The Last Words of Jesus

                                  

Whenever I think about the crucifixion and the last words or statements of Jesus, I must look at all the gospel writers in the Bible, for each one writes from a different perspective. I know that

each time I have to look back to the events of his life and ministry during the 33 brief years he lived on this earth—what he did, what he said, and what he taught his disciples, including you and me.

In writing this latest book of mine, I wanted to put each of these seven statements or words of Christ into context—not just the context of the week leading up to the crucifixion, but also the context of the entire life of Jesus—his teaching, healing, and ministry with his disciples and followers. By so doing, we will be able to see just why these last words are of paramount importance to all of us, both then and now.

After Jesus died on the cross, he was laid in a borrowed tomb donated by Joseph of Arimathea, and just like he promised his disciples, he rose from the dead on the third day (Easter Morning). Death was not the end of Jesus and it will not be the end of us, either. Because he lives, we will live also. In John 11:25 we read Jesus' words, "I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live."

Jesus will come again, at a time known only to the Father in heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:16). And when he comes, every person on earth will see him: "Look, he is coming in the clouds and every eye will see him" (Revelation 1:7).

Jesus came to earth to save us from our sins, and to offer abundant life today and eternal life forevermore to all who believe in him. Let us prepare our hearts and minds so that we will be ready for him when he comes. In Jesus' precious name I pray, amen.

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Deborah: Prophetess and Warrior

The story of Deborah is intriguing. Gifted as a leader, military strategist, and seer Deborah stands out among the women of the Bible as a unique and faithful follower of the Lord. Follow her story as she forges a trail of mystery and victory through the pages of history. Though we know little of her early years, we know her strength of character and unusual abilities. Follow her on her journey toward the destiny the Lord has prepared for her. See her in action. Listen to her voice as she speaks for the people of Israel, and she leads us on her wondrous adventure of life and legend*

*from the introduction to my book Deborah: Prophetess & Warrior

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Hallowed Be Thy Name

Of all the prayers ever spoken, the one most remembered and most offered to God is the one taught by Jesus to his disciples, recorded in Matthew and known as the Lord’s Prayer.*

“And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. And he said unto them, when ye pray, say,                                            

Our Father, which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive them that trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:9-13 KJV)

*From the introduction to my book titled, Hallowed Be Thy Name, available on my author website at www.amazon.com/Gene-Allen-Groner/e/B077YTVSJZ

The Return of Christ

I stepped out on the front porch one Sunday afternoon after the worship service at church and saw what an absolutely beautiful day it was. In late October, the air is clean and clear in Independence, Missouri and the sky is especially glorious. As I looked up to the heavens I thought to myself, “Christ is going to return very soon.” The forces of evil are growing everywhere in the world, but so are the forces of good. This conflict between good and evil is going to increase day by day until at last the Lord will come and establish the Kingdom of Christ here on earth. I eagerly await that day. 

I had no sooner considered these thoughts than immediately I knew the book I needed to write next—the Return of Christ—with Bible verses and commentaries, interesting stories, and personal testimonies.

I offered a brief prayer and came inside to my laptop and started writing. I have learned from experience that God gives me the ideas and the words. I have never needed to ponder or worry about which book or what words I need to write. He is completely faithful and deserves all the credit. My job is to pay attention to the inspiration that comes from the Holy Spirit, and then to pray and write. God is good always, and his ways never fail. I am happy to be his instrument and to share my testimony of the love and saving grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. Thanks be to God.

 

 

The Sea of Galilee

When I sailed out upon the sea

The beautiful Sea of Galilee

Calm and blue the water lay

As I sailed from west to east that day

Quiet and peaceful as the sun went down

A few hundred meters and I turned around

The shore could still be seen from there

The boat sailed slowly and the wind was fair

Once back again upon the shore

Up the hill, I looked to see some more

Step by step I walked up the hill

And heard the sweet song of the whippoorwill

‘Tis evening time when the birds like to sing

And the bells of the church begin to ring

They beckon to all who live near the hill

Come praise and worship the Lord if you will

Remember ‘twas here with the fishes and bread 

On this very hillside, the multitude was fed

And the Sermon on the Mount we’ve so often read

That touches our hearts with the words that He said.

This day on the hillside has filled me with love

I can almost hear the angels above

My soul has been warmed by all that I see

As moonlight shines on the Sea of Galilee.

“This is the day the Lord has made.

Let us rejoice and be glad in it”

—Psalm 118:24

 

Christ’s Presence in the Garden of Gethsemane

But know that the LORD has set apart the faithful for himself;
    the LORD hears when I call to him.
When you are disturbed, do not sin;
    ponder it on your beds, and be silent.
Offer right sacrifices,
    and put your trust in the LORD.
There are many who say, “O that we might see some good!
    Let the light of your face shine on us, O LORD!”
You have put gladness in my heart
    more than when their grain and wine abound.
I will both lie down and sleep in peace;
    for you alone, O LORD, make me lie down in safety. —Psalm 4:3–8

In the Garden of Gethsemane there is an ancient olive tree that some say was living at the time of Jesus, but our guide Rose said it is only 1,500 years old (only!).

I can’t begin to explain the feeling I had while walking in the garden. It is inexplicable and powerful, standing there and looking across the Kidron Valley at the Golden Gate of the eastern Temple Wall, the gate through which Christ will enter upon his return.

I walked along a beautiful garden pathway lined with flowers and bushes and sat down on a small stone bench to pray. As I looked eastward toward the Temple Mount, I heard a songbird in a nearby olive tree singing ever so softly. After a few minutes of prayer, thanking God for his amazing grace and the blessing of being present in the garden where Jesus walked and prayed, I could feel the warmth of God’s Spirit flowing over me, assuring me of God’s continuing presence. I was overcome with joy and gratitude.

My spirit and soul were lifted high above, with the awareness of God’s presence and grace upon this land and its people, Israel. And then I prayed for the peace of all people everywhere, and for the return of Christ and his kingdom.

I believe with all my heart in the return of Jesus Christ. Every day I wait for him. He will come again, just as he promised, “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God.” (1 Thess. 4:16)

Give me eyes to see clearly, hands that reach out, a heart full of your love, and feet that will follow you anywhere you lead.

Spiritual Practice

Embodying God’s Shalom

Find a way to express and embody God’s shalom. Begin by prayerfully listening to your longing for peace and wholeness. Become silent and imagine you can hear the groaning of the Earth’s people, nations, and creatures. Prayerfully open yourself to God’s yearning for peace and the divine vision of shalom.

What images, feelings, and words come to you? What prayer for peace comes to you from your time of listening? Speak or write this prayer. What act of justice, kindness, healing, or peacemaking does God invite you to consider this day?

https://www.amazon.com/Gene-Allen-Groner/e/B077YTVSJZ 

With All My Heart

I just finished writing my latest book titled, With All My Heart. It tells about my life as a volunteer for some of the world's best not-for-profit charities, including Habitat for Humanity, Outreach International, World Vision, Church World Service/CROP Walk for Hunger, and Community of Christ. 

Sitting in church this Sunday morning, the inspiration came to me to start writing a new book. As soon as that idea entered my mind, I recalled my brother’s suggestion some time ago that I should write a book about my life as a volunteer. When we got home after the morning service, the title of the book came to me. It’s from the Bible verse in Proverbs 3:5-6 as follows:

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths." 

A lifetime of experience with the Holy Spirit has taught me that all good ideas are inspired by the Lord. He alone chooses which ones to bring me and when it is the best time to do so. This book represents an inspired idea whose time has come, and I thank God for it. 

I hope you enjoy the reading and feel inspired to volunteer for one of the many good charities of your choice. You can make a difference!

The book is available from Amazon on the following website:

https://www.amazon.com/Gene-Allen-Groner/e/B077YTVSJZ