Tombs For Rent!

Mark 16:6

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to an exciting episode of, “Tombs For Rent” starring, the Merchant, and the Inquiring Gentleman! I’m your host, “HolyEll”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

(Recently, Jesus had been resurrected from Joseph’s new tomb, and word spread throughout all the land. A certain merchant who sold tombs heard the news, then sought to make a profit from those who followed Jesus’s example.)

Merchant: Come, see my newly renovated tombs, the likes of which none have ever been buried in before!

(Men and women pass by, ignoring the voice of the merchant.)

Merchant: People, precious people, I have the best tombs available for rent. But if you act fast, I can be convinced to lower my rates, significantly.

Merchant: Hey sir! Sir! May I borrow a moment of your time?

Inquiring Gentleman: Greetings. Does your sign actually read, “Tombs For Rent”? Is this a joke or something?

Merchant: Ha ha haaaa. Kind sir, have you not heard the news?

Inquiring Gentleman: Apparently not, so enlighten me.

Merchant: There was a man called Jesus, who was said to be the Savior of the Jews. Well, he was brutally crucified, and his body was placed in the tomb right over there! If you haven’t noticed, he’s no longer there!

Inquiring Gentleman: Come again?

Merchant: You heard correctly, he’s gone! Some say his disciples came in the night and stole his body, but whatever the case, I’ll rent my tombs to all who plan on dying and being resurrected, or having their bodies stolen in the night.

Inquiring Gentleman: You can’t be serious… wait, you are serious.

Merchant: Hey, a man’s gotta work to eat, so I’m working, because I like to eat.

Inquiring Gentleman: Who do you actually expect to rent a tomb?

Merchant: Good question. I guess all those people who followed after Jesus, and believed in his words that someday they too will be raised up from the grave.

Inquiring Gentleman: Ahh, you’re referencing 1 Thessalonians chapter 4 that says, “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:”

Merchant: Umm… yeah, sure… right that’s it. Anyhoo, I’d like to offer you a great deal on this tomb behind me. It’s one of a kind, and very spacious.

Inquiring Gentleman: Thanks, but no thanks. I’ll pass. Hope business goes well for you.

Merchant: Your loss sir. People, people come, see my beautifully spacious tombs for rent. Don’t let the price scare you to death… get it?!

(People continue to avoid the merchant, while passing by, as he furthers his advances to rent his tombs.)

According to the book of Hebrews, everyone will have an appointment with death, and we will all return to the same dust we were made of. For those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior, the grave will not be their final resting place. But, to all who refuse and reject Christ’s salvation, they’ll suffer not only a natural death, but a spiritual one also.

This concludes the exciting episode of, “Tombs For Rent”. Thanks for tuning in, and have a fantabulous journey!

Bread Of Life

Luke 24:13-16, 22-35

After walking with the two disciples for a while, and expounding unto them in all the scriptures, the things concerning Himself, the mystery stranger decided it was time for him to go further and continue his journey. But, the men held him back, and asked that he stay with them, because it was already late in the day. So, the mystery stranger accepted, and the men went into the nearby village to sit and eat. While gathered together for supper, the mystery stranger took bread, blessed it, brake it, then gave to the men with him. Immediately, the eyes of the men were opened, and they recognized it was Jesus who was with them the entire time! Then, Jesus vanished out of their sight! He literally disappeared from before the disciples. Wow! To add to their already heightened levels of excitement, the men said to one another, “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?” All their doubts, worries, and feelings of sadness instantly vanished also, after witnessing the risen Savior for themselves.

In the same way Jesus presented the bread to the men who sat with Him, His own body was presented in a like manner to the world. God took His Son, blessed Him, allowed Him to be scourged and persecuted, then presented Him to the world with the opportunity to receive new life and spiritual restoration through His redemptive blood. Jesus is the bread of life, and only through Him, can our souls be saved. Like the two men in our text, we too should get excited from the Word of God, and allow it to motivate us to share with others, the truth and saving power it holds. Let the resurrection story of Jesus Christ restore the joy of God’s salvation back into your heart, and move you to grow in godliness daily.

In Plain Sight

Luke 24:17-21

All hope seemed lost, as Cleopas and his companion walked with hung down heads and heavy hearts, through the village of Emmaus, which was about seven to eight miles from Jerusalem. The two men were believers in the teachings of Jesus, and had hoped He was the one who would redeem Israel, but as the news of His death continued to spread throughout the lands, the message of hope and redemption began to look bleak and grim to many who followed after the Son of God.

As the men journeyed further into the village, the risen Jesus appeared to them, but through His unfathomable power, He kept the men from recognizing Him. While this act may seem like some Jean Gray or Scarlett Witch type of thing, Jesus literally had all “real” power in His hand, to do as He pleased in the earth. Think for a moment, if Jesus had the power to open blind eyes, wouldn’t it make sense for Him to also be able to temporarily hide His identity from men in plain sight?

Jesus inquired of the men, the details of the conversation they were having, and why they were sad. Cleopas replied, “Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel.” I’m certain you can imagine a slight grin on the face of Jesus, as He listened to the men, yet saw their faith. These two faithful men were in for a real surprise, as they would soon find out who this mystery stranger was in their midst…

Faithful Women

Luke 8:1-3; Mark 15:40; John 20:10-18

As a non-Jew recording the words and works of Jesus’ life, Luke demonstrates a special sensitivity to other “outsiders” with whom Jesus came into contact. For instance, Luke records five events involving women that are not mentioned in the other Gospels. In first-century Jewish culture, women were usually treated as second-class citizens and had few of the rights men had. But Jesus crossed those barriers, and Luke showed the special care Jesus had for women. Jesus treated all people the with equal respect (Life Application Study Bible). The women mentioned in our text, proved their loyalty to Jesus, after being healed of evil spirits and infirmities. Not only were the aforementioned women loyal to Jesus, but Mary Magdalene, Joanna the wife of Chuza (Herod’s steward), and Suzanna were few among many, who consistently supported the ministry of Jesus financially. Mary Magdalene was healed by the hand of Jesus, supported His ministry, was by His side all the way to the cross, and after His resurrection. Her loyalty was proven to be as solid as the love Jesus had shown to her and others, and she serves as a great example of how all who follow after Christ should live.

“Never judge what you don’t understand, because it could be an integral part of God’s divine plan.” – Ell

Rolling Stone

Matthew 28:1-10

The stone that secured the tomb where Jesus’ body was laid, was not rolled away by the disciples, whom the chief priests and Pharisees assumed would steal the body away, but by an unexpected visitor from Heaven. The angel of the Lord removed the stone, so that others could see that Jesus had indeed risen from the dead, as He boldly prophesied. History records that stones made to secure tombs were an average of a few tons, and while it was task rolling it into place to cover the opening, it was even more difficult to remove it. Fortunately, God sent an angelic being with powers beyond normal men, who entered earth’s atmosphere, causing a great earthquake, then easily rolled the stone away and sat on top of it, until the women who followed Jesus arrived. God knew the disciples and women who followed Jesus still didn’t believe, nor understand the words He spoke concerning His resurrection, so He had a plan to make certain all their doubts would be removed.

Do You Really Believe?

1 Corinthians 15:1-8, 12-14, 20-23, 42-45

Do you really believe in the resurrection of the dead? Are you totally convinced, the God who created everything, came to the earth in a flesh body, lived sinless among men, was beaten beyond belief for preaching the Gospel, took on the sins of those same men, as He willingly allowed them to nail Him to a wooden cross, and be left to die, so that everyone could be pardoned of all their iniquities?

When you tell others about Jesus, are you certain that the message you render, is mirrored by the way you live? Thinking from a carnal perspective, it would seem senseless, and futile, to believe that a man could live sinless, let alone be resurrected from the grave. But, thinking with the mind of Christ, makes it clear to understand, God has the power to do anything!

It’s hard to convince a man to believe in God, when we have yet to fully believe Him for ourselves, but when our lives are dedicated to pleasing the Father, our witness gains a more solid foundation, on which to boast in the Lord. In our text, the apostle Paul dealt with members of the Corinthian church, who refused to believe in the resurrection of the dead, despite eyewitness accounts of the resurrected Jesus. It’s hard to disprove hard evidence, especially when more than 500 people testify the same message.

Those who refuse to believe that Jesus rose from the grave, with all power, will struggle with facing death for themselves, because they’ll contemplate the fear of not knowing what will happen after they die. But, those who are in God, can rest assured, when they die, there’s a spiritual body awaiting them, as they transition to their new, and glorious home.

Walk in love,

Ell

Where Did He Go?

Mark 16:1-8

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to another exciting episode of, “Where Did He Go?!” Starring, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome! I’m your host, “holyell”, and I’ll be bringing you all the details of tonight’s most fascinating scenes!

Mary Magdalene: (Knock! Knock!) Hey Mary, are you ready? We brought all the sweet spices you asked for, to anoint the body of our dear Jesus.

Mary Mother of James: Good morning ladies. I’ll be out in just a moment.

Salome: Hey, do you think we got the right spices?

Mary Magdalene: Yes Salome, I’m certain. I’m just really nervous about this entire situation.

Salome: What are you nervous about?

Mary Magdalene: Well, you know…Jesus being severely beaten, for only doing what was right, and not one of His disciples did anything to help Him.

Salome: I’m still baffled about that one as well. Maybe they were afraid of being hung on a cross as well. In any case, Jesus said He would be resurrected in three days, so why are we even going to the tomb.

Mary Mother of James: Ok girls, I’m ready. Let’s go now while the sun yet rises. What were you two discussing.

Salome: We were wondering…

Mary Magdalene: Oh nothing Mary! Salome shhh…

Mary Mother of James: I’ve been thinking ladies, we are not strong enough to roll away the heavy stone, blocking the sepulchre. How will we reach His body?

Mary Magdalene: That’s a good question.

(The women approach the tomb)

Salome: Mary! Mary! Look! The stone has been rolled away!

Mary Mother of James: This is very unusual, but let’s go see inside.

(The women scream, surprised to see a man sitting, and clothed in a long, white garment)

Mystery Man: Woah woah! Calm down ladies. I know who you’re looking for, but He’s not here. It may sound hard to believe, but Jesus, who was crucified, has risen. Look at the place where He was laid.

Mary Mother of James: Oh my goodness! It was true. Everything He told us, was true.

Mary Magdalene: He has risen, just as He said He would.

Salome: (Speechless)

Mystery Man: Yes, all His words were truth. By the way, He wanted me to leave you ladies a message. On your way back, tell all His disciples, and Peter, He’ll meet them in Galilee, as He told you (Mark 14:28)… just in case you forgot.

(The women went out quickly, fled, were amazed/in shock, and speechless)

Mary Mother of James: (Speechless)

Mary Magdalene: (Speechless)

Salome: (Speechless)

Why was it so hard for those who followed Jesus, to believe that what He said, was true. Had the women believed He would rise in three days, they wouldn’t have prepared spices to anoint His body. Had the disciples believed, they probably wouldn’t have cowered in fear.

This miraculous moment took place thousands of years ago, but Jesus also said He would soon return to the earth, to gather His people. Will you be like the disciples, and faithful women, who heard the words of Jesus, yet didn’t believe? Or, will you take Christ at His word, and prepare yourselves to meet Him in the air? There won’t be a second chance after His second coming.

Walk in love,

Ell

Never Let Go

Isaiah 42:1-9

The confidence, strength, and endurance that fueled Jesus, as He traversed that lonely road to the cross, was instilled into Him by God, the creator. Not only did God have full confidence, that His Son would be faithful to His mission, but the Lord Himself, guided Christ every step of the way. The very soul of God, was delighted in Jesus, so much that He put His spirit upon Him, to carry out life-changing tasks. Did I just menton, “the soul of God”? God indeed does have a soul, just like the people He created. He has feelings, emotions, and desires, similar to all other intelligent beings.

Throughout His temporary journey on the earth, Jesus knew, that with God leading Him, He would maintain confidence, and not fail His mission. All who are in Christ, have the assurance, that God will lead, and guide them in the ways they should go. Although we may have different missions, all believers strive to reach the same goal. God called us to proclaim His Word, and be examples of holiness and righteousness, so that those who are lost, can see light from their valleys of darkness.

Just as God was confident in Jesus, He also knows that you can be faithful to the end, as well. When your confidence is in God, and not in your own wisdom, you’ll be led on the righteous path, all the days of your life. Never let go of God’s hand.

Walk in love,

Ell

Test the spirits

1 John 4:1-8

“God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth” (John 4:24). Satan is also a spirit, and many who have been deceived, worship him blindly, according to the spirit of error. From generation to generation, God calls men and women to speak according to His Word, so that believers and be encouraged, and sinners can be saved. Like a good shepherd, it’s the duty of the Father to keep His sheep gathered and protected from all who would wish to harm them. The devil is the wolf, dressed in sheep’s clothing, who has worked diligently for thousands of years, to sway men’s hearts from believing in God, but the truth of God’s Word is potent enough to keep God’s people safe, because the enemy has already been defeated by the power in that same Word, since Christ took on the sins of the world, died, then arose with all power in His hand!

In the same way we see millions of men and women carrying on their duties on the earth, in the realm of the spirit, there are countless good and bad forces, doing what they were assigned to do as well. God’s Holy Spirit abides in the hearts of believers to comfort them, and bring back to their remembrance, all the words taught by Jesus. His duty is to encourage, inspire, and uplift the hearts of those who strive to be like Christ. On the contrary, the devil and his host demonic beings go to and fro, seeking whom they can kill, steal, destroy, and devour. Our text mentions how we are to test every spirit that influences a man, and not believe their words, except they be inspired by God. The text also mentions that the antichrist spirit is already in the world, deceiving the minds of many who aren’t rooted and grounded in the love of God. Preachers, prophets, teachers, and whoever claims to be called by God, must first confess that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh, before we should believe anything else that proceeds from their lips. Those who deny that Christ was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died, then rose up from the grave, are not of God, but of the devil.

Despite what we see going on, as the end draws nigh, disciples of Christ are to continue to love one another, because God is love. We can’t hate those who refuse to accept our proclamations of holiness and godliness, because the world isn’t tuned in to God, therefore they can hear Him through us, but to those who are of God, they hear us, and will continue abiding in the spirit of love and truth. Your love for others proves your love for God, so walk in love, but beware of deceiving spirits, that try to take that love away.

Walk in love,

Ell

The resurrection of the dead

1 Corinthians 15:12-28

I often wonder what life would have been like if sin had not infiltrated the earth. When God finished His creation, and called it good, Adam and Eve were granted the opportunity to live in harmony with God, and enjoy eternal peace and prosperity on the earth, without the strain of resistance against evil influences. Their earthly bodies weren’t subjected to the stain of sin and death, and were more than likely purposed to last as long as God existed. The first Adam was made a living soul and was earthy, and by him came death. Many judge Adam for his inability to resist evil, and continue in the works of the Lord, but he only did what many of us do on a daily basis. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Just as Adam knew the words from God, yet was influenced by satan to go against them, men and women today who claim to be believers can be found ignoring God’s voice in favor of selfish desires, or even the voice of the evil one as well. I’m not so quick to judge any man for the mistakes they have made, because at any moment, I could get caught up into doing things that aren’t pleasing to God, and wouldn’t appreciate others judging me for my actions.

Although Adam’s big mistake had devastating ripple effects that are continuing to this very day, Christ rectified his original error, when He came to the earth, established the Kingdom of God, died, was resurrected, descended into the the lower parts of the earth to deliver those there, then ascended back to His Father’s side with all of His original power restored. The resurrection of Jesus is an essential cog in God’s plan of salvation for men, and in our text, the apostle Paul had to correct false teachings from some who denied that the resurrection of the dead would actually take place. I grew up watching movies like Night of the Living Dead, Beetlejuice, and Drop Dead Fred, so in the mind of a kid, I believed that dead bodies could actually be resurrected. Obviously, I know now the reality of life and death in a spiritual sense, but the men in our text knew that Christ had rose from the grave, but denied that men would also. Paul explained that if the dead in Christ would not be resurrected, then Christ Himself was not risen. Not only was Christ not raised from the dead, but their preaching and faith would be in vain, and all men would still be in sin. To make this false assumption even worse, those who were dead in Christ were just that, gone with no afterlife. “If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable” (vs. 19). Can you imagine living now, and not having an eternal destination, except the grave? We may as well just die now, because the hope of an eternal future in glory wouldn’t exist. Christ’s resurrection is a fact, and the guarantee that all other men will soon be resurrected at the appointed time.

Knowing that flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God, nor does corruption inherit incorruption, how will dead, flesh bodies raise up, and be in the presence of the incorruptible God? “But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased Him, and to every seed his own body” (vs. 38). God will give every person his own body, but not a natural one; a spiritual body. Corruption must be put aside so that incorruption can take its place in the bodies of those resurrected, because flesh and blood cannot inherit glory or the spiritual body. “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:51-58). This life isn’t all we have to live for, but there is a time coming when we will enjoy a better life, in the presence the Savior of the world.

Walk in love,

Ell