Manna for Your Morning

Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead (Luke 10:30 NIV). First a priest and a Levite, a religious man passed by on the same road, and avoided the injured man. Then a Samaritan traveling the road came on him. When he saw the man’s condition, his heart went out to him. He gave him first aid, disinfecting and bandaging his wounds. Then he lifted him onto his donkey, led him to an inn, and made him comfortable. — Luke 10:33-35 MSG Does your heart go out to those in need? Many of us, in the busyness of our day, pass by those in need, physically and spiritually, everyday. May we have discernment and let our hearts engage with those in need. If we picture ourselves in the place of the man left half dead on the side of the road, it will be easier to extend a helping hand. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to on...

But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. — John 10:2-3 (NKJV) I wonder if the secret to the popularity of Starbucks is that they call their customers by name instead of a number.  Our longing to be known and feel special, is a perfect complement to God's desire to have a personal relationship with each one of us. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, calls His own by name. Another person, whether pastor, priest or parent, can only tell you about God. The way to know Him and develop a personal relationship with Him is to consistently have that one-on-one time with Him. As we spend time in prayer, in His Word, and in worship, we nurture an intimate relationship with the Lord that grows deeper each day. Jesus is calling your name. Just come and keep coming.

Earlier there were a lot of priests, for they died and had to be replaced. But Jesus' priesthood is permanent. He's there from now to eternity to save everyone who comes to God through him, always on the job to speak up for them. Hebrews 7:23-25 (The Message) When you feel like everyone is against you, remember that Jesus, our advocate, is on your side. When you mess up, know that Jesus Christ, the Righteous One, pleads your case with the Father. He always lives to intercede for us. Jesus is the High Priest who truly meets our need. He is holy, blameless and pure, and exalted above the heavens. Jesus entered the Most Holy Place once for all by His own blood and through His blood we receive forgiveness and grace. Thank you, Jesus!