I was reading through Jeremiah and was struck by what was written about Judah. The nation continued to move away from God and worship everything but the living God and ignored the prophets who warned of God’s impending judgment. God warned Judah and Jerusalem that they would be destroyed as a result to their idolatry.

John 3:17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

I’m returning to our Sunday morning memory verses now that lent is over. Sunday’s verse for the week is John 3:16 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. 

Now what? We dare not forget what we learned or set it on the shelf of our mind until lent of 2026. What should our response be? Our response should be one of praise, thanksgiving, and worship for each of the exchanges and the resurrection.

Jesus was punished that we may be forgiven.
Jesus was wounded that we may be healed.
Jesus was made sin that we may be righteous.
Jesus died that we might be made alive.
Jesus was made poor that we may be rich. (prosper)
Jesus was shamed that we might receive glory.

Shame: “The painful feeling arising from the consciousness of something dishonorable, improper, ridiculous etc., done by oneself or another.”

2 Corinthians 8:9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. Jesus endured our poverty that we might share His abundance. If Jesus endured our poverty; if Jesus had lost everything hanging from the cross we could say that poverty is not a blessed condition, it’s not a good thing. Poverty is the opposite of abundance. 

Isaiah 53:10-11 Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer, and though the Lord makes his life an offering for sin, he will see his offspring and prolong his days, and the will of the Lord will prosper in his hand. After he has suffered, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities.

I began last week with our topic for Lent: The Divine Exchange. That is, what all took place when Jesus was nailed to a tree – cross? More than most of us are aware. The bible explains that humanity has a universal problem called sin. We have rebelled against God. The cross of Christ is the only all-sufficient and eternal answer for our problem.

As we begin the Lenten season I will be focusing on the result of Christmas: God became a man and lived among us, but why? Why would God, a spirit come to his creation as a created being, that is in human flesh and live as people did during the harsh Roman Empire?

2 Samuel 22:31 “As for God, his way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him.

Proverbs 5:21–22 A man’s ways are in full view of the Lord, and he examines all his paths. The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him; the cords of his sin hold him fast.

Philippians 2:13 It is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

Ingratitude often results from forgetting who God is, what He has done for us, and what He promises. “Ingratitude is a searing wind which dries up the springs of pity, the dew of mercy, the streams of grace.”

Ephesians 6:12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Psalm 73:25-26 Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. 

The opposite of humility is pride, the epic center of every sin. Pride is what caused Satan to fall and the Fall of Adam and Eve. (Genesis 3 and Ezekiel 28:12-17) Pride prevents us form seeing the hand of God in daily life and causing us to focus on – Me!

It was not luck or fortune that a man wrote a prediction 740 years before its time about one male baby who would be born under unusual circumstances. What were those circumstances?

Psalm 9:7-10 The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment. He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity. The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.

The Bible is filled with passages referring to giving thanks and praise. Psalm 95:2 Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. Psalm 100:4 Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.              

Only God can bring or create the miracle of salvation; for any and every one without exception.

Following the liturgical church year, we are currently in the” end times.” That means the focus is on what the bible says about the end of all things. There are numerous passages that speak of the end, especially revelation.

“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12

Psalm 27:1 The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?

John 1:29 . . . “the Lamb who takes away the sin of the world.” This is a reference to sacrifice. Jesus became a sacrifice for you and me, our substitute instead of each of us paying for our own sin which is impossible.

A passage that is often used at funerals is Revelation 21:1-7 Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. 2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

1 Samuel 12:24 But be sure to fear the Lord and serve him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things he has done for you.

This verse which is our memory verse for Sunday comes at an interesting time. For Israel, they would no longer be judged by God’s prophets, but a king. However, Samuel was asked to pray for the people and, even though he would be replaced by a king he would continue to teach them God’s ways.

When this comes in your email box there will be twenty-eight days before the election, one that will impact the direction of America and the world for generations to come. This is a very serious time for America and the world, too serious not to vote.

As many of you who attend Pilot Knob Lutheran, every other Sunday we try to memorize or become familiar with a Bible verse, as Psalm 119:11 says: I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

Results! We all would like to see positive and productive results from our efforts and words. Results can be difficult to see when working with people, such as a teacher or counselor. The political process can be very slow in producing results. How about gardeners and farmers who must wait months for results and sometimes suffer the effects of too little or too much rain, hail, insects, blights, mold and so on. I’m thankful they don’t give up and I know they are too.

Recently it was reported that a very high-profile denominational leader stated that all religions are paths to the same God. This was said to Christians living in Singapore. It’s like different religions are simply a different language talking about the same God. Really!? Can we lump all the world’s religions into one basket and say they all lead to the God who created and redeemed us? Hardly! They all have their own god and sacred writings and none of them completely agree on everything, therefore, religious doctrine will be contradicted.

Paul writes to the Christian church located in the heart of the pagan Roman Empire, a church he did not establish or visit prior to sending his letter.

The church Paul writes to, probably not a ‘mega,’ church had a reputation that spread far and wide. What was their reputation? First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you because the news of your faith is being reported in all the world. Romans 1:8

What is this peace the bible speaks of? Peace from conflict, peace of mind? Shalom is the fullness of life: prosperity, happiness, salvation, restoration, repair – the sum total of the Gospel.

The Aaronic benediction continues with the words: and be gracious to you. Numbers 6:24-26: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

We continue with Aaron’s benediction in Numbers 6:24-26: “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his
face toward you and give you peace.” Last week we saw that the pronoun ‘you’ is singular personal referring to you as an individual and not you all. God is speaking to you by name, and mentions it six times.

I believe most of us are familiar with the closing benediction (blessing) at the close of a worship service. “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26.

Every four years the world waits with anticipation to watch the world’s best athletes compete in the Olympics. It has provided clean entertainment for all ages and a time of global unity.

As we read through the book of Proverbs, we encounter words such as knowledge and good sense. How do they differ from wisdom?

I realize the news media is flooding the air waves and our minds with the assassination attempt. It is a big deal and I don’t want to ignore it as though it doesn’t matter. I think it also takes time to process how close the bullet came to Donals Trump’s head and how close he came to being murdered and how that would have changed the political and cultural landscape. Turning at the last milli-second saved his life.  Even Trump said; “it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.”

Continuing with the topic of wisdom as portrayed in the book of Proverbs, we need to understand that true wisdom is God’s gift to us. Wisdom resides with God and He freely shares it as we seek Him and follow Him. It does not come from man’s intellect. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 3:18-19a, 20b Do not deceive yourselves. If any of you thinks that he is wise in this age, he must become foolish, so that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness in the sight of God… “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile. What wisdom we have comes from above.

If you are looking for a daily bible reading, one suggestion is to read one chapter of Proverbs a day and each month you will read the entire book. This daily reading can be incorporated into any other bible reading plan you are currently using.

Why would the bible tell us what sort of things to think about? Do we need ‘thought police?” In the mid-1960s Mao Zedong saw independent thought as the enemy of his Chinese revolution. Can’t we think what we want, after all our thoughts are secret and no one needs to know.

I’ve mentioned truth in past communiques, but today I want us to see it from an individual perspective, because truth is vital for a healthy emotional and consequently physical life. Pr. 23:7 As a (man) thinks within himself, so he is. This is saying our feelings, passions and behavior are subject to and conditioned by what we think, i.e., by what we believe to be true.

We are all born with God given talents and gifts including musicians (1 Samuel 16:18, 23; 1 Chronicles 23:5, 25:7), Artisans (1 Kings 5:8-9), hunter (Genesis 25:27), Jeweler Exodus 35:33), Engraver (Exodus 35:35), Sage (1 King 4:29-34), Athlete (Judges 13-16), Songwriter (Exodus 2:48), Civil Ruler (Genesis 41:41-42, Acts 18:26, Nehemiah 5:14, Daniel 2:48),

n a world that is saturated in negative news, people on one side of the moral and political spectrum vilifying their opponents’ beliefs and opinions, it becomes easier to be critical of our own thoughts and behavior or lack of. Where does that end; it doesn’t until we are defeated. It robs us of joy and peace not to mention truth.

King David, after his selfish blunder with another man’s wife, Bathsheba, comes under great conviction for his immoral action and

Some of you remember the difficulty organizing and rebuilding the church after it was set on fire July 3, 2000. Plans were needed, money financed, construction company secured and of course

Pilot Knob Lutheran          Peace                  5/8/2024 We hear a lot today about wars: Russia and Ukraine, Israel and Hamas, the potential war between China and

Pilot Knob Lutheran          Privacy?                  5/1/2024 America is losing her privacy through the advancement of technology. Technology makes it possible to ‘spy’ on individuals, collect

Considering recent events in Israel, Iran’s attack with missiles, drones and ballistic missiles, Psalm 83 comes to mind. It is a psalm of national lament in which the author, Asaph, prays for the LORD to intervene against her enemies.

We are entering the time of year known as tornado season. Tornadoes bring much damage, fear, and disrupt the normal routine of a heathy life. Even if a tornado doesn’t visit your town, severe storms can have similar results.

I want us to step into the shoes of another person and look at their world through their eyes. This unnamed individual has little or no religious education; there is no God, or at best one that is absent and unknown.  The world came into existence through blind chance as did all life. It has no purpose and history is simply repeating itself. Life consists of doing the best you can, doing what good you can for others and at the end of life you cease to exist.

God Is Merciful. Sometimes I forget, Lord, that You are merciful, offering pardon instead of just condemnation. Therefore the Lord is waiting to show you mercy, and is rising up to show you compassion, for the Lord is a just God. All who wait patiently for him are happy. (Isa. 30:18)

Last week we discovered the truth about a future resurrection in the Old Testament from the book of Job.
 
Today, as we approach Good Friday, is there anything in the Old Testament about Jesus (Messiah) being crucified? Yes.

In eleven days, we will be celebrating one of the most important Chrisitan holidays of the year, Easter. It is then that we read or hear the resurrection accounts in the four gospels and 1 Corinthians 15. Rarely if at all is the OT referenced, yet the OT refers a great deal to the Messina’s resurrection, suffering and crucifixion without recording the name of Jesus or the word cross.

Is there more to total forgiveness? Matthew 5:44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you. We are to pray and ask God to bless those who hurt us, and those who persecute us. This is truly the key that sets us free.

Continuing with how do we know if we truly forgave, we consider Joseph’s concern for his brothers, thus far unrepentant and continuing to lie. Genesis 45:2 (Joseph) wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him, and Pharaoh’s household heard about it. These are tears of compassion; remember he had been holding back his identity and now no longer could. The last thing he wanted to do was to have his brothers fear him.

Joseph, the man who had every reason to be bitter and angry was on God’s anvil shaping his character to be used later to serve the nation of Israel and alter the course of history.

Recently I was asked, “How can I tell if I have truly forgiven?” Good question! Forgiveness usually is not instant.

I would like to share a devotional that is very touching and encouraging written by, Julie Sunne, the daughter-in-law of Ruth Sunne. Julie has published a book due to come out in May of this year entitled: Sometimes I Forget.

When you read through the book of 1 Chronicles, near the end of the book you come to long lists of people King David put in charge regarding the temple his son Solomon would build. The author mentions the material resources collected, duties of Levites, priests, family leaders, musicians, division of gate keepers and so on. In other words, it makes for less than interesting reading, and we tend to skip past these chapters and go somewhere else and read.

The well-known author and atheist C.S. Lewis set out to disprove Christianity, like so many before him. Unlike many others he was willing to do his homework with diligence and determination only to discover that there truly is a God – the God of the bible and gave his life to Jesus Christ. As a result, Lewis became a rabid defender of the Christian faith. 

John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

You’ve probably met people who think they know it all. Perhaps we’ve fallen into that category at some point. We all know or should know that we do not know it all. Only God knows everything.

In light of last week’s communique, ‘New or Improved,’ I want to say, God does not create junk!! Therefore, there is no room for telling yourself or another they are worthless or no good. On the other hand, the choices made and lifestyle chosen can lead to a worthless or wasted life, but that does not mean you or someone is worthless.

I was wondering what to write about to begin a New Year and I thought of, “What’s New for the new year?” But that’s all the further it went. As time went on my thoughts turned to a topic most people wrestle with and in turn influences what is new for the new year. I would like us to consider thinking about a new or improved self-image, or self-esteem.

At the temple on the day of dedication was an elderly prophetess, Anna who prayed, fasted, and worshipped God for many years. She too was privileged to see the savior and hear the message of Simeon.

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matt 6:19-21

There is a second part to Simeon’s message. Luke 2:34-35 Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” These words indicate the type of life he will experience, one of rejection, hate, misunderstanding, and betrayal. Only after his resurrection will many understand and believe while others will grow in their rejection of his identity and ministry. As a parent you know how it feels when one of your children suffers at the hands of bullies or when they become sick. It hurts, and you would like to take away their pain or take it upon yourself rather than have them suffer. So, Jesus’ mother would experience great and many sorrows until Easter morning when her eyes would be opened and come to realize the true identity and mission of her first-born Son.

After the birth of the long-awaited Messiah, Mary and Joseph brought baby Jesus to the temple to be dedicated to God. This was a common practice for new parents as they were also offering the required sacrifice for purification.

How is it possible for some people, and we are all vulnerable, to receive an act or gift of kindness and still find some facet to complain about it. Well, it shows our true nature – selfish and sinful. It also tells us something about our times.

The season of the church year is the End Times. Prior to advent the focus is on the coming of the Messiah – the second and last time. There is a lot of talk about how the current Israeli war and newspaper headlines are reflecting the fulfillment of end time prophecy. We need to get our head out of current events that try to establish a biblical time-line. Paul reminds believers to encourage one another about the promise of Jesus’ return, not trying to map it out.

What we think and tell ourselves matter. Philippians 4:8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.  When it comes to worry, anxiety is lurking in the shadows. Anxiety is distress or uneasiness in our minds due to worry over a possible misfortune. It makes our heart race, palms sweat, and raises our blood pressure.

To say we are living in turbulent and uncertain times is an understatement. The eyes of the world are fixated on Israel’s war for survival against the satanic attack of Hamas and all its allies. We wonder if this will precipitate World War III, what will the United States, or should I say, the Divided States, do and so on. Also, on the minds of some people is whether this war leads to the “final war of Armageddon” spoken of in Revelation and elsewhere. The current world events can cause worry, panic, negative thinking, and despair. However, we must remind ourselves that Jesus told his disciples: You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed.

We all have relatives; immediate family and distant cousins. Immediate family we usually associate with more often. Our emotions also have relatives.  I’ve been writing about worry, and

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: “May those who love you be secure.”We are all shocked with the horrific brutality brought upon innocent Israeli citizens by terrorists who have no compassion, but only hate for Israel and America: Jews and Christians. Israel has had to deal with conflict, war,

We looked at the difference between worry and concern last week and saw that worry is always future oriented about ‘what-ifs’ that do not materialize 85% of the time. Concern on the other hand acknowledges the problem at hand and tries to come up with an action plan where possible. Which one makes more sense to funnel energy into? 

I mentioned last week we have the choice to worry over situations that are out of our control or we can be concerned about the unknown with the assurance that we are not alone.

It doesn’t take long to discover a universal emotion we all wrestle with from our earliest days on earth: worry. We worry because of life’s many uncertainties. There are times we all feel vulnerable and not in control. What does this lead to? Worry.

Does anyone know everything about you? Your spouse would be the one who comes closest, but everything? I doubt it. Sometimes we are afraid to let people know us completely. After all, if they knew our sinful, selfish, and corrupt side we may be rejected. We naturally reveal our best actions and intentions and not the one’s generated by our fallen nature.

Have you heard of the “Burning Man” before now? Hard not to with the recent flooding at Black Rock City. Heavy rains flooded the 400 square mile desert, stranding some 70k attendees who paid anywhere from $575 to over one thousand dollars for the week-long festival. It originated on June 21, 1986 in San Francisco on Baker Beach and has grown ever since.

It is interesting to note that Jesus’ first recorded miracle was changing water into wine at a wedding celebration. Jewish weddings were elaborate events with a great deal of excitement celebrating the promises and union of a man and a woman who pledge their lives to each other and promises to each other, and their faithfulness to God

Distress, we all experience it at some point in life and probably more than once. Distress is defined as; “Great pain, anxiety, or sorrow; acute physical or mental suffering.” It appears to be the norm now days with all that is happening in our government, economy, health system and international turmoil.

A Church goer wrote a letter to the editor of a newspaper and complained that it made no sense to go to church every Sunday.

He wrote: “I’ve gone for 30 years now, and in that time…

“What this world needs more of is love. If people would just be more loving. There is too much hate in our world, a little love would go a long way.” Do you hear comments like this? This begs the question, what is love? Is it giving someone your approval?

Is AI, artificial insemination, artificial intelligence, or a city in ancient Canaan? All three. The dangerous one is Artificial Intelligence. We use it to get directions on our smart phones, or when texting and words are suggested prior to typing them. Very helpful. However, in the minds of some, AI is capable of rewriting the bible, among other things.

Wouldn’t it be great to simply teach children the right things in life and know that they will adhere to them especially when they are on their own?

Proverbs 22:6 (NIV) “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” This is often taken as a fool proof way of keeping children in the Christian faith.

We know education is important for all ages, especially young children as they are developing their worldview, learning right from wrong and why. We also saw that the bible has a lot to say about teaching, training, learning and so on. All of us are teachers by communicating our values through how we live each day. We learn more by what is caught than by what is taught.  What we truly believe will show through our actions.

When the nation of Judah fell to King Nebuchadnezzar in 605 BC many of its citizens were deported to Babylon. Daniel was one such person at a young age. He and others were chosen due to several factors (1:3-4) to serve in the king’s palace. However, Daniel had to spend three years learning and studying the Babylonian language and culture.

“He who has ears, let him hear.” Have your ears been working this past week? We considered three types of soil not producing any yield. What farmer would plant that brand of seed again? He would probably try something different.

atthew 13:22 The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God’s word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced.

Last week we learned of seed falling on ground that was a hard pathway and it had no chance of growing as the devil came and removed the seed.

Last week we were introduced to ‘farming,’ that is, sowing the truth about God from the parable of the Sower where the seed fell on four types of soil, that is four conditions of the heart.

By the time you read this most if not all local farmers will have their fields planted. Whether planting corn or beans with an eight or twenty-four row planter the seeds are not wasted. They are perfectly spaced by depth and distance with technology that also provides analysis of soil and needed amenities, one is sure to yield a harvest this Fall.

Easter was not that long ago so we can remember that there was prophecy surrounding many of the events leading up to Jesus’ arrest, trial, death, resurrection, and ascension. In fact, some scholars count a total of 332 distinct predictions in the Old Testament which were literally fulfilled in Christ.

I make one assumption when writing communiques and that is; the bible is the very word of God from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21. It does not contain God’s word, it is God’s word without error in all it says and teaches. However, many do not hold to this assumption and we must ask, is the bible reliable? If not, put it in a museum and leave it there or better yet in the trash.

Over the past year or so I have visited with a man who was battling stage four cancer in three different organs. At times he was making good progress and was hopeful with chemo and surgery. However, while cancer in one area responded to treatment other areas of cancer did not. Finally, the decision was made after available treatments were exhausted to simply quit all treatment and let the cancer take its course. This is a scenario we hear of all too often.

Acts 8:29-31 The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.” Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked.“How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.

Illiteracy was wide spread in Europe centuries before Christians fled to America to escape persecution. Along with illiteracy the bible was not available in their language. Consequently, Christian leaders taught that the bible required both the state and church to rule its citizens with a heavy hand. The common citizen didn’t know what the bible taught and could not learn otherwise.

Revelation 7:9 After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.

The Sunday prior to Easter is Palm Sunday. That is the day Jesus proclaimed through his actions that he was the fulfillment of Old Testament Messianic prophecies and that he was indeed the long-awaited Messiah, the very Son of God.

In my chronological bible reading I’ve come to the book of Revelation and the letters to the seven churches. Revelation 2:1 “To the angel of the

Have you ever read this verse and thought, how can we stop sinning, is it even possible to stop? If it is not possible, John says we are not in Him and therefore lost. That is not very encouraging.

I ended last week’s message with the rhetorical question, are the natural and manmade disasters the worst that can happen, even war? As bad as they are as listed in Matthew 24, it is interesting that Jesus first says: Matthew 24:4a “Watch out that no one deceives you. Perhaps deception is

Isaiah was right when he said: Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter. Isaiah 5:20.

I’m taking a break from my miniseries on the snake in the grass to report some very good news if you haven’t heard, revival. Something many Christians have been praying for, for decades. How far will it reach, how long will it last, how will it change America and beyond no one knows , only time will tell.  What can we do? Pray that God would pour out his Spirit of revival on North Iowa colleges, universities, and churches. I know there will be skeptics and nay sayers, do not be one, pray for revival.  Read the few clips I copied and be encouraged. When God begins something no one can stop it.

Last week we discovered the antivenom for snake bites delivering the “sting of death.” It was the brass serpent lifted up on a pole. Like the ancient Hebrews we too have been stung with the ‘sting of death’ and it leads to eternal death if ignored or with improper treatment. The antivenom for sin is nothing but the blood of Jesus as he was lifted up on a cross and paid the price for our sin – death. Galatians 3:22 Scripture has locked up everything under the control of sin, so that what was promised, being given through faith in Jesus Christ, might be given to those who believe.  

Last week we looked at an epidemic of snake bites leaving many to die a slow and painful death. The Hebrews cried out to Moses for God to stop them, but He did not, instead He instructed Moses to do something. He was instructed to set up a pole, fashion a brass serpent and place it on the pole. The only thing required was for those who had gotten the sting of death were to look at it for the venom’s antidote. That’s it, look at the bronze snake on a pole and live! God was gracious by providing a simple physical healing and salvation from certain death. The only requirement was obedience to God’s word. Simple, right? I wonder how many obeyed. Perhaps some thought it was a joke or too simple. How would looking at a brass snake do anything?

When outside there is something we do not need to fear this time of the year. During the spring when the sun is warm, the snow has receded, the ground has thawed and life bursts forth after a long cold winter it is not uncommon when walking through the grass, flower bed or garden to see a legless reptile slithering away. For many the sight of a snake strikes fear and panic in their minds. Even though garter snakes are harmless, how might you respond to a dangerous snake such as a cobra, rattlesnake, copperhead, water moccasin or coral snake. Any of those would catch our attention.

Reputation: a favorable and publicly recognized name or standing for merit, achievement, or reliability. (Dictionary.com) A reputation is something that is established over time with consistency, but can be tarnished in no time flat.

What will it take for some people to believe that Jesus is God, the savior of the world; to believe he is the way, the truth, and the life?  Will it take a sign, an answered prayer, a vision, or a miracle? Would an unbeliever recognize a sign or a miracle; after all it could be a coincidence or luck. Perhaps the best sign and miracle of all would be someone rising from the dead.

We all know what it is to be hungry and thirsty. Our stomachs and mouths tell us when to eat and drink. We also know what happens when we do not eat or drink. People in third world countries experiencing starvation or malnutrition show signs of sickness, child development is hindered and many more problems often resulting in death.

Psalm 139:1-3 You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways

Christmas is over for another year, the gifts are still new, some toys broken and thoughts drifting toward a new year. How easy it is to move from two months of preparing for Christmas to leaving it behind and moving on. Was His birth a flash in the pan and now it is business as usual?

Matthew 2:10-11 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. The wise men are truly an enigma. Who were they, why did they come in search of a king, and why didn’t they know where to look? Were they truly wise and were there only three?

People die from the lack of oxygen. A severe drought can create a famine and people will die from the lack of food. We can live only so long without water and we will die from dehydration. These are obvious to us all. What may not be so obvious is that people die from the lack of hope. Hope is essential for life; without it all seems lost.

We are told as children that Santa knows if we are naughty or nice and that determines if we would receive Christmas presents. I guess, probably like you, that you were good each year because you received gifts. Well, I know better, I was not good most of the time especially as a teenager.

With the table spread with food, drinks, and dessert it should make us pause for thanks that we have so much with great variety. We can still go to the store and buy whatever is needed on short notice. With loaming food shortages and high fuel costs driving up food production and transportation costs we should have greater appreciation and not assume everything we want will always be at our finger tips. We have become increasingly aware of the long chain of events that take place from planting to our family table. It does not take much to disrupt the chain and cause shortages.

“The day of judgment is coming”: it may seem like a long wait for justice and we may be tempted to give up, but at the right time all who are not righteous, i.e., one who does not follow Jesus Christ will come into fiery judgment, burned up like straw, but not consumed. The final judgment does not eliminate the wicked so as not to exist. The fiery judgment will last for eternity, inflicting pain and suffering with no relief. Vs. 2 mentions roots and branches referring to the final end, no life, no rebirth, no second chance; like Roundup that kills the root, the unrighteous have no hope.

Sunday morning church is not simply worship, it is also spiritual preparation. Through worship, prayer, teaching, and assimilating God’s word we are drawn close to Him, and our confidence, and faith are strengthened. The more we learn the better equipped we are to understand local, national, and global events.

However, does the bible have anything to say about politics and government? Yes! Genesis 9:6 “Whoever sheds human blood, by humans shall their blood be shed for in the image of God has God made mankind.

I mentioned two weeks ago Jude 4 For certain men whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord. Nothing has changed in 2000 years; Satan continues to war against the truth and sends wolves in sheep’s clothing into churches to deceive and divide. The only variable is what part of the truth will come under attack.

If you’ve ever used a pressure cooker you know nothing happens inside as soon as the heat is turned on. However, it isn’t long before the heat builds giving way to a build up of pressure, enough to move the weight on top and relieve the pressure so it wouldn’t blow up; life’s circumstances can be that way. The ‘heat’ is what irritates or causes hardship. These can cause stress to build up within us and if we aren’t careful we can blow, or we can find ways to releave the pressure.

What is it that God wants from you? A perfect life? Devotion to your church? Giving half your money away? Becoming a missionary to Africa or Los Angeles? No!

What is the greatest commandment that fulfills all others? “Love the LORD you God with all your heart. . .” Genuine love is what fuels endurance, and perseverance; it’s what enables one to take risks, face difficulties and carry burdens. A true lover is willing to suffer for the one he loves, but an admirer may not be so willing. There are a lot of people in and out of church that are admirers of Jesus, but few who truly love Him with everything they have.

Tests were not my favorite thing in school or college. At times they were very difficult and required a lot of studying and hard work which in the end usually paid off. I was ‘happy as a lark’ when I finally received my degree and tests were a thing of the past, or so I thought.

We listen, we see and experience the evil and darkness intrude and usurp our freedom and destroy biblical principles that were the hallmark of our

Expectations abound! There are expectations at work, expectations in community organizations, expectations at home, school, sports and so on. There are times when we become

“I am not ashamed of the gospel.” Strange words coming from one who went out of his way to kill and imprison innocent Christians who

John2, 7-8, 11 Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water”; so they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, “Now draw some out and

I don’t’ know about you, but 2021 went by very fast and was filled with unpleasant changes. Will 2022 be any better? Only time will

What would you say if you were told the virgin birth is superstition, a leap of faith, evidence that conservative Christians are less intellectual and

In ten days, we will be celebrating the most significant holiday in history, the incarnation that gives hope to all. Most of us think we

                In societies like Israel, a woman’s value was largely measured by her ability to bear children. To be without children often resulted in

When God intervenes in earthly affairs, he almost always tells someone somehow what he is doing. (Perhaps always, I don’t know.) I do know that

Thanksgiving is a day dedicated to expressing appreciation. A holiday not about us, not about national achievements or victories, but focusing outside ourselves to the

You may be familiar with the TV series, Survivor; “a reality-competition featuring a group of contestants deliberately marooned in an isolated location, where they must

Two weeks ago, I talked about making lemon-aid out of life’s lemons; when unforeseen storms come out of nowhere, challenges we can’t prepare for blindside

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight You’ve

In any given day we get enough news and have enough experiences that are discouraging. Seldom do we hear good news concerning our society or

Last week we saw that we have a choice to worry or not to worry. 1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Cast means

I heard it said recently that two things are needed to bring about socialism to America: fear and free stuff from the government. Sounds like

Last week we saw that the Disciples ‘little faith’ was unable to carry out an exorcism, something Jesus gave them authority to do. (Mark 6:12).

“Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move

Numerous times Jesus touched people even when it would make him ceremonially unclean. He touched a man with leprosy and was healed Mt. 8:3. Jesus

Last week I mentioned that life involves change, and with that come events we didn’t ask for, that makes life difficult. While change is a

We have no idea what tomorrow will bring. We can only manage what comes today. We may plan for tomorrow only to have our plans

We view the state of the true, universal church and we see it neither giving in to darkness nor shrinking from it. In places of

At the start of Jesus’ ministry, He came to the Sea of Galilee and called Peter to become a “fisher of men.” It’s believed Jesus

When a child comes into this strange new world, he or she is completely dependent on the care of its parents. When a baby shows

You don’t need to be a home owner very long to realize that keeping it looking new requires routine maintenance and repairs. Many are small

A shepherd is in change, and has the responsibility of caring for the sheep that are entrusted to him. He must lead them to areas

This month we celebrate America’s birthday, July 4, 1776 with the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Early colonists came to this new world we

To be jealous according to Dictionary.com is to have resentment against someone. It also says, “troubled by suspicions or fears of rivalry, unfaithfulness.” It isn’t

            If you’re like most people, watching the news can make one angry and disgusted. When we hear about our nation’s leaders deliberately dismantling our

Genesis 1:31a God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.  This includes Adam and Eve as the first husband and wife. Their relationship

If you are middle aged or older you are witnessing the loss of the nation you knew and loved. The freedom to move about without

 5/26/2021 Luke 15:11-24 The prodigal son is someone who runs away or leaves the family and leads a wasteful and reckless life. In this parable the

John 15:9-14 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love,

All too often we hear that God is the eternal and final judge of all and that we will stand before Him on judgment day

Last week we saw that Isaiah invited everyone to come and drink to satisfy their thirst. Also, that it is important to drink the correct

Isaiah 55:1-3 “Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you who have no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without

Proverbs 8:1, 10-11, 27, 35-36 Vs. 1 Can’t you hear the voice of wisdom? She is standing at the city gates and at every fork

Easter has come, but is not gone. Every Sunday is to be a reminder of Easter, a celebration of life. The fact Jesus was raised

We must never forget or fail to celebrate Good Friday. From the world’s perspective how could anyone refer to it as ‘good’? God literally comes

Last week we looked at Jesus’ ride into Jerusalem on a donkey a day which we celebrate as Palm Sunday or the Triumphal Entry. Today

Next Sunday (March 28) we celebrate what has become known as “Palm Sunday.” It is also referred to as the Triumphal Entry. It’s when Jesus

James 4:7-8a  Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Come near to God and he will come near to

I don’t know if you enjoy walking or not but Barb and I do. We try and walk every day when it is nice from

Today we begin looking at the suffering God endured through His Son Jesus Christ for every human being. Suffering for doing something wrong is one

Lent, not lint begins February 17, with Ash Wednesday. Where did this practice come from and what is it for? It developed as part of

Last week we looked at formal worship and how important it is to come regularly and with the right attitude. Our primary purpose is to meet

Pr. Dr. Andrew Brunson planted churches in Turkey for twenty-three years before being falsely accused of being a spy and received a life sentence in

1/20/2021 Today is the beginning of a new administration that promises to bring radical change to America. For some time, this has caused turmoil in

A favorite Bible story for most children is David and Goliath. Here is a young shepherd boy, perhaps 12-14 years old ready and willing to

How intimidating it must have been for Joshua to wake up the morning he was to lead Israel into new territory, a land with fortified

12/30/2020 Our minds are filled with information, news and ideas all day long. Five days ago our thoughts were filled with thoughts of Christmas, the

As we read the gospels, Matthew – John, we will notice a great deal of symbolism regarding Jesus and His identity as the Messiah, the

The second advent reading for December 6, was Isaiah 40:3-5: A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the Lord make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every

We have entered the season of advent, four weeks before Christmas. Advent means a coming into place, view or being; arrival. So, what do we

There is a song we’ve sung for some time titled, “Give Thanks.” It simply says; “Give thanks with a grateful heart, give thanks unto the

At this time of the year and the state of the Union it would be beneficial to know what took place on September 25, 1789,

There is a resource that lists important people and their contributions to society, it’s called, Marquis Who’s Who and has been the standard since 1898. This

Last week we looked at the need to pray for all people and leaders whether they are Christian or heathen. Paul was writing during the

In four days, we will be electing a president who will preside over America for the next four years. Our Republic is at stake and

About 2620 years ago there was a voice calling a nation to wake up wondering how long he would have to look at sin, misery, destruction,

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust

The greatest commandment is to love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. That tops any list of how civilized

Galatians 4:7 So you are no longer a slave, but God’s child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir. If

1 Corinthians 6:19 Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You

What we believe about God and Christianity depends on our view of the Bible or what we believe about it. The Bible claims for itself

Thousands of years of recorded history lays out the trail of blood leading to a bloody cross upon which God in Jesus Christ died for

8/12/202 PKLC Communiqué Yom Kippur, the lambs blood that covered the sins of the Jewish nation went on for 800 years until an unbelievable announcement

September 27 of this year is an important religious holiday for Israel and Jews the world over. It is Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.

7/15/2020 We continue to follow the predicted trail of redemption through the Old Testament with the Hebrews living in Egypt and working as slaves, about

In three days, we turn our attention to celebrating the signing of the Declaration of Independence and our subsequent freedom. However, it began 284 years

6/24/2020 God’s plan to rescue the world from sin and death began with His announcement in Genesis 3:15, and the killing (sacrifice) of an animal

We may be familiar with what the New Testament says about Jesus and the cross, but what about Jesus and the cross in the Old

I don’t know about you, but have you been hearing people refer to America’s form of government as a democracy? I sure have especially from