Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: AUTHORITY (04/14/22)
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TITLE: A Day With Jesus | Previous Challenge Entry
By Marilyn Meiners
04/20/22 -
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Why, even the birds are still asleep!
Today is no exception.
Really early.
The twelve went through town after town proclaiming the good news to all who would listen. They took their time as Jesus healed those who asked. The blind, demon possessed, deaf, and many others. All were healed.
As evening approached, Jesus and his disciples found a quiet place to sit and reflect.
“This has been an awesome day,” Peter was the first to speak. “Can you believe all we accomplished today for the kingdom. Teacher, I am amazed that with just one word from you, demons flee and the sick are healed.”
Jesus smiled at Peter’s comment.
“Whoa! What about that storm we went through,” Thomas shuddered. “I thought we were all going to die. Where was Jesus? You were sound asleep, snoring peacefully as we all tried to bail out the water and keep the boat from sinking.”
“Guys, remember what Jesus did,” declared Philip. “He rebuked the storm and all was quiet. Jesus even has authority over the weather.”
“Men, did you doubt that you would be safe while I was in your boat? Remember what I told you when we got into the boat? I said we would go across to the other side of the lake. Did you think I would not keep my promise? Your boat will never sink as long as I am in it. But your faith will falter when your eyes concentrate on the events surrounding you, and you forget my presence. That is what happened in the boat. You forgot that I was with you. That I would take care of you. That even in the midst of the storm, you would be safe. Men, where is your faith?” Jesus spoke authoritatively.
Twelve men hung their heads in shame at their lack of faith in the One they knew loved them more than anything.
Humbly, they continued to talk about the events of the day. “Remember the man from Gerasenes,” asked Thaddaeus. “What a scary guy, yet Jesus so patiently and lovingly removed his chains that kept him in bondage and gave him a new life, new hope.”
“Yes, and at the expense of those pig farmers. Think of how much money they lost today,” grumbled Judas.
John scowled.
“But think of how many people heard the good news when he went back to his hometown and shared the message of hope. His words gave people new life and new hope. No amount of money can buy that,” Peter countered.
Bartholomew sat listening to the disciples banter back and forth. In his quiet way he said, “I marveled at how Jesus ministered to a twelve year old girl and a woman who had been in physical bondage for twelve years. Only God could bring these two together, at the right time, and only Jesus could have healed them both according to their need. Gives me hope that Jesus desires to meet the needs of everyone, whether a child or an adult. Whether a man or a woman. He will always be there for all of us - the storm proved that.”
Later, when they were alone, Jesus brought the twelve together and did something unusual. He gave them power and authority over all demons, then gifted them to cure diseases. He then sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. In essence, he was sending out his first missionaries to reach more people than he could do alone.
What he said next brought a sense of fear and panic to their hearts.
“Take nothing with you. No staff, no bread, no change of clothing, no money - nothing. When evening comes you will stay in whatever house you happen to be ministering in. If they welcome you - give them your blessing. If they do not welcome you - shake the dust off your feet against them. I will pray for you. You will experience what my power, through you, can do. May God go with you.”
Jesus’ confidence gave them courage and peace.
Obediently, they left. Obediently they preached the good news and healed many. Obediently they returned and shared the exciting news of what happened on their missionary journey.
Together, the apostles declared, “When God is for us, who can be against us.”
Scripture quote -Romans 8:31 ESV
Story from Luke 8-9
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