Bill H.’s Journal

Thanks to the ones who set up this ministry, and this tool. Though much of it appears to be automated, yet it helps remind those of us who use it that Jesus is the One. That he came with the message of reconciliation. That he sent the spirit to live within the members of his church, so that they could be the salt and light of the world. So that we would follow this command, and the Love would be in the world. And the Love would grow and spread in the world.

This was tough. Like Phillip I am tempted to think I don't know. I was thinking there were two...Father and Jesus...I have seen Jesus, but can't recall separately seeing Father at a specific point in time...At some point two became one. I will believe what he says...Even if I can't recount the details of the revelation when two became one.

Humble yourself, and look after even the most menial needs of each other, putting aside your comfort for the comforting of others.

This darkness in their hearts has grown. First they miss the Messiah-ness of Jesus. Then they fear he is a threat to their control, and then to the state of Israel. So they plot to kill him, laying in wait many months. Now they must expand to destroy the evidence of his lordship by plotting to kill Lazarus. Was it not these dark hearts who ventured into the holy of holies in the temple for atonement each year while Jesus ministered on earth? How is this like the one who believes Jesus is their Savior and teacher, but not their Lord who dwells within, with their spirit; Periodically trying to exercise their own control over life, and adapting their ways to avoid the uncomfortable twinges of conscience he uses to shed light on their path. In Moses time it was a simple task, look on the lifted snake on a staff, and be saved. John keeps reminding the more complex we make it, the worse the results. Try to understand if you must, but turn to Jesus and believe that you are facing The One sent by God, to reconcile between the two of you. How is this like me?

2 views: his context is "...so that we can be with him up until his end, and be killed serving him, being loyal.";. Or, his context is "...so when I die I'll be able to be with him, not apart from him."

Not just Messiah/Christ for descendants of Abraham, but Shepherd of a new, larger flock. Who are these other sheep? Keep reading to see what is revealed about the extent and limits.

LORD, faced with no prophets but false prophets for hundreds of years, how would I not be sceptical also. To be watchful against false teachers who deceive and fool many as you foretold, will you have me recognize you when you are before me, or will I too be sceptical? Teach me to recognize you in the large crowd of imitators, but if not from taught knowledge then from any way you choose. Today, let me put my trust in you to have me recognize you clearly, as we live out life together, as you live out your life through others I may meet.

Not a permanent condition. Jesus offered (not this verse, but see many others) the opportunity to believe in him, and become adopted by God.

And there it is. Public pronouncement and offer to all. The chosen of God is among his people, and he will not exclude anyone who desires to learn the good news, that God is reconciling with those who turn to him and building his kingdom among his people. I thank Jesus for allowing me to turn, to be a turncoat abandoning my native people, laying down my arms as an enemy of God, and humbly submitting as his subject. Not to his cause, but to him as Lord, alive and daily deciding what glory he will bring the Father.

And there it is. Public pronouncement and offer to all. The chosen of God is among his people, and he will not exclude anyone who desires to learn the good news, that God is reconciling with those who turn to him and building his kingdom among his people. I thank Jesus for allowing me to turn, to be a turncoat abandoning my native people, laying down my arms as an enemy of God, and humbly submitting as his subject. Not to his cause, but to him as Lord, alive and daily deciding what glory he will bring the Father.