Ananias welcomes and baptizes Paul

Acts 9:10-19

What was your life like before you met Christ? Compare and contrast your mindset to when you lived by your own opinions and the advice of other lost souls, with how you think now that your thoughts and desires are motivated by God’s own Spirit. We all have testimonies of how our lives seemed to make sense while living by our own wisdom and knowledge, but discovered that only through Christ, do our lives only begin to have purpose.

From the beginning of creation, God’s standard of living was always met with opposition from those who desired to follow after their own lusts, and entertain wicked influences. There were even some who were so opposed to righteous living, until they would threaten the lives of those who chose to live according to God’s plan. Men who are under the control of evil influences guard heavily against anyone who shines light on their darkness, and expose the sins they willfully practice. Believers have been persecuted and mistreated for thousands of years, and the world continues to ignore the fact that maybe we’re actually apart of something they should consider becoming a part of as well. The Bible clearly helps us understand that in the last days, things will continue to worsen, until Christ returns to bring judgment upon the earth.

One individual who was considered chief persecutor of Christians was, Saul (Paul). The Bible reads, “he breathed out threatenings, and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord” (Acts 9:1). This was intense, because his actions were motivated by hatred and rage, until the only thing that could stop him was either death, or a divine encounter from a heavenly being. While on his way to Damascus to persecute more innocent believers, Saul was met by a heavenly being, Jesus Christ! The light that shined around him was so intense, until it knocked him off his beast (I can only assume he and his crew weren’t walking miles to the nearest city). As Jesus began to speak, Saul and the men with him were astonished, but they could only hear His voice. Saul knew it was the Lord, and had an immediate change of heart, after experiencing such an extreme moment. Jesus then gave him instructions on how to further proceed on his next journey. The man who use to enjoy seeing the children of God put to shame, and even murdered, would now become the ambassador of Christ before the Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. Jesus even considered Saul to be a “chosen vessel”, and one who would bear His name. Saul was eventually baptized by Ananias, a disciple of the Lord, and then filled with the Holy Ghost. Saul would receive a name change to signify that he was indeed a new creature, and then go on to become one of the greatest contributors to Bible records, and soul-winning.

The apostle Paul’s story is proof that no matter how jacked up a person’s past may seem to be, or if their lives have reached a point that seems beyond saving, they can still be converted to righteousness, and accomplish amazing things in the kingdom of God. There’s a song that says, “If He has to reach waaaay down, Jesus will pick you up”. This is true, because men like Saul strike fear in the hearts of others with their evil passions, but if God saved Saul, He has that same power to save anyone else.

“Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began” (2 Timothy 1:9). “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:21). “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world” (Titus 2:11-12). “So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation” (Hebrews 9:28). “For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth” (Acts 13:47).
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16).

Walk in love,

Ell

Jeremiah, Prophet to the nations

Jeremiah 1:4-10

As we near the end of our journeys on this earth, it’s surprising how many who attend churches around the world remain prideful, rather than humble themselves before the mighty hand of God. With all the persecutions, torturing, and killing of innocent Christians across the nations, I shake my head at men and women who are so consumed with wearing a title, until they willingly ignore the present sufferings of their brothers and sisters across the globe. One of the popular titles floating around modern-day churches are prophets. Modern prophets are men and women who claim to have been called by God to pretty much reveal your personal business, and extend words of blessing for generic things like houses, cars, and wealth. These men go from church to church, giving rehearsed speeches that have been proven to net them great offerings, based on previous experiences. I’ve even witnessed some who grab the audience’s attention by calling so-called random members from the crowds, and recite personal information about those persons that they probably obtained from someone who knew them on a more personal level. Prophets today seem to be all about fame and show, whereas the prophets in Scripture operated under a different authority. There may still be some who are indeed called by God to prophesy, but those who claim the calling only to use the title for selfish gain, set bad examples for those who truly serve God with their gift. According to the Bible, a prophet is one whom God sets over certain areas to “root out, and to pull down, and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant” (vs.10). Does that definition identify with any of the prophets who had previously entertained you? Things that make you go hmm…

Jeremiah was very unique in that he was sanctified, and ordained as a prophet before he was born. Similar to John the Baptist who was also called before birth to be great, Jeremiah was called and set apart to do the Lord’s work at an early age. As any child who felt immature and unprepared to do something that seemed overwhelming, Jeremiah heard what God had said, but he felt that because he was a child, he wasn’t equipped well enough to speak to Nations. God immediately told him to correct his speech, be ready to go where He sends him, and to only speak the words he’s commanded to. Coming before large crowds of people, and exposing their sins would surely cause all sorts of backlash, but God encouraged Jeremiah to ignore the faces of those who may disapprove of his message, because God would be with him, to deliver him from any situation that could cause him harm. If God’s mere words weren’t enough to convince Jeremiah that He would be with him, God then touched Jeremiah’s mouth, and literally put His words in it. Could you imagine if God did that same thing to all those who preach and teach in churches today? My oh my, would there be a lot of hurt feelings, but also many bowed heads and repentant hearts. The truth does hurt, but only enough to convince you to consider a change of heart.

Prophets weren’t ordained to hype up crowds, and collect big offerings, but to pull down and destroy kingdoms of darkness, and expose the hearts of men to the love of God. The next time you hear that a prophet is coming to your town, line up his message with what God defined a prophet to be. If he or she hoops and hollers for hours, then calls for 50, 100, and 5000 dollar offering lines, then they are prophets only to profit. On the other hand, if the prophet gives words inspired by the Holy Spirit, that may perhaps step on the toes of some, and even upset others, but all for the purpose of making them better for God, then this is a true prophet of the Lord. Be not so easily deceived by titles and men’s reputations, but check the spirits of those who claim to be sent by God to feed your soul.

Walk in love,

Ell

Called and enabled for ministry

Sunday 3-31-19
Called and Enabled for Ministry
(Matthew 4:12-22)

Before a company usually hires a potential employee, certain requirements are to be met. Company standards typically require candidates to submit a resume, detailing previous work experience, as well as skills that are beneficial to the job title. There are many who fabricate impressive resumes, but only to get the job. These persons usually don’t last long with companies, as their lack of skill is eventually revealed. On the other hand, there are some who work extremely well, and have top-notch work ethics, yet their resume may be a bit weak, so to speak. Candidates are then called in for interviews, so that managers can see for themselves, the faces behind the resumes.

To be qualified for the work of ministry, resumes and interviews are not required. Like companies seeking employees, in the realm of the Spirit, many are called, but few are chosen. God made a plan and purpose for everyone He created, but not all men will choose to walk in their purpose. As Jesus began His ministry, He didn’t seek men’s resumes or credentials, instead, He witnessed men as they worked in their profession, and diligently fulfilled their duties. Being God in the flesh Christ already knew the hearts of the men He chose, and that they would willingly drop everything to follow after Him. Like any flourishing business, quality workers are highly sought after. Jesus knew that His ministry would have a few troubling encounters, so He made sure to select men who were hard workers, strong in faith, and focused on the job at hand.

As you fulfill your calling for God, do you think He’s proud of the work you do? Do you put forth more effort in working for your earthly boss, than you do for your heavenly Father? Because of Christ, we were called and enabled to serve God, and expand His ministry as far as our journey takes us. We must not sit on our gifts, talents, and abilities while souls are lost every day. Instead, we should take advantage of the opportunities Christ provided for us, and work diligently in the gifts and callings God enabled us to perform.

Walk in love,

Ell

Good News and healing

Matthew 4:23-25

Growing up in the 80s and 90s, one of the popular things to watch on television was the WWF, or the World Wrestling Federation. Wrestling back then, was exciting and entertaining, as my favorites, Hulk Hogan, Sting, and the Junkyard Dog, would usually come out victorious. What made watching wrestling more entertaining was when contenders would team up and go head-to-head against other joined unions. In moments when a player was struggling to pin down their opponent, or if the match was too easy, they had the option to tag the hand of their teammate who stood outside of the ring, and allow them access to change places with their partner, and showcase their skills and abilities. Tag-team wrestling was the best, and I enjoyed watching the Roc n Roll Express, and the Hardy Boyz perform high flying stunts, while putting their opponents to shame.

I don’t intend to relive my childhood days of watching wrestling, but to acknowledge the tag-team works of Jesus Christ, and John the Baptist. John was Jesus’ cousin, who was filled with the Holy Ghost while in his mother’s womb! That was a testament to the fact that John would indeed be a great asset to the kingdom of God. And he was! He preached holiness, and the coming of Christ with passion, and never wavered to the temptations of sin. When Jesus heard that John was thrown in prison (obviously for preaching the Gospel), He, in a sense, tagged John’s hand, then set out to showcase His skills, talents, and special abilities to the world. Jesus picked up right where John had left off, and continued preaching repentance. As He roamed around Galilee, Jesus began adding strong men to His arsenal, including Peter, Andrew, James, and John. While in Galilee, it’s noted that Jesus taught in their synagogues, preached the Gospel of the kingdom, healed all manner of diseases, and delivered those who were possessed with devils. What an incredible way to start a ministry. Could you imagine if a new church opened up, and held services where anyone who came sick, lame, or had a disease, left healed and delivered? That would be all over the 7 o’clock news.

Jesus had a very unique strategy, not to become famous (although He did), but to show a dying and dark world that life and light could only be found through Him. Christ is the Good News of the Gospel we preach. He is the means by which our sins are forgiven. It’s through Him, that we are saved healed, delivered, and set-free. Although the world rejected Christ, He continues to live through all those who are born-again believers; those who have committed their lives to God, and seek first His kingdom, and His righteousness.

Walk in love,

Ell

Tempted in the wilderness

Matthew 4:1-11

“…And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil…” (Matthew 6:13a). As Jesus taught the sermon on the mount, one of His teachings included the model prayer, which contained the verse I mentioned at the beginning of this lesson. I often wondered why Christ instructed us to pray to the Father to not lead us into temptation, yet He was led of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. On the surface, this may seem to be contradictory, but I think I have a better understanding of each scenario. As Christ taught us to pray, He was simply teaching us to ask God to not allow evil to overtake us, but deliver us from the evil one, because on our own human strength, we are incapable of standing firm against satan. He would simply sift us as wheat, chew us up, and spit us out broken and defeated. But when God fills us with the power of His Spirit, when are then able to, stand, be steadfast, and remain unmovable against all the wicked ploys of our adversary. The Spirit of God did not lead Jesus in the wilderness to be overtaken by satan, because the devil had absolutely no chance to subdue, nor overwhelm Jesus with any of his wicked devices. This was proven three times as Christ combated satan’s evil and selfish offers with ease, by utilizing God’s Word. After the devil realized he was no match for the Son of God (even after Christ had just finished fasting 40 days and nights, and was hungry), he fled the scene like a thief who sees 5-0 coming around the corner with their lights beaming, and runs away.

What’s interesting about this passage of Scripture is, even though Jesus had more than enough power to withstand the wiles of the enemy, there were a host of angels standing by, just in case things got ugly, and to minister unto Him. We too will be met with tempting situations, and must stand firm when they come. The devil is extremely cunning, and knows just what to dangle in front of us to hold our attention. The mistake many Christians make is assuming satan has no power to influence them, but if he can literally move Jesus from place to place, I’m sure he can find ways to change the way you think and feel. Never attempt to confront temptation alone. Let God lead you by His Spirit, so that you’ll always have the upper hand on the enemy’s attacks.

Walk in love,

Ell

Well pleased

Matthew 3:11-17

Every member joined into the body of Christ plays a major role in establishing God’s kingdom. Some were called to preach or teach, while others were called to prophesy or handle administrative duties in the church. There are many who establish churches, and set them in motion, only for others to sustain them, and strive to fill every seat with disciples. The most important part of any ministry is its foundation. Just as buildings require solid foundations in order to withstand time and weathering, ministries demand the same to ensure prosperous and fulfilling works from the body of believers.

One believer who was called to prophesy and establish the foundation for the ministry of Christ was, John the Baptist. John typified the character of how the church should carry themselves. He wasn’t flashy or prideful, nor did he boast in himself, as many with platforms and an audience usually do. While the rich and wealthy of John’s day wore girdles of silk or linen, decorated with silver, gold, and valuable stones, John dressed himself in camel’s hair, and a leather girdle, which were rough garments usually worn by prophets or the poor. Although his physical appearance wasn’t stunning, his message of repentance was bold, sharp, and powerful! Unlike preachers today who give watered down messages only to appease their listening audiences (and to keep good offerings coming in), John’s words cut straight to the heart. Some of John’s doctrines included repentance, the kingdom of heaven, restitution, godliness, absolute justice, and Jesus, the Lamb of God.

As John’s popularity grew, many came from Jerusalem, Judea, and all the region around Jordan, to be baptized of him, and to be forgiven of their sins. Like clockwork, whenever God was moving immensely in the lives of people, the haters always showed up to poke their nose in God’s business. John noticed the Pharisees and Saducees coming to his baptism, and without hesitation, he called them out for their self-righteousness, and denial of true godliness. It’s one thing to come to God with the intention to change, but coming only to spectate and criticize is simply a waste of time. John continued to express that he baptized with water unto repentance, but Christ will come and baptize with the Holy Ghost, and with fire. John remained humble at the mention of Christ, because he was fully aware that his little cousin was indeed the Son of God, but he wasn’t prepared to actually baptize Jesus. When Jesus arrived to Jordan where John was ministering, He asked for John to baptize Him, but John refused, because he felt unworthy to do such an incredible thing. Jesus mentioned something very interesting that quickly changed John’s response when He said, “Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness” (vs. 15). In other words, God had an assignment for both of His servants to fulfill, and it was purposed for John to baptize Jesus, the savior of the world.

As Jesus came up from the water, the heavens opened and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and shining upon Him. What an awesome depiction of the Father above, the Son below, and the Spirit between them! God then spoke those awe-inspiring words, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (vs. 17). Although it wasn’t mentioned in Scripture, I’m 175 percent certain that God was also well pleased with John. John did well in paving the way for Christ, and he continued his mission even after Jesus took the stage. As God looks over all the men and women who still exist on the earth, is He well pleased when He stops and gazes at you? Look at your life, and compare it to all those who’ve gone on to glory. Are you bold in your confession of salvation as other pioneers of the faith were? Do you go against the grain, and preach holiness, even when others criticize and put you down? Like John the Baptist and Jesus, live your life in such a way that God is always pleased when He mentions your name in Heaven.

Walk in love,

Ell

God speaks to disciples

Luke 9:28-36

Reading the Bible sometimes presents events that seem unreal, or like a Hollywood movie. There are accounts when men would get translated in an instant, and vanish in thin air, or others who were instantly healed from life-threatening illnesses, walked away as if nothing was ever wrong with them. I think for this lesson, I’d like to take my ATV back in time again to witness what Peter, James, and John nearly missed, as Jesus had a heavenly encounter on a mountain.

As Jesus neared the fulfillment of His mission on the earth, He usually took time to pray, and seek strength from His Father. Taking on the sins of all men, and sacrificing yourself on a cross was not an easy pill to swallow. Yes, Jesus was all God, but He was also all man, and could feel the impending suffering and pain soon to come. This is an example we should also follow after, because when times get tough, only through God can we obtain the strength required to keep us standing until the end. Many look to other men and women to give them support when trials come, but God can literally fill you with strength from Heaven, that is more than enough to lift you above all your struggles.

Jesus took Peter, James, and John with Him, as He went to pray, but for some reason the disciples were too sleepy to be of any help. While they slept, I would rev my ATV engine really loud to wake them up, so they could pray as Jesus prayed, and be of some support. How could anyone get so use to being in the presence of the Son of God, until they fall asleep during the moments He needs the most support? As Jesus prayed (and the disciples slept), the Bible reads, “the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering” (vs. 29). What a sight to see! I would definitely have my camera out, taking pics of this miraculous event. Movies are as fake as a three dollar bill, but this moment was as real as life itself. To literally see a man glistering and glowing like Goku and Vegeta when they power up in DragonBall, would be soooooo breathtaking! As Jesus was being transfigured, God was sending Him two pioneers of the faith to minister unto Him. In an instant, Moses and Elijah appeared, talking with Jesus. They discussed His coming death, that would take place at Jerusalem. It’s uncertain what else they talked about, but they chatted long enough for Peter to finally wake up and witness the event taking place. Not knowing what the discussion was between Jesus and the two men, Peter suggested that they make three tabernacles for Moses, Elijah, and Himself. As Peter spoke, a great cloud overshadowed them. By this time, I’d probably roll back into the bushes and peek out, just in case something big was about to go down. The voice of God spoke from the clouds and said to the disciples, “This is my beloved Son: hear him” (vs. 35). To audibly hear God’s voice must have been something amazing! It’s evident that Jesus needed all the heavenly support He could get before fulfilling His assignment, because His disciples offered little to none, but God made certain to keep Christ embued with the strength He needed to carry out His will, so that all mankind could be saved.

Today, God speaks to His children through the Holy Ghost. Do you hear Him when He speaks, or are you too tired and sleepy from living “la vida loca”, until you never really make time for Him? Don’t allow the cares of this world to cause you to lose interest in the assignment God has for you. Keep your heart and mind fixed on the Word, so that when God speaks to you, you’ll hear Him clearly.

Walk in love,

Ell

Sustained by God

Deuteronomy 8:1-11

If I could travel back in time, when God delivered the children of Israel from Egypt, I would hang around to see all the miraculous events take place with my very eyes. I’ve witnessed the hand of God work mightily in my own life, and in the lives of my family and friends, but to actually see the Red Sea parting, or pillars of clouds and fire, would be an amazing experience. I often wonder why God’s people took for granted His sustaining love and grace, because under no other circumstance would they have broken away from their oppression, nor been able to survive 40 years in a wilderness without the necessary resources to survive. In my visit to the ancient past, I would ask God to also send me with an ATV with unlimited gasoline, so that I could ride around and see just how everything played out.

Watching how God tested Israel in the wilderness would be a very interesting exploit. Israel was chosen by God to represent all He stands for to an evil world, so they had to be tested and proven to see whether or not they would represent godliness well. In my opinion, 40 years is more than enough time to prove the heart and intentions of an individual, but apparently, Israel had issues that required more time to reveal. God provided food when they saw no meal in sight. He kept them safe from whatever unknown dangers that possibly lurked in the wilderness. But the miracle I still can’t fathom is how the clothing the people wore didn’t wear out for 40 years! Take into account how often the clothes you wear get worn or torn within a few weeks of wearing them. God is absolutely amazing! God’s plan was to humble Israel, and prove what was in their hearts, whether they would indeed keep His commandments. He withheld food for a time, in order to teach them that men live not only by bread, but by every word that proceeded from the mouth of God. It’s obvious that our bodies require proper nourishment to survive, but what sense does it make to have a perfect bill of health, while heading in the direction of hell and eternal damnation? Think on that for a moment. Many today work hard to maintain a healthy diet, while sacrificing the unhealthy foods they love and desire. But it’s more important to know your place in life, as well as being healthy, because obeying God’s will is what sustains us, as we continue our journey in this life.

After the 40 year wilderness experience, I’d stay a short distance behind Israel as they finally enter the Promised Land. I would bask in the beauty of all the plush trees, waterfalls, mountains, and all ube beautiful creatures that roam the lands. I also read that giants inhabited the land as well, so I’d make sure my cell phone was fully charged to take lots of pics of them as well. When we stay in the will of God, He will take care of us. Like the children of Israel, God loves us, and wants to give us His best, but we must also give Him the best of us as well. I often mention how unfair the scale is how God’s blessings for us are overwhelming, in exchange for simple obedience, but He offers His love without condition. Keep your life hitched to godliness, and the Father will sustain you, and keep you just as a loving parent would their own children.

Walk in love,

Ell

Jethro hears of the Egyptian deliverance

Exodus 18:1-9

One of the worst people in the world to be in association with is, a gossip. I’m convinced that people who gossip, or as the Bible calls them, talebearers, either get bored easily, and need to feed on the business of others to feel a sense of accomplishment, or their lives are deficient of all things sensible, so they get pleasure from rustling the feathers of other’s affairs. The problem with those who gossip is, they rarely wait for the full understanding of a situation, and most, if not all of their translations are incorrect, or untrue. Hearing positive news about any situation creates more pleasant atmospheres to inhabit. I try, at times, to catch up on the news and current events, so that I can have slight insight on the goings on of this crazy world, but that only lasts a brief moment, because the news is filled with the same stories of violence, death, kidnapping, and a host of other sad events. I get joy when I hear good news! I’m more apt to listen when others bring news that is insightful, uplifting, encouraging, or funny, as opposed to hearing about negative things.

If you’ve watched the animated movie version of the Prince of Egypt, then you’ve been exposed to a fairly watered down version of the story of Moses, and the children of Israel, who were delivered from captivity to the Egyptians. Although the movie touches on a few keep points of the biblical account, it left out a lot of juicy details that reveal the awesomeness of God’s power and nature. Moses and God’s people had gone through immense suffering at the hands of Pharoah and the Egyptians, but God delivered them with a mighty hand.

When Moses was finally reunited with his family at Rephidim, he was approached by his father-in-law, Jethro, who had heard of all that God had done for Moses, and for Israel His people, and that the Lord had brought Israel out of Egypt. It’s one thing to hear about a miraculous event, but it’s taken to another level when you actually experience it, so I’m certain Moses began retelling all the events to Jethro with passion and excitement. Could you imagine being falsely imprisoned, abused, persecuted, then finally released, but then pursued by those who released you in hopes of taking your life? With no place of refuge in sight, God miraculously made a way for you to escape, and wiped out all those who sought to kill you. I can imagine that your feelings and emotions would be all over the place! After going through that experience, imagine wandering in an unfamiliar place, with no sense of direction, no food, and no shelter, but God provided everything you needed, as well as allowed the clothing you wore to last as long as necessary. God did some pretty amazing things for Moses and His people, and Jethro got all the details from Moses’ personal account.

In your daily conversations, what kind of news do you share with others? Are you the type of person who enjoys sharing the good news of all the great things God is doing in the lives of His people, or do you flood the phone lines and texts with gossip, lies, and unhealthy conversations? Spend more time seeking to uplift others with wholesome conversations, and refrain from sharing words that are unfruitful, and unpleasant. God is pleased when our conversations are pure, holy, and encouraging, so be more ready to share the Good News of the Gospel, so that all your conversations can benefit others, and not bring them down.

Walk in love,

Ell

Calling to Salvation

Luke 19:1-10

All of Jesus’ encounters with certain men and women in Scripture was never an accident, but an appointment. Christ’s mission was solely to seek, and save those who were lost, so He made it His business to be in the right place, at the appointed time, to reach those specific persons on His agenda. Some men and women were the objects of faith tests, whereas others were assigned to be examples of Christ’s healing and manifestation, intended to build the faith and belief of others. A few examples include blind Bartimaeus, the woman at the well, and the man in our text, Zacchaaeus. He was the chief among the publicans, and no doubt earned his riches by dishonest gain. Publicans were considered the worst of sinners, because of their oppression of the poor, lack of faith in God, pride in their own success, and trust in their riches and sinful pleasures.

While Jesus was still passing through Jericho, word was being spread how He had healed the blind beggar who sat by the way side. News of this event caught the attention of the rich, and ever unpopular Zacchaeus. For some reason, this man was eager to see this Jesus everyone raved about, so as Christ neared his location, he tried hard to get His attention. The Bible tells us that Zacchaeus was unable to see over the crowds surrounding Jesus because he was too short, so he ran ahead of them, climbed up a tree, and waited patiently for Jesus to pass by. Have you ever sought after the Lord with such passion and diligence? Can you recall a time when you needed God so, until you wouldn’t allow anyone, nor anything to get in your way? Christ approached the tree from which Zacchaeus clung from, looked up, and told the man, “make haste, for to day I must abide at thy house” (vs. 5). Jesus was pleased to commune with the publican, not because he was rich in wealth, but because his faith was strong, and he had a repentant heart. As usual, the “peanut gallery” who saw Jesus leave with Zacchaeus murmured amongst themselves, wondering why Jesus would choose to eat with a sinner. In my most humble opinion, those people operated under the “spirit of dumb”. Their logic is equivalent to someone being angry at a fireman for saving a child from a burning building, or a doctor healing a sick patient. Jesus was only doing what God sent Him to do, save the lost, despite how others perceived and judged His actions.

Unlike the rich young ruler a few lessons prior to this one, Zacchaeus had a readied mind to give half of his goods to the poor, and to restore what he had taken by false accusation. This was a rare act, because many who had riches were usually unwilling to easily part ways with them. Because of the faith and change of heart from Zacchaeus, Christ offered him and his house the gift of salvation.

Let this lesson encourage you to push past those things that would keep you from coming to God. Whether it be family, friends, or even your haters, don’t allow anyone to hinder you from receiving what God has for you. Even if you have to climb a tree to reach Christ, strive to stay in the will of the Father, and let nothing stop your drive and purpose.

Walk in love,

Ell