In Matthew 5:12, Jesus gives instruction for those who are hated, insulted, and rejected because they follow His example. His instructions may be difficult to understand because they run so counter to our natural emotions when we face such attacks. But Jesus is actually serious. This what He said: “Rejoice and be glad, because greatContinue reading “It’s Friday…Jump for Joy”
Tag Archives: Jesus
It’s Friday…But Motivation Is The Key
It is Memorial Day weekend in America. As Americans, we are reminded of those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to defend our liberty and freedom. True sacrifice doesn’t happen without significant cost. I am truly grateful to those who gave their all so that we may live in peace. This weekend also reminds me ofContinue reading “It’s Friday…But Motivation Is The Key”
It’s Friday…Be Single Minded
Mission statements abound in this world. Few institutions or people who have them, however, really live up to them. They are ideals to strive for. Jesus had a mission statement: “I have brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave me to do.” (John 17:4) His declaration has become reality. He livedContinue reading “It’s Friday…Be Single Minded”
It’s Friday…Exactly Where He Wants Us
Do you ever get the impression that when something is impossible for us but necessary or fruitful for God’s Kingdom, He steps in and helps us out, perhaps a little reluctantly? Almost like He becomes our “God in the gaps” – He makes up the difference when we just don’t have the strength? But inContinue reading “It’s Friday…Exactly Where He Wants Us”
It’s Friday…Become One of Them
The greatest commandment of all, said Jesus, is to love God with everything we are and everything we have. We are to have a passion for The Almighty that exceeds all our other passions. It’s what we were created for. But in the context of fallen humanity Jesus lays down a principle about our love.Continue reading “It’s Friday…Become One of Them”
It’s Friday…What An Exchange!
It’s Good Friday. The death of Jesus is for anyone who believes His sacrifice is everything we need for the forgiveness of our sins. When Jesus was crucified, we and all of our sin died with Him on the cross. He willingly suffered the penalty of our rebellion and paid the price for our pardon.Continue reading “It’s Friday…What An Exchange!”
It’s Friday…It’s Still Not Beyond Us
Have you ever asked Jesus for a favor? We all have. So did James and John. They asked Jesus for a huge favor. They wanted to sit next to His throne in The Kingdom. Were they envisioning a heavenly kingdom when they asked? Or reigning from Jerusalem independently of Rome? Either way, they were outContinue reading “It’s Friday…It’s Still Not Beyond Us”
It’s Friday…His Claim is Exclusive
Jesus made a scandalous claim. No one would have complained if He had simply taught about God. No one would have been upset if He simply presented His take on the Scriptures. But He went much further. He presented Himself. He didn’t simply propose a way to God, He proposed Himself as the unique entranceContinue reading “It’s Friday…His Claim is Exclusive”
It’s Friday… No Guessing Game
In the garden, Jesus has been praying with deep sorrow and an overwhelmed spirit. He knows what He faces the next day – torture and death. Ridicule and shame. The sins of the world on His human shoulders. If ever there was a time to be self-absorbed, this was it. “How then would the ScripturesContinue reading “It’s Friday… No Guessing Game”
It’s Friday…Join The Rebellion
The scene is almost ludicrous. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, is surrounded by a hostile, armed crowd. He has been walking weaponless throughout the streets of Jerusalem with compassion in His voice and healing in His hands, but compassion and healing are a little too suspicious for powerful people. So they come, burning with angerContinue reading “It’s Friday…Join The Rebellion”
Vic Alvarado 