I think about many things. Well…we all do, but the things I think about make me feel weird. I feel weird because I think too much and overcomplicate things. And because I feel weird, I feel alone. Not alone in the sense of sadness, but alone like – it’s likely impossible that your friends, family, or the average person is thinking of these things right now but you! So, among those things I’ve been thinking intensely about is tithing.
When I say intensely, I mean I lost about a half hour of sleep. I also dreamt about it and woke up with tithing as my first thought. The concept of tithing gets too much attention, yet too little. The good points about it are overshadowed by the bad. It’s so divisive, and I’m perplexed about it. Something that God implemented as good, is all of a sudden “demonized!” Here’s what I think. Do it. Tithe. Absolutely, tithe…but be cheerful about it.
“To the Levites I have given every tithe in Israel for an inheritance, in return for their service that they do, their service in the tent of meeting” – Numbers 18:21.
I may be wrong, but I think people get the concept of tithing wrong. What does tithe mean? It means “a tenth part.” In Greek (dekatos), it means “ten percent of something.” Way back when the nation of Israel was instructed under the Mosaic law to tithe. The 10% given was used to support the Levites’ work in the Holy Temple and community. Tithes came in the form of livestock and agriculture. It was never in the form of money until years later.
I’m not writing this to give a whole study on tithing. I recognize that there are different camps. Just what I believe. Some people refuse to tithe because they deem it unbiblical and some don’t because they believe they don’t have to. Some tithe and give the full 10% because – “the law”. Others tithe and give what they can. I tithe because I do believe we should, but I don’t always tithe 10%. I may give a little more, and when it’s tight – I give a little less.
8 Will man rob God? Yet you are robbing me. But you say, ‘How have we robbed you?’ In your tithes and contributions. 9 You are cursed with a curse, for you are robbing me, the whole nation of you. – Malachi 3:8-9
I remember a few years ago, I was on my knees praying to the Lord. I was asking the Lord to speak to my heart. To reveal to me what He wanted me to know. While on my knees, I received a vision.
I approached what appeared to be 2 giant Pringles cans parallel to each other, haha. They were actually pillars, but the Pringles look was a nice touch. It surely caught my attention. As I passed the pillars, I saw a beautiful temple made of gold. And just like a scene out of a movie, I got a panoramic view of how big the temple was.
As I marveled at the temple, suddenly, I saw someone creeping up the temple steps. 😮🤔 Wondering who it was I watched intently waiting to see their face. After a few steps, the person turned and peered over their shoulder. To my shock, the person was – ME!! 🤯🤯🤯 This was so strange! How was this person ME!
This “ME” didn’t match my character. I…”ME” was giggling so sneakily! Squinched face, hunched back, greedy hands, and a sneer that even the “father of lies” would love. If that is what I look like trying to be sneaky, God help me! So, this “me” thought no one was watching and snuck into the temple. I felt like a “fly on a wall”. I watched in awe at how no sooner did “me” enter the temple, this “me” crept out giggling with an armful of gold! After the coast was clear, she ran away.
Stunned, I spoke aloud and said, “OH NO LORD!! I would NEVER do that!!!” As if I would dare go into a temple and steal anything. Not even a penny! Unbeknownst to me, I was caught in a lie. I then heard Him speak, “Never say never. You steal when you don’t tithe.” 😑 Touche!
God didn’t curse me, and He wasn’t angry either. Thankfully, we live in a time of grace, and I have a good good Father. He was gentle actually, and while I felt guilty it was funny. I couldn’t help but laugh. I repented and have tithed ever since.
35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ …40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me‘ (Matthew 25:35-40).
Come now, did you think I was a legit thief? Like, did I in my lifetime steal from a bank, friend, family member, or store? No, but it’s ok! I would have thought the same since I was caught in that lie. The only thing I ever stole was time…from a job…I digress. Nonetheless, there was a lesson to be learned from my vision. Give, don’t take.
You may think I was scared into tithing. No, it actually gave me a healthy fear of the Lord – reverence. It taught us (my husband and I) to trust Him with what little we had. Eventually, I realized that nothing we had belonged to us. We were just stewards. This happened so early in my walk, so I didn’t realize the deeper meaning of what He was trying to show me. Today, as I write this it reminds me of the verse above. This is the meaning of tithing to me. Giving to give back.
Not everyone has the means to give a full tithe. So would God not bless you because you can’t? No. He doesn’t need our money. He wants your heart. Give what you can. If giving causes you to fret or frown, then you have a heart issue. I pray you’ll seek the Lord.
In all, I won’t get caught up in the divisiveness of tithing. I choose to give as my heart leads. To give beyond the tithe when I’m able. To give when the Lord leads me to. I choose to tithe to help my church. To give to bless another. I choose to be a cheerful giver, and I’ll tithe with the right intent. How about you?
Last week, I told my husband that since I started writing this blog, I felt like I dedicated more time to writing than rebuilding my business. I wrote for the company on occasion but stopped for various reasons. One reason is my inability to juggle between homeschooling my children, conducting business, and blogging for personal and business. My friends call me “Superwoman,” but I’m not. It’s tough! Honestly, I don’t know how I function most days. It’s the grace of God I suppose.
My income comes from the company, not my blog. This isn’t monetized, and I’m unsure if it will be. I knew God gave me this command, yet I felt business duties took a back seat – majorly. This was also a concern because God gave me the vision to create New Life C&T in 2020. How could I forget about the vision I held onto so tightly?
I had this conversation with my husband – without regard for what God would think and feel. Not that there was anything wrong with this. We do it every day without thinking. We are people with lives carrying so many responsibilities. Yet, we forget that He is very much interested in every aspect of our lives.
I think it’s cool that He does care so much. Especially enough to intervene, guide, and give us food for thought. It shows that He isn’t all fire and brimstone, but one Who loves too. Maybe I’m weird, I don’t know. Anyway, He was very much interested in what I was thinking and my feelings. So much so that He interrupted my sleep.
Around 1:41am I woke up, which is not my usual time. I’m normally awake between 2:50am (so precise I know) and 3:30am. I decided to pray since it was early enough. On my knees and hunched over the bed. With my hands clasped, and eyes closed, I began to ramble on about what was on my mind. Namely schisms in the Church body, and the seeming disregard of Church history in teachings. Does anyone else think about these things? Maybe not. I do it more often than I should.
So, after maybe 10 minutes, I decided to quit rambling and actually focus on hearing what the Lord had in His heart. Once I did, in my spirit I heard Matthew 17. Ok…disclosure statement: I did not know what Matthew 17 was about. I am one of those people who knows the verse, but probably couldn’t link the chapter and verse. “The Bible says….somewhere in Romans it talks about…” yeah, I’m that person.
There is a lot to unpack in Matthew 17. Jesus’ transfiguration is a whole sermon in itself, and there’s a boy afflicted by a demonic spirit. As I was reading through the chapter, I wasn’t sure why I was reading it. I didn’t understand why I was led to it. I almost gave up reading beyond verse 22, but it was sort of pressed upon me to read until the end.
27 Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee. – Matthew 17:27
I’m a King James (KJV) fan, but I won’t pretend I understand everything it says. I read it because I like the challenge. Well KJV wasn’t making too much sense to me at 2 am. I didn’t grasp at the moment what was being discussed in this verse, and the ones before it. At 2 am, I wanted to go back to sleep. Yet, I was determined to get the context. Again, why was I reading it to begin with? After reviewing other translations and reading a commentary – it hit me! This was about what my husband and I discussed the night before.
Remember when I said God is interested in every aspect of our lives? Well, He made it a point to make something aware to me. “What work we do at Christ’s command brings its own pay along with it: In keeping God’s commands, as well as after keeping them, there is great reward…”.1
Unrelated but for context, Matthew 17:24 speaks about the tribute collectors asking Peter if Jesus pays tribute or tax2. In verse 25, Peter replies, “Yes, He does.” Peter then enters the house, and Jesus asks Peter from whom do the kings of the earth collect duty and taxes – from their own children or from others? In verse 26, Peter replies, “from others.”
To which, Jesus replies that “…the children are exempt.” Meaning that His disciples were exempt because they were the children of the true living King. There is a deeper meaning to this. So, I would encourage those who aren’t familiar to do a deeper dive. In verse 27, to not cause controversy, Jesus told Peter to go fishing. The first fish Peter caught had money in its mouth for Peter to pay the tax for Jesus and himself.
Now back to the point. Matthew Henry notes that Peter used his calling (fisherman) to catch the fish. When we are called to do something, we must be diligent in what we are doing. We must be ready to work for Him. When Peter caught the fish, he took the money from its mouth. This money represented the “reward for obedience in obedience.” 3
I found this to be pretty interesting. The other commentaries and references didn’t make this connection. Jesus told Peter to do what he knew how to do to get something done. How does this apply to me? God was telling me to write, and He would handle the rest. Thus reminding me, that He would help my family and me.
As long as I remain obedient to what He asks me to do, there is a reward for my obedience. The reward doesn’t necessarily mean money. But, whatever the reward is, I can trust it is the best if it’s from Him. It is important to trust God. I was concerned about the financial and operational aspects of the business. I forgot who He is. He didn’t rebuke me. In His loving kindness, Jesus reminded me that He will supply all our needs, according to His riches in glory.
Take heart and be comforted in whatever or wherever the Lord leads you. While it may be difficult to understand, trust, and believe that He knows what you need. He has you in the palm of His hand.
No…I’m not talking about the “Trump Train.” I’m talking about a different train. A train that’s ready for believers willing to submit to the will of God. Its destination? The field of the lost who want and need to be found. Get ready, the train has arrived.
A few years ago, there was this park I was standing in. I don’t exactly remember why I was standing there. I just knew I was waiting for something. Anyway, I was standing there dressed in scrubs next to a doctor. We were both waiting for what seemed like an eternity and then the wait was finally over. A HUGE and MIGHTY train stopped in front of us.
The train was a brilliant red lined with gold trimming. It was beautiful and otherworldly. I’ve never seen a train like this before. I climbed onto the steep steps and stood within an open space. A few steps ahead was an open book on a podium. There was an angelic-like light shining on this podium. I was so drawn to this light that I paid no attention to my surroundings.
I walked to the open book and saw a pen. Without hesitation, I picked up this pen and wrote 9:19. I wrote this down as if I were logging my arrival time. I guess I knew what I was doing, subconsciously at least. I placed the pen back on the podium and turned to my right to walk to the back of the train. “Wait, this doesn’t look like a train”, I thought. It looked like I was inside a school bus.
A typical school bus with oversized, hard, and thick cushioned brown seats. Cold metal floor and a lot of windows. Surely this train could have looked as appealing inside as the outside. Never mind that, I had to sit down. I saw about 5-6 people sitting and watching as I began to walk. As I made my way to the back, I noticed how messy the back was.
The mess looked like trash, but within was a mix of items. These items were like toys (a dirty bunny specifically) and other things I can’t recollect. Upon closer observation, I discovered that this was the “lost and found” area. I found my seat at the back and faced forward looking to get to my destination. Then I woke up.
“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest. – Luke 10:2
I’ve expressed this before; I believe something else is coming. I won’t be quick to call it the “End Time Harvest” nor will I say that this is prophecy. This is plain to see, look around you. Seriously, how much did you put in your tank today?
My family brought food 2 days ago, and we have to buy more again. What about your electric bill? Laid off or fired? None of this is you? You are blessed but let’s not pretend. Things aren’t getting better. A disaster of epic proportions is coming. Unless some great miracle happens (I hope for this) to prevent it, many people will be left without hope.
To rise up, follow Jesus and become laborers in the field – why do I believe this? In the dream I was in scrubs standing next to a doctor. It is plain to me that I was a nurse. What do nurses and doctors do? They help those who are sick and in need of healing. They are also servants who labor. Much like the calling of believers, right?
The wait in my dream felt like eternity. I don’t know how eternity feels, but I think we can get the sense of what that may feel like. For believers, we are waiting for Jesus to come back. My goodness, it certainly feels like an eternity! For me, waiting for this disaster to happen feels like an eternity too. No doubt Noah felt that way when he waited for the rain.
It was a mighty train was a brilliant red color covered with gold trimming. I saw this representing the Trinity.
Mighty – Almighty like our Father in heaven.
Red – Jesus’s sacrifice, atonement, the blood.
Gold – The Holy Spirit.
The train arrived to take us to our destination. I stepped onto the train, walked to the podium blanketed in light and picked up a pen. I wrote 9:19, and this took me 3- 4 years to understand why. After constantly praying about the significance of 9:19, I was led to this scripture: “So Jesus arose and followed him, and so did His disciples” – Matt 9:19.
In Matthew chapter 9, a ruler came to Jesus worshipping Him and told Jesus about the death of his daughter. He asked Jesus to lay His hand on her so she could live. Without hesitation, Jesus rose to help the man and the disciples followed. As you can see here, Jesus answered the call for someone who was in need of healing. His disciples followed him. We are to do the same now and always be ready when the time comes.
The 5-6 people on the train were more servants and/or laborers. There were so few for it to be such a huge train. This truly correlates with Luke 10:2 and Matthew 9:37 – “…The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” Let me not forget to mention the “lost and found” area.
In the “lost and found,” I saw children’s toys like a dirty bunny and other things. When someone is lost, they WANT to be found. Who wants to be without hope and living in despair? All people – men, women, and children alike need help. Some may not agree with this but, everyone needs a Savior. It became clear to me that those on the train were going out to help save the lost hoping that they would be found.
How do we as believers do this? By suiting up and helping those in need while sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. Whether that’s through giving food, resources, shelter or a helping hand. When God is calling, get up and follow Him. Don’t run but jump at that one simple command. Last but not least, suit up because the train has arrived. Are you ready?
Have you ever heard God talk to you? Some will have you believe that the voice you hear is the one in your head. Others will say that it is impossible to hear God. All you need to “hear” is in the bible, and God doesn’t do that anymore. John 10:27-28 states, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me…” Those who are in Christ can hear Jesus speak. For the past 3 years, I’ve heard in my prayers and dreams – Noah.
Any believer who hears the name Noah automatically thinks about the Ark, the animals, the rainbow, Nephilim/giants, the Great Flood, etc. Since I’ve had that dream I wrote about in Within The Ark: Are these the Days of Noah? I’ve been wondering why I even got it in the first place. Sure, the pandemic wreaked havoc, but was it “days of Noah” chaos? What did this dream even mean? I have an idea. I could be wrong, but I believe we are entering a new era. Hear me out…
When God broke the fountains of the great deep and opened the windows of heaven above – He caused the earth to flood.1 Both man, beast, creeping thing, and birds of the air – all living things on the dry land not on the ark died. After 150 days when the waters were upon the earth God remembered Noah. The windows of heaven closed, and the fountains of the great deep stopped. The flood waters began to recede. After much waiting and a series of events, Noah and his family were finally able to leave the ark.2 Visualize yourself stepping off a giant boat and facing the reality that you and 7 otherpeople survived a great flood. Noah and his family were essentially entering into a new era.
Jesus is definitely coming back – yes! I make no claims to know when exactly. Call me crazy, but I don’t think the Lord is coming back just yet. I believe something massive is coming before His return, and people aren’t ready for it. It will be like a flood (symbolically) that will catch many off guard. What happens after flood waters abate? You see the damage and work to rebuild. It’ll be an event that will change our lives forever.
I believe there is still much work to be done. I believe there are still many more souls that need to be saved. To spread the good news of Jesus Christ. I believe God is winnowing and looking for those willing to follow a simple command and do what He has called them to do. I know some out there understand my thoughts because they believe it too. I also believe my dream was a call for people to prepare to do just that work – save more souls.
Noah had MANY years to prepare for the great flood. Some sources say at least 50 years others say it took Noah over 100 years to build the ark. Could you imagine the ridicule he faced daily as he continued warning people about the rain to come? God has been leading my family and me to prepare. Preparations included stocking up on food and essentials (a few months’ worth) and making investments. I’ve looked and felt crazy trying to warn others – since 2021.
I’ve told my friends and family – “it’s going to be beyond catastrophic, but I’m not scared.” I’m not a conspiracy theorist or a fear-monger. I just can see the forest from the trees. Look at our economy and study past economic trends. Record inflation, devaluing of the dollar, housing crisis, commercial real estate woes, high unemployment due to mass layoffs, etc. This is worse than the 2008 financial crisis and on track to be even worse than the 1929 Great Depression. We are in the next cycle and history will repeat itself. However, I won’t fret, and neither should you.
After that Great Flood, there was sunshine, a rainbow, and a beautiful blue sky. Just as I saw the beautiful blue sky in my dream. I know everything is going to be alright, but I also know that it’s going to take a village to build back again. I pray that whoever reads this prays to our heavenly Father and tests what I’m saying.
I believe it’s already raining, but we haven’t seen the flood, yet. If you believe a “flood” is coming, are you ready?
Here are a few things I’ve noticed from my dream that make me believe this is the case:
The boat I was on is a commonly referenced generic depiction of Noah’s Ark (ex: circular windows in kid books).
The Architect (in appearance) is the Creator of all things.
The dream occurred in a city that exists today – Annapolis, MD. Fun fact: I didn’t know this was a city and the capital of MD.
The building with a rod bearing the appearance of a cross at the top is a building that exists in Annapolis, MD. It is the Capital building, but what it used to look like some years ago.
The cloud I saw is known as a cirrus cloud. A hairy/wispy cloud found at the highest altitude (4000-20000 m; (13,000-66,000 ft).
Mt. Everest is 29,029 feet [8,848 meters]
The ark floated 15 cubits 3(7 meters or 22 ft) above Mt. Everest.
Granted the building isn’t that tall, but it confirms I was very high up in the air.
In the six hundredth year of Noah’s life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month, the same day were all the fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened -Genesis 7:11 ↩︎
It was a gloomy and cloudy day outside. It looked like it was beginning to rain. I remember standing and looking up at a ramp to an entryway. An old man with glasses was standing at the top of the ramp. If I could describe him, I’d say he resembled “The Architect” from The Matrix.Where was I? When was I? I don’t know, I didn’t think nor ask those questions when I looked at the ramp.
Without thinking, I gravitated toward the entrance, and the old man started fading into the darkness. I suddenly found myself inside this place peering outside a circular-shaped window. The old man’s face reappeared and obscured my view, but this time it was faint like a fading image. He started to speak about things I don’t remember. Maybe he was giving a history lesson, I don’t know. I haven’t a clue. Whatever he was doing, it was highly effective. I hadn’t realized I was on a boat with the entrance closed. The old man stopped talking and his face completely faded. I finally had a full view out the window.
I could see a city. You know those cut scenes in a movie where you see a sky view? It was like this, and I saw the name of the city and state. I was in Annapolis, Maryland, but I’d never been there before. As I gazed at the city, it quickly became dark and started to rain. In time, the entire city of Annapolis was underwater.
Not long after, the rain stopped. I could see clearly since the rain was gone. There was a stillness to the water, and I could tell the sun was slowly trying to come out. I remember looking at one of the buildings underwater and seeing what looked like a rod bearing a cross at the top. At that moment, it registered and sunk in – I was floating above the city.
I felt the rocking motions. I heard the waves roaring as they moved against the boat. I heard creaking sounds from the wood of the boat. It all felt so real! After all my emotions set in, I turned my attention to the ceiling. There was an opening at the top of the boat. What I saw and felt was even more amazing.
I saw the most beautiful blue sky, and it felt warm. A feeling of peace, comfort, and security captivated me. What caught my attention the most was this strange cloud. I don’t remember seeing a cloud like this one before. It was thin and wispy. I was so close to this cloud that I could’ve probably touched it. I reached out to touch the cloud, and suddenly, my vision turned black.
I got pretty upset. I desperately wanted to feel that feeling again. That peace. That warmth. The security and comfort. It was a feeling I never wanted to depart from. I also wanted to keep watching this cloud, and the sky.
After being in my feelings for about 3 seconds, my vision returned where I could see the sky again. After that, I woke up!
This was 2 – 3 years ago and, I didn’t know what it meant. I am a dreamer, and I love making attempts to interpret them. People say that God doesn’t speak in dreams or that these things are a thing of the past. God is the same today, yesterday, and forever. So, I beg to differ. I think I may have an idea now. I believe that these are the days of Noah.
What do you think? Are these the days of Noah? Or is this something else? If you would like to see my logic, follow me and look out for my next post.
10 As for their appearance, all four looked alike—as it were, a wheel in the middle of a wheel. 11 When they went, they went toward any of their four directions; they did not turn aside when they went, but followed in the direction the head was facing. They did not turn aside when they went. 12 And their whole body, with their back, their hands, their wings, and the wheels that the four had, were full of eyes all around. 13 As for the wheels, they were called in my hearing, ‘Wheel.’”
Ezekiel 10:10-13
That night, I KNEW He (God) was going to show me something. Without a shadow of a doubt, I knew it. Have you ever been so sure of yourself about something? The last I had that feeling was when I started my true walk in 2019. Although, I had not immediately known that it was His divine providence that caused change in my life one night.
It had been since March 2024 that I had entered into a time of self-condemnation. When I realized that I ignored the one simple command He gave me. Today is June 21, 2024, and I can remember a few nights before, pleading to the Lord to help me. With desperation in my heart, I begged, “Please Lord, send someone, anyone to me!” I was confused and upset because I didn’t know what to do. The next morning, He answered me.
My cousin who lives a couple hours away texted asking if she could call around 11:30 am to chat. I’m not sure if I thought at that moment that He answered my prayer. When the time came, we chatted for a while discussing what happened in our lives since we last spoke. We discussed so much! Way too much to share, but our conversation lit a fire in me.
By the end of our conversation, I felt so much better! Thank God He sent her! The following day, I listened to a sermon by her pastor which also kept that fire burning from within. It was as if I was refreshed and renewed in my spirit. The stronghold of this spirit of self-condemnation was lifted from me. Feeling so fresh and confident, I knew, I KNEW He would show me something that night.
In a dream He showed me wheels
Well, that night in a dream, I saw wheels. There were maybe 6 in a pile. There was so much going on that I couldn’t entirely recollect, but the wheels seemed so significant. I woke up and gathered my thoughts wondering about what it meant. I went back to sleep and had another dream.
There were cogs within a wheel, and it caused it to turn. I even said out loud – WHEEL! I’m sure He added that for extra measures like…yes, this is about wheels. I woke for the second time even more perplexed. “Lord, what is this about wheels? I know wheels signify movement. Do I need to move?” After mulling in my thoughts, the Holy Spirit led me to Ezekiel 10.
Mind you, I’m not a pro at Ezekiel. I didn’t know what chapter 10 was about, but I was confident this was God. I mean… obviously, He knows what He’s talking about. “Lord, when I get up again, I will look into it.” An hour later, I did, and I discovered that chapter 10 was about Ezekiel’s vision. His vision of the glory of God and cherubim resembling wheels within a wheel.
“20 Wherever the spirit would go, they would go, and the wheels would rise along with them, because the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels. 21 When the creatures moved, they also moved; when the creatures stood still, they also stood still; and when the creatures rose from the ground, the wheels rose along with them, because the spirit of the living creatures was in the wheels.”
Ezekiel 1:20-21
At first, I wasn’t sure why I had these dreams. After He gave me Ezekiel 10, I kinda had to “run with it.” I listened to sermons and Bible studies, and read commentaries and scripture. I wanted to understand the significance of the wheels. All pointed to the divine Providence of God.
Providence can be defined in multiple ways. Per Vocabulary.com, it’s defined as the guardianship and care provided by a deity or god. Let’s take a look at this from a biblical perspective. God is omniscient (all-knowing), omnipotent (all-powerful), and omnipresent (everywhere). I think sometimes we forget that God is aware of what’s happening at any given moment in our lives. I think we forget that He is very much invested in our lives.
Imagine a wheel within a wheel. Each wheel is covered with eyes and deep at the core is a spirit steering and orchestrating change. The Spirit within the wheel is the Spirit of God. This is likely the simplest way to articulate the wheels in Ezekiel’s vision. Through His wisdom, care, and love – the all-seeing, all-knowing, and infinitely powerful God is directing all things and changes in the universe.
God is in complete control of EVERYTHING! That includes our personal lives, political affairs, and the things of this world. God uses His sovereignty to accomplish His will through our lives and the world. Understanding the wheels served as a reminder to me that it’s not about me. The wheels also reminded me that He is with me and has equipped me to do what I am doing at this moment.
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
When I was given that one simple command that was part of my calling. When we surrender ourselves to Christ we submit to the will of our Father in Heaven. We pick up the calling placed on our lives, and we move. Through His divine providence, He gives us everything we need to complete our calling.
That period of self-condemnation was difficult for me. I placed restrictions on myself akin to following the Mosaic Law. I would stumble every time becoming frustrated at my own efforts. I was forgetting about the grace He had given. But, God allowed it to happen to me.
He allowed Jacob to take the birthright from Esau because it was in His providential plan for Jacob to become the Patriarch of the Israelites. He allowed Joseph to be kidnapped and sold as a slave in Egypt because it was His providential plan for many to be saved from famine. Just as He allowed Judas to betray Jesus. So that He would die on the cross for our sins and give us eternal life.
My Father in Heaven allowed me to stumble again and again so that I would recognize Him working in my life. As He works in my life, He uses me to change the life of another. This is a clarion call for my brothers and sisters in Christ – seek the Lord with all your heart and soul. Keep your devotion and glorify Him in all you do. It is our testimony that drives many to Him.
Have you ever been told what to do? It may have been something complicated or just a simple command. What a silly question, of course, you have – we all have. Our whole lives we’ve been told what to do. From home to school and in the workplace.
I don’t particularly like being told what to do when it’s contrary to what I think. Maybe this is why I cringe at the idea of a 9 – 5. Bosses tend to shun new ideas and critical thinking. Maybe this is why I own my own business. I can make decisions I feel work best for my business. I can’t imagine I’m the only one who feels this way. Who wants to listen to someone who gives an authoritative order?
Now don’t get me wrong, I respect authority. Good authoritative figures keep law and order. I just find it difficult to bend a knee to someone who barks commands. It’s difficult to listen to a command without an explanation with their expectation to act without hesitation. But what if God Almighty gives you a command. Would you run or jump?
“I’ve commanded you to write“
I crawled…yes, I know that wasn’t an option! I wanted to listen, but I also didn’t want to. He showed me what He wanted me to do, but it was something that I didn’t like to do. It took me a while to understand why. “Why Lord, why have You commanded me to write?” It’s such a cumbersome thing to do!! I’m sure He looked down and shook his head – maybe I acted like I was 2. Nonetheless, I took on the task with some pep in my step.
It proved to be cumbersome just as I expected. “Who do I write about? What do I write about? When do I write? Where do I write? How do You want me to write? Lead me, Lord!” In hindsight, I can see these were nonsense questions. I can see why He never answered me. It was a simple command, all He wanted me to do was write.
A month or 2 goes by and I’m already crawling. By this time, I’m making excuses for my lack of writing. “I don’t know what to do,” “I’m too tired,” or “I’ll try again tomorrow.” No, no that wasn’t cutting it, and soon I’d know why it wasn’t. “I’ve commanded you to write.” Please believe it, He said it to me. 2 days later, He laid it out to me. Not only WHY He commanded me to write but the consequence of my failure to listen.
Jesus replied: “’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.“
Matthew 22:37
There it was my purple oversized towel dipped and draped over the toilet. Eeww*sighs*…if you could only see the look on my face. I was in a PUBLIC BATHROOM!! I don’t think I would have been as disgusted if this happened at home. I rushed out of the bathroom stall to clean my towel in the sink. Somehow, I got my favorite brown jacket ruined in the process, so I was trying to clean that too.
My sister-in-law was in the bathroom too trying to help clean my things. There was a lot of commotion in the bathroom, as people were coming and leaving. While at the sink, I turned my head looking toward the door. I noticed a woman who stood out in the group. Our eyes didn’t meet, but I felt she was watching me.
The woman wore a fitted black suit and a white shirt underneath. You’d think she was one of those secret agents (sans the shades) like the “Men in Black.” Not trying to pay her any mind, I turned my attention back to my towel and jacket. About a minute went by and my sister-in-law determined that our efforts were futile. So, we gave up trying to clean my things. With nothing else to hold my attention, I turned back to see the woman and this time we met glances. There was no denying at this point that she was watching me.
I wanted to know what she wanted, so I walked toward her. Before I could reach close enough, she started leaving the bathroom. The woman walked outside the bathroom down the hall, and I followed at a distance behind her. People were walking around kind of blocking my view, but she made sure that I could see her as she turned the corner.
As I followed close behind, the strangest thing happened. All of a sudden amid the crowd I let out a huge shout “I LOVE YOU, JESUS!!” Of course, I do, but what was that all about? Why did I find the need to shout what I knew without a doubt? Well, I had no time to think about it. I had to make sure I didn’t lose sight of her.
I made it to the end of the hall and turned the corner. There she was standing with her back toward me. It was like time had stopped. She was the focal point, and it felt like nothing else mattered at that moment. The woman turned to face me, and she didn’t look like who I saw before. I’ve been cat-fished!!
Seriously, this woman looked nothing like what I saw before. This was a gaunt-looking man with pale skin and sunken eyes. He looked exactly how I’d imagine death to look like. Then, the gravity of the entire situation hit me. THIS IS THE ANGEL OF DEATH, and it is here for ME!
It was all a dream
The Notorious B.I.G
Would you believe that I automatically knew why it was there? I asked it, “You’re the Angel of Death aren’t you?” It nodded its head, yes. I then asked, “You’re here for me aren’t you?” Without a word, it slowly lifted its bony finger, pointed at me, and nodded, yes.
I didn’t fall to my knees, beg or plead. I wasn’t shocked and was resolved to accept what was going to happen to me. How could I ask for forgiveness now when I knew I was wrong? Oh, how the mighty can fall! Throw me in the pit! Take me now, do away with me! As far as I was concerned, I couldn’t be redeemed.
The last thing I saw was like a movie scene. I got a third-person vantage point of someone standing at the edge of a hole. They were looking down and there it was – hell underneath. A valley of dead bodies far beyond what my eyes could see. A wicked and ominous laugh filled my ears. It was a special effect that definitely affected me. I was certain it was my time, but before anything could happen – a white light blinded me. Then I woke up! *sighs…. It was just a dream.
If you love me, keep my commands
John 14:15
I woke up not with tears but wonder. Wondering if I still stand in jeopardy. All these intrusive, negative thoughts and questions popped into my mind. I don’t remember them all, but I do remember one – can I be forgiven? At that moment, I had to remind myself of His word and posture my heart, but… should I get what I deserve?
“I am sorry that I am weak. I am sorry that You have to repeat over and over that disobedience is what You see. My Lord, Your heart is so good. You love me so much that You continue to be patient with me. What is this righteousness I have? It is filthy rags like my towel that was soaked in the toilet bowl.”
As I knelt down by my bedside, I burst into tears. Not because of death or hell but because I kept throwing away every chance. How can I say I love you if I can’t obey one simple command. Now I understand that when I said, “I LOVE YOU JESUS” those were empty words to You. In hindsight, it felt empty when I said it.
Is it crazy for me to say that I really struggled to repent? Maybe I can share a bit…I was wrong and I knew I deserved whatever consequence. “There isn’t another sorry I can give other than to ask You to uncover my shame. I humbly come before You fighting to repent because I don’t deserve Your mercy. Why be merciful when I was relentless in my disobedience?”
Let’s just say, I’m thankful I have a good good Father. I knew He had forgiven me. He needed to remind me of the importance of His one simple command to me. It was surely a wake-up call and put some tremendous pep in my step. There is more to this story, I could go on and on. What is important to note is that it’s not about you or me.
I write all of this simply to say – Jump! Don’t run away!
In the beginning He was. “God said, Let us make man in our image” – Genesis 1:26. “In the beginning, was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Wordwas God” – John 1:1.
Nothing could exist without Him. “All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made” – John 1:3
He was a life and brightness they could not comprehend. “In him was life, and the life was the light of men.The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it” – John 1:4-5
He was the light the world knew not. “The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through him, yet the world did not know him” – John 1:9-10
He was the word made flesh. The Word was made flesh and He dwelt among us. Beholden to His glory full of grace and truth – John 1:14
The prophets declared, cried and shouted of a coming Savior – A King! A man crying in the wilderness. He was who this man spoke about – “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,’ as the prophet Isaiah said” – John 1:23
He was the Lamb of God – “…and he looked at Jesus as He walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God” – John 1:36
He IS God – “Truly, truly I say to you, before Abraham was, I am” – John 8:58
Oh come and see! Yes, indeed! Something GOOD did come from Nazareth! His name is Immanuel – God is with us
He Is…
Alpha and Omega. “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending…which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty” – Revelation 1:8
Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” – Isaiah 9:6
He is Lord. – John 21:7
Redeemer. – Job 19:25
THE Bread of Life. “And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life…” – John 6:35
King of Kings & Lord of Lords. “Which in his times He shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords” – 1 Timothy 6:15
He IS the Lamb of God. – John 1:29
Chief Cornerstone. – “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the Chief Cornerstone” – Ephesians 2:20
Judge. – “And He commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is He which was ordained of God to be Judge of quick and dead” – Acts 10:42
Mediator. “And for this cause he is themediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance” – Hebrews 9:15
Good Shepherd. “I am the goodshepherd: the good shepherd gives His life for the sheep” – John 10:11
True Vine. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman” – John 15:1
Bridegroom. “He that has the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend of the bridegroom, which stands and hears Him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice: this my joy therefore is fulfilled”. John 3:29
The Lion of the Tribe of Judah. “And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof” – Revelations 5:5
Son of Man. “For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost” – Matthew 18:11
The Way, The Truth and the Life. “Jesus said unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes to the Father, but by me” – John 14:6
My Rock. “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken” – Psalm 62:1
Author and Finisher of Our Faith. “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” – Hebrews 12:2
He was and He is many more things, but we mostly know Him as Jesus Christ – Messiah. The anointed one who has come to save, and He is coming back, again!
He Is Coming Back
When will He return? – “But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father” – Matthew 24:36
Be ready and wait in anticipation because He is coming soon – “So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him” – Matthew 24:44
Keep heart and be not troubled! There is a place even for you! – “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also” – John 14:1-3
What will He do? Jesus will judge the world as He sits on His glorious throne. As the people of every nation gather about, He will separate them – the sheep on His right and goats on His left. His sheep will inherit the Kingdom. The goats will be thrown into everlasting fire. Matthew 25:31-46
Can you hear him? A man crying out! As I close my eyes, I imagine not a reed shaken with the wind, but a man boldly crying aloud – “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord…” (John 1:23). He was the forerunner that many before him talked about. He bore witness to the true Light of men. The Light who is worthy of all things – the coming King. “Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel,’ which is translated, ‘God with us” (Matthew 1:23).
This Light, He goes by many names – Teacher, Master, Lord, Savior, Redeemer, Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, and The Prince of Peace. Although He has many names, He is commonly known as Jesus Christ. “…you are to give him the name Jesus because He will save His people from their sins (Matthew 1:21).”
Photo by Ann H
Who Is He?
Jesus is the Light of the world. THE light that darkness could not comprehend. Jesus is the Lamb of God. The Lamb who came and gave His life to save. He came to save even His own who received Him not. Jesus was an innocent man who bore the full weight of sin, slain on the cross. He knew no sin, yet was made sin, to be THE sacrificial offering, so that we be made right before our Father in heaven. “God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21).”
He IS God (John 10:30)in the flesh, and while He walked the earth, He performed many miracles. Jesus turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). Jesus fed 5000 people (Matthew 15:32-28). Jesus healed a man born blind (John 9:1-11). Jesus walked on water (John 6:16-21). Jesus, the resurrection, and the Life (John 11:25)rose not only Lazarus (John 11:38) but also Himself from the grave on the third day (Matthew 28). There were many more miracles Jesus performed in the sight of His disciplines. Too many, I imagine, that it was impossible to record them all.
Photo by Ron Lach
Preparation
Early in His ministry, there were several events where Jesus was preparing for His timely death. In fact, one of those events foreshadowed what was to come. It occurred before His start when He was just a toddler.
There were wise men who saw a brilliant star, and they journeyed far following this star to greet and worship THE King of the Jews. “And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshiped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold [Kingship], and frankincense [Priesthood], and myrrh(Matthew 2:11).” Let’s look at the significance of this – specifically myrrh.
Myrrh was used to anoint prophets and dead bodies. While Jesus walked the earth, He was known to be a Prophet, and in His death, He was anointed with aloe and myrrh. “And Nicodemus, who at first came to Jesus by night, also came, bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds. Then they took the body of Jesus, and bound it in strips of linen with the spices, as the custom of the Jews is to bury (John 19:39-40)“. This occurrence was a foreshadowing of an important event to come. The wise men (Magi) were well versed in scripture. It was apparent by the gifts they presented to Jesus as a child. They knew He was the Messiah that came to save. While this may not mean “preparing” in the complete sense, it puts into perspective what Jesus was preparing and prepared to do.
Another event happened toward the end of His ministry. A woman named Mary of Bethany loved Jesus dearly. She performed an act that perhaps she may not have known the true significance of. Mary of Bethany stood at Jesus’ feet and poured a very expensive perfume over His body. She knelt, weeping, washing with tears, kissing and wiping His feet with the perfume. As the fragrance of the perfume filled the room, there stood some who were indignant and making comments. “Leave her alone, Jesus replied, ‘It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me (John 12:7-8).”
One last notable event was the Last Supper – Passover Meal. During this momentous occasion, Jesus reminded His disciples for the final time that He would be delivered over to the hands of man to be crucified. Preparing for this meal also fulfilled another important event – the creation of a New Covenant. In meaning, with Jesus Christ as the mediator, God promises forgiveness of sins and the restoration of fellowship with those whose hearts turn toward Him.
Then Jesus the Bread of Life, broke bread and drank with His disciples. “And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you(Luke 22:19-20).”
It’s widely known that even His own rejected Him. The elders, chief priests, scribes, Pharisees, and Sadducees – these groups were pretty sad you see. They refused to revere THE true King. Jesus was and is not pompous. He was and is the picture of humbleness and righteousness. In their envy, they plotted for the perfect time to arrest and sentence Him to death. His apprehension was successful when Judas betrayed Him with a “kiss.”
After being apprehended and presented before the high priest, false witnesses were sought to justify a death sentence, but none were found. It was not until the high priest accused Jesus of blasphemy (Matthew 26:63-67) that they sentenced Him to death. Jesus was mocked, battered, and spat on. All the while He kept His peace.
Jesus then stood before Pilate, the governor, who after questioning Jesus, found no fault in Him. He then stood before Herod, who also found no fault in Him. Pilate wanting to release Jesus appealed to the crowd once more. The crowd would not have it screaming, “Crucify Him!” The crowd preferred that an insurrectionist and murderer be set free than an innocent man. Pilate with all his “power” feared man and granted the demand of the crowd (Luke 23: 1-25). Jesus was then taken away to be crucified.
Jesus was flogged (the type of whip and number of lashes are unknown) with whips. Jesus was stripped bare and then clothed with a scarlet robe. With bated breath, the soldiers platted a crown of thorns and placed it on His head. They gave Jesus a reed in His right hand, bowed before Him, and mocked Him saying, “Hail, King of the Jews.” After this sordid display, they led Jesus to Golgotha to be crucified.
On the way to Golgotha (the place of a skull), the soldiers compelled Simon of Cyrene, a passerby to help Jesus bear His cross. There, they gave Jesus vinegar mixed with gall (myrrh). Myrrh was also used to “deaden the sense of pain,” but He would not drink it. They then crucified Him (Matthew 27:33-35). “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do(Luke 23:34).” This is a powerful statement in defense of a wicked and lost generation.
When Jesus was crucified, the soldiers parted His garments and cast lots for them. “…they took his clothes, dividing them into four shares, one for each of them, with the undergarment remaining. This garment was seamless, woven in one piece from top to bottom. Let’s not tear it’ they said….’Let’s decide by lot who will get it” (John 19:23-24).
The accusation of His crime written over His head…“THE KING OF THE JEWS(Mark 15:26).” There were two thieves, crucified with Him – one to His right and the other to His left. One thief challenged Jesus by saying, if you are Christ, save us and yourself. The second thief gave a strong rebuke to the first, saying, “Don’t you fear God,”…“since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” This thief who spoke rightly is in paradise (Luke 23:40-42). One can imagine where the other is today.
Many passed by Jesus to criticize Him for not saving Himself. “You who are going to destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself! Come down from the cross, if you are the Son of God!” The chief priests, scribes, and elders did the same saying, “He saved others, …but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God’ (Matthew 27:39-44).”
By noon, darkness fell over the land until about 3 pm. It was then Jesus cried out and said, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Upon hearing this, someone standing among the crowd ran and grabbed a sponge, filled it with vinegar, and gave it to Him to drink, on a reed. This also happened because Jesus stated He was thirsty. With one last breath, Jesus uttered, “It is finished” bowed His head, and gave up His spirit (Matthew 27:45-46; John 19: 28-30).”
In dramatic fashion, the curtain of the temple tore in two from top to bottom. There was an earthquake, and as the rocks split tombs broke open! The centurion and soldiers standing before Jesus saw all that had happened. They were terrified and proclaimed, He was the Son of God (Matthew 27:51-54).
When it came time for the bodies to be brought down, the legs of the thieves were broken, but Jesus’ was left intact. Upon noticing that Jesus was dead, a soldier pierced Jesus’ side. Thus bringing a sudden flow of blood and water (John 19:31-37).
A man named Joseph from Arimathea came before Pilate asking for the body of Jesus. He also was a disciple, but only in secret because he feared the chief priests. The just and good man stood boldly before Pilate, requesting to receive Jesus’ body. Joseph’s request was granted, and he prepared Jesus’ body for proper burial according to Jewish custom. He and Nicodemus wrapped His body with a mixture of myrrh and aloe in strips of linen (John 19: 38-41).
After Jesus was prepared for burial, He was laid in a tomb. “At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb, in which no one had ever been laid. Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there” (John 19:41-42).
Now, the chief priests and Pharisees conspired together to ensure that Jesus would not resurrect from the dead. They recalled when Jesus said that after three days, He would rise again. They went before Pilate to request a guard for three days to secure the tomb. Their request was granted, and a seal was placed on the tomb with a guard. “So give the order for the tomb to be made secure until the third day. Otherwise, his disciples may come and steal the body and tell the people that he has been raised from the dead. This last deception will be worse than the first (Matthew 27:64).” It is ironic that the Pharisees who believed in the resurrection would try to prevent a resurrection from happening.
Alas! All of their efforts were in vain. On the third day, Jesus rose from the grave! An angel descended from heaven which caused a great earthquake. The angel rolled the stone away and sat upon it. The guards shook in fear from the sight and fainted (Matthew 28:2-4). Hallelujah! He is Risen! At least three women (Mary Magdalene, Jesus’ mother, and her sister) all came to the grave with spices to anoint Jesus. Upon their arrival, they saw the great stone rolled away. They went inside and saw that Jesus was not there.
There, the angel on the rock said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay. Then go quickly and tell His disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see Him.’ Now I have told you (Matthew 28:5-7).” The women leave the tomb to tell the disciples what they saw. Even as Mary Magdalene herself saw Jesus, the disciples did not believe the women.
While the women were on their way, the guards collected themselves and reported what they had seen. The chief priests and elders gathered, to yet again, devise a plan – this time to cover the fact that Jesus DID indeed rise from the dead – HA! They bribed the guards with money and told them what to say. “You are to say, ‘His disciples came during the night and stole Him away while we were asleep.’ If this report gets to the governor, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble (Matthew 28:13-15).” The soldiers took the money and did as they were told.
I truly wonder how they all reconciled with themselves. How awkward it must have been to continue their day-to-day fully knowing they were hypocrites. Did they fear the God they pretended to serve when they delivered His only begotten son to be crucified? I cannot imagine they moved on peacefully.
When word reached the disciples from the women, they were in disbelief. Even in their disbelief, Peter and John rushed to the grave, and they too saw it was empty. Jesus, throughout that day, would appear to different people including Peter, the other women (after Mary Magdalene), and eventually the rest of the disciples – all eleven! The most interesting part is that after His resurrection, the bodies of many holy people who died were raised to life. Out of their tombs (the ones that broke after Jesus’ crucifixion) they went into the holy city and appeared to many people (Matthew 27:51-53).
Sometime later (about one week), Jesus commissioned His disciples by saying, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:18-20).“ Jesus teaches them for the last time and promises to send THE advocate – The Holy Spirit. Then He ascended up to heaven to sit at the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19-20).
“And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen” (Luke 24:50-53).
theOlivetbee 
