Sabbatical: Day 6

We entered the old city through the Jaffa Gate on foot heading to the Western Wall Tunnels. These old gates are still used for all traffic into and out of the old city. We yielded the right of way to several cars as they squeezed through the narrow way. Nearly every auto was scratched and dented from these gates. The tunnels are an active archaeological work site. The excavation covers the entire length of the western wall. At the bedrock level I placed my hands on the very first stone placed in the building of the wall. This stone weights 550 tons and was cut out of the mountain at the north end of Jerusalem and rolled on small round balls to it's current location.
These tunnels have massive rooms in the beginning and narrow to a six foot wide walk way along the base of the wall. About midway is a women's prayer area. This is just under the Holy of Hollies some 100 feet above. Prayer is made in this location at all times. There is a report that the prayer wall here is covering a large room which contains the Ark of the Covenant. This area will need several more years of excavation.

Our next stop was at the Western Wall prayer area. This is the same area we visited on the Sabbath. I made my way to the wall, praying as I went. In my hand were several dozen prayers and blessings written on small slips of paper and placed into an offering envelope from Elm Grove. (the envelope was covered with these also). I even had our prayer list from Sundays bulletin in there. Each step forward gave me a physical touch in my body. I was tired and sore from all the walking but step by step I was feeling stronger and stronger. I pushed the envelope into a large crack between two really large stones (I even took a selfie of this) and placed my hands over the place and began to pray. The Holy Spirit flowed in an almost melodic fashion and fire fell. My Lord was there with me, his hands were on me as I called out the names of every person I could think of. Joy flooded my soul and I knew that I had ascended above that Wall and into the throne room of  Almighty God in heaven. My body may have been at the Western Wall but my Spirit was with God. As I moved away from the wall, walking backward as not to turn my back to this holy place, I knew that each prayer and blessing was received by God. I know that in time will I will hear the reports of all that was sealed on this day.

I am amazed at the sight of Masada. Riding the cable car to the top was like flying on the wings of a bird. Below was the Dead Sea and all the wonderful agricultural achievements of the Jewish farmers and above was the Herodian Fortress. This is a large area of several acres with a summer palace on one end and a winter palace on the other, many storage rooms, quarters for soldiers, farmers and servants, swimming pool, armory and recreational area. On the south end of the plateau there is agricultural land and evidence that it was well used. I have never seen the movie "Masada" but most people have so I will not go into the history of the last stand of Jewish rebels against Rome. My spiritual interests were not focused too much on this location. One special note: There is a Scribe working in a small room making hand written copies of the Torah. I said "God Bless Your Work" and he stopped and ask my name and my wife's name. He then took a scrap of parchment and printed our names with a heart between them in Hebrew and slipped it through a slot in the glass. 

After Masada we took a break at a beach on the Dead Sea. Just a lot of black mud to me but the local people were rubbing this mud all over and they said it kept them young and beautiful. I just watched. 

Upon arriving back in Jerusalem we went straight to the southern wall steps where Pastor Hagee was to speak. There were several hundred people gathered and a television crew set up for a live feed back to America. We had church! Singing, worship, praying and preaching. The only thing missing.....no offering. Pastor spoke of the suffering of Jesus and how he has paid the price, the full price, for our salvation and our healing. I made a commitment to; share more, tell more and believe for more.  

Sabbatical: Day 5

We returned to the Mount of Olives and spent some time sharing testimonies of our christian experiences. This location affords us a view of most of the places that Jesus was in during his last hours before the crucifixion. There is some distances between the Garden, Temple, house of Caiaphas and Golgotha, up and down some steep slopes as you traverse the valleys that divide this landscape. Hard traveling when on foot. When we moved to the Garden of Gethsemane there was a sweet perfume in the air. I sang quietly "I come to the Garden with him" and just like the song he was walking right beside me with his arm on my shoulder. I was with a large group of pilgrims and totally alone with my Lord at the same time. Time stood still and I was in perfect worship, all my soul pouring out praise, adoration and love to my Jesus and my God. I can't tell you much about this place but the presence of the Lord was Divine. Our Guide nudged me and said it was time to go and I begged for a few more minutes, he understood, in the ten minutes extra he waited on me I ask God for a touch in my body. All this walking was taking a toll, God moved and I received strength and my pain disappeared.Walking out the gate our guide patted me on my arm and spoke a few words in Hebrew. I felt a warmth of love and fellowship with this man. He is Jewish through and through but we are brothers just the same. I ask him latter in the day what his words were in English.  "A Nazarite indeed" was his blessing to me.

We re-entered the old city through the Lion's Gate and made our way to Anne's Church. We sang and sang great worship songs as we lifted our voices in praise. Pastor Hagee preached a message about the anointing of the Holy Ghost and how God's servants were used. He invited any of us to come to the front and be anointed with oil, I almost ran. Sweet smelling anointing oil covered my forehead as God wrapped me in his arms. I was in his presence. Perfect peace, joy unspeakable, energy.......so I shouted......Holy....Holy...Holy and moved out into the bright sunshine...closer to God. 

Before we loaded on the bus to go to our next destination Nancy had a big scare. The restrooms were about half a block away and we took advantage before our long ride ahead. Some how the attendant at the ladies room locked the outer door with sister Nancy inside. The lock was on the outside of the door and no escape. Nancy began to yell and kick the door, I heard the kicking sound as it rang through the courtyard but was too far away to recognize her voice. I saw people running to the area and got worried that I could not see Nancy. Just as I headed in that direction the grounds keeper shot through the crowd and opened the door. Out popes my sweet, quite Nancy looking like a angry lion ready to strike. Many words were exchanged between the grounds keeper and the lady attendant......she had done this before and had a smug grin on her face. We chose to forgive.....but.....the excitement lasted for quite a while. 

We rode to an Israeli check point where day-laborers came over from Palestine. We were introduced to the man that was the chief architect of the security fence. This is a buffer zone created to give some measure of safety from the Radical Muslims that invade Israel. At this checkpoint the peaceful Muslims that desire to work in Israel are given a safe entrance. At places the fence is a wall, a tall wall, but most of the fence is ten foot chain link with razor wire on top. The wall is in the areas where rifle fire can reach Israeli homes. The conflict is calm for the most part here in Jerusalem but there is still need for caution. We learned that this very morning, while we were at Anne's Church a terrorist had been shot a few miles from where we were standing. (after he had stabbed two policemen) Our speaker wanted us to know that this wall was built to be easily removed and was not intended to be permanent. he felt that it removed temptation because of it's tallness. The homes in this area all have bullet proof windows facing Palestine. The hate that we hear about in America is being inflamed from several relatively small factions. The hope of peace is a common subject of discussion here in Israel and most people on both sides pray for peace. If America and Russia would shut off the cash flow to these terrorists the problem would move to a swifter conclusion. Our Architect shared with us that he personally has briefed both Obama and Clinton as to the situation. They both still side with the radical factions and have kept the purse open in every way possible. 

We returned to the hotel for yet another wonderful meal and much needed rest. Our days are slipping past in a rush, our hearts and heads are full to the overflowing....God is HERE!

Sabbatical: Day 1

In a small boat with thirty four Pilgrims we sailed the Sea of Galilee. This sea is really just a big lake filled by the Jordan River. It is clean and beautiful and supplies most of the water to Israel. The sound of christian worship music (the same songs we sing at church) filled my ears as tears filled my eyes. I am in Israel, the land of Jesus, singing worship songs and almost overfilled with joy. Then our guide has the boat brought to a complete stop. He points to landmarks in many directions and shares the miracles that happened at each point. Then he points to the water on the south side of our boat and says: and this is where Jesus and Peter walked on the water. The scripture was read and the place became electric with the presence of God. Our guide pointed to the place where Jesus told his disciple to depart from, then to the place where they landed after he calmed the storm and we were in the middle of that path. I so wanted to jump over the side and walk on that water. Oh that my faith were stronger. 

The first stop was at the Mount of Beatitudes where we walked on the hillside and shared many of the blessings spoken by Jesus. This garden is filled with flowers, trees, birds and even green grass. The breeze coming in off the lake cooled the desert heat and the sound of a single voice flowed up the slope with perfect clarity. My strong voice rang like a church bell. Here is where Jesus taught us of his love, devotion to God and how we should view each other. As I looked around I saw people of every color, nationalities and faiths gathered on a hillside praising God and loving each other. I saw a picture of Heaven.

Next we went to Capernaum to an ancient Synagogue and the house of Peter. The restoration project here was in full swing. The stones are placed back into their position with great care. I was amazed at the thought of how the original workmen carved such intricate images with just a hammer and chisel of brass. How did they move these heavy stones? As I sat there I thought of home and my church, my place of worship and I sensed the same comfort, joy and presence of God. I sang out: "I'm so glad I'm a part of the family of God" and I felt the hand of God upon my head. God was there.

Did Jesus feed thousands with such a small amount of bread and fish? The Bible says he did, so, I believe he did. At the traditional site of this miracle (a place called Tabgha) our guide gave us a vivid word picture of the event. Each aspect of the Biblical account seemed to match this location. Then He shared how God was doing this type of miracle each day in the nation of Israel. The desert grows food, supports livestock....so much comes out of so little. Little is much when God is involved.  

Sleet AND Thunder?

Sleet and thunder started a couple hours ago and the ground is already covered. This will be a good day to stay in and enjoy my new CD's. Winter in Texas is always unpredictable but both hail and thunder is odd. A nice fire will be fun today also. Stay in ans stay warm.

S.O.A.P.

2-23-2015      Romans 8:15

S.       15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

O.      The Spirit of adoption brings man into God.

A.      I am made a part of the family of God by adoption and I can call God, “Father”.

P.       Father; Thank you for calling me into the Family. I rejoice in your love and provision. Amen.

Brother's Birthday

Today is my brother's Birthday. Jerry is one of a kind: Good friend, hard working, honest, guitar playing, God fearing and loyal. I have two wonderful brothers and I want the world to know that these are two of the best men on earth. Happy Birthday Jerry. I love you.

S.O.A.P.

1-24-2015      Romans 5:20-21

S.       20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 that as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.

O.      Grace is superior to the law and ushers in eternal life.

A.      More Grace is available to me than I could ever need but I must not misuse this knowledge. Deliberate sin may cause me to go past the point of no return. I choose th fight sin on every level and with God’s help come out victorious.

P.       Father; cover me with grace, fill me with wisdom to see sin for what it is: failure, shame, disgrace and separation from you. Amen.

Dry and dusty

The rain is falling on my thirsty land. Any day now I will be setting out onions in the garden. This rain will help my garden soil to be workable. Seems like some Christians I meet could use a little rain on their souls.

S.O.A.P.

1-21-2015      Romans 5:9-11

S.       9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life. 11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement.

O.      Atonement comes by the blood of Jesus.

A.      Jesus has paid my sin-debt and empowers me to live a justified life. How can words express the gratitude, peace and joy that is mine today? The only word that covers this is Grace!

P.       Father; I stand before you today washed in the Blood of your son Jesus; whole, safe and complete. Thank you God for loving me. Amen.

 

Loved ones passing.

Yesterday was a hard day for me. Two members of my family passed away just hours apart. My uncle Bill and cousin Sonny played very important roles in my young life. Uncle Bill taught me how to box, and Sonny taught me how to laugh when I lost the fight. Bill's passing leaves dad as the last of his family. I know he is heart broken. Sonny, even though he is my cousin, is the same age as my father and was more like a brother to my dad when they were all young. I can't be there for my dad or any of the funerals because of distance and time. So I am praying for all me hurting loved ones. Please whisper a prayer for us all.

S.O.A.P.

1-20-2015      Romans 5:4-8

S.       4 and patience, experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. 6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

O.      Growth comes to completion in salvation.

A.      I will experience each step of growth with anticipation and expectancy knowing that salvation is my goal. My salvation will not be complete until I am face to face with Jesus and hear him say “well done”.

    P.       Father; give me strength for the struggle and faith to endure. Amen.

Energy all gone!

Long hard days will either stretch us or shrink us. I have been stretched to my limit today. Not in a bad way. I have been on my feet for twelve hours. This is a miracle for me. So........Thank you Lord for the strength and endurance, Amen.

S.O.A.P.

1-19-2015      Romans 5:3

S.       3 and not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh                           patience;

O.      Tribulation can lead to patience.

A.      In the midst of a problem I seldom look far enough down the road to see added blessing resulting from my dilemma. But, God’s word is true and hind-sight reveals his handiwork does bring a new level of trust and patience when I listen and obey.

   P.       Father; walk with me and let me see your foot prints each step of the way. Amen.

My favorite day of the week!

Sunday morning is a happy time. Church, worship, fellowship and a slowed down day, what could be better? Hope to see you at Elm Grove today.

S.O.A.P.

1-18-2015      Romans 5:1-2

S.       1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

O.      A right stand with God is obtained through faith in Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. This brings joy and hope.

A.      Jesus gave his life for me on the cross. I ask for forgiveness of my sin based on that death. I live in hope and with great joy, knowing that I am his and he is mine.

P.       Father; I accept your gift of love even though I am unworthy. I give you my life, use me as you will. Amen.

Let's Fight!

If you fight, you will be hurt. The word tells us to fight the "good fight of faith". If we are trying to build or use faith, sooner or later, there will be pain, sorrow, loss, fear, doubt, worry, loneliness, and many other difficult circumstances. With all this in store, why bother? Every boxer knows that even in a winning match, some of the blows of the opponent will land. The reason we "bother"is found in the other side of the faith coin. Growing, alive and healthy faith brings: joy, health, friendship, gain, peace, love, power, overcoming, endurance, laughter, hope and praise. If I look at these two options ........ I fight!

S.O.A.P.

1-16-2015      Romans 4:4-13

S.       4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, 7 Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. 8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? For we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: 12 And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. 13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

O.      Outward legal signs (circumcision) are not tokens of righteousness. Abraham was found to be righteous before he was instructed concerning circumcision.

A.      Righteousness is from the inside out; first the soul, then the body. I must conquer the secret, hidden and concealed sin in my heart and mind. Then, and only then, can I conquer the outward sin. All this is done with prayer, study of the word and the aid of the Holy Spirit. God supplies the word and his Spirit so all I need to supply is: heart, mind, hands ……… ME!

P.       Father; I come humbly before you seeking a full surrender, victory over sin, strength to endure and joy for the journey. I bring you my all: body, soul and spirit. Use me as you will. Amen. 

Times of testing are opportunities to either serve God or serve yourself. The more we serve God the more we speak his word, the more we sacrifice the more likely we are to win another soul into the Kingdom of God. What most people need in this world is a relationship with God. We can aid them in this discovery by being living examples, being consistent, loving, sin-avoiding and Christ-like. You know what I am saying......."Be a Christian", real, happy, and holy.

S.O,A.P.

1-3-2015         Romans 1:16-17

S.       16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

O.      Declare the gospel and find faith.

A.      I will live, speak and be a living example of faith. I will learn to think, feel and react to life’s events as Jesus did when he walked as a man. I will use the gospel as my guide and rule of life and share with as many as possible.

P.     Father; I cannot find my way alone, be my guide, teacher and friend and may the world see 

        you in me. Amen.

How I begin each day.

Early morning time alone with God is my "secret to success". Praying for my family and friends brings me comfort. Reading the Word fills my soul with delight and my day starts off right.

S.O.A.P.

12-26-2014    Mark 15: 1-4

S.       1 And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to Pilate.2 And Pilate asked him, Art thou the King of the Jews? And he answering said unto him, Thou sayest it.3 And the chief priests accused him of many things: but he answered nothing.4 And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou nothing? behold how many things they witness against thee.

O.      Jesus is silent before Pilate.

A.      The life of Jesus was his testimony and there was no need to justify or defend himself.  The life I live shall speak louder than any words. I need not defend or justify righteousness, just live it!

P        Father; I am committed to you and you alone as my God and Saviour. Reveal to me my shortcomings as I strive to live in righteousness and faith. Amen. 

Loving Life

What a special Sunday today will be. I will finish my Christmas sermon this morning and the program tonight will be wonderful. I am in awe of my wife's hard work to make so many things come together, both at home and church. We have built our lives around this country church and our family and Christmas time seems to bring all the best parts together. Loving life right now.......thank you Lord.

S.O.A.P.

12-21-2014    Mark 14:27-31

S.       27 And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.28 But after that I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee.29 But Peter said unto him, Although all shall be offended, yet will not I.30 And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.31But he spake the more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they all.

O.      Peter is foretold of his soon coming denial. None of the disciples thought he would deny Jesus.

A.      I must guard my soul from arrogance and conceit. I must be humble and never think myself to be more than I am.

P.       Father; I am nothing without you, your mercy, grace or your glory. Hold me close Lord and spare me from myself. Teach me the path of true holiness and help me walk therein. Amen.

Christmas Shopping

The best part of Christmas is the extra time I have with my Wife and family. Shopping wears me out but the fun is worth it. My new diet has changed many of our normal Christmas shopping eating rituals, but not many more days and I will be able to try some different foods. Gideon has been over helping me with some of my heavier chores (chopping wood, stacking and cleanup) and I was able to teach him how to change his own oil. I am so proud of my family and how they help each other out....and do it with love.

S.O.A.P.

12-20-2014    Mark 14:22-26

S.       22 And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat: this is my body.23 And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them: and they all drank of it.24 And he said unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many.25 Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom of God.26 And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

O.      Jesus shares the last Passover supper with his disciples.

A.      Jesus is always here to share with me, in good times and bad, in ease and hardship, in plenty and want. Jesus is the constant in my life. He never changes, he is always the same. I am not worthy in myself, I am made worthy by his sacrifice and love.

P.       Father; I give you my all, mind, heart and soul. Thank you Lord that I am never alone. Amen.

Friends

Today is the last home game for the T.C.U. football team. I have been blessed to be invited to go with my friend, and fellow minister, Ron. He is a faithful fan and has often brought me along to a game for many years. Friends make life such a joy and the journey much easier to endure. Ron has been there for me for over 25 years, God bless Ron. 

12-6-2014      Mark 12:28-34

S.       28 And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? 29 And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: 30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. 32 And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he: 33 And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices. 34 And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.

O.      Jesus declares the greatest commandment and the second greatest as well.

A.      Loving God is a life of willing obedience and service to our fellows. I must love God with, and in, my actions. Thinking I am righteous is not a complete faith, because “faith without works is dead”. Faith is made perfect by works performed in loving obedience. Loving and serving others completes our love of God.

P.       Father; help me to overcome any doubts or fears that hold me back from serving you in perfect faith. Amen.