Daily Encouragement (03/31/10) "Many Seeds"

Daily Encouragement Net - A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.
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The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber A daily, Bible-based perspective of hope, encouragement and exhortation. Home · About Us ·· Podcast · Free email <Previous Message  ·  Archives  ·  Archive edition  Wednesday, March 31, 2010 Amish boys riding on cart behind pony Photo by Doris High Listen to this message on your audio player. "Many Seeds" "I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds" (John 12:24). Well, it's the spring season again when Brooksyne gets excited about planting. A couple of weeks ago I made my usual contribution to our family gardening by transporting her portable greenhouse from our barn attic to the dining room where we get a lot of sun from the many windows that align three sides of the room. The greenhouse is merely a light weight, four shelved cart on wheels enclosed by plastic. Plants are accessible by unzipping the two front zippers which also help control temperature and moisture build-up. She can also roll the cart outside depending on the weather conditions. Just over a week ago she planted her annuals and perennials in anticipation of transplanting them outside in several weeks when the threat of a frost has passed. For our area that can be from early to mid May. Each morning she enthusiastically takes a careful look and watches to see if any new seeds have burst through the soil in their tiny planter tray. Usually I'll hear a squeal of delight when another batch is springing up and occasionally she will insist that I come and take a look for myself. When I took the photograph this morning I noticed she even has my heavy duty flash light stashed in the corner. I guess she doesn't want to miss the slightest seed that might pop through since some of the new stems appear to be no thicker than a single hair. Presently the sunflower seeds she collected from our neighbor Marion are leading the pack and as the summer progresses they will produce beautiful large sunflowers in our yard yielding scores of seeds. In fact a single sunflower seed will produce a flower with some 2,000 seeds! Today we're going to consider a teaching Jesus gave regarding seeds. It's an intriguing teaching in John 12:20-36 following His Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. It begins with a request from some Greeks who were in the city to worship at the Feast. They came to Philip with this request. "Sir," they said, "we would like to see Jesus." For many years I had a small placard I attached to the pulpit with those same words, "Sir, we would see Jesus." It was visible as I stood before God's people and preached each Sunday and it served as a reminder that it was not me that people came to see, but it was Jesus whom I sought to solemnly represent. It is an extremely important truth for all ministers of the Gospel to keep in mind as they break forth the Word of Life. The text doesn't tell us whether these Greeks actually saw Jesus or if they were able to speak to Him. In fact they're not mentioned again in this passage. However I have wondered if one of these Greeks might have been Stephen who later had a leadership role in the early church and became the first Christian martyr recorded in Scripture. Instead it launches into a teaching in which Jesus begins, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified." He knew what was ahead for Him culminating with His sacrificial death on the cross in just several days. The next several verses He powerfully and solemnly speaks concerning His glorification. Today let's just consider the next verse: "I tell you the truth..." Jesus begins by saying something we can always be assured of when He speaks, yet prefacing a statement with these words will likely capture the listener's attention even more, as if to say ,"I'm going to go beyond the surface to tell you the deeper or underlying meaning unknown to others." "Unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed." Jesus frequently used illustrations from agriculture in His teaching ministry and, as far as I can tell, this is His last one recorded in Scripture. The cool spring planting season has already arrived in our area. Brooksyne planted lettuce, cilantro, spinach and sugar peas a couple weeks ago in our small garden. Farmers are preparing their fields, servicing their equipment, buying and planting seeds. The imprudent farmer could keep that seed, show it off to others, even remind himself of previous bountiful harvests, but its effectiveness would be nil as it would remain only a single seed. Instead, the productive farmer is interested in multiplication. He will place that seed in the ground and bury it. This is easily observed and indisputably true. In Lancaster County lots of corn is grown. During the planting season I've often observed the farmers as they sow the corn. A relatively small bin of seeds for each row is attached to the planter for each row as shown in the photo above. After the growing season at harvest time I also observe the combine as it works the same field. One large truck after another comes alongside the combine and soon the trucks are filled to overflowing with corn kernels (seeds). And so the law of dynamics is proven in Jesus' teaching, "But if it dies, it produces many seeds." So, too, Christ had to give Himself up. His death was needful in order that He might impart new life and everlasting hope to a lost and dying world. Jesus willingly died and God resurrected His body. So, too, our sinful nature must die so that God will resurrect our spiritual nature in Christ. As a result we will bear much fruit as we walk in the righteous ways of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Be encouraged today, Stephen & Brooksyne Weber Daily prayer:  Father, we thank You for Jesus who gave Himself as a ransom for many.   He could have possessed His heavenly glory alone, without stooping down to make Himself a servant being made in human likeness.  He could have entered heaven alone even after He took on the nature of man, by His own perfect righteousness without the agony of suffering or death, but then we could not have been saved.  The entire human race would have been lost.  We thank You, God, for Jesus who became obedient to death, even death on a cross.  As a result You lifted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name. It is through the obedience of Your Son, Jesus, that many are made righteous and we are forever grateful.  In Jesus name we give thanks.  Amen. Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources Click on the link to open and play. (In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.) Today I had a difficult time considering songs that directly relate to the message but these songs are related to themes in the overall context in today's passage.  John 12:20-35 "We Want To See Jesus Lifted High"  Video   "Be Glorified"  Video "Lord, I Lift Your Name On High"  Video "Word Of God Speak"  Video   "Shine, Jesus Shine"  Video "I'm Forever Grateful"  Video "The Bridge"  Video  This powerful dramatic video illustrates the sacrifice God made in allowing His Son to die for our sins. Today's top photo of the Amish boys riding in a cart behind a pony was taken by our friend Doris High. This is from a collection of photos taken at an Amish Mud Sale. Major Events of the Passion Week Here's an interesting chart from a Study Bible that may be helpful as you study the Bible this week. It sure helps me to have a sense of when the events took place and is inspiring to read these Scriptures in the daily sequence leading up to Easter. The four gospels cover the life of Christ, a period of about 33 years. But most of this material deals with just the 3½ year period of His earthly ministry.  However, an astounding 30 of the 89 accumulative chapters in the gospels cover the period beginning with Christ's triumphal entry through His resurrection and post-resurrection appearances.  Mathematically this means that approximately 33% of the written material in the Gospels deals with a mere .05% period of His life!  In the providence of God we have a much greater proportion of Scriptural revelation dealing with God's greatest act of mercy in providing our redemption. Sunday       Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem: Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-10; Luke 19:29-40; John 12:12-19 Monday       Jesus Clears the Temple: Matthew 21:12,13; Mark 11:15-17; Luke 19:45,46 Tuesday/Wednesday                    Jesus' authority challenged in the temple: Matthew 21:23-27; Mark 11:27-33; Luke 20:1-8 Jesus teaches stories and confronts the Jewish leaders: Matthew 21:28-23:36; Mark 12:1-40; Luke 20:9-47    Greeks ask to see Jesus: John 12:20-26 The Olivet Discourse: Matthew 24; Mark 13; Luke 21:5-38 Judas agrees to betray Jesus: Matthew 26:14-16; Mark 14:10,11; Luke 22:3-6 Thursday The Last Supper: Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-20 Jesus speaks to the disciples in the upper room:  John 13-17 Jesus struggles in Garden of Gethsemane: Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46; John 18:1 Jesus is betrayed and arrested: Matthew 26:47-56; Mark 14:43-52; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:2-12 Friday Jesus is tried by Jewish and Roman authorities and disowned by Peter: Matthew 26:57-27:2, 11-31; Mark 14:53-15:20; Luke 22:54-23:25; John 18:13-19:16 Jesus is crucified and buried: Matthew 27:31-56; Mark 15:20-41; Luke 23:26-49; John 19:17-30 Sunday The glorious resurrection: Matthew 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18 (This material is developed from an outline in the Life Application Bible) Finally today:  Doggie dentures? This video has nothing to do with today's message and neither is it spiritually-related but it sure is funny! Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!" Personal Ministry Update Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. Would you please consider a financial offering to support us in this daily encouragement ministry? Donations are tax deductible and will be receipted directly by my chaplaincy endorsing ministry. Thanks!  See here for details. 2010 YTD financial offerings as of 3/30/10 $2,783.00 SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION Were you forwarded this edition of Daily Encouragement Net?  If you desire you can receive your own free! To receive these "Daily Encouragement" devotionals each Monday-Friday through email see this page to subscribe. This newsletter is never sent unsolicited. It was sent to you because you either signed up to receive it OR a friend forwarded it to you. You can also subscribe to the rss feed. or as an email subscription update through feedburner. You can also subscribe to Daily Encouragement feed updates by email. Cancel: We respect and value your time and privacy. If these messages no longer meet your needs (providing encouragement) you can remove your address by merely use the link automatically inserted by the mailing list software at the very bottom of each email message. (To change addresses cancel your old address and then join again using your new address.) Weekly Version: The weekly version is intended for those who may not check their email regularly. It is merely the Friday message with a link to previous messages. To receive the free weekly version, send a blank email to this address. Please feel free to pass these messages on! Our other blogs: "A Daily Prayer" - A blog simply posting the daily prayer. We keep this up each day since it's merely the prayer from the Daily Encouragement Net message! "A Little Foolishness" - Humor/satire blog (a great outlet for non-serious writing but at times with a subtle message!) Last updated with the story of Mildred Swanson, who joyfully discovers her "spiritual gift" is sending forwarded emails! (Note: This material is satire!) "Clear Minded" - Longer, periodic articles on specific issues impacting the faithful believer and church. (Actually this is my intent but I haven't done much with it!) "Hymns of Hope" - Brooksyne along with two friends made a CD using classic hymns. Brooksyne tells the background story of the 11 hymns. All of these songs are also available for download on the site. Daily Encouragement Net is an affiliate of Christianbook.com. Any orders placed to Christian Book Distributers using this link or any specific product link to a recommended resource in a daily encouragement message will help our Daily Encouragement ministry through a small commission on the sale. Thank you for using these links when purchasing online through CBD! Personal Mission Statement "I am created by God to bring Him glory. Through God's Son Jesus Christ I have been redeemed and I make it my life's goal to please the Lord. My mission in life is to honor God through my faith and obedience and to prepare myself and all whom I may influence for eternity." How to become a child of God Scripture references are from The Holy Bible: New International Version. © 1984 by International Bible Society; NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, New King James Version (NKJV) Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. and the King James Version. © Copyright 2010 Stephen C. Weber - All Rights Reserved Daily Encouragement Net Stephen & Brooksyne Weber 495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552 Contact us Endorsed chaplain "Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation" www.dailyencouragement.net

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Daily Encouragement (03/30/10) "The Nails"

Daily Encouragement Net - A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.
Trouble reading this message?  Read online or see archives

The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber A daily, Bible-based perspective of hope, encouragement and exhortation. Home · About Us ·· Podcast · Free email <Previous Message  ·  Archives  ·  Archive edition  Tuesday, March 30, 2010 And I love that old cross where the dearest and best for a world of lost sinners was slain! Listen to this message on your audio player. "The Nails" "This man was handed over to you by God's set purpose and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross"  (Acts 2:23). The Tremont Nail Company in Wareham, Massachusetts, is the oldest continuously operating nail manufacturer in the United States, making nails since the early 1800's and they're still stamping them out! When I lived in New England I would periodically drive by the Company and, although they didn’t have plant tours, I recall curiously looking through the windows to watch.  The nails they manufacture are not the round kind we typically see, but square, peg-like.  At the little country gift store across the street I bought three of the longest ones I could find.  I still have them though I misplaced one. Holding these nails, rubbing my fingers across their coarse surface, and considering their lethal purpose in Christ's crucifixion illustrates more vividly the price Jesus paid for our redemption. King David provided "a large amount of iron to make nails for the doors of the gateways and for the fittings" of the Temple (I Chronicles 22:3). Until the end of the 18th century, they were made by hand; an artisan known as a Nailer providing them with a head and point. We have no photographs nor are details given regarding the nails that affixed our Savior to the cross, but they were likely iron spikes five to seven inches long.  In the daily text the action of nailing our Lord to the cross is taken from the Greek word "prospegnumi” and literally means “to impale.” Did you notice that the English word "peg" is in the middle of the Greek word?  How indescribably horrible this form of death was. To partially identify with the humanity of Christ, perhaps in a rather basic way, I recall getting splinters in my hands and feet when I played outdoors as a child.  I dreaded telling my mom, for I knew she would want to dig it out and it would be a painful process.  But if she could find a needle with a very sharpened small point the pain was less than a needle with a large point.  To this day if I have a splinter I will carefully select a sharp pointed needle to lessen the pain of the piercing required for the needle to prick my skin. Certainly Christ felt the physical agony of those long, thick, spikes driven into His hands and feet, in addition to the other horrible wounds He received.  But surely He also felt another type of pain or “nail” as He hung on that Cross for our sins. 1. The nail of blasphemy:  This was demonstrated by the soldiers, the thieves crucified beside Him, the religious officials and the onlookers as recorded in Matthew 27:27-44. They mocked and hurled insults at Him, blaspheming the very One who willingly laid down His life for their sins.  The opposite of blasphemy is worship and we are called to worship the Lord John 4:23-24. 2. The nail of rejection: This was demonstrated by the “other” unrepentant crucified criminal who hung on a cross beside Christ as recorded in Luke 23:39. He rejected Christ to his dying breath.  The opposite of rejection is acceptance as taught in John 1:12. 3. The nail of denial: This was demonstrated by Peter and is recorded in Mark 14:66-72  The opposite of denial is confession and we are called to confess with our mouth that, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in our heart that God raised Him from the dead. Romans 10:8-10 4. The nail of indifference: This was demonstrated by the soldiers playing games at the foot of the Cross as recorded in John 19:23-24.  The opposite of indifference is attentiveness and this is taught in Hebrews 12:1-3. 5. The nail of unbelief: This was demonstrated by so many: those who stood watching from a distance; those who participated in the sordid events leading up to the crucifixion; those who carried out the crucifixion and  this unbelief was most famously initially  exemplified by the disciple, Thomas, in John 20:25.  The opposite of unbelief of course is belief and as Christ reached out to Thomas he fully believed, declaring, "My Lord and my God!" as recorded in John 20:27-29. Tragically, the majority of people continue to respond to the claims of Christ either by blasphemy, rejection, denial, indifference or unbelief.  But we who look upon and embrace Jesus' nail-pierced hands respond by crying out with Thomas:  "My Lord and my God." We give thanks for those nails knowing that He was pierced for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities.  Surely He bore our sorrows and by His stripes we are healed. Be encouraged today, Stephen & Brooksyne Weber Daily prayer: Father, we know that Jesus of Nazareth was the Son of man ordained by You for a miraculous birth, along with many signs and wonders that You performed through Him. He was handed over to wicked men and gruesomely crucified by the nails that bore Him to the cross.  This was done by Your set purpose and in Your foreknowedge.  But God, You raised Him from the dead, freeing Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keeps its hold on Him.  And now He is exalted to Your right hand making intercession for us. "What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss to bear the dreadful curse for my soul!" (Prayer based on Acts 2) Yesterday we received two photos that brought back some great memories that we would like to share.  (A number of our readers are familiar with some of those photographed.) Yesterday my sister Genelle and her husband Cesar, who reside in North Carolina, celebrated their 30th wedding aniversary. Genelle posted this wedding photo to her Facebook page. Brooksyne and I are to the right in the photo, which was taken when we were in our mid-twenties.  I wonder if I was trying to do my hair like a favorite musician at that time, Keith Green?  Brooksyne looks about the same (to me anyway) and we had Chrissie (in front of my mom) who was our foster child.   Chrissie still stays in touch and will probably see this photo. Here's a photo of her comforting our dog Enoch who had just had a losing tussle with a porcupine. Do you notice he doesn't look very happy? I had to remove the quills with needle-nosed pliers and he sure didn't like that! But as I recall this happened several times.  Yesterday we also heard from Marvin, a Guatamalan friend, who stayed with us as a little boy when he was in the states for medical care over twenty years ago. He sent us a bunch of photos of his family at the zoo and is pictured here with his parents and son.  We had dinner in their home in Guatemala over twenty years ago and they treated us with such warmth and kindness expressing gratefulness for the medical care provided for their son from St. Vincent Hospital in Erie, Pennsylvania. Here's a photo with Marvin's wife and son looking at a really large Ostrich! Here is a photo taken about twenty years ago when Marvin was living with us. He is with with two sisters, Shawna and Sharon, who were in the church we served at that time in northern Pennsylvania. A fond memory we have of Marvin was how proud he was to wear his tie to church. In fact he liked it so much he often wore it at home. He comes from a devout Christian family. Here's a newspaper article about Marvin when he was treated in Erie, Pennsylvania you might find interesting.  Marvin1,  Marvin2 Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources Click on the link to open and play. (In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.) "He Was Nailed To The Cross For Me"  Video  Actually I was looking for an older hymn by this title but instead found this song. Steve Holder and Anointed Praise. "Playing Games At The Foot Of The Cross"  Video  This song especially goes with the point concerning indifference in our message. You've heard the story many times before, How the soldiers gambled for the robe of the Lord. Their laughter drowning out the Saviour's cry. "Father, forgive them," as He bows His head and dies. Chorus: And they were playing games at the foot of the cross, So close to His struggle, yet so far from the cost. Never feeling the shame and never sensing the loss, They were playing games at the foot of the cross. Verse 2: We're so quick to judge them yet so slow to see How their games resemble ones played by you and me. As we fight for position in the church of God While the world goes on dying without the Saviour's love. "Jesus At The Cross"  Video   "The Thief On The Cross"  Video  A song written from the perspective of the repentant thief.   Third Day "The Bridge"  Video  This powerful dramatic video illustrates the sacrifice God made in allowing His Son to die for our sins. Major Events of the Passion Week Here's an interesting chart from a Study Bible that may be helpful as you study the Bible this week. It sure helps me to have a sense of when the events took place and is inspiring to read these Scriptures in the daily sequence leading up to Easter. The four gospels cover the life of Christ, a period of about 33 years. But most of this material deals with just the 3½ year period of His earthly ministry.  However, an astounding 30 of the 89 accumulative chapters in the gospels cover the period beginning with Christ's triumphal entry through His resurrection and post-resurrection appearances.  Mathematically this means that approximately 33% of the written material in the Gospels deals with a mere .05% period of His life!  In the providence of God we have a much greater proportion of Scriptural revelation dealing with God's greatest act of mercy in providing our redemption. Sunday       Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem: Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-10; Luke 19:29-40; John 12:12-19 Monday       Jesus Clears the Temple: Matthew 21:12,13; Mark 11:15-17; Luke 19:45,46 Tuesday/Wednesday                    Jesus' authority challenged in the temple: Matthew 21:23-27; Mark 11:27-33; Luke 20:1-8 Jesus teaches stories and confronts the Jewish leaders: Matthew 21:28-23:36; Mark 12:1-40; Luke 20:9-47    Greeks ask to see Jesus: John 12:20-26 The Olivet Discourse: Matthew 24; Mark 13; Luke 21:5-38 Judas agrees to betray Jesus: Matthew 26:14-16; Mark 14:10,11; Luke 22:3-6 Thursday The Last Supper: Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-20 Jesus speaks to the disciples in the upper room:  John 13-17 Jesus struggles in Garden of Gethsemane: Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46; John 18:1 Jesus is betrayed and arrested: Matthew 26:47-56; Mark 14:43-52; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:2-12 Friday Jesus is tried by Jewish and Roman authorities and disowned by Peter: Matthew 26:57-27:2, 11-31; Mark 14:53-15:20; Luke 22:54-23:25; John 18:13-19:16 Jesus is crucified and buried: Matthew 27:31-56; Mark 15:20-41; Luke 23:26-49; John 19:17-30 Sunday The glorious resurrection: Matthew 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18 (This material is developed from an outline in the Life Application Bible) Finally today, for the chronically inquisitive here is some information about the Tremont Nail Company mentioned in today's message. Send a message to Stephen & Brooksyne

"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!" Personal Ministry Update Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. Would you please consider a financial offering to support us in this daily encouragement ministry? Donations are tax deductible and will be receipted directly by my chaplaincy endorsing ministry. Thanks!  See here for details. 2010 YTD financial offerings as of 3/29/10 $2,783.00 SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION Were you forwarded this edition of Daily Encouragement Net?  If you desire you can receive your own free! To receive these "Daily Encouragement" devotionals each Monday-Friday through email see this page to subscribe. This newsletter is never sent unsolicited. It was sent to you because you either signed up to receive it OR a friend forwarded it to you. You can also subscribe to the rss feed. or as an email subscription update through feedburner. You can also subscribe to Daily Encouragement feed updates by email. Cancel: We respect and value your time and privacy. If these messages no longer meet your needs (providing encouragement) you can remove your address by merely use the link automatically inserted by the mailing list software at the very bottom of each email message. (To change addresses cancel your old address and then join again using your new address.) Weekly Version: The weekly version is intended for those who may not check their email regularly. It is merely the Friday message with a link to previous messages. To receive the free weekly version, send a blank email to this address. Please feel free to pass these messages on! Our other blogs: "A Daily Prayer" - A blog simply posting the daily prayer. We keep this up each day since it's merely the prayer from the Daily Encouragement Net message! "A Little Foolishness" - Humor/satire blog (a great outlet for non-serious writing but at times with a subtle message!) Last updated with the story of Mildred Swanson, who joyfully discovers her "spiritual gift" is sending forwarded emails! (Note: This material is satire!) "Clear Minded" - Longer, periodic articles on specific issues impacting the faithful believer and church. (Actually this is my intent but I haven't done much with it!) "Hymns of Hope" - Brooksyne along with two friends made a CD using classic hymns. Brooksyne tells the background story of the 11 hymns. All of these songs are also available for download on the site. Daily Encouragement Net is an affiliate of Christianbook.com. Any orders placed to Christian Book Distributers using this link or any specific product link to a recommended resource in a daily encouragement message will help our Daily Encouragement ministry through a small commission on the sale. Thank you for using these links when purchasing online through CBD! Personal Mission Statement "I am created by God to bring Him glory. Through God's Son Jesus Christ I have been redeemed and I make it my life's goal to please the Lord. My mission in life is to honor God through my faith and obedience and to prepare myself and all whom I may influence for eternity." How to become a child of God Scripture references are from The Holy Bible: New International Version. © 1984 by International Bible Society; NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, New King James Version (NKJV) Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. and the King James Version. © Copyright 2010 Stephen C. Weber - All Rights Reserved Daily Encouragement Net Stephen & Brooksyne Weber 495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552 Contact us Endorsed chaplain "Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation" www.dailyencouragement.net

Daily Encouragement is issued Monday-Friday.  To make sure you continue to receive these e-mails in your Inbox (so they're not sent to a junk folder), please add scweber@dailyencouragement.net to your address book or safe sender list. You are receiving these recurring messages as a subscriber to Daily Encouragement Net because you signed up on our website or otherwise requested it unless someone forwarded the message to you. If you desire to unsubscribe use the link below.  However, please do not use this link unless your address is the subscribed address below as you will otherwise unsubscribe the person who forwarded it to you!

 

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Daily Encouragement (03/29/10) "The Triumphal Entry"

Daily Encouragement Net - A daily, Bible-based message of hope and encouragement.
Trouble reading this message?  Read online or see archives

The online Bible teaching ministry of Stephen & Brooksyne Weber A daily, Bible-based perspective of hope, encouragement and exhortation. Home · About Us ·· Podcast · Free email <Previous Message  ·  Archives  ·  Archive edition  Monday, March 29, 2010 Spring Sunrise Listen to this message on your audio player. "The Triumphal Entry" "As the time approached for Him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem" (Luke 9:51).  "Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart" (Hebrews 12:3). Yesterday we observed Palm Sunday when Jesus entered Jerusalem riding on the colt of a donkey in fulfillment of the prophecy mentioned in Zechariah 9:9. He was lauded with glory, honor and praise from the crowd of onlookers. "Hosanna!" they cried out; a cry for salvation and declaration of praise.  This was the beginning of the final days that led up to His crucifixion.   When we lived in New England several times we went to Boston during the Boston Marathon held every year in April. One year we went to observe and cheer the runners on at what is probably the most famous slope in all competitive running, known as "Heartbreak Hill".  This hill isn't particularly steep but comes at a psychologically difficult time during the 26+ mile marathon.  The gentle grade wears at the weary runners as they are about 2/3 of the way toward the finish line at this point. Crowds are huge and the voluminous cheering of spectators gives impetus for the runners to endure the long stretch ahead.   Heartbreak Hill in the the Boston Marathon A spiritual "heartbreak hill" is an experience that virtually all believers will encounter in life.  In fact there will likely be several heartbreak hills in one's lifetime.   Perhaps some of our readers are wearily treading an extended uphill grade right now. Paul describes a "heartbreak hill" in his life as being,  "hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed" (2 Corinthians 4:8). Let's consider the definitive "heartbreak hill" that Jesus endured. Luke's narrative gives us a glimpse of His deep resolve to fulfill His Father's mission, "As the time approached for Him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem."   Of course before Jesus was taken up into heaven He, once for all, made the final blood sacrifice by the shedding of His own blood.  That sacrifice would take place through Jerusalem. We will see this resolution most powerfully demonstrated through the events that unfold this Passion week. Just prior to the Triumphal Entry we read in Luke 19:28, "He went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem."  The phrase "going up" is very purposeful, translating the Greek "anabaino"; the same word used when Zacchaeus "climbed" the sycamore tree.  The King James Version translates it "ascending".  This was our Savior's greatest "heartbreak hill" but certainly not in relationship to the elevation difference or the physical exertion.  Luke reveals the spiritual heartbreak of Jesus in the following statement, "As He approached Jerusalem and saw the city, He wept over it" (19:41). His heart was broken for the lost! The hymnwriter describes it this way: "Did e'er such love and sorrow meet, or thorns compose so rich a crown?" Today my word of encouragement to my fellow runners, some who are presently treading up Heartbreak Hill: "Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart" (Hebrews 12:3). Why is Christ's entry into Jerusalem referred to as the Triumphal Entry when Scripture reveals that over the next few days anguish, sorrow, and death would overshadow any potential victory? Because, in the midst of the evil and cruelty that is about to unfold, God's plan to provide salvation for humankind was not thwarted, but divinely fulfilled.  Christ's triumphal entry was truly triumphant because He came into Jerusalem: •    As a victor not a victim.  •    To fulfill the ultimate plan of God. •    To demonstrate the full extent of His love. Jesus knew that the time had come for Him to leave this world. He had fulfilled His Father's purpose and was Victor over sin.  He loved His own, and in His act of great sacrifice, He showed us the full extent of His love.  Today, let us joyfully live for Him who willingly died for us! Be encouraged today, Stephen & Brooksyne Weber Daily prayer:  Father, our hearts are deeply stirred as we consider the extent of Your love in sending Jesus to die for our sins.  As He wept over Jerusalem we see His tender humanity in relation to our sin problem.  How grateful we are that Jesus yielded Himself fully to be used as a sin sacrifice, once for all, not just for Jerusalem but for peoples of every tribe and language; for all generations prior to His sacrificial death and for all who follow.  Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!  Amen. Some photos of our trip to Chicago last week. When we arrived at our hotel near Chicago I found that it was a short distance from the headquarters of Weber Grill, which of course I find interesting, although there is no relation!  Frankly it really wasn't very impressive! However I found that a short distance away they had a Weber Grill Restaurant and that sounded like a place I would like to eat, especially since they had barbecue! They grill inside on real charcoal on these large kettle grills  and you can watch them cook your meal! Ester watched them grill her hamburger. Here's a photo of Ester ready to bite into her Weber Classic Hamburger.  Does that look like an eye appealing advertisement for a great looking burger!! We went to the Chicago area to attend the viewing and service for our friend Jesse Dourte's older sister Grace.   Here's a photo of Jesse and his wife Wilma along with two great nieces and their husbands. The family was very pleased to see their Uncle Jesse and Aunt Wilma! Ester and I attended the viewing and service. It was a very inspirational time.  Her family posted a beautiful website as an online tribute. It was one of the most inspiring and well-organized services I have ever attended. It was uplifting even though we had never met Grace. We are aware that some of our readers did know her and will appreciate watching the video of the service.  However even for those who didn't know her this service just may be a blessing as well! Due to our trip we did not post daily encouragement messages on Thursday, March 25 or Friday, March 26. Today's Suggested Music and Supplemental Resources Click on the link to open and play. (In some cases you may also need to click again to start the song.) "The Bridge"  Video  This powerful dramatic video illustrates the sacrifice God made in allowing His Son to die for our sins. "Lamb Of God"  Video  Twila Paris "All Glory, Laud and Honor"  Video  Piano Instrumental "Hosanna, Loud Hosanna"  Video "Hallelujah, What Savior!"  Video  Includes a powerful clip of Martin Luther. "Loud Hosannas"  Video  David Wyper "When It's All Been Said And Done"  Video   Robin Mark, singer and writer.  A musician at Grace's funeral service sang this song prior to the service Friday.  The words continue to repeat in my mind as it says so much about living one's life to the glory of God, staying above the fray of this world. Major Events of the Passion Week Here's an interesting chart from a Study Bible that may be helpful as you study the Bible this week. It sure helps me to have a sense of when the events took place and is inspiring to read these Scriptures in the daily sequence leading up to Easter. Sunday       Triumphant Entry into Jerusalem: Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-10; Luke 19:29-40; John 12:12-19 Monday       Jesus Clears the Temple: Matthew 21:12,13; Mark 11:15-17; Luke 19:45,46 Tuesday/Wednesday                    Jesus' authority challenged in the temple: Matthew 21:23-27; Mark 11:27-33; Luke 20:1-8 Jesus teaches stories and confronts the Jewish leaders: Matthew 21:28-23:36; Mark 12:1-40; Luke 20:9-47    Greeks ask to see Jesus: John 12:20-26 The Olivet Discourse: Matthew 24; Mark 13; Luke 21:5-38 Judas agrees to betray Jesus: Matthew 26:14-16; Mark 14:10,11; Luke 22:3-6 Thursday The Last Supper: Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-20 Jesus speaks to the disciples in the upper room:  John 13-17 Jesus struggles in Garden of Gethsemane: Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46; John 18:1 Jesus is betrayed and arrested: Matthew 26:47-56; Mark 14:43-52; Luke 22:47-53; John 18:2-12 Friday Jesus is tried by Jewish and Roman authorities and disowned by Peter: Matthew 26:57-27:2, 11-31; Mark 14:53-15:20; Luke 22:54-23:25; John 18:13-19:16 Jesus is crucified and buried: Matthew 27:31-56; Mark 15:20-41; Luke 23:26-49; John 19:17-30 Sunday The glorious resurrection: Matthew 28:1-10; Mark 16:1-11; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18 (This material is developed from an outline in the Life Application Bible) Finally today: When we were out of town our friends Jim and Dorothy Schmidt from New Jersey visited our area.  They visited Jesse and Anna Ruth, our Amish friends, and Jesse apparently put Jim to work pulling the manure spreader (he was a willing volunteer, I'm sure, knowing Jim).  I suppose that's an experience very few of our readers have had or have listed on their "Must Do" list! 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"We want to encourage you daily in your walk with Christ!" Personal Ministry Update Each weekday morning Brooksyne and I prepare these messages and distribute them at no cost to you and many others all over the world. Would you please consider a financial offering to support us in this daily encouragement ministry? Donations are tax deductible and will be receipted directly by my chaplaincy endorsing ministry. Thanks!  See here for details. 2010 YTD financial offerings as of 3/28/10 $2,513.00 SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION Were you forwarded this edition of Daily Encouragement Net?  If you desire you can receive your own free! To receive these "Daily Encouragement" devotionals each Monday-Friday through email see this page to subscribe. This newsletter is never sent unsolicited. It was sent to you because you either signed up to receive it OR a friend forwarded it to you. You can also subscribe to the rss feed. or as an email subscription update through feedburner. You can also subscribe to Daily Encouragement feed updates by email. Cancel: We respect and value your time and privacy. If these messages no longer meet your needs (providing encouragement) you can remove your address by merely use the link automatically inserted by the mailing list software at the very bottom of each email message. (To change addresses cancel your old address and then join again using your new address.) Weekly Version: The weekly version is intended for those who may not check their email regularly. It is merely the Friday message with a link to previous messages. To receive the free weekly version, send a blank email to this address. Please feel free to pass these messages on! Our other blogs: "A Daily Prayer" - A blog simply posting the daily prayer. We keep this up each day since it's merely the prayer from the Daily Encouragement Net message! "A Little Foolishness" - Humor/satire blog (a great outlet for non-serious writing but at times with a subtle message!) Last updated with the story of Mildred Swanson, who joyfully discovers her "spiritual gift" is sending forwarded emails! (Note: This material is satire!) "Clear Minded" - Longer, periodic articles on specific issues impacting the faithful believer and church. (Actually this is my intent but I haven't done much with it!) "Hymns of Hope" - Brooksyne along with two friends made a CD using classic hymns. Brooksyne tells the background story of the 11 hymns. All of these songs are also available for download on the site. Daily Encouragement Net is an affiliate of Christianbook.com. Any orders placed to Christian Book Distributers using this link or any specific product link to a recommended resource in a daily encouragement message will help our Daily Encouragement ministry through a small commission on the sale. Thank you for using these links when purchasing online through CBD! Personal Mission Statement "I am created by God to bring Him glory. Through God's Son Jesus Christ I have been redeemed and I make it my life's goal to please the Lord. My mission in life is to honor God through my faith and obedience and to prepare myself and all whom I may influence for eternity." How to become a child of God Scripture references are from The Holy Bible: New International Version. © 1984 by International Bible Society; NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE®, Copyright © 1995 by The Lockman Foundation, New King James Version (NKJV) Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. and the King James Version. © Copyright 2010 Stephen C. Weber - All Rights Reserved Daily Encouragement Net Stephen & Brooksyne Weber 495 Kraybill Church Road - Mount Joy, PA 17552 Contact us Endorsed chaplain "Living securely today anchored in God's solid foundation" www.dailyencouragement.net

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