An important prerequisite to hearing and seeing God is having a messenger in your life. Prior to Mark, we have to note that there were 400 years of silence from the end of the Old Testament to the beginning of the New Testament. God had sent prophet after prophet calling people to repent of their […]
Mark 1: Quest for the Real Jesus (Part 1 of 3)
How was everyone’s Easter? In preparation for Easter, I’ve been meditating on the 7 sayings of Jesus on the cross. If you get a chance to study those, I highly encourage you to do so! As I was doing the Good Friday thing, a question popped into my head — do I know the real […]
Seven Sayings of Jesus on the Cross: Saying #7
Tonight, we bring our Lenten journey to a close. We have examined and reflected on the Seven Last Words of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ from the Cross. So far, we have heard our Lord share these words: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” He shares with a repentant thief […]
Seven Sayings of Jesus on the Cross: Saying #6
It is finished (John 19:30). The Greek word is tetelestai. This word has 2 meanings in the Greek. First, it suggests that it is finished, perfected, fully completed, mission accomplished. Second, this word has a secular meaning which signifies a full payment of a debt.
Seven Sayings of Jesus on the Cross: Saying #5
Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” (John 19:28) Back in the first century, whenever there was a crucifixion, you would find a band of women who would offer those being executed a wine vinegar mixture to dull the pain. And Jesus […]
Seven Sayings of Jesus on the Cross: Saying #4
Eli Eli lama sabachthani? (Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34). That statement is translated as “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” Up until this point, Jesus had demonstrated such inner fortitude and peace and compassion and strength of character. Then, everything changes without warning and Jesus cries out.