A Study of Gideon

It takes only three chapters: there are miracles, an amazing battle, the rise and fall of a hero, action and revenge, Judges 6,7,8.  In the book of Judges you can find all the men and women in charge of Israel before God appointed the first king, Saul.  Ooooops!  God did not appoint Saul.  The people wanted a ruler so bad that they insisted on him.  If you don't know how that turned out; well, let's just say God knows what He is doing.

The Hebrew name Gideon means "Warrior".  Gideon was marked with a purpose when he was born.   There is no evidence that Gideon had ever served as any kind of warrior until God called  him.

Read Verse 2 and then look up Isa 2:19, Jer 48:28 and 49:8  
I submit to you that these verses refer to Petra (Grk), also called Selah (Heb).  Both these names refer to a place next to Wadi Musa, "Valley of Moses" and offers supernatural protection.  A place where the Hebrew people wandered for 40 years. This place of red rock caves is invisible from the air and impenetrable from the ground.

Selah was the capitol of Edom.  Edomites descended from Esau, a red head.  The word "Selah" means lofty, craggy rock, stronghold, cliff.  "Selah" is also a pause in prose where one listens and God speaks.  (See Psalms)  God's word is a place of safety and rest.  *I will do a more indepth study of this in the future.

V 6:11 tells us that God manifested Himself.  (see V 14)  Gideon was threshing wheat to hide it from the Midianites, who were taking everything from the Hebrew people.  Gideon is also addressed, by God, as a "mighty warrior".  This is a positive statement from God to a man who is hiding from his enemies. 

V 12 & 13:  Gideon is talking frankly with what he believes is an angel and complains of all the troubles that have come upon his people.  Never mind that the Hebrew people have chosen to follow another god - or, rather, false gods of the Midianites.  

In V 14, Gideon is told to use the strength he has to go up against the Midianites.  God will not give him any super power.  He is expected to work on faith.

In V 15, good ol' Gideon argues with God, showing his weakness in faith.  In V 16, God tells Gideon all he needs is God in order to strike down ALL the Midianites like there were one man.  A strong statement to counter Gideon's weak argument.

V 17:  Now Gideon wants proof of God's word; a sign.  But, he is willing to make an offering to God, recognizing Him for who He is and showing gratitude and honor.  God tells Gideon He will wait - just as He waits for our gifts and offerings of faith.

In the few verses that follow, we see Gideon taking much time to prepare matzos and cook meat.  He is instructed on how to make this offering and watches as God consumes the offering with fire.  Ex.3:2, Nu 22:22, Ex 12:8
Then, Gideon built an alter to the Lord and called it "Jehovah Shalom" (God is Peace) because he had seen the Lord (pre-incarnate Jesus) face to face.  Guess Moses was not the only one.  Ex 24:11


Gideon goes on to tear down the alters and Asherah pole his father had made to Baal.  I recently viewed a short film about the Asherah pole and Baal worship.  Baal worshipers used to sacrifice young children to be burned alive.  Priests of Baal would publicly conjugate with women (representing the Goddess Asherah) then, the people would have public orgies.  Mass graves have been uncovered holding hundreds of carcasses of children.  No wonder God detested this idol worship.


In Judges:6:37 & 39, we find Gideon asking God for proof of a promise to make the Israelite army victors over the Midianites. In Judges 7:10 & 11, we find God offering yet another proof. This demonstrates the patience, understanding and grace of our Heavenly Father. We ask for something and God blesses with even more.

Great Battle Scene: Read in the book of Judges 7:2 & 8   Now see this amazing battle in Judges 7:19 - 23 WOW! This is better than an action adventure movie! Three hundred men surrounded an army that was so big it could not be counted (they were thick as locusts and camels were so many they could not be counted).

The three hundred shoulders were armed with shofars (trumpets made from ram's horns) and earthen pottery with a torch (light) inside. No swords, arrows or spears. They split into companies of 100 each and surrounded the Midianites. When Gideon gave the signal, 300 blew their trumpets and broke the pots. This would make one heck of a racket and shown a lot of bursting lights. Anyway, the Midianites (thick as locusts) were so confused that they turned on each other and ran off. Now, I would like to see this on the big screen: a multitude, action, camels stampeding, trumpets sounding, fireworks, confusion - great stuff!  Not one soldier of Gideon's was killed and the Midian army had to be chased down.


Amen

Mt. Moriah

Jewish/Hebrew peoples believe Mt. Moriah to be the spot of the creation of man. 

From my last post, we know Isaac was offered on Mt. Moriah, as a precurser to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. 

God told David to build the temple on Mt. Moriah.

In 2Sam 24:24, David bought the threshing floor (and oxen) from Araunah, a Jebusite, for 30 shekels of silver.  I find it interesting that threshing was the act of sifting chaf from wheat.

In 1Cron 21:24, David buys the entire site of Mt. Moriah for six hundred shekels of gold.  The threshing floor was part of Mt. Moriah.

* In a beautiful gesture, both times, David refuses to take the threshing floor or Mt. Moriah as a gift.  He proclaims he will not offer anything to God that does not come with a price to him.  Do any of us feel this way today?  This had to be one reason that David had God's heart.  (He was being repentant for a foolish act that caused 70,000 men to die of a plague.)

David built an alter on Mt Moriah and eventually the City of David surrounded that spot.  This former City of David is now Jerusalem.

On this spot, Solomon built the first temple inside which was the Holy of Holies.  (Heb: Kadosh Hakado Shin)

The temple was later destroyed and rebuilt then replaced with a mosque which stands over the former Holy of Holies, the point of creation and the spot where the Arc of God's Covenant was placed. 

It is the place God has chosen for Himself to manifest His glory.  Rev. 21:3




Looking from the South, the Temple Mount towers over the Southern Ridge  the City of David. (Note: the large building in the top center of the illustration.)  It's high elevation, on "the sides of the north", signifies its greater holiness and suitability for the location of God’s Temple, where Israel’s sacrifices would all be offered.  (The utmost point, top right in illus, is a monument to Calvary.)  In the foreground of the above illustration is the Kidron Valley.
 
Ps 48:2,  Zaphon is the higher area behind the temple; the north side of the temple.  This Psalm talks of the power of this city because God has chosen it for His dwelling place, in the Holy of Holies and in the millennium. The writers of this Psalm, Sons of Korah (temple Priests), considered themselves keepers ("gatekeepers")of secrets of God.

Isa 14:13-14,  “For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God (2^nd Heaven); I will also sit upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds (1^st Heaven); I will be like the most high.  This is Lucifer talking but tells us where God will make His home - on Mt. Zion ("mt. of congregation") in the sides of the north (holy of holies) - with man.


Isa 14:13,  Zaphon refers to the north quarter of the city; ie: sides of the north.  Northern point of the city is the temple, northern area of the temple is the Holy of Holies.

Ezek 38:6,  Beth Togarmah means "House of Togarmah".   Togarmah is a son of Gomer, son of Japheth, son of Noah, Gen 10:3.  Japheth is the son that went north after the flood.


* The north wall of Jerusalem, behind the temple, is referred to as the "sides of the north".  It is the highest elevation, second only to Calvary, in Jerusalem.

Clear as mud?  I have always been curious about the phrase, "sides of the north".  Now, I have a location: northern most part of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem; the Holy of Holies.  This is to be God's dwelling place for the universe for all eternity.  Mt. Moriah, Heb: "Chosen of The Lord".
Amen

Sign on the west wall of the temple.

Genesis 22

All Christians are aware that Abraham was asked by God to offer his beloved son, Isaac, as a sacrifice.  (Yes, he was asked.  In original Hebrew text God actually says, "Please".  Abraham did not have to do this and neither did God - or Jesus.)  This is a foretelling of the sacrifice our Heavenly Father made with  His beloved son, Jesus.   

Gen 22, gives us the story of Abraham, a parallel for God in this case, who is offering his son for a sacrifice - a type of the Christ.  In these passages, Isaac says "Father" (as Jesus called from the cross) and Abraham says "Here I Am" (as God answers us who believe in His son.)  The incident takes place on Mt. Moriah.  Moriah in Hebrew translates, "The Lord Is My Teacher".  This story is, no only a great lesson for Abraham, but for us.


Calvary is the highest point of Jerusalem and can be seen from where Abraham obeyed God by preparing to take the life of his only son.  If we were to stand on Mt. Moriah and look north across the northern Kidron Valley we would see Calvary.
This is a great story that deepens with translation:

> V.1: This is a test.  God tests all of us from time to time.  God called and Abraham answered, "Here I Am".  First point: This is an example of what each of us should do - answer God when He calls us to do something.  Second point: Abraham is pointed out in this verse as a parallel of God by saying "I Am" - God's name given to Moses.

The word "tested" is from the Hebrew word meaning "high above".  God raised Abraham (high above other men) by constantly testing him over and over.   Again, Moriah means "The Lord Is My Teacher."

> V.2:  God asks Abraham to sacrifice his only son, whom he loves.  God loved His only son, Jesus, but was willing to sacrifice Him for His love for us.  * Isaac had an older brother, Ishmael.  God did not recognize Ishmael as Abraham's son at this point.  Why?  Because Ishmael was born from the impatient efforts of Sarah and Abraham; rather than waiting on God for the promised son, Isaac.  Isaac was given by God through Sarah, Abraham's wife, whom he loved.

Mt. Moriah was the highest point in, what became, the City of David (Jerusalem).  Be sure to read my next posting about this fascinating spot.

> V. 3:  Shows Abraham being obedient the very first thing in the day.  
* This is the first time in the Bible that the words "love" and "worship" are mentioned; they are mentioned together.  Worship is love; we are to love to worship.

> V. 4:  It took 3 days to get to Mt. Moriah.  Interesting:  Christ was dead 3 days before resurrection.  There were three hours of darkness after Jesus died.  Peter denied Jesus 3 times, there were 3 crosses, etc, etc.  Three is a very important number as there are 3 beings in the God Head.

>  V.5:  Abraham had such faith in God that he told his servants, "we will come back to you".  He was confident his son would be spared.  Jesus was spared to return to His everlasting life when raised from the dead.  Was Abraham in possession of this knowledge through foresight?  Or . . did he just have faith in God to resurrect his son to fulfill the initial promise ?

>  V.6:  The wood for the fire was placed on the back of Isaac; Christ carried the wooden cross on his back, up Mt. Calvary.  

> V.7:  In conversation, Isaac calls Abraham, "Father" and Abraham answers, "Yes, my son".  Here is conversation between the Father and the Son, a parallel reference to God and Jesus.  Isaac notices there is no lamb for sacrifice.  Most commentaries suggest that Isaac was not a boy but, rather, a young man.  One commentary (From Oxford Church in England) speculates he could have been as old as 33.  This is very interesting considering that Christ was said to be that age when he was crucified.  Heb 11:17 - 19

>  V.8:  Abraham told Isaac, "God Himself will provide the lamb", referring to Jesus, our sacrificial lamb.  We see no evidence that Isaac argued here.  This shows me that Isaac had faith in similar quantity to his father, Abraham.

> V.9:  Abraham following through with what God told him to do, in full confidence that God would save this young man he had promised would populate nations.  He believed the original promise God made in Gen 15:5.

> V.10:  Abraham was prepared to follow through with the sacrifice.  Regarding faith: you have to take the first step and show God your faith.  Moses stepped into the red sea BEFORE the waters parted.

> V.11:  Here is his reward for obedience, at the last minute.  God spared Isaac.
* To Abraham, Isaac had died when God spoke in verse 2, because he decided then to obey God. Thus he received him back ‘raised’ from the dead on the 3rd day, just like Jesus!

> V.12:  Abraham "feared God" - trusted, reverenced God.   God LOVED the world to sacrifice His son, His only son, whom He loved.

>  V.13:  The ram that God provided to Abraham was perfect, without blemish, just as Jesus was perfect.  The ram was caught in the bush by it's horns so there was not blemish on the animal.

> V.14:  Abraham named the place, "God Will Be Seen" (original text).  This is fascinating in light of the history of Mt. Moriah. (Be sure to read my next blog.)  There is revelation going on with Abraham.  God is allowing him a glimpse of the future.  Jn 8:56   Calvary can be seen from Mt. Moriah.

> V.15 & 16:  This Angel of The Lord is none other than Jesus Himself.  This fact is substantiated by the act of "swearing by Himself".

> V.17 & 18:  God reminds Abraham of His original blessing in Gen 15:5, that He will keep that promise for the faith, trust and obedience Abraham has shown.

As inheritors of the promises of Abraham, we, as Christians, can be just as sure of God's love and care for us.     

Isn't the Bible fascinating?  So much in every word.  We need only to Seek and Find.
Amen

Scars On My Soul

Without Jesus, we will always want.

We are created with a space inside us that cannot be filled by anything else.  That's how we are made - our physical and chemical make up.  When we give ourselves to the acceptance of Jesus life and death on that cross, God plants a seed of His Spirit in that spot.  We can water and feed that seed or let it dry up.  

In this world today there are so many people are hurting, wandering and searching for whatever will fill that empty space.  Some look for other people to fill that space:  a spouse or a friend.  Some turn to drugs or alcohol.  Even shopping, gambling, sex, video games, pornography, social media, a social life, career, stock market, a hobby, exercise or any other hollow thing.  A hollow thing cannot fill space.  By hollow, I mean without substance or meaning; self consuming.

I can think back on so many years of "stupid".   I believe my stupidity came mostly from anger.  I was angry about my sexual abuse as a child.  I felt dirty; like I had a huge secret - a dirty monster secret.  I was ashamed.  (Shame is a huge factor with sexual abuse; especially in children.)  There was this idea of hiding the dirty monster secret out of shame.  You dare not let anyone know.  Don't tell.  Don't discuss it with anyone.  This monster hung around in the corner of every room; always present and accusing.

There were times I would find myself in a situation where I felt comfortable with a friend or in a group and I would just mention the abuse.  Inevitably, the first question from anyone was, "Why didn't you tell someone?"  Never ask an abused child or person that question!  It is condemning.  It places blame on the wrong person.  This child or person already feels condemned, dirty, guilty and ashamed.  (You cannot relate if you have not been there.)  These feelings in me turned to anger.  I was angry toward men.  At the same time, I wanted a man to love me - to make up for the missing father.  

There was a step father in the house because my father had left.  A child takes things personal.  His leaving left me feeling unwanted and confused over what I had done to drive him away.   When my father lived with us, he doted on me.  There was now an empty spot in our family that needed filled.  The relationship between a girl and her father is unique to nothing else.  It can set the stage for relationships with men the rest of her life.  I was not complete without that relationship; the doting man.  My child's mind turned assigned blame to my mother.

A feeling of "empty" dominated my life.  I tried to fill it with relationships - one after another.  I was confused, seeking that illusive "something" to fill that empty spot inside me.  I was so desperate that I put a sign on my back that read, "Kick me!".  This sign could only be seen by men who wanted to take advantage of women for their own selfish agenda.  This went on for years; until my mid thirties.  

I tried group therapy; Oh, that was fun! - NOT!  Therapy can be a good thing.  I was in a community group of self pity.  I tried drinking and bar hopping.  There was that long list of relationships that just added to the dirty feeling.  Anger surfaced in various ways: drinking, teasing, independence, rebellion, a loud and dominating personality.  I had a pastor tell me that he knew I was hurting because of how loud I laughed; I tried to hard to be happy.  

Let me say here that I have secrets.  Things I never told my mother, things I will not tell my husband.  My closest friends would not know how to understand.  If you do not deal with your secrets, they will make you sick.  I was sick emotionally and the physical aspects are now surfacing as a delayed reaction.  The seeds of illness have now grown into full maturity through high blood pressure, blood sugar and various allergies through a compromised immune system.

My worldly options were exhausted.  I tried everything I could to run headlong over a cliff (so to speak).

When I was sitting with a loaded gun in my hand, God spoke through a whisper from somewhere deep inside me.  

I returned to childhood teachings of my mother and, in gut wrenching prostration, returned to church.  I was the prodigal daughter coming home to the spiritual Father that I can always count on.  This Father never leaves me, forgave me, made me whole, listens to me, heals me, gave me hope and tenderly loves me forever.  He knows ALL my secrets but can't see them.  He sees me through the blood that Christ shed - as a pure and holy child of His, redeemed.  He has made me a princess daughter in His Kingdom forever.  I am the righteousness of God through His first born son, Jesus.  

I have scars on my soul.  The scabs and pain are gone.  My life is changed forever.  Life is full.  There is no more "empty" inside.  I am filled with warm, sincere desires to love, share, help, teach and to be with God, my Father, in this life and the next.  
Amen

Encore: The First Communion

Names are so fascinating in the Bible.  They help translate events and their meanings.

Interesting chain of events: Gen 14:18 Melchizedek, king of Salem (Salem means "peace"), gave communion to Abram (means "Father of Altitude"), later named Abraham ("Father of Multitude"). He blessed Abram and Abram gave tithe.  Note that God blessed Abraham first.  God gives graciously and generously.  God did not ask for the offering nor did he set it in place.  Abraham did that out of gratitude for God's blessing.  In turn, God blessed Abraham even more.  You cannot out give God.

This is the first mention of communion in the Bible and it lays the foundation for blessing and tithing. Notice God's blessing comes first because He is so gracious.  Notice also: after the tithe is paid, God makes a covenant with Abram to give a son (to Abram's barren wife in their old age) and countless offspring. 

Jerusalem is called the foundation of Salem; Jerusalem means "God's Delight". This communion was held in the Valley of Shaveh (means "King's Valley") Melchizedek means "My King is The Lord of Righteousness".
 
Let's put this together: "My King is The Lord of Righteousness" met in the "King's Valley" for the first communion, a ritual to mark the coming out of Egypt (Egypt translates "stress"), a type of sin (OT) (in the New Testament, the crucified Christ dying to cleanse our sin), with the "Father of Altitude" in Salem ("Peace") where we find Jerusalem, "God's Delight".  

Another way: "My King, Lord of Righteousness" went to the "King's Valley" to take out/cleanse of sin the "Father of Altitude" who honored this with giving a tenth of all he had and in return received the desire of his heart. (You can't out give God) This took place in the "Peace" of "God's Delight". 
*  Our gracious God wants to bless us with the desires of our hearts in a place of peace - this is His delight.
Amen

The Twelve, Pt. 2

The following accounts of the apostles' travels and deaths are NOT scriptural.  The Bible is full of hidden meanings through symbolism and understanding the text from original languages can often bring revelation and new meaning.  It is always interesting to read other view points.  Let us always remember:  The Bible does interpret itself.  We must be careful accepting the opinion of authors who cannot validate their writings through the Bible.  The Bible contains all the information we need to have a fulfilled life through Jesus.  

All that said, we are always curious to go deeper and further as we seek to find truth.  The accounts listed below are from various historians and scholars; some Christian, others Hebrew.  I have also read other conflicting accounts.  I only list this writing as interesting literature and NOT absolute fact.

*My use of actors photos, is merely to encourage the image of their youth.

> Simon, AKA Peter:  Simon-Peter, who was appointed by Jesus as cornerstone of the Church, was eventually martyred in Rome during the reign of the emperor Nero.  As the story goes, Peter asked to be crucified upside down on an x-shaped cross because he was not worthy to die the same way as Jesus, and the Romans obliged.





 
> Andrew: The brother of Peter—went to Greece in 69 AD, where the Roman proconsul tried to convince Andrew to forsake Christianity, so that he would not have to torture and execute him. Andrew was scourged, and then tied rather than nailed to a cross of olive wood, so that he would suffer for a longer time before dying.   The story goes that he saluted the cross and stated, "I have long desired and expected this happy hour.  The cross has been consecrated by the body of Christ."  Andrew lived for two days, during which he preached to passers by.



> James (son of Zebedee, AKA James the Greater):  Acts 12:19 says that James was killed with a sword in Jerusalem.  A detailed story goes: Because he was a strong leader of the church, James was convicted by Herod Agrippa as a political act to ingratiate himself with the Romans.  The Roman officer who guarded the apostle watched amazed as James defended his faith at his trial.  Later, the officer walked beside James to the place of execution.  Overcome by conviction, he declared his new faith to the judge and knelt beside James to accept beheading as a Christian.

 
> Philip: became a missionary in Asia.  Eventually, he traveled to the Egyptian city of Heliopolis, where he was scourged, thrown into prison and crucified upside down in 54 AD.  Some sources record he was stoned.

> Bartholomew:  supposedly was a missionary to Asia and preached in several countries, including India, where he translated the Gospel of Matthew for believers.  In one account, he was flayed (skinned) to death by a whip and then beheaded.







> Thomas:  apparently preached the gospel in Greece and India.  On one of his missionary trips to establish the church in India, angry local religious authorities, martyred him by running him through the four members of his body, with a spear.  He died and was buried in Calamine India.



> Matthew:  Legend says the tax collector turned missionary was martyred in Ethiopia, where he was supposedly stabbed in the back by a swordsman sent by King Hertacus, after he criticized the king's morals.







> James (son of Alphaeus, AKA James the Less):  He was stoned, forced over a cliff, fell 100 feet down from the southeast pinnacle of the temple when he refused to deny his faith in Christ.  When they discovered he survived, his enemies beat him to death with a club.  
* This was the same pinnacle where Satan had taken Jesus during the Temptation.

> Thaddaeus (AKA Lebbaeus, Judas or Jude):  According to several stories, he was crucified in Edessa in 72 AD - the name of cities in both Turkey and Greece.















> Simon (the Canaanite, AKA the Zealot):  preached in Mauritania on the west coast of Africa and then went to England.  I find two separate accounts: one states he was sawed in half, the other that he was crucified in 74 AD.

> Judas Iscariot:  According to Matthew 27:3-6, the turncoat apostle felt remorse over his betrayal of Jesus and went to the Temple to recant.  The high priests ignored his plea so he threw down the 30 pieces of silver that he had been paid, went off and hanged himself.  But Acts 1:15-20 gives a grislier version of his demise.  It states Judas used the blood money to purchase a piece of land and then fell headlong from a high place so that "he burst asunder in the midst and all his bowels gushed out."  Residents of Jerusalem named the place Aceldama, which means "the field of blood."  
* I always  wondered, if he had not died, would Jesus have forgiven Judas as he did Peter?   


My sincere apologies to this young man for using his image for the traitor.  I chose him only for his expression.


> John:  was sentenced to the mines on the prison Island of Patmos.  He wrote his prophetic Book of Revelation on that isle.  He was later freed to serve as Bishop of Edessa in modern Turkey.  He died, peacefully, as an old man, sometime around 100 AD.  (I recently read that he was miraculously delivered from death when boiled in a huge basin of oil, in Rome, THEN sent to the prison.  This was totally new to me.) 




Whether true accounts, or not, one thing that has been constant through history is that all but John suffered martyrdom.  They all suffered and stood true in their faith.  Death is but a moment in time; a doorway to eternal life.

Life is the dream from which we wake to the reality of death.
Amen

The Twelve, Part 1

 Jesus lived in Nazareth.  This is the simplest scenario for His missing years, most likely working at his father's trade, carpentry.  (Dare Crabtee's 1884 book, "The Journeys of Jesus".)  In that time, carpenters were also stone masons and builders.  He would have studied Hebrew scripture, spending time in the synagogue every day.  As oldest, He would have become head of the house after Joseph's death.  Mark 6 supports all this by recounting how when He began to teach at the local synagogue, people were surprised that a familiar person from their community had such wisdom (a prophet in his own home town).  Crabtree states, "It seems that Jesus grew to manhood's estate working with his hands while He acquired wisdom and knowledge from the great book of nature surrounding His mountain home, and also a perfect understanding of the written revelation handed down by the Hebrew fathers."

Jesus had many followers who believed His teachings.  Within this group, He had an inner circle of twelve young men that He selected for the mission of helping Him to spread His message.  Those men were "The Apostles", a term which comes from the Greek "apostolos", meaning "person sent".  Luke tells us they were handpicked, by Jesus, from the larger group of disciples, after a night of solitary prayer on a mountaintop.

This elite group was made up of Simon (later called Peter), Andrew, James the greater, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the less, Simon the Zealot, Thaddeus (also called Lebbaeus, Jude or Judas), and Judas Iscariot.   Some scholars see this number as alluding to the 12 tribes of Israel.   The Bible is a book of numbers and the number twelve is significant.  Twelve, in Hebrew, represents government.  There were 12 precious stones on the breastplate of the priests.  In Revelation 21, the foundations of the walls of the New Jerusalem will be of the same 12 precious stones.


The apostles must have been between the ages of 15 and 20, except Peter.  All were bachelors but Peter.  Hebrew men received a wife at the age of 18.  Peter was the only man noted to have a wife.  Mt 8:14   Education for Jewish children ended at age 13, when they were considered to be men, expected to follow in their father's trade and old enough to leave home.  Matthew had a profession; the others were apprenticing at their trades.  (Matthew might well have been second oldest.)  Mt 11:25, Lk 10:21, Jn 13:33  In Ex 30:14 a temple tax is instated, that Jesus and Peter paid in Mt 17:24-27.  The others were under the age of 20 so did not need to pay the tax.  A Rabbi began teaching at age 30, as Jesus did.  Students were younger than teachers.  Youth further explains their temperament, fear, hiding, running away and their eagerness.  Jewish boys, ages birth to 2 years, were killed when Jesus was born so there were none the same age.

Higher education (over the age of 13) was under a local Rabbi, in a synagogue.  Jesus was radical in His time, teaching everywhere BUT a synagogue.  He was "anti religion".  His message was radical, teaching love, when the culture was about hate and aggression.  Jesus movement was originally called "The Way".  Acts 9:2, 24:14

The apostles' identity is more as a group than individuals.  We only know a limited amount about the most familiar ones.  Peter and Andrew, who were brothers and worked as fishermen, were Jesus' first two recruits.  He approached them while they were casting their nets into the sea and offered to make them "fishers of men".  James the Greater, and his brother John, "the sons of Zebedee", were also fishermen.  Matthew, whom Jesus saw in his collection booth and recruited with two words, "Follow me".

Thomas' recruitment isn't described in the gospels.  He is described as being so loyal to Jesus that he offered to die with Him.  He has become known as "doubting Thomas" for asking of proof at the news of Jesus' resurrection.  Thaddeaus' biggest moment comes at the Last Supper, when he asks Jesus how He will show Himself only to the apostles after His death.  Judas Iscariot is known mostly for stealing money from the apostles and for betraying Jesus, but then committing suicide in remorse.  (Because of his remorse, I wonder if his life would have been different had he had the opportunity to be forgiven as Peter did.)

Simon is described by Matthew and Mark as a Canaanite and in Luke as a Zealot, likely for his strict adherence to Jewish law.  We know little about Philip, except he was from the same town, Bethsaida, as Peter and Andrew, and that he was present when Jesus performed the miracle of feeding the five thousand.  He advised Him prior to the meal that it would be too expensive to buy food for so many.

Two of the apostles are mystery men.  The only New Testament mention of Bartholomew and James the less are in lists of the apostles.  I have heard speculation that several of the apostles could have been relatives of Jesus due to the small towns they came from in close proximity to each other.

Being an apostle wasn't an easy job.  Not only were they expected to leave  home, job and travel with Jesus, but they also underwent a sort of on-the-job training in which He hone their minds and spirits to prepare them for a task of continuing His work.  In Matthew 10, Jesus gave the apostles a description of their eventual duties as missionaries and teachers and how to perform these duties.

If that wasn't difficult enough, Jesus also informed them that they would have to live a life without physical comforts.  They were instructed to travel without money, only the clothes on their backs and the shoes on their feet. When they arrived at a new city, He expected them to rely on the generosity of others for food and shelter.  If they could not find a humble host, they were told to move on, with the knowledge that the inhospitable would be punished more severely than Sodom and Gomorrah.

Before they reached the time of working on their own, they had plenty to do and learn.  In Matthew 17, they witnessed an example of Jesus casting out a demon from a mentally disturbed boy.  When they asked Him why they couldn't perform the same feat, He explained they needed more faith.  "If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, 'Remove hence to yonder place', and it shall move; and nothing shall be impossible to you."

The betrayal and violent death of Jesus was an experience that would certainly have helped the young apostles mature by taking them through trials of their human frailties.  The example is the emotional Peter.  When he refuses to believe Jesus' prophecy that the apostles will scatter after the arrest and execution, Jesus responds by informing Peter that he will deny knowing Jesus three times - a prediction that comes to pass, causing Peter's shame to break his pride.  Humbled, he now becomes more firm in his stand for Jesus.

In Matthew 16, Jesus had chosen Peter as leader - the "rock" upon whom he would build His church, and would provide him with the keys to heaven.  In Acts 1, Peter assumed the lead, by guiding the process of selecting Matthias to replace Judas.  He demonstrated that the apostles could perform miracles when he went to the temple in Jerusalem with John and healed a lame beggar in Jesus name.  This filled the crowd around them with "wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him."  Peter's preaching was so effective that in one day 3,000 people were converted to the new faith.  His healing became so famous that he achieved the reputation that even his shadow passing over a person could heal them.

Of all the apostles, it was Thomas who took the evangelical mission the furthest.  He is thought to have traveled east through modern-day Syria, Iran and eventually reached India.  He covered even more territory than Paul, who traveled the Mediterranean region preaching to the gentiles.

The apostles' mission was a dangerous one.  In the end, eleven of them were martyred.  Only John died of old age.  However, they accomplished their goal, as evidenced by the widespread acceptance of Christianity today.
Amen

To be continued . . . . . . .

Me, God and Digger

Do you have a pet?  One that you just adore?
I do.  His name is "Digger" and he is a Russian tortoise.

Digger is an amphibian, a cold blooded animal.  He gets body warmth from his surroundings.  I have to see that his surroundings are the correct temperature and humidity at all times.  I have to make sure he gets enough sunlight every day and enough dark to accommodate his sleep cycle.  His diet is important and I see to it that he gets a variety of the leaves and vegetables that are good for him.  I don't let him have any plant that might be  harmful to his system.  

When he has a full tummy, he often falls asleep in his food dish.  It makes me feel good that he is content.

 
Every few days, he needs to soak in water because he is a dessert tortoise and needs moisture.  I make sure he gets time to soak and exercise in the sink.

Why?  This seems like a lot of bother.  So why do I make all this effort for his well being?   I adore this cold blooded animal more than I ever imagined I 
would. 

Hours were spent, with a shovel, in the  hot sun, creating an outdoor habitat for summer weather.  Digger likes me.  He actually acknowledges me when I am in the room or go to  his outdoor pen to get him when the weather changes.  If he is hungry when I go outside, I call and he comes to me.  I like it when he notices me and shows me attention and appreciation just like God wants us to sing, praise and visit with Him.

It gives me joy when Digger is happy; just like God is thrilled with our happiness, peace, health and comfort.


God loves us like this.  Just as I sacrificed hard work in the hot sun, God sacrificed His son, Jesus, who sacrificed his life for us.

Digger likes my warm hands;
He does not like cold rain.
I know what he likes and I try to accommodate his surroundings.
God does the same for us.
 
I am happy when Digger is happy;
God is happy when we are happy.

I know what he needs;
I supply all of Digger’s needs
God supplies all of our needs and takes great joy in doing so.  He takes such great joy in our acknowledgement of His love by saying "Thank you" and offering praise throughout the day, that He offers blessings for the gratitude and praise we give Him.  He promises to bless us when we thank Him and praise Him for providing our needs.  

What an amazing God we have.
Amen
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Just For Fun

The Bible tells us that laughter is medicine for the soul.  Proverbs tells us over and over of all the benefits of laughter.  In today's world it is a light in the dark.

Many folks want to serve God, But only as advisors.

It is easier to preach ten sermons than it is to live one.

When you get to your wit's end, you'll find God lives there.

Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bans on the front door forever.

Quit griping about your church; if it was perfect, you couldn't belong.

If a church wants a better pastor, it only needs to pray for the one it has.

We're called to be witnesses, not lawyers or judges.

I don't know why some people change churches; what difference does it make which one you stay home from?

Be ye fishers of men.  You catch 'em - He'll clean 'em.

Stop, drop and roll won't work in hell.

Coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous.

God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.

God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.

If God is your co-pilot, swap seats!

Prayer: Don't give God instructions, just report for duty!

The task ahead  of us is never as great as the power behind us.

I have read to the end of The Book and  - We Win!

The will of God never takes you to where the grace of God will not protect you.

We don't change the message, the message changes us.

The best mathematical equation I have ever seen:
1 cross + 3 nails = 4 given

It is easier to preach ten sermons than it is to live one.

Plan ahead - it wasn't raining when Noah built the ark. 

Let's all try to be the person our dog thinks we are.

Life isn't waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain. 
Amen

All About Your Stuff

Everyone has stuff.  What sort of stuff do you have?  What kind of stuff do you want?  Is there any stuff that you have that you don't want?  Is there stuff you don't have that you do want?  What will you do with the stuff you don't want?  What do you do with the stuff you do want?

People want stuff.  Some of the stuff they want, they need.  Much of the stuff we have, we don't need.  So, why do we have the stuff we don't need?  Do we use our stuff to show off or show our stuff is better than the stuff of other people?  My stuff is better than your stuff.

What do you do with your stuff?  Do you use your stuff?  What do you use your stuff for?  Do you need your stuff to survive?  Do you need your stuff to be healthy?  Do you need your stuff to help others who don't have stuff?

Do your kids want your stuff?  Are they asking for your stuff when you are gone?  Do you have an attorney to make a will to say who gets your stuff?  Do they argue over who gets what of your stuff?  Will they go to court to get your stuff?  Will your family be torn apart over your stuff?  Or, do you have stuff that no one wants?

Does your stuff make you happy?  Do you enjoy having your stuff?  Does it make you feel all warm and fuzzy to have your stuff?  Does your stuff satisfy you or give you meaning?  Does your stuff give you purpose or sustain your life?

If not, you just might need more stuff.  Of course!  We all know that having stuff will make us happy, so we work to get stuff.  Some people cheat, lie and steal to get stuff.  Sometimes they go to jail because of their stuff.  When we get the stuff we want - to make us happy, we find we are not happy with the stuff we thought we wanted.  What do we do?  We get more stuff!  The stuff we had did not make us happy so more stuff will make us happy, so we work longer and harder to get more stuff.  When we get more stuff, do we find we are soon unhappy with our new stuff?   Do we really need to get more stuff?

We go to resale shops, malls, yard sales, markets, dealers, sales, discounts, the internet, auctions, stores and warehouses to get more stuff.  We buy other people's stuff.  We trade for stuff.  We look high and low for bargains in order to have more stuff.  The one with the most stuff at the end, wins.

What if the stuff we buy doesn't work?  There is the issue of returning stuff we decide we don't like, want or doesn't fit.  Maybe the new stuff is the wrong size or color or just doesn't work like we wanted it to.  We have to return our stuff and have the bill adjusted with the rebate, on our credit card, stand in line and wait, with other people who are returning stuff.

What if our stuff gets broken?  We have to file a complaint, return it or ship our stuff for the company to repair our stuff.  Then we wait for our stuff to be returned.  Meanwhile, we rent other stuff to use while our stuff is repaired.  We pay someone to repair our stuff so we can display, insure, store and inventory our stuff.

When we have stuff, we have to clean our stuff so we buy stuff to clean our stuff.  We have to put our stuff someplace so when we fill our home with our stuff, we have to rent a facility to store our extra stuff.

Someone else might want to take our stuff so we have to buy insurance to replace our stuff and a security system to guard  our stuff.  Then, we inventory our stuff so we don't forget what stuff we have.  Sometimes, we even photograph our stuff.

We could have a sale to get rid of some of our stuff.  (Now here is a revelation!)  Then, we have to decide which stuff to get rid of.  Which of our stuff do we really need and which of our stuff should we sell?  Do we need the stuff we think we need or do we just want it?  Is it sentiment that has us keeping our stuff?  Is it the cost that has us keeping our stuff?  Maybe it is the hope that someday our stuff will be worth more than what we paid for our stuff.  Then we have to go to our inventory to find where we put our stuff, get our stuff, clean our stuff and decide how to sell our stuff.  

If we have a yard sale, we have to clean, sort and price our stuff.  If we sell to a dealer or collector, we have to prove the value of our stuff so we pay to have our stuff appraised.  If we take our stuff to a resale store, we have to clean, sort and value our stuff.  Then we have to keep a running inventory of our stuff.  If we want to sell in a craft mall, we have to pay rent for the space to sell our stuff and spend time, and money, creating a display for our stuff.  We will have to purchase more stuff to exhibit the stuff we are selling.  We can create a virtual store on one of the many selling web sites created for selling stuff.  Then, we have to set up the virtual store, charge tax, do shipping and pay taxes to the government on our former stuff. 


You will never see a U-Haul truck behind a 
hearst.
A coffin is not big enough to hold all of your stuff.
More stuff will not get you any priority in heaven.
Money is the least of God's blessings


The only things we keep forever are those we GIVE AWAY.
Amen