Junk religion will longer suffice. Sensation seeking is needless. Once you have seen his face you will forever long to see it again. by Max Lucado

Applying it: When was the last time you saw Jesus or considered what he has done for you? Have you ever? If not ask God to show you Jesus as you read his Word.
Exploring it: Redemption---Exodus 15:13; Luke 1:68; Galatians 3:13-14; Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:18-19.

FRIENDS:

Father, We know that Jesus lived his life here on earth constantly in your presence and fully aware of you at all times. I pray that we may have our relationship with you be such that we no longer have prayer that is infrequent and sporadic but constant. whether it be verbal or non-verbal. When we intercede for others, let it be a prayer like Jesus prayed for Peter, for we realize that no matter how disloyal we are to you, that you remain loyal to us, just as you did with Peter. In Jesus' name, Amen

DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
APRIL 6
Mark 2:13-17; 1 Cor 5; Psalms 77; Joshua 13-14
APRIL 7
Mark 2: 18-28; 1 Cor 6:1-11; Psalms 78:1-39; Joshua 15-17


FOOD:

Starbucks Cranberry Bliss Bars

For Cake Base:
2 sticks margarine (or butter if you want to indulge) -- softened
1 and 1/4 cups brown sugar-- packed
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 and 1/2 cups flour
1/4 cup minced dried cranberries
1/4 cup Lindt or Perugina or other quality white chocolate -- coarsely chopped
1/4 cup minced candied ginger

For Frosting:
4 ounce cream cheese -- softened
1 and 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 Tablespoons butter -- softened
1 teaspoon vanilla

For Garnish:
2 tablespoons minced dried cranberries
1/3 cup white chocolate chips (e.g. Ghiradelli or Guittard) -- melted

Preheat oven to 350 and lightly grease a 9x13 pan. Beat butter and sugar together for the cake base, and add eggs/vanilla beating until fluffy. Sift together flour, ginger, and salt and then add to the butter/sugar mixture beating well. Fold in the cranberries, chocolate and ginger. Spread thick batter in pan and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until light golden.

When cake is cooled, mix all frosting ingredients together and spread a thin layer over the cake. Immediately sprinkle with the minced cranberries. Then use a cake decorating bag of melted white chocolate with a tiny decorating tip (like the size used for writing on cakes) and drizzle the chocolate over the cake. Cut this into bars immediately because the white chocolate hardens pretty fast and makes cake cutting messy.

FUN:

This is for all my friends in Washington State.......sorry about the weather.

No condemnation

FAITH:

"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Romans 8:1 (NIV)

Today's key verse is one of my favorites. It has comforted me many times in my life. It gives us freedom from the condemnation we often project on ourselves. If God promises freedom, then why is it so hard for us to believe, feel and grasp the fact that there is indeed "no condemnation" for Christians?

Self-condemnation just comes natural to me. If I didn't purposefully keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and remind myself of who I am in Christ, I'd beat myself to pieces with condemning thoughts and words.

The Lord has the neatest ways of reminding me there is no condemnation as His child. Just this morning God spoke to me directly through a devotion I read in Sarah Young’s book Jesus Calling. I felt as if the author had been following me around and knew exactly what I needed to hear. Actually I knew it was God Who knew exactly what I needed to hear. It read, "Do not listen to voices of accusation for they are not from Me."

Hello Lord. Are you talking to me? You know that I often feel down and disappointed in myself and call myself names. You knew my feelings had been hurt by someone's comments. I hear You telling me not to listen to the voices of accusation. Thank you for that reminder right when I needed it.

The devotion continued, "Pause before responding to people or situations, giving My Spirit space to act through you. Hasty words and actions leave no room for Me."

Lord, is that You again? You know that I spoke unkind words to my husband last night and You reminded me to "pause before responding." Thank you Lord for bringing me these words as a reminder of what You want from me. I needed these today, right now.

I get so excited and amazed when this happens. It just affirms that God cares about me. He loves me. He is real in my life today. Have you ever had a “God moment” like this?

If left to defend myself from self-condemnation and condemnation from others, I'd be defeated every time. Fortunately we don't have to defend ourselves. In fact, we don't have to "lift a finger" (Exodus 14:13-14). We have the greatest defender in God and His Word. As we take the time to listen to Him, He can remind us that He is with us, He loves us, and it's true..."There is NO CONDEMNATION in Christ Jesus!" by Melissa Taylor

FRIENDS:

Father, when I forget, please remind me that I am not condemned. Help me to see the difference between conviction and condemnation and keep my eyes and thoughts on You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
April 4
Mark 1:35-45; 1 Cor 3; Psalms 75; Joshua 8-9
April 5
Mark 2:1-12; 1 Cor 4; Psalms 76 Joshua 10-12

~Joshua~
May I describe a few battles?

Let's say that you have a problem with a person---a rotten person. A scoundrel who has taken advantage of your kindness. Because of him you have less money, more headaches, and a bitter heart.

Let's also say that you've got the goods on this guy. caught him. Aha! Red-handed. You can turn him in. Make a spectacle. Get even and get out. Give him what he deserves.

But something won't let you. A verse from your past tethers your heart. "Vengeance is mine," says the Lord. "I will repay."

Within you the battle rages. Let vengeance be mine, Lord, you pray. Just once. Let me get even. But the Word won't let you. and with time, you drop your fists to your side and just trust.

Here's another battle.

Let's say you have a problem with money. Every month you just barely make it. Each paycheck is spent before it's cashed. If just one month you could get a break. Just some aushion That's all you need.

Poof, you prayer is answered.

Unexpected bonus. An extra month's salary. Finally, some breathing room. First, pay off the credit card, next repay my sister, then get the bumper fixed and ....uh-oh---my giving. "Surely God doesn't want me to give 10 percent of the bonus? I mean, I give every month... Surely, he'll understand if I use this for something else...."

But the words challenge faintly yet firmly. "Honor the Lord with the firstfruits of your labor..." "Within you the battle rages. One side says, "Believe." The other, "Be real." Finally a truce is called and a white flag is waved and a check is written placed in the plate.

But even as you give, you confess, "Doesn't make sense, but because you say so..."

Let's go one more. this time let's really stretch it. Let's say you are a general. a general in the Israeli army. Moses is dead, the Jordan has been crossed, the mantle has been passed, and you are wearing it.

God has promised that you will take Jericho. but as you look at the city, you have to wonder...the walls are high. The people are armed.The challenge is great.

But God has a plan.

You can't wait to hear it. "Surely, he'll give us more soldiers, stronger weapons, mightier swords. His plan must include this and more."

So you sit and listen as god explains. As he talks you are stunned, "What?" Walk around the city seven times, blow some trumpets and....Wait a minute, God, this doesn't make sense."

The Book of Joshua is a book of battles. A book for soldiers. A book for people who would dare win God's way. What applied then, applies today. It is the faithful who conquer. Those who follow the strategy win, those who don't---don't.

FOOD:

Salmon Asparagus Pie
1 pound asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 green onions sliced
1-1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese (divided)
1 (6oz.) can salmon drained and flaked
1 cup Bisquick baking mix
1-3/4 cups milk
1-1/2 tsps. chopped fresh or 1/2 tsp. dried basil leaves
dash pepper
3 eggs

Preheat oven to 400F.
Grease pie plate.
Sprinkle into pie plate in order listed: asparagus, onion, 3/4 cup of the cheese and the salmon.
Stir the remaining ingredients, except cheese until blended.
Pour over salmon.
Bake uncovered 40-45 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean.
Immediately sprinkle remaining cheese over top and continue baking about 2 minutes or until cheese in melted.
Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

FUN:
The Bible has a verse for everyone's Birthday.....look it up.

http://www.birthverse.com/mybirthverse.cfm

Revival

FAITH:

God makes a clear provision for revival in His Word if we would only listen to it. Faith still moves mountains.

The clear fact of the matter is that in too many places and in too many churches people are not coming to Christ and growing to maturity, let alone impacting culture and society. Is it because God is not interested in salvation any more? Is it because man’s heart has grown so much harder? Or is it because the church has become compromised and apathetic? The answer is simple. God is the same yesterday, today, and forever, so we know He still wants people to be saved. Since people are thronging to Christ in other parts of the world, such as in Africa, India, and China, we cannot blame the lack of the Spirit moving in America upon the hard hearts of men. In many ways, it is far darker spiritually in other lands. Even from my own witnessing in America’s heartland, I have seen very open hearts.

After all, isn’t it the postmodern stereotype that people are open to anything and everything? And yet we use postmodernism to say that we can’t reach people with the gospel. Which is it? The issue is the sanctity of the church. If we want to see revival, we need to humble ourselves and open our hearts to the power of Christ working through us to affect such change. A changed and committed church will impact the world.

Revival absolutely is possible because God still moves mountains and calls sinners to repentance. The question is whether we will yield ourselves to be useful instruments that God can use to bring in His harvest.

Consider Nehemiah 8-10. In chapter 8, the people of Israel gather at the public square in Jerusalem and ask Ezra the scribe to read the book of the law to them. It’s difficult to imagine this happening in a church today. Can you picture a group of believers pressuring the pastor to open the book of Romans and to begin reading it publicly verse by verse from sunrise to noon? Can you imagine being out with a bunch of friends and spontaneously deciding to read through Deuteronomy? Such an experience is so far out there to us that it is difficult to relate. If a brother or sister in the Lord did make such an assertion, there would likely be honest groans and complaints or dishonest excuses in an effort to maintain an image of spiritual piety.

But the Israelites at the time had a thirst for God. After they read the law, they began to weep. They rediscovered the feast of booths and celebrated it. In chapter 9, however, they reassembled themselves on their own initiative with sackcloth and dirt upon themselves. They confessed their sins and their fathers’ sins, and they were read the book of the law aloud while they stood in their place for three hours. They stood confessing and worshiping for another three hours. In chapter 10, they resolved to correct the areas in their lives which were not honoring to God, even signing a covenantal agreement between them and God.

A genuine revival happens here. A heart to want to hear the Word read was the initial moving of the Lord. However, the emphasis is clearly on the fact that the Word was read and did its convicting and healing work. The same applies for us today.

If we want to see revival, the preaching and reading of the Word in fullness and integrity must be a fundamental catalyst. by Brenton Barnette


FRIENDS:

Father, help me this day to stand before You with an open heart, an open mind, and an open being. For I want to be changed not into the image of things, but into the image of You. I will have no idols in my life. I own You as my only Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen.

DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
April 2
Mark 1:9-20; 1 Cor 1:18-31; Psalms 73; Joshua 3-5
April 3
Mark 1:21-34; 1 Cor 2; Psalms 74; Joshua 6-7

~1 Corinthians~
An Indian was walking up a mountain when he heard a voice.

"Carry me with you," it requested.

The Indian turned and saw a snake. He refused. "If I carry you up the mountain you will bite me."

"I wouldn't do that," the snake assured. "All I need is some help. I am slow and you are fast, please be kind and carry me to the top of the mountain."

It was against his better judgment, but the Indian agreed. He picked up the snake, put him in his shirt, and resumed the journey. When they reached the top, he reached in his shirt to remove the snake and got bit.

He fell to the ground, and the snake slithered away.

"You lied!" the Indian cried, "You said you wouldn't bite me."

The snake stopped and looked back, "I didn't lie. You knew who I was when you picked me up."

We hear the legend and shake our heads. He should have known better, we bemoan. And we are right. He should have.

An so should we. but don't we do the same? Don't we believe the lies of the snake? Don't we pick up what we should leave alone?

The Corinthian Christians did. One snake after another had hissed his lies in their ears, and they had believed it. How many lies did they believe?

How much time do you have?

The list is long and ugly: sectarianism, disunity, sexual immorality. And that is only the first six chapters.

But First Corinthians is more that a list of sins, it is an epistle of patience. Paul initiates the letter by calling these Christians "brothers." He could have called them heretics or hypocrites or shirt-chasers (and in so many words he does), but not before he calls them brothers.

He patiently teaches them about worship, unity, the role of women, and the Lords Supper. He writes as if he can see them face to face. He is disturbed but not despondent. angry but not desperate. His driving passion is love. and his treatise on live in chapter 13 remains the greatest essay ever penned.

The letter, however personal, is not just for Corinth. It is for all who have heard the whisper and felt the fangs.

We, like the Indian, should have known better. We like the Corinthians, sometimes need a second chance.


FOOD:

Chicken Spaghetti Bake

4 ounces Spaghetti uncooked
3 slices Bacon chopped
1/2 cup Onion chopped
1 clove Garlic minced
3 tablespoons Flour
2 cups Tomatoes, canned chopped
1 can Cream of Mushroom soup
1 cup Milk
1 cup American Cheese shredded
2 cups Chicken, cooked, cubed
1 package Frozen peas thawed
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Break spaghetti pieces in half & cook according to package directions. Drain. In large saucepan, cook bacon, onion and garlic until bacon is crisp. Blend in flour. Add undrained tomatoes, soup and milk. Cook and stir until thickened and bubbly. Add shredded American cheese and stir till melted. Stir in cooked spaghetti, cubed chicken, and thawed peas. Pour into a 2 1/2-qt casserole and top with Parmesan. Bake uncovered, at 350 degrees F. for 45 minutes.

FUN:

Two women archaeologists are down in Mexico excavating an ancient Mayan burial ground looking for some remains to take back to their museum. Unfortunately, everything they run across is badly decomposed.

Says one: "We don't seem to be having much luck."

The other replies: "Keep on digging, honey A good Mayan is hard to find!"

The casual Christian

FAITH:  

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10  

Paul and Silas preached in Thessalonica and helped many new Christians. They felt quickly because of persecution from the Jews (Acts 17) and could not return. The church in Thessalonica faced persecution. Paul wrote with encouragement and instructions for proper living.  

The Thessalonians were commended for their faith and good works. They became an example of faith and love to all Believers.  

I have found that the casual Christian has little or no influence upon others. I am finding that it is only the Christian who refuses to compromise in matters of honesty, integrity and morality who is bearing an effective witness for Christ. The worldly Christian is prepared to do as the world does and will condone practices which are dishonest and unethical because his is afraid of the world's displeasure. Only by a life of obedience to the voice of the Spirit, by daily dying to self, by a full dedication to Christ and constant fellowship with Him, are we able to live a godly life and have a positive influence in this present ungodly world. by Billy Graham

Applying it: Are you an example of faith and love to the people around you? Do you have a reputation for being faithful? What attitudes are typical of people whose faith you respect? 

Exploring it: Being an Example--Acts 17:1-9; 1 Corinthians 11:1; 

2 Corinthinas 2:14-17; 4:1-3; 1 Timothy 4:12  

FRIENDS:  

Father, we want to come home to you. But sometimes we're afraid that we've done something unforgivable, afraid that we've made you angry. And we wonder how you can forgive us. But Father, your Word teaches us that you will forgive us and that there's no sin too deep for your hand of forgiveness to reach. In Jesus' name, Amen.  

DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE 

April 1 

Mark 1:1-8; 1 Cor 1:1-17; Psalms 72; Joshua 1-2 

April 2 Mark 1:9-20; 1 Cor 1:18-31; Psalms 73; Joshua 3-5  

~The Book of Mark~ 

The drama of Mark's Gospel peaks in Caesarea Philippi.  

It's a religious mecca. Every major religion can be found here. Temples dot the landscape. Priests stride the streets.  

Jesus and his followers are here? Why? If Jesus preached a sermon, it's not recorded. If he performed a miracle, we don't know it. As far as we know, all he did was ask two questions.  

The first, "Who do people say that I am?"  

The disciples are quick to respond. They've over heard the chatter. "Some say you are John the Baptist. Others say you are Elijah, and others say you are one of the prophets."  

Good answers. True answers. But wrong answers.  

Jesus then turns and asks them the question. The question. "But who do you say that I am?"  

He doesn't ask, "Who did you think I was when the crowds were great and the miracles were many?" He asks, "Who do you think I am. Here against the backdrop of religion. Me, a penniless itinerant surrounded by affluent temples. Who do you say I am?"  

He doesn't ask, 

"Who do your friends think....... Who do your parents think ....... 

Who do your peers think?" He poses instead a starkly personal query, "Who do you think I am?"

The disciples aren't as quick to respond. One ducks his eyes. Another shuffles his feet. A third clears his throat. But Peter lifts his head. He lifts his head and looks at the Nazarene and speaks the words heaven has longed to hear. "You are the Christ."  

You have been asked some important questions in your life:  

Will you marry me?  

Would you be interested in a transfer?  

What would you think if I told you I was pregnant?  

You've been asked some important questions. 

But the grandest of them is an anthill compared to the Everest found in the eighth chapter of Mark.  

Who do you say that I am?  

FOOD:  

Easy Pull-apart Bread  

10 sun-dried tomato halves (not packed in oil) 

2 cups Bisquick Original baking mix 

1 package ( 8oz. ) feta cheese, coursely crumbled and divided 

3/4 cup milk 

3/4 cup roasted jarred red bell peppers 

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh or 1 tsp. dried oregano leaves 

1 Tbsp. chopped fresh or 1 tsp. dried basil leaves 

1 clove garlic, finely chopped 

2 Tbsps. olive oil  

Heat oven to 425F. Lightly spray a 9x9" pan with cooking spray. Cover dried tomatoes with boiling water and let rehydrate for 10 minutes. Drain tomatoes and finely chop. ( or snip with scissors) 

Mix baking mix, tomatoes, half the cheese and the milk in a bowl until dough forms. Mix remaining cheese, bell peppers, oregano, basil, garlic and oil in a small bowl. 

Drop half the dough by Tablespoons closely together in an irregular pattern in pan. Spoon half the cheese mixture over the dough. Drop remaining dough over the cheese mixture and top that with remaining cheese mixture.  

Bake aout 20 minutes or until golden. Serve warm.  

FUN:  

New Diet  

A friend of ours, a nurse, who has done a lot of research about dieting, had given us information about the various popular diets including Atkins, Jenny Craig , Weight Watchers, and the South Beach Diet. She then mentioned a diet about which we haven't heard previously, but which she insists works for almost everyone: 

The Dawn Keye Diet...