A New Song for the New Year

46 And Mary said:

“My soul glorifies the Lord

47 and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

48 for he has been mindful

of the humble state of his servant.

From now on all generations will call me blessed,

49 for the Mighty One has done great things for me—

holy is his name.

50 His mercy extends to those who fear him,

from generation to generation.

51 He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;

he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.

52 He has brought down rulers from their thrones

but has lifted up the humble.

53 He has filled the hungry with good things

but has sent the rich away empty.

54 He has helped his servant Israel,

remembering to be merciful

55 to Abraham and his descendants forever,

just as he promised our ancestors.”

56 Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home. 

Luke 1: 46-56

Mary's words after Elizabeth's greeting, called Mary's Song, are very special to me.  My Mother used to say that these words were very powerful.  Of course they are, they are Scripture!  They were inspired words that young Mary recited moved by the miraculous events that had just happened in her life and by the impact of the Baby growing inside of her.  She might not have understood the immensity of it all, but she couldn't help being completely in awe of it...how could she not?  So the words flew out of her mouth like a divine song placed in her soul by the presence of God in her.

There is praise, remembrance and humility in this song. Mary praises and gives the highest glory to God as her heart rejoices in recalling what He has done for generation after generation, for Israel, but for her as well.  She humbly accepts the plan of God for her life as she magnifies the Mighty One for all the things He has done for her and for all who fear Him.

That's what I want to be like!  That's how I want to react when God challenges me with a life-turn that I don't fully understand.  I want to have a new song in my heart so instead of complaining and fearing, I could reply with singing and rejoicing!

The new year approaches with leaps and jumps...so...it's time for me to think of a word that will inspire my 2019.  I think about my 2018 word:  PEACE...and, although I still need His peace (I will never have enough of it...I don't think...) I would like to welcome the new year in a spirit of humility.  Like Mary, I want to be humble enough to surrender my plans to Him and accept what He gives me...even if it does't look like what I was imagining.  I want to be humble enough to acknowledge that He is in control, not me.  I want to be humble enough to be grateful for the blessings, even if they seem to be in disguise.  I want to be humble enough to receive His love, even if I don't think I deserve it.  I want to be humble enough to cherish His will...even when it differs from mine.

I want to be free from pride and arrogance in 2019.  I want to be humble in everything I do.

May the Holy Spirit speak to all of us this New Year's eve and guide us every day in 2019 so we can easily find our way...the way that He has designed for us to walk on with Him by our side.

Jesus Speaks to Women: Luke 1

39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth.41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” Luke 1: 39-45

Have you ever spoken words that you don't know where they are coming from?  Have you ever said something to a friend in need, which, when you think back, you have no idea how you had the insight of mind to say such things?  Have someone ever told you, "remember when you said such and such to me? I really needed to hear those words!" and you are like, "did I say that?"?

I believe that the Holy Spirit could speak through the mouths of believers when we are open to become a channel for The Word.  Again, I'm not a theologian or a teacher of the Word, but I believe that we are the Temple of the Holy Spirit! (1 Corinthians 3: 16-17, 1 Corinthians 6: 19) And that His indwelling makes us God's children. (Romans 8: 14)  His presence empowers us to be His witnesses! (Acts 1: 8)  And I believe these words are as true today as they were when they were written.  Therefore, I believe that we are capable of speaking words inspired by the wisdom that only the Holy Spirit can provide:

10 these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit.

The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. 11 For who knows a person’s thoughts except their own spirit within them? In the same way no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God.12 What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us.13 This is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, explaining spiritual realities with Spirit-taught words. 1 Corinthians 2: 10-13

The Holy Spirit is our connection, our direct connection to the Father and the Son.  That is the miracle, God in us!  That is the gift, the Holy Spirit living in us!  And as such, how can He be silenced?

Just like Elizabeth couldn't help but to jump into such speech when she encountered the presence of the Unborn-God-Incarnate, we can too, speak inspired words at the precise right moment.  Just like Elizabeth said exactly what young-troubled Mary needed to hear through the wisdom of the Holy Spirit, we too, can be the instruments through which the Holy Spirit helps and comforts a sorrowful soul.  Not even the unborn, John the Baptist could keep from leaping from joy at the presence of the Son of God...imagine, what the Holy Spirit would do for us, while He is in us and if we are willing to allow Him to work through us.

When I don't know what to say...which is pretty much all the time, I invoke the Holy Spirit.  That's the only way I can have peace after speaking or saying anything.  Because I trust He is the One speaking through me, in spite of my imperfect words...I pray, that before I communicate, I call on Him first...always!

Dear Lord, allow us to be in such fine tune to Your frequency that our words communicate Your wisdom and Your message when we speak!  Amen!

Jesus Speaks to Women: Luke 1

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”

The angel answered, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.  Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.”

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. 

Luke 1: 34-38

We arrive at the moment when Mary finally gathers enough strength to utter some words...and, of course, those words reflect her astonishment at the whole scenario.  Some wonder why Mary wasn't scolded by Gabriel the way Zechariah was.  I don't pretend to know, but my guess is that when Zechariah replied to Gabriel's news with:  “How can I be sure of this? I am an old man and my wife is well along in years.” Luke 1: 18  his words implied a certain hint of doubt.  "How can I be sure of this?"  I need a satisfying explanation here.  I need to be convinced.  I need to be sure...I must not be taken as a fool...I need some proof...I need evidence...I need certainty...sigh...

Boy, have I been there?  I have God healing me, and I keep on questioning.  I have God providing, and I keep being afraid of scarcity.  I have God comforting me, and I keep feeling miserable.  How can I be sure the healing is real?  How can I be sure I am not alone? How can I be sure I will be taken care of?  How can I be sure I will be OK?  How can I be sure it will work out well?

I am not a Bible scholar or a theologian, but I sure recognize Zechariah's words as they have been my own many times...sigh...

Mary doesn't doubt.  She knows what Gabriel has said will happen.  She is just wondering, "how will it be?"  She is wondering about the methodology, the logistics if you will...she is a curious girl, right?  And God allowed room for her inquiry.  It was a valid question, after all.  So Gabriel proceeded to disclose the plan.  And, tucked into the announcement of her miraculous conception, was also a piece of news that will give Mary a moment of respite, "even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.”  I see this information as God's mercy towards Mary.  He knew how difficult this would be for her, and how hard the days will be when people would find out about her pregnancy, so, for now, He offered her a moment to have peace, gather her thoughts and be with someone who would understand what she was going through without judging her.

At God's mercy and favor, Mary found no other way to respond than with utmost humility:“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.”   

Please, Lord, may you give us your strength, peace and clarity of mind to respond to You like Mary, with humility, trust and obedience rather than with doubt and worry when You ask what seems to be impossible from us or when the odds are insurmountable from our eyes.  

Jesus Speaks to Women: Luke 1

31 You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” 

Luke 1: 31-33

Imagine being Mary and receiving the news that you will be the vehicle that will carry the One Who will alter the course of human history!  Imagine being Mary and receiving the news that will alter the course of your life...

Who would believe her?  Who would believe her when she'd say, "yes, I'm pregnant...but I've been faithful.  I'm still pure. I'm still a virgin.  This Child is of God!"  Would you believe her? or would you think she is just a young jewish girl who has been found out and decided to concoct a lie to safe her skin?

What would you have done if you were among the villagers?  Would you have gossiped once you found out about Mary's delicate condition?  Would you have shunned her?  Would you have supported her stoning?  Would you have been quick to judge her?  Would you have secretly rejoiced in her misfortune?  Would you have had compassion...mercy...humility?

I don't know what I would have done?  I know the rest of the story, so it is easy for me to think I would have understood and showed love.  But, had I been one of the women in town...I'm sure I would not have been much understanding.  I don't think I would have kept an open mind.  I don't think I would have had the humility to offer her a chance to explain and a chance to believe her.  I'm a trigger-happy judge.  I pronounce harsh opinions on people at the slightest slip.  But then, I ask for leniency when I'm the one tripping.  I don't know if I had believed Mary.  Most likely, I would have not.

I probably would not have taken the time to really look at Mary and see the glory of God shining through her.  I probably would not have had the patience to really listen to her words, long enough to realize they were Holy-Spirit inspired.  I would have probably missed the miracle because my head was too immersed in the things of this world.  

The Lord chose Mary to carry on this most special mission for Him, and He protected her from people like me...

I pray that, when my time to witness a miracle comes, I don't miss it because I don't know how to look at life through the eyes of faith.  Please, Dear Lord, enable us to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with You all of our days. (Micah 6: 8)  Amen!

Jesus Speaks to Women: Luke 1

30 But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God." 

Luke 1: 30

I absolutely love this verse... the words, "do not be afraid..." to hear those words from a messenger sent to you directly and intentionally from God...and to hear your name spoken by that angel..."Do not be afraid, Mary..." WOW!

I think I've spent way too much of my life being afraid.  I am so tired of it.  For as long as I can remember, I've been afraid of something.  When I was little, I was always afraid my parents would die and leave me alone and destitute.  I was a child of my parent's ... how shall I say it? winter?  So, even though I have two siblings, I grew up practically as an only child, since they are so much older than me.  I depended on my parents for everything, just like all children do.  But I was always very aware of they being so much older than all of my friends' parents...and that troubled me.  I was convinced that, if they were to passed away while I was still young, my big brother and sister wouldn't care about me one bit.  History had showed me how little they seem to care about me or about what I had to say.  So I feared...and that's just my earliest memories of fear...I could write volumes on that topic.

It's interesting how today's verse makes me think about an event that happened almost 30 years ago.  On a day like today, I was, again, petrified with fear.  I woke up when it was still dark outside, to the sound of the walls on my room shaking.  I thought it was a thunderstorm.  Sometimes they are so strong in the tropics that the sound waves make the walls shake.  But, I also heard the frazzled voices of American fighter jet pilots scrambling through the radio (I used to sleep with the radio on next to my bed).  I had no clue what was happening.  

I got up and looked out the window.  There were strange lights lighting up the sky.  I lived alone in a small apartment in Panama city, so I was very confused and had nobody to talk to.  I saw there were people standing outside, so my instinct was to open the door and go talk to them and see if they knew what was happening, but, as I put my hands on the door latch, something stopped me and urged me to pick up the phone instead.  I dialed my brother's number.  I heard his groggy voice on the other end.  I had obviously woken him up.  I told him about what I was hearing (by then, it was clear that the thunder was not caused by a natural storm).

He dismissed my worries with a, "it's probably the Americans doing exercises or practice maneuvers.  Go back to bed," as he hung up on me.  I was growing scared by the second.  I tried to call my sister, but the phones became erratic so I couldn't get through.  I called my parents who lived about 4 hours away from Panama city and I was able to get my Dad on the phone.  I felt such a relief when I heard his voice...but he was too far to come and get me out of whatever was going on where I was!  But he listened:  "can you hear it, Dad?  I think those are bombs?!" I remember saying that to him and holding up the phone to pick up the sound.  My Dad always remembered that...he knew something bad was happening and he felt powerless to help me, which I know broke his heart.

The call got interrupted, but then another call came in.  It was my brother.  "Gisela, turn on the TV.  Something is really happening."  As I held the phone in my ear, I turned my little TV on and there he was, President George HW Bush, announcing the attack on Panama in order to take Military Dictator, Noriega out of power.  I was somehow fluent in English by then...but the panic prevented me from understanding much of what he was saying.  I remember hanging up the phone...having NO clue what I was supposed to do next.  I had no car.  There was a curfew and nobody was supposed to be out.  By then, helicopters had begun to fly all over the city really low.  We could see the faces of soldiers standing behind machine guns as they passed by buildings.  It was the most intimidating thing I've ever experienced.  The fear of the power of the American military machine had descended upon us...and I was alone...trapped...

Daylight came.  And with that...the sound of the door bell.  I picked up the receiver.  My brother was downstairs.  He had driven as closed as he could to my apartment building, left the car when he couldn't go any further, and walked the rest of the way to get to me and take me to his home a few miles away.  I have never appreciated my brother more than I did that day.  There are many things that separate us, but on this day, I always make a point to remember what he did for me...how he literally rescued me, and kept me safe in my hour of great fear.

Almost 30 years later, I sit here, remembering that dark, early morning...remembering the feelings of fear and loneliness...remembering how God sent me an angel to take care of me...

He can use anyone: from a direct messenger from Heaven...to our, otherwise, good for not much big brother...the Power of the Almighty is made evident in our moments of great darkness.  That's why I believe, we can all replace Mary's name with ours in this verse...because we have all found favor with God thanks to His Son, Jesus the Christ, born in a manger, of a young virgin, on a scary night, all those many years ago...to rescue our bodies, hearts and souls!  Praise the Lord!

  

Jesus Speaks to Women: Luke 1

29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 

Luke 1: 29

Have you ever felt hesitant, nervous or even afraid when someone comes to you with flattering words?  Have you ever wonder what they might want from you?  I mean, nobody just goes around saying nice things to people just because, right?  Really, how many people would come to you and say something in the line of:  "Greetings! You who are highly favored!"  At least, that doesn't happen to me often...or at all... Therefore, when something remotely like that occurs to me, I get a bit defensive... and the old, "okay, what do you want?" shoots right out of my eyes.

Why is that?

Perhaps because we are not used to it.  But, why aren't we used to it?  Maybe, because we are not in the habit of saying it to others either...so...when someone, out of the blue, meets us with that kind of greeting, we find it weird.  But, why are we NOT in the habit of giving intense greetings?  

This is the season of giving, right?  So we give.  If we have a little something, we willingly, graciously and merrily give our resources away as much as we can.  We generously open our wallets and drop money on the red kettles, in the Christmas offering envelopes, in the end-of-the-year donation appeals from our favorite charity, radio ministry or missionary worker.  But when it comes to our words...we often disperse them very thinly.  We skimp on them, particularly on the good ones, the ones that build up...at least I do...sigh...

Why aren't we more generous with our words?  Why aren't we more willing to offer words of encouragement, love, compassion, mercy, forgiveness, gratitude, exaltation to one another?

I don't know.

In my case, again, I don't want to sound trite or like a cliche.  I don't want other people to feel uncomfortable either.  I know, when people are nice to me and give me words of praise, I don't know what to do! So, I want to spare others from the embarrassment, or at least that's my cop out.  I'm insecure, so I don't want to look like a sap or like I'm trying to kiss someone's you know what...

At any rate, most of my reasons are purely selfish.  They have to do with me and the way I imagine others would perceive me.  I don't want people thinking, "o dear, here she comes...let's cross the street, I don't want to hear her...her words usually make me feel troubled."

The truth is, however, that we ARE to speak words of truth and of life to one another.  Life is too hard!  We are too alone.  We need each other.  And if brothers and sisters in Christ aren't speaking life among themselves, who would?!  

We are told to:

1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Hebrews 3:13 “But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”

Ephesians 4:29 “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.”

But, why if I'm not good.  I don't have any words of value to offer.  I'm too broken myself to be building someone else up.  Well, I read somewhere that God put broken people like you and me in this world to help broken people like you and me in this world.  We don't have to be eloquent or terribly wise.  We just have to show that we care.  We just have to show that we notice.  We just have to share with our actions and with our WORDS that we care and that we notice.  I know what they say, "actions speak louder than words," but silenced words leave a far greater void in someone's heart than lack of action...bricks and stones might build my home, but words of love build my soul!

Sometimes, we just need to hear the words...even if they trouble us.  Sometimes, we just need to SAY the words, even if they trouble others.

Dear Lord, I pray that The Holy Spirit will show us how to build each other up with our words.  In this world, there is much tribulation, but You have overcome it!  Help us be Your agents of encouragement and good cheer to those we encounter in our way, today. Amen!

Jesus Speaks to Women: Luke 1

28The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” Luke 1: 28

There is so much in this passage of Scripture that we can meditate on.  This morning, however, I would like to focus on the first words Gabriel spoke to Mary...the greeting:  "you are highly favored! The Lord is with you."

WOW!  what a way to start a conversation!  I mean, really?!  

You know, I am a rather socially awkward person.  I never know how to act among people, especially people I don't know well.  I'm too concerned about making the right impression.  The thing is, I'm not sure what "the right impression" really is? How am I supposed to be like?  Funny? Serious? Caring? Compassionate? Smart? Intellectual? Academic? Knowledgeable? Dumb? Plain? All of the above?

Do you know what I mean?  Maybe not.  Sometimes I wonder if I'm among the few and far-betweeners who struggle with self-consciousness and who feel socially challenged.  Sigh... everyone around me seems so sure of themselves.  And here I am, full of insecurities...full of a sense of inadequacy that often leaves me empty inside...sigh...

Here's this angel, carrying a divine message to this young girl.  Of course He doesn't care about first impressions.  He is an angel sent directly from God!  His business card says: Heaven on it.  Of course he is OK giving Mary such a greeting.  Of course he is not faced by her being "troubled" by it.  He knows who he is and he knows his role in life.  He has a purpose: a God-given purpose.  He doesn't have to worry about finding the right words to make a good first impression.  He just needs to make an impression so this girl would listen to him.  And listen she does. 

To be more like Gabriel...sigh... it's like all those Hallmark Christmas movies, where there are angels that come to earth to make life easier for the protagonists or to teach life-lessons...they all have a special role, and important one...so even if they make mistakes, it's all OK in the end because they are moved by a higher power...sigh...

The thing is, I should not be jealous of Gabriel...or of any angel, for that matter (especially the ones on TV).  Though Scripture suggests that humans might be lower than angels, see Hebrews 2: 6-7 where it is implied that by Jesus becoming man, He lowered below angels...mankind is made in the image of God!  We bear His image.  Angels are in a whole other category.  We are God's poem.  We are His masterpiece! (Ephesians 2: 10).  That is our purpose:  to be the work of His hands!  There is no greater joy and role than that!

Jesus didn't become a man to save angels!  He became a man, went through the hardship of being human and died a gruesome death for me and for you...what is mankind that you are mindful of them, human beings that you care for them? Psalm 8: 4  Well, mankind is the object of God's love!

God's love for humanity calls for a response:  humility.

1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

That's the one thing I must keep in mind:  to be humble.  The love that God bestows on me has nothing to do with who I am.  It is all about Who He Is!  Therefore, I humble myself in front of Him and in front of His beloved, as a servant of the Most High.  That is my role!  

Feelings of inadequacy...jealousy...envy...and all those sensations that emerged to the surface of our lives fueled by our insecurities must dissipate as we meditate on the greatest love of all:  God's love...for... 

God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Dear Lord, help me...help us...accept the truth:  You Love Us! Please, allow us to live liked we are loved, because we are...we ARE highly favored, and the Lord IS with us...Emmanuel.  Hallelujah!   Amen!

Jesus Speaks to Women - Luke 1: 26-38

We just finished looking at how women were at the center of the greatest event in the history of humanity:  The Resurrection of Jesus.  Now, about 8 days before Christmas, we are about to witness another life altering event:  The annunciation of the incarnation of Jesus...the moment when Jesus became a material being...the moment when the Word became flesh...

And of course, a woman is involved:  young Mary, the Virgin who is charged with carrying the unborn Jesus...WOW...what a moment!

There is SO much in this segment of Scripture that I could write every day for months and not be able to discern all the richness of this passage.  But, as we unwrap our most precious and long-awaited gifts on Christmas morning, I will try to do my best, to slowly unwrap the events recorded in Luke 1: 26-38.

Let's start with the first 4 verses:

26 In the sixth month of Elizabeth’s pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, 

27 to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 

28 The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 

29 Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. 

Luke 1: 26-29

We know Elizabeth's miraculous story, right?  The old lady who became pregnant and delivered John the Baptist: the one who is "great in the eyes of the Lord." (Luke 1: 15) Mary's story and Elizabeth's story have commonalities.  However, there are a couple of big differences between Elizabeth, the mother of John, the one of whom Jesus said:  Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist (Matthew 11: 11) and Mary's experience.  First, Elizabeth's baby was conceived the old fashion, natural way.  The miracle was that she conceived!  Not how she conceived.  Also, Elizabeth did not receive any direct word from the Lord that we have on record.  It was her husband, Zechariah, who was visited by the angel of the Lord. 

For Mary, the whole thing was different.  Gabriel, the angel, was sent directly from God to her as a Divine Messenger who would deliver the news.  She needed this special visit since the Baby that she will carry was not naturally conceived.  God's grace is demonstrated here, at this very moment...the virgin, pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David, needed more than an awareness of the presence of God.  She needed an encounter: a real-life encounter with audible words and a visual in order for her to begin to take that rough journey of faith and trust that would begin that day. 

Life would never be the same for Mary.  Whatever dreams and hopes she might have had got cancelled at that moment and replaced by a completely unexpected turn of events...that neither she or anyone around her could have ever imagined.  The page of her story where she was just a young, ordinary woman waiting to get her ordinary life started flipped in front of her eyes as she was greeted as the Lord's greatly favored one. 

"The Lord is with you," Gabriel said.  I don't know how much of this Mary truly got...for she was "greatly troubled" Scripture points out.  Of course she was troubled!  A celestial encounter???!!! She wasn't even sure who this...person...talking to her was!  All she knew was that whatever it was, she didn't know him...and then, this stranger is talking to her about being favored by God and that the Lord is with her?  I mean, really!  Put yourself in her position.  How would you react?

I'm a middle age woman, and I think I'd freak out a bit.  Maybe young women are more trusty of strangers.  Maybe they are more curious.  They don't fear as much because they don't know how many bad things can happen to you out there, in the world.  But the encounter must have been intense, for she was troubled and wondering what was that all about.

To tell you the truth...I think I would try to just walk away.  I would pretend that I didn't hear Gabriel or that he had the wrong person.  I would pretend that there was another woman behind me, and that he was talking to her, not to me...and just continue moving my feet pass him.  I've done stuff like that.  When I don't want to talk to someone, I pretend I haven't seen them.  I know, it's horrible of me...but I am very self-conscious, so I fear I'd make a fool of myself, so it's best if I just don't engage people.  That's why I think I'd probably just look away and pretend he is not there...talking to me!

I don't know...the fact is that, though troubled, Mary stayed put.  Good for her! and for all humanity, as well!  The same Mary that later on would stay put by the cross of her son, by the grave, and finally by His Glorious Resurrection, stayed put and listened to the angel's words.  What an example of Christian womanhood. 

Dear Lord, may You fill us with the strength you gave Mary to stay by You, even when we are afraid, confused and troubled...for the troubles of this world are nothing compared to the Glory that awaits for us with You for eternity!  Amen!


 

Jesus Speaks to Women: Matthew 28

8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.

9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 

10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” Matthew 28: 8-10

I wake up fairly early in the mornings, and lately, I have started taking the dog out as soon as I come downstairs.  He's already gotten used to this, so, as soon as he sees me, he gets really jumpy and excited because he knows he is going outside. I have to tell you, it isn't as easy to keep up this routine in the winter as it is in the summer!  The dark, dark, dark mornings in this neck of the woods just make it for a rather pitiful chore.  The cloudy, wet, COLD darkness of the Western PA mornings sink my soul and make me want to run away...sigh...  

Today, as I try to do every day, though, I lifted my head up to the heavens above, only to see darkness...I walked down the driveway with Link and then back up...deep in my thoughts...I looked up one more time, and just for a faint second, I saw this huge, bright star shining like a fire on the sky.  Then, a deep cloud covered it and I couldn't see it again.  But I know I saw it!  And all I wanted to do, then, was to stand there in awe, staring, waiting for it to show up again, but it didn't...hmmm...

I don't know why today's Bible passage makes me think of that incident this morning? Perhaps it is because, like the women back by Jesus' empty tomb were up before dawn.  Or maybe it is because, as they walked in the darkness of the early morning that day, they were filled with the sorrow and hopelessness of thinking their Lord was dead.  Maybe even because I imagine that walk in the dark being as drury, damp and cold as mine this morning with the dog.  But, regardless of the darkness, light shone brighter than the sun at noon day in the desert when they encountered the Living Jesus!

Can you imagine?  Not only did these faithful women met an angel, but they run into Jesus Himself!  All of a sudden!  And He actually spoke to them:  "Greetings!"

WOW!

It is no wonder the women fell on their faces and worshiped Him.  There is no other appropriate response in a moment such as this.

The fear mixed in with the surprise and the exhilaration made up for a couple of truly discombobulated women, I imagine.  So much so, that Jesus had to offer them a few words of comfort.  As the compassionate and loving Lord that He is, Jesus said to them:  “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”  

The overwhelming shock these women must have gone through was soothed by the kind words of Our Savior...but that didn't mean the women were to stay there.  There was a call to action, as well:  GO!  Go, be my messengers.  Go tell my brothers.  Go tell them to GO if they want to see me.

Meeting Jesus is always an earth-shaking, life-changing event.  And it usually involves a moment of face down on the floor or standing in awe.  But then, the call to action does not delay and it usually sounds the same:  GO!

Sigh...

I think, my encounter with the bright star this morning, in the midst of that deep darkness makes me think of this passage of Scripture, because, not unlike these women thousands of years ago, I was not expecting the light.  I'm so used to darkness as the norm, that when light appears, it's just mesmerizing.  But that's exactly when you realize that Jesus cannot be put into a predictable paradigm.  He is anything but ordinary and just when we think we have Him figured out...He surprises you like we can never imagine.  And He speaks to us in a language that we can understand...a language of not just words, but actions, visions, images and events that speak to us words of wisdom and words of life!

May we be awake for our personal encounter with the Light! May we not be so distracted by the sorrow of darkness that we miss the arrival of the Son!

Jesus Speaks to Women: Matthew 28

8 So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. 9 Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. 10 Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.” Matthew 28: 8-10

What a glorious passage!  The fulfillment of a promise, the most important promise in God's Word:  The Resurrected Messiah!  Without this moment, Christianity would have never come about.  Jesus IS Alive!

I know, we are approaching Christmas, not Easter.  But...as we all know...there would be no significance to Christmas without Easter morning!  The Christmas lights, the trees, the presents, the caroling, the cookies, the children's plays...none of it would have any meaning without this very moment related to us by Matthew...Jesus is Risen!

And...He chose to reveal Himself first to whom? To women.  WOW...the faithful women who barely had left the tomb (only during the Sabbath they stayed away), were the ones Jesus showed Himself to first.  The privilege of sticking by our Lord!  What a reward!  Hopelessness didn't have the last word here, not ever.

After the women had their encounter with the Messenger who told them to go inform the disciples about the resurrection, they "hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy."  I LOVE this statement.  Let's look at it in parts:

1.  Hurried away from the tomb:  yes, leave the tomb behind!  Once and for all, walk away from it!  Have you ever stuck by the tomb even after you've realized it's empty?  Have you dwelled on the events that caused you sorrow and pain even years after the events happened?  Have you lingered around the hurt of an extinguished relationship?  Have you hung around the ashes of a burnt bridge long after the ashes have been scattered by the wind?  Have you continued to be afraid after healing? I have...  I don't know why it is so hard to just "hurry away from the tomb" when we find it empty?  I mean...look at what we are at risk of missing: running into the Risen Lord!!!

2.  Afraid yet filled with joy:  this is my favorite part!  I am afraid ALL.THE.TIME... I live in fear.  I have allowed fear to grab a foothold in my heart, and I am struggling to rid myself from it...to take away the control it has over me.  Little by little, the Lord is teaching me, with each trial, that fear has no place in the heart of the believer because our hearts belong to Christ, and Christ has our best interest in mind.  Even if we don't understand what is happening to us at the moment, we need not be afraid because we trust that God's plan is perfect!  That doesn't mean that fear will disappear completely, but that we will be able to run and REJOICE even in our fear.  This passage illustrate that fear needs not paralyze us.  Fear could be the fuel that helps us run faster towards the feet of Jesus!

Dear Lord, please, every time we face trials, allow us to realize the moment when the trial is over so we can walk away from the tomb, and run to your arms in spite of our fear...may joy overpower the fright so we can hurry to Your arms.  Amen!

Stay tune for the moment when Jesus, finally, literally, speaks to women :) 

Jesus Speaks to Women: Matthew 28

1 After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.

2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 

3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 

4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 

5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 

6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.

7 Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” 

Matthew 28: 1-7

I have to admit:  I am a big superhero movie fan.  Yes, the fact that I have two boys has helped increase my appreciation of such genre.  However, I might say, it has been my tendency to be drawn to these types of stories what, perhaps, originally fueled my son's appetite for superhero-action films.  I just love a good and thrilling story with lots of excitement where heroes fight and lightning and earthquakes make villains tremble and become paralyzed with fear! I can say, I imagine myself in the middle of that type of action and wonder which superhero I would be!  I know...I know... where's the eye-rolling emoji, right?

The thing is, in each of the Marvel Universe movies (which is what we prefer in this household, btw) I can see a scene like the one related to us by Matthew in this passage above.  All the elements are there:  the tragedy of the seemingly hopeless death of the Greatest Superhero in the History of the world, followed by His faithful beloved sorrowful mourning...which is in turn, abruptly interrupted by the dramatic entrance of a Celestial Messenger with all the theatrics of having villains become like corpses, paralyzed by fear and blinded by the lightning and earth shattering landing of such a being.  I mean, I'm typing this, and my hands are shaking, I'm so excited!

Our Heavenly Father is the greatest story teller in the UNIVERSE! (Marvel, DC or otherwise, if you know what I mean?)  No earthly script writer even comes close to what God writes in His plan for His children.  The plot twists and storylines of the story boards that God designs for our lives are so immeasurably richer than anything man can come up with.  That's why they all, whether they know it or not, find their inspiration in real life...and in the real life written in the Sacred Word of God!

I love this passage.  I love how it records that it was the women, again, the Marys whom, though feeling hopeless, faithfully walked back to the tomb as soon as they were allowed after the Sabbath.  Their faithfulness and their willingness to continue to do their good work without growing weary was immensely rewarded by the stunning appearance of the angel of the Lord.  I love how the angel of the Lord didn't even bother talking to the guards.  They were like dead, anyway.  He addressed the women!  THE WOMEN!!!  You know how big that was?  Women couldn't even testify in court because their testimony was considered as relevant as anything a dog could say.  And this divine messenger charged the women with the task of acting as witnesses to the disciples. The women were the ones upon whom the glorious job to go spread the word about Jesus' resurrection fell!

WOW!  How's that for girl power, huh?

And just wait...see what happens next!

As the Greatest Superhero Story Ever Told, there is more...let's stay tuned for the sequel!  I can't wait!

Jesus Speaks to Women: Matthew 27th

59 Joseph took the body, wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, 60 and placed it in his own new tomb that he had cut out of the rock. He rolled a big stone in front of the entrance to the tomb and went away. 61 Mary Magdalene and the other Mary were sitting there opposite the tomb. 

Matthew 27: 59-61

Have you ever been able to stick with something even beyond all hope?  Like, for instance, stick with a prayer that has gone decades unanswered? It's not easy to drop something from our prayer list ... but often, we seem to be praying for something that just does not seem to be the will of God... so... what do we do?  I mean, we know our prayer is in accordance to Scripture.  It's not like we are praying to win the lottery or wishing ill on someone.  What if what we are praying is for a friend, a co-worker, a nephew or a niece, a husband, a son or a daughter, a brother to have a revelation from Christ so they can join the family of believers... but the years pass and the revelation never comes?

It is very easy to get discouraged and to abandon hope that it will ever happen.  However, we are supposed to stay in hope because hope is not a feeling that emerges out of favorable circumstances.  Hope is the person of Jesus the Christ! and He never disappoints.  We are to run the race set before us and stick with it, if that is the race we know we are supposed to run.  As we run it, we are to pray without ceasing:

18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Ephesians 6: 18

As we see the first tinge of discouragement surge in our horizon, we must be alert!  We must be alert so we don't fall into the temptation of giving up.  Instead, we should look at the great cloud of witnesses that surround us in or lives and in Scripture...remember the women at the tomb, the many Marys who, as they saw, with their own eyes, their Lord die the most awful death ... and witnessed the big stone being rolled to close the grave, they stuck with it...sitting there...even after all hope had seemingly faded away...and OH the reward they were about to get!

It's been almost a decade I've been lifting to the heavens one particular prayer...and the answer I keep getting is "wait, not yet."  But remembering these women at the tomb makes me realize that there isn't a tomb in my life yet as far as this prayer is concerned, so I should not be so upset...but even in the desolate despair of a future grave comes in, Hope must remain!

May the strength of Our Lord keep us from giving up in our righteous prayers!  Amen!

Jesus Speaks to Women: Matthew 27

55 Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs. 56 Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph,and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.  Matthew 27: 55-56

Well...we arrive at the moment when Jesus breathes His last as a man on this earth.  The darkest moment in the history of the world.  The moment that caused the curtain of the temple to tear in two from top to bottom. The moment when the earth shook, the rocks split and the tombs broke open.  And who was left there...women...

I don't know about you, but I am totally drawn to drama.  I love movies, and among my favorites are those that make me shed a tear or two.  I don't know why, but I do tend to rank a film on its ability to move me...I guess that's why they call it "the movies," huh?  My sons and my husband all make fun of me because of that.  I tend to dismiss their claims...but today, I did catch myself rating a movie as "really good," by saying:  "It made me cry like 3 times..."  The moment I realized I had rated it good because it had made me cry was when, after I said that, Grant blurted out:  "And she only watched 30 minutes of it!"

Yeah... it's true, I actually stopped watching the film after about 30 minutes because there was so much noise at the time (Dylan was trying to do homework and such) that I was not able to fully concentrate on the story.  I knew I could have cried even more, but I wasn't getting my sadness-fix because I couldn't hear well!!!

At any rate...could it be possible that women are attracted to drama?  to things of the heart?  to suffering?  I don't know.  It sounds too stereotypical.  But in my case, it is true.  So, when I read the passage about how these three women were "watching from the distance" as they saw Jesus being crucified after following Him since Galilee to tend to His needs...I would have to say I identify with them.  I can see that. I can see all the men scurrying away as these small group of women stuck by Him.  Even if in the distance, they stuck...maybe because it is part of being a woman...maybe because Jesus had stuck by them as well...

Remember, women were not valued...so, for this segment of Scripture to record that these women were there, it is pretty significant.  It did not go unnoticed by the witness.  And I think its significance will come up later as we continue to see these women sticking by Jesus all the way to the grave and beyond.

There is power in staying with Him.  Even when all hope seems to be lost, staying by Jesus is what we are called to do...and in due time, we'll see great miracles happen.

I pray that we have the strength to stay, not for the love of the drama, but for the Power of His presence that even when we don't feel it, we know is there.   

Jesus Speaks to Women: Matthew 26: 6-13

Well, looking back at this passage of Scripture, we don't really see the record of Jesus' direct interaction with this woman.  The words that He might have spoken to her are lost in history.  However, what Jesus said in her presence about her are just marvelous! 

In a time when women were worth less than cattle, Jesus stood by this woman fiercely even against His so-called-friends, the disciples.  When someone among His disciples reduced, (Matthew doesn't record who uttered these words, but we find out in John later on) the extravagant gift this woman had given to Jesus to a mere waste, Jesus immediately spoke in her defense for the world to see and for posterity to witness and ponder:

“Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 11 The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. 12 When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial.13 Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.” Matthew 26: 10-13

WOW!

I don't want to make a fool out of myself trying to attempt to comment on Jesus' words.  They stand on their own perfectly clear.  One thing I do want to highlight, though...notice the last sentence on verse 13...go ahead...read it again.  I had to read it several times before they struck me.  

13 Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.”

Over and over in Scripture we see Jesus stating that things are for the glory of God...here, Jesus is saying that this passage will be preached "throughout the world," so we would remember her.  This woman's sacrifice was credited to her, by Jesus Himself, as an act worthy of being remembered through time and space...as an example to be followed...as a worthy manner of worship...

The costly sacrifice of this woman was received by the Lord of Lords as good and appropriate, so much so, that He used it as an illustration that is still captivating souls over 2,000 years later...and more so, as a testimony of how Jesus comes to our defense against those who oppose us or who try to humiliate us and discredit us when we are just pouring ourselves out in sacrificial and sincere offering to Him.

If life takes you to a path where you start to wonder and doubt that Jesus cares and/or appreciates you and what you do...read this passage, and find refuge and comfort on the words of Jesus Himself.  He knows...He knows the extent of your sacrifice.  He knows the pain in the offering.  He acknowledges the beauty of your intentions.  And He stands right by you on your behalf in the time of trouble and judgement.  He is our Heavenly Advocate...and against Him, nothing or no one can stand.

May we be willing to offer the costliests of sacrifices to Christ's.  And may we be covered by His Words and protected by His arms around us in our hour of most need.  Amen!

Jesus Speaks to Women: Matthew 26: 6-13

6 While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper, 7 a woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table.

8 When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. “Why this waste?” they asked. 9 “This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor.”

10 Aware of this, Jesus said to them, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. 11 The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. 12 When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial.13 Truly I tell you, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.”  Matthew 26: 6-13

There is so much beauty in this passage, I don't even know where to start!  In this portion of Scripture, Jesus is not recorded directly talking to the woman with the alabaster jar...but I believe, due to His actions and words to his disciples about the woman, Jesus showed how deeply He cared for her and how much He appreciated her sacrifice.

We will see this same story in the gospel of John with greater detail.  However, let's just take in what Matthew is telling us for now.  First, the house was full...full of people, but also full of the Spirit.  I mean, Jesus was there!  And so was Simon, who probably was an ex-leper since if he were still a leper, he would not be at a house with guests!  He would be an outcast.  So, Simon must have been a man healed by Jesus and, therefore, full of the Spirit of gratitude.  His house was probably full of people who were rejoicing with him for his healing and who wanted to take a peek and see if Simon was really healed, and also to see if they could reach Jesus.  And in that environment of excitement and joy, in comes this woman carrying an alabaster jar full of "very expensive perfume." 

Commentaries agree on the fact that, the jar was probably the woman's dowry.  That was the most valuable thing she had in her possession.  Without it, her chances of ever getting married were close to none.  Nobody worth having would marry her if she didn't have anything of value to offer.  She didn't care...it was all the same to her, for she was already full of the presence of Her Lord.  Nothing on this earth compared to the One Who was reclining at that table...

Sigh...

I  want to imagine myself as one of the people in the house and watch the scene...and just take it all in...silently...I want to witness this woman's act of faith and love.  I want to be her...sigh...to be that full of the Holy Spirit...to be THAT aware of His presence...to be that focused on what really matters...to be that willing to worship regardless the cost.

Can you see it?  Amidst the noise and commotion, some guests wanting to eat, some others wanting to get a drink, and many pushing and shoving, trying to get closer to where Jesus was reclining...and then, in comes this woman, quietly...unnoticed...humbly approaching the Lord, and without saying a word, breaking open her precious treasure only to bring glory to the One who is worthy of all that we have...of all that we are...

Today, I just want to stand here and watch her do it...I just want to stand here and be filled with the aroma of that most expensive perfume...and worship Him...Praise be the Lord!

Jesus Speaks to Women: Matthew 25: 1-13

“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3 Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4 but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5 But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept.

6 “And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’ 7 Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. 8 And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9 But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ 10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut.

11 “Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ 12 But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I do not know you.’

13 “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming."  Matthew 25: 1-13

My encounter with Scripture today has taken me to a place not where we see Jesus speaking TO women, but a parable in which Jesus uses women as illustration.  I almost skipped it, but I kept going back to it so I decided to obey and let the Holy Spirit lead me to wherever He wants me to go with this meditation...so let's see...

The thing that kept me coming back to the 10 virgins story was the fact that the characters' traits made me think of myself.  OK, we have two groups very well defined:  the 5 wise women and the 5 foolish ones.  I don't think I can fit into either of the two groups!  And that worries me, 'cause I don't want to be in the group that gets the door shut on their faces, hearing their Bridegroom saying to them that he doesn't know them!  YIKES!

But, again, I don't see myself as one of the wise ones either...

I am a lazy procrastinator that is obsessed with doing things the right way and on time.  Does that make sense?  I am riddled with contradictions.  I don't lead a very clear-cut life.  At work, for instance, I would carry around a pile of exams to grade, and I will have the hardest time getting started, then, when I finally get started, I would take a million breaks.  I could not just sit down and plow through it to get it done as quickly as possible.  On the other hand, I am obsessed with returning the exams back to my students on our next class meeting...then, I get mighty frustrated, angry at myself and nervous if the next class comes and I'm not done???!!!  

At home, the house is dirty.  I need to clean it.  I complain about the house being dirty.  The thought of cleaning the house doesn't leave my mind for even an instant.  I walk around in frustration thinking how much dust there is on top of every surface in the house...but yet, I won't just grab the swiffer and clean it!  I rather just complain about it.  Suddenly, I hear someone is coming...and...magic!

So, I don't know if I would be too lazy and too foolish to bring the extra oil so I can be prepared?? I have to tell you, though, I do make sure we have enough toilet paper at home always!  I don't think the zombie apocalypse is going to catch me without a nice reserve of the precious bath tissue!  I wonder if that counts?

Anyway, I worry too much, but then I'm too lazy to do anything about it until the last possible minute. 

The good news is, as it always happens for those in Christ, we don't have to be perfect.  I believe the Lord is merciful and the same way He gives me that injection of will to finish grading my exams on time, or to clean the house before the guests arrive, or to keep a nice reserve of toilet paper under the bathroom sink, He will prompt me to keep me prepared so my lamp can be lit when He returns!

 

Jesus Talks to Women: Matthew 20

20 Then the mother of Zebedee’s sons came to Jesus with her sons and, kneeling down, asked a favor of him.

21 “What is it you want?” he asked.

She said, “Grant that one of these two sons of  mine may sit at your right and the other at your left in your kingdom.”

22 “You don’t know what you are asking,” Jesus said to them. “Can you drink the cup I am going to drink?”

“We can,” they answered.

I am one of those Moms who thinks she knows better.  I mean, I've lived way longer than my sons, so OF COURSE I know better.  When they are going, I've already come back and then some.  I'm not a young Mom.  So, my age and experience help me know exactly what's going on and how it should be dealt with.  If only they would listen to me and do what I say!!!  If they would only accept that I know better and that my way is the best way!!!

The issue is, however, that not only do I believe I know better than my sons, which I do! But I also believe, often, that I know better than my Lord...

That's why I am such a nervous wreck all the time when it comes to my children.  Because I believe it is up to me to make sure that they turn out ok.  I always forget that it is not about my limited power, and that they don't belong to me.  Even when I pray for them, I try to tell God how to direct their lives!  I forget that my job is to love them, and that I must leave the plan for their lives in the hands of the One Who Created them and Who Calls Them His Own.

This is why I identify with the Mother in today's passage so well.  I see me in her.  I also would like to intercede for my two sons to see them one at each side of the Lord's Throne.  Not realizing that "I don't know what I am asking..." given the opportunity, I would kneel down in front of Jesus and request the impossible.  After all, we are invited to do so, right?  "ask and you shall receive"?  But, as I step back, I don't think this is what it means.

The Lord honors a Mother's prayer.  He even did what His Mom said once or twice.  Remember the wedding at Cana thing, with the water turned into wine?  I mean, He even said to her how His time of public ministry hadn't started yet.  It was almost like Jesus saying (not to be sacrilegious or anything):  "come on woman, let me enjoy myself while I still can!" (John 2: 1-5) But He still did it! Why was, then, this Mother's request not appropriate?  Probably because it was not made in the spirit of humility. 

Can you imagine this Mother's sense of pride and self-righteousness later?  "Look at MY SONS!!!"  "See ... the ones sitting at each side of the Lord?  Those are MY sons!"  "Jesus gave them the place of highest honor because I asked Him!"  "Aren't I just the best!!!???"  "Look at MY sons!  The ones in the honors roll!  The ones up in the front!  The one with the saxophone solos!!!!  The one with the highest scores on the board!!  The ones accepted to the best colleges.  The ones with the best jobs.  The ones with the best lives..."  "And it's all because of MY efforts.  Aren't I the best?"

Pride!

In this interaction of Jesus and a woman we see a blatant display of pride.  It is no wonder that, even though Jesus treated the woman with respect and actually LISTENED to her rather than dismissing her or ignoring her as others would have...He was very firm and, as usual, used the opportunity as a teaching moment to teach a lesson mostly to her sons, that will last for the ages:

“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. 26 Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, 27 and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— 28 just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” 

(Matthew 20: 25-28)

How quickly do they/we forget!!!  He had just said a parable in Matthew 20: 16 where the main message was:  "So the last will be first, and the first will be last."  And just a few steps later, James, John and their Mother are making such a request!  I can't judge them, though, for I am guilty of doing the same many times too...

This is why today, I pray, the Lord teaches me the necessary humility to be a Mother who performs her God-given job with complete trust on the plans that He has designed for her children, and with a humble heart, she praises Him and worships Him for the gift that those children are...regardless of the place they hold or will hold in life.  It is not about the worldly accomplishments.  It is about belonging to the family of Christ!

Jesus Speaks to Women - Matthew 15: 22-28

As I type these words, we are celebrating Thanksgiving once again, and for that I praised the Lord.  I praise Him for all the blessings He has so generously decided to give me...and above all, I praise Him for His giving of Himself to me and to all of us.  For the gift of His Word that is alive and relevant even these many, many years later...I praise Him for the gift of stories such as today's...the story of a woman who knew she didn't belong; but whose faith and love moved her to the feet of Jesus to find true worship and mercy and a place where she fit in.

I know I have been calling this...series, I guess... "Jesus Speaks to Women."  Today, however, we will witness a moment when He is silent.  Have you ever encounter moments when all you long for is to hear Christ's Words somehow...but...no matter how much you think you are seeking them...the words just don't come within the frequency of your ears?  I know that has happened to me.  I admit, most of the time that I can't hear His voice is because there are so many other voices yelling in my ear, that I can't listen to the ONLY one that matters.  Sometimes, however, there are moments when I am actively trying to tune in...and all I hear is the deafening sound of silence.  There is nothing more terrifying...

Then, this story comes along:  a woman actively seeking the healing power of Jesus only to encounter His silence and seeming disinterest. 

22 A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is demon-possessed and suffering terribly.” 

I mean, really...can't you hear the desperation in her voice?  Lord, nothing is more horrible than to know your child is sick, let alone sick beyond hope.  She probably heard Jesus was passing by, and instantly, I would imagine, without thinking much about the obstacles:  first, she is a woman...that alone is a huge obstacle to being heard.  Second, another biggie, she is a Canaanite woman, which means she was part of an enemy group of Israel.  She had no business coming to Jesus.  She just did not belong there and she knew it.  Fueled by the love of her suffering child, she dismissed any thought of complication and just pleaded...openly and loudly! Only to find the one thing she was fearing the most: silence.

23 Jesus did not answer a word...

Wow...how harsh, don't you think?  Why would Jesus do that?  I mean, I expected it from the disciples.  Of course it is not surprising that they didn't want these woman bothering them, and they, of course, were vocal about their discomfort around her:

...So his disciples came to him and urged him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us. 

But...Jesus?  I did not expect that reaction from Him...silence?  And then, to make matters worse, when He speaks, He says this:

24 He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel.” 

That would have been enough for me to walk away with my head hanging low and my hopes completely vanished.  But not this woman.  Facing an impossible situation, this woman's moment of decision came and she chose...to worship:

25 The woman came and knelt before him. “Lord, help me!” she said.

Left with nothing else...she fell down on her knees before Him...before the King of Kings and Lord of Lords...and she worshiped.  A simple and completely heartfelt, 100% pure act of worship contained in the plain phrase:  "Lord, help me!"  I can see Jesus turning to her at that moment ... however, He doesn't say what we expect.  He continues to push the situation:

26 He replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” 

Not what I would hope to hear from Him when I am on my knees, pleading for salvation and help.  But this woman, if she was confused, she sure didn't show it.  She sure didn't waste any time wondering why was Jesus being so mean and harsh.  She didn't waste any time asking "why me?" or angrily asking, "why won't you talk to me!!???"  or being baffled by Jesus' inability to care.  Not her.  She knew who she was.  She knew Jesus owed her nothing.  She knew that she was coming to Him from the outside...she knew she didn't have the right to ask for anything...but she also knew, if not with head knowledge, but with the knowledge that only the Holy Spirit can give, that Jesus was bigger than all the worldly complications that separated them, so she continued, against all odds, she says:  

27 “Yes it is, Lord,” she said. “Even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” 

Jesus is above all odds.  He doesn't follow rules made by men.  He doesn't respond the way we expect many times...most of the time...if He did, what kind of a God would He be?  He is not our puppet.  He knows exactly what needs to happen for us to truly encounter Him.  Often, He speaks in loud actions that are impossible to deny because that's what we need.  Some other times, He speaks in silence...because we need to realize the need to worship...the need to come to Him spiritually naked...the need to believe beyond all hope, because He is Worthy of all of our worship...because He already knows us and reads through all the layers we put on to try to mask our true selves...because He is the One True Hope...

28 Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted.” And her daughter was healed at that moment.  Matthew 15: 22-28

Dear Lord, as we celebrate Thanksgiving, I pray that we learn to be thankful for everything...that we learn to find You in the joy of Your Presence even when we can't even feel Your nearness...that we learn to hear Your Voice even in Your Silence...for it is in our perseverance that we will find Hope, and the Hope in You never disappoints.  Amen!

Jesus Speaks to Women - Matthew 12

Jesus’ Mother and Brothers

While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. Someone told him, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you.”

He replied to him, “Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?”Pointing to his disciples, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother.”  Matthew 12: 46-50

Well, in my quest to find all the instances when Jesus spoke to women recorded in the Gospels, I've come across the passage above as the next instance when Jesus have some kind of interaction with women in Matthew.  

Although Jesus does not speak directly to a woman in this passage, He does speak about women...one in particular:  His Mother.  

I have to admit that this piece of Scripture is a bit perplexing to me.  But again, that's because I'm looking at it from the perspective of my limited human understanding.  I believe that if I were to be so bold as to place myself in Jesus' sandals, I might have a better glimpse of what Our Lord is trying to communicate here.  

Well, first of all, Jesus knew that His Mother and brothers were there to try to convince Him of being more careful about His public ministry.  They probably wanted Jesus to be less conspicuous.  And since He would not stop doing His work, well, He spared His earthly relatives the scene.  The other reason is that this was a teaching moment.  Jesus never allowed a teaching moment to not be taken advantage of.  And this is no exception.

This was another opportunity for Jesus to remind us that we are all His family.  We are all part of the Royal lineage of Christ, the King of Kings!  Those whom He chooses...those who follow Him...those are His family!  Notice the precious addition of the "sisters" in Jesus' reply.  It is He, not the one who comes looking for Him, who includes the "sisters" in the list of relatives.  I absolutely adore that!  He didn't have to.  Sisters, daughters or women for all that matter, are rarely mentioned when listing those in attendance to anywhere.  Only men were usually counted back then.  In this case, Jesus makes sure He includes the fact that sisters are also worthy of mention as significant members of His family.

Dear sisters in Christ, let's never forget that!  We matter to Jesus.  He knows we are here.  We count!  May we never listen to the lies of the enemy who wants us to believe we are insignificant or inadequate or unworthy to be among those loved by Our Lord!  May we always remember that even if the world forgets, Jesus does not.

Jesus Speaks to Women - Matthew 9: 20-22

I continue in my quest to hearing Jesus speaking to me by searching and pausing at passages where He spoke to women in the Gospels.  Today, I'm stopping at the first instance of recorded words that Jesus spoke to a woman in the Gospel according to Matthew: 

Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. She said to herself, “If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed.”

Jesus turned and saw her. “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has healed you.” And the woman was healed at that moment. Matthew 9: 20-22

This is another scene when Jesus performs a healing to a woman...while getting on His way to raising a young girl back to life after she was pronounced dead, by the way...but this time, there are words spoken by Our Savior, precious words that we can cling onto.  But before we get to His words, let's look at His actions.  

We have the woman, who, filled with faith and hope, dared to touch His cloak, even if only the very edge.  Scripture gives us a detail about this woman's condition which is very important:  she had been bleeding for twelve years.  Lord, have mercy!  This condition was not only debilitating and potentially lethal (actually, it's amazing she survived that long!) but it also made her unclean, and as such, unable to go to temple.  She was an outcast.  This was her chance to plug herself into the Power of the Most High, and she took it!  She knew, she ran a risk of being tossed away, but, fueled by faith, she went for it.  

What did Jesus do?  Did He shush her away?  Did He have His bodyguards get her our of the way?  Of course not!  He turned to her.  Can you believe it?  Jesus actually TURNED. TO. HER.  WOW!

And He saw her...

Nobody is too small.  Nobody is too far away.  Nobody is too unimportant.  Nobody is too unclean.  Nobody is too insignificant that the King of Kings may not stop, turn and see him or her.

Then, as if that weren't enough for an outcast woman (NOT an oxymoron in Jesus' time), He speaks to her:  “Take heart, daughter,” he said, “your faith has healed you.”

Blessed be the Name of Jesus!!!!

Don't you long to hear Him say that to you?  I know I do!  With all my heart, I do!  

So, let's grab these words as if spoken to us, because they are, indeed!  Let's push through the crowd of unbelief, of busyness, of entertainment, of activities, of our circumstances, of our fears and anxieties, like Jon Courson says in his Application Commentary, and let's be like this nameless woman, and reach out and touch the hem of His cloak.  He is waiting for us to do so.  She is nameless, because she is every woman who needs His healing power, His presence, His eyes on her, His words spoken to her...

Sigh...

Dear Lord, may I recognize that I am your daughter.  May I know that You know me.  May I realize that You see me.  May I accept that You heal me.