Today, I conducted the chapel services at Morning Star Assisted Living. This afternoon I reviewed some scholarship applications for my local Rotary Club. It has been interesting to see the challenges of some of our youth today, their efforts in school, their community involvement and plans and goals for the future.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…  “The Philistines again waged war against Israel. David went down with his soldiers, and they fought the Philistines, but David became exhausted. Then Ishbi-benob, one of the descendants of the giant, whose bronze spear weighed about eight pounds and who wore new armor, intended to kill David. But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to his aid, struck the Philistine, and killed him.” 2 Samuel 21:15-17 HCSB

One of the greatest challenges in leadership and in growing older, is realizing that “I can’t do what I used to be able to do.” David from his youth was a “man of war.” As a shepherd boy he fought the “lion and lamb.” He made a name for himself when through the Lord’s help he killed the giant Goliath. He was not only a military leader, but he was a brave, valiant and successful fighter.

David’s last battle, almost was the end of his life. As he faced the arch-enemy of Israel, the Philistines, he grew exhausted and weak. A soldier by the name of Abishai steps in and saves David. He killed the man, who was the descendant of the giants, that almost brought revenge on the “giant killer.” From that time on David was not allowed to go into battle with the armies of Israel.

We read of Abishai a little later. As we see the description of three of the most brave, gallant and successful of David’s fighting men, the Bible says,  ^“Abishai, Joab’s brother and son of Zeruiah, was leader of the Three. He raised his spear against 300 men and killed them, gaining a reputation among the Three. Was he not more honored than the Three? He became their commander even though he did not become one of the Three.” (2 Samuel 23:18-19 HCSB)

It seems that Goliath was not the only giant of the Philistine army. We read, “At Gath….A huge man was there with six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot–in all. He, too, was descended from the giant. When he taunted Israel, Jonathan, son of David’s brother Shimei, killed him.” (2 Samuel 21:20-21 HCSB)

They scene sounds familiar. A giant of a man, taunting the armies of Israel. What we see is David’s nephew (the son of his brother Shimei) steps forward and defeats the giant. Shimei would have been present when his younger brother David, as a teen boy stepped forward to address the taunts of Goliath. Now his son shows strength and courage in defeating one of the relatives of the famed fighter of the Philistines.

Some observations.

David’s success was dependent upon a band of loyal fighting men. Trained, prepared, strong and courageous. That is a key to leadership success today, in business and in the church.

This group of trained warriors, looked out for their leader and “had his back.” David was facing a certain death, when one of his mighty warriors and leaders stepped in to save his life.

David was willing to listen and submit to the counsel, concern and protection of those trusted men. David could have resisted the advice to stay away from future battles. He could have shrugged of the near death experience and chalked it up to a fluke occurrence. But David understood that his prime years of being on the battlefield had come to an end and he needed to change his focus and redirect his energies. Being able to change roles and approaches is a key trait of successful leaders with longevity.

We see the courage and development of the next generation. David’s brother Shimei was a member of the army of Saul who stood in fear of Goliath. But his son, as part of David’s army knew that giants were made to be conquered.  The success and example of David and his generation inspired the next.

We can have confidence in the victory of generations to come, when they are given examples of courage, faith and dependence upon the Lord who is with them always. We have observed with each passing generation and for each time period, the Lord has raised up leaders, “for such a time as this” who will rise to the occasion.

This morning I traveled to Denver for the annual Abundant Word Ministries board meeting. Ruth Hickman last year celebrated 35 years of Bible teaching ministry. I first met Ruth as a teen. She is a farm girl from Iowa born in the early years of the depression. However, the impact of her life has taken her to almost every state and overseas. She is another example of continuing to serve the Lord with a “never stop” spirit. Ruth has recently publish a 365 day devotional book that focuses on the “redemptive” chapters of the Bible. Checkout her website at, http://www.abundantword.org/

I like to say Ruth is a “little lady who has made a big impact. She is working on her memoirs of her life lessons and experiences. It is amazing to see how God can use parents and others to impact a life, and in turn use that life, to change the lives of others.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Absalom got himself a chariot, horses, and 50 men to run before him. He would get up early and stand beside the road leading to the city gate...Whenever anyone had a grievance to bring before the king for settlement… [Absalom would say] “Look, your claims are good and right, but the king does not have anyone to listen to you…If only someone would appoint me judge in the land.…Absalom did this to all the Israelites who came to the king for a settlement. So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.“ 2 Samuel 15:1-6 HCSB

Perhaps it is a case of “too little, too late” on the part of David. Perhaps it was the result of seven years of frustration and bitterness in Absalom’s heart. Perhaps it can viewed as the prophecy of Nathan coming to pass. What we do know is that after Absalom was reunited with David, he began to divide the loyalty of the people.

He used his good looks, charisma and tact of win the hearts of the people. When someone came to see the King, he would intercept them on their journey, ask where they were from and what there issue was and basically say, “The King is too busy and not sympathetic to people like you, but if I were King things would be different.”

He did this for four years! It is hard to believe David didn’t know what was going on. But he never took any action. In the mean time there was a growing discontent that Absalom monitored until he felt the time was right. He gained the confidence of enough people and even those close to David, that he went to Hebron, where David began his reign and declared himself King.

The word came back to David,“The hearts of the men of Israel are with Absalom.” (2 Samuel 15:13 HCSB) Absalom’s rebellion was final put down; but the security of David’s reign had come to an end. He would face continual crisis until just before his death when he name Solomon King in the midst of an uprising from his next oldest son.

It seems that there are those who focus on gaining a following, to gain power. They feel position and leadership is viewed as what you get more than what you give. Absalom, made people believe he was interested in them, but it was a ploy to overthrow his father’s reign. Those like Absalom, focus on taking away from others. They tear others down to build themselves up. They create false impressions and are good at feeding into discontent.

It is one thing when it happens by “an enemy” but when it comes from a son or a friend the pain is that much greater. Perhaps that is why  Solomon would observe, “Many a man proclaims his own steadfast love, but a faithful man who can find?” (Proverbs 20:6 ESV)

These actions can be observed in business, politics and the church. Perhaps it is not without significance that Jesus was betrayed by one of His own disciples and His own people (the Jews) were the ones who demanded His death.  “If someone asks, ‘What are these wounds on your body?’ they will answer, ‘The wounds I was given at the house of my friends.” (Zechariah 13:6 NIV)

One who expects to have loyalty, must be loyal. When involved in leadership the important concept is, “disagree in private, be united in public.” That has been my commitment to those that I have served with in positions of leadership from the church house to the state house. It doesn’t mean others will always respond in kind, but we are only responsible for our own actions and attitudes.

We need to be aware of the “spirit of Absalom in our world today.” Absalom sought to make a new for himself, but in the end, it wasn’t the name that he sought.

The latest on the medical front is that I have stopped my prednisone dose. But our dog has started his dose. (maybe he can use some of mine that are left over) The little fella, has been in a lot of pain and is not able to walk very good. We are still waiting for a diagnosis of some kind. I did have a political meeting this afternoon and then headed to the tire shop to purchase the third set of tires within a year. I talked them into giving me a “frequent buyer” discount. I have a “newer” car and left the tires I had just purchased in January on the car we replaced.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…. “…The king has not brought back his own banished one. We will certainly die and be like water poured out on the ground, which can’t be recovered. But God would not take away a life; He would devise plans so that the one banished from Him does not remain banished.” 2 Samuel 14:13-14 HCSB

It has happened all too many times. A parent dealing with a rebellious older teen or young adult, perhaps one who is abusing drugs, utters those words, “get out!” It may not be just out of anger or frustration, but in an attempt to save other children in the family and even the rebellious one himself.

In other situations it is the child that utters the words, “I’m out of here!” They chafe under the rules of the house, they feel they want more control of their life and decisions and so they choose to leave home.

However it happens, it creates hardship and pain for all involved. That is why the words of the “woman of Tekoa” are so striking for families today. Absalom, David’s son had been alienated from his father for five years. Three years in the land of Geshur and two years in Jerusalem. How did it happen?

One of David’s son, Amnon raped Absalom’s sister, Tamar. David knew about, he was “furious” but that is all we know of his actions. When David did not act, Absalom did. At the right opportunity Absalom took matters into his owns hands and had Amnon killed. Absalom ran away to the home of his mother.

We don’t know what was going on in David’s mind. We read that “he longed for Absalom” but he didn’t do anything. He did allow him to return to Jerusalem, but refused to see him. Finally, Absalom forced General Joab to come up with a plan to get to see the King. The story of the plan and final words of this “wise woman” are found in 2 Samuel 14:1-14.

Regardless of how it happens. Regardless of who is at fault and the actions that have taken place and the words that have been spoken; the heart of God is focused on restoration. When we fail to understand that and refuse to take action, soon life will be over and then it will be too late. It will be like “water spilled on the ground.”

The Bible says that all of us at one point lived alienated from relationship with God the Father. “All we like sheep have gone astray.” (Isaiah 53:6) We all in our own ways have been prodigals. Doing our own thing and not God’s. Enjoying “the pleasures of sin for a season.” Living in the pig pen of life and not the comforts and provisions of the Father.

That is why God sent His Son, so He could restore all the alienated and banished sons and daughters of the King. Peter writes and says, “…He [God] is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.“ (2 Peter 3:9 NIV) The Lord has done all the work, He is just waiting for His children to come home, “…everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.“ (John 3:16 NIV)

The spiritual restoration that we see in the work of Christ is to take place in the personal and family relationships in our life. It is easy to become comfortable with, “that’s just the way it is!” But the words of the “woman of Tekoa” were, “God devises plans.” He takes action, He is proactive. He initiates. He does not wait until we say, “I was wrong, you were right.” Paul put in these words, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.“ (Romans 5:8 NIV)

It is not easy. The challenge is great. But with the Lord’s help, who made a way for us to be reconcile to Him; He can make a way for us to be reconciled to others.

I am finding the days and weeks are flying by. It is hard to believe that it is April. This month I have several commitments, so the calendar is full and I anticipate another month will soon be over. It is exciting to receive the news that the text of my book has been uploaded to being the printing process. It will also be available online. The online version may be ready in the week or two. I have my weekly workout with my fitness trainer, so I continue to push my rehab workouts. Besides my devotionals, I write an occasional blog about energy issues. You can find the latest at www.LarimerLEAP.com

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “But everything that was a gain to me, I have considered to be a loss because of Christ. More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…My goal is to know Him and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death, assuming that I will somehow reach the resurrection from among the dead.“ Philippians 3:7-8,10-11 HCSB

David Irwin was a missionary to Africa and the founder of the Assemblies of God Center for Muslim Ministry. David’s career included being a pastor/counselor and earning several academic degrees. He had completed his dissertation for Doctor’s Degree in missiology and was looking forward to many years of fruitful and impactful ministry.  As he drove home from church on a Sunday morning with his wife and young grandchildren in the car, a teen driver ran a stop sign broad sided the car and a high profile missions leader was killed.

His son Paul and his wife were on a missions trip to Africa and Egypt and made their way home as quickly as they heard the news. They were processing the death of a father, concerned about Paul’s mother and their children who were in the car. As the days approach to prepare for a funeral service, Paul was going through some of his father’s files. There was a file labeled, “Dung.” When Paul opened the file he found copies of all his father’s degrees, recognitions and awards from his years of ministry .

David Irwin, knew what the Apostle Paul knew. True life is not found in achieving status in the eyes of man. It is not in status and all that makes us feel worthy and secure, it is found in knowing Christ and experiencing the “Christ-life.”

It is nice to be honored and treated with respect. As a young high school teacher, I took note when staff members called me, “Mr. Summers.” Even after my legislative years, it is still nice to be referred to as, “Representative Summers.” It is not something that I demanded or even anticipated, but when it happened, it made me realize how easy it is to get caught up by being honored in the eyes of people.

Paul was a “Pharisee of the Pharisees” – he had education and status and authority that many would covet; yet he said “just call me a ‘servant’.” He knew all that was B.C., “before Christ,” didn’t matter. What mattered now was knowing Christ and continuing to know Him.

Jesus told the parable about the “hidden treasure” and “pearl of great price.” (Matthew 13:44,45) It is about those who sold all they had, “gave their all” to secure a treasured possession. In a day when many view relationship with Christ as optional, a “take or leave it” proposition or something that interferes with what is really important, God’s Word challenges us about our priorities and value system.

Martyred Missionary Jim Elliott said, “He is not fool who gives up what he cannot keep, to gain what he can not lose.” Over the years I have heard individuals testify about what they “gave up” to commit their life to Christ. Paul would tell them, “it isn’t a sacrifice, it is “dung.” All we value and esteem, will one day fade but, “he who does the will of the Father lives forever.” (1 John 2:17)

Nobody has given up more than Jesus. He left His throne in heaven to enter the womb of a teenage girl. He lived an obscure life for 30 years and then taught and performed miracles for three years, before suffering a humiliating, painful death on the cross.

No wonder Paul admonished the Romans, “I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living sacrifice, holy—the kind he can accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask?” (Romans 12:1 TLB) We can’t go wrong, when we give all to the One who gave His all for us.

It looks like my book is proceeding to the final step before mass production takes place. The interior text has been finalized (hopefully with all the corrections that need to be made). This afternoon, I attended a event in Berthoud with the local Chamber of Commerce. It was recognizing a new church that was occupying a building on main street. It is a solid Evangelical church with a focus on outreach. I even won one of the door prizes!

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “The Lord made David victorious wherever he went. So David reigned over all Israel, administering justice and righteousness for all his people.” 2 Samuel 8:14,15 HCSB)

The righteous reign of David stands in stark contrast to the turmoil of the days of King Saul. It took several years after David was recognized as King in Hebron and ruled over the tribe of Judah, before Israel was united under his reign.

As David lead a united kingdom, the Lord brought victory after victory to David and his armies. He defeated the Philistines and Moabites. He defeated the King of Zobah and the armies of the Arameans of Damascus who came to help the King of Zobah. David took the spoils of war an dedicated them to the Lord. This included spoils “from Edom, Moab, the Ammonites, the Philistines, the Amalekites, and the spoil of Hadadezer son of Rehob, king of Zobah.” (2 Samuel 8:12 HCSB)

While David was a mighty and victorious warrior, we see His success was promised by the Lord. When David wanted to “build a house for the Lord” the Lord responded and said, “I will build your house”,

“…I will make a name for you like that of the greatest in the land.  I will establish a place f or My people Israel and plant them, so that they may live there and not be disturbed again. Evildoers will not afflict them as they have done  ever since the day I ordered judges to be over My people Israel. I will give you rest from all your enemies. The Lord declares to you: The Lord Himself will make a house for you.“      (2 Samuel 7:9-11 HCSB)

Twice in 2 Samuel 8, we read, “The Lord made David successful where ever He went.”  (2 Samuel 8:6,14) In recognition of the victories that came from the Lord, David dedicated the silver and gold from the defeated Kings to the Lord.

Not only was David victorious in battle, but we read that, “he administered justice and righteous for all his people.” In our day and much less in David’s day, those are not words that would describe one in power. The traits of wise and godly leadership is seen when the needs of the people are a priority over the needs of those in power. It is easier to subdue by the sword, than to find security because of the esteem that is granted by the people a leader serves. This is a lesson that political leaders, business leaders and even church leaders need to apply today.

Power can win battles, arguments and push through an agenda. But true security comes from being “just and righteous.” In all of his victories, David realized that it was the Lord who was directing His steps and granting him success.

Solomon would recognize the truth, “When people’s lives please the LORD, even their enemies are at peace with them.“ (Proverbs 16:7 NLT) You can seek to please people to gain their favor. But it is better to seek to please the Lord. When He is pleased, people are pleased; and if people are not pleased, it is better to please the Lord than people.

I was glad to reconnect with my Tuesday prayer time with County officials this morning. I also attended a breakfast meeting with some seniors from Timberline Church.

I met retired missionary Harry Weimar. Harry lost his wife of 60 years a year ago. He was her primary caregiver for 11 years. I was amazed at Harry’s attitude and continued focus on ministry. About 40 years ago his missionary service in Japan was cut short because of his wife’s health. They settled in San Fransisco and the Lord placed Harry around several Korean’s that he ministered too while working in secular employment. At this stage in his life, he conducts regular chapel services at an Assisted Living Center and even goes by several times a week, just to visit residents. He has his own website (www.knowingjesuschrist.com), whose content is available in 12 languages and is working on a plan to reach Korean’s through the internet. Harry is 85!

Just when you begin to believe your most productive years are behind, you meet a “Harry Weimar” and realize you have a long way to go!

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Everyone should look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.”  Philippians 2:4 HCSB

Our grandchildren were with us a few days during their spring break. Christian came up to get them and help us out with some work around the house. As they were getting all their “stuff” together and heading to the car, older brother Riley walked over some things that his brother Caedmon had left behind. When his father called it to his attention, he responded, “those aren’t mine, their Caed’s!” Christian used it as an opportunity to admonish his children that, “we are to look out for each other.”

Paul is admonishing believer’s to do the same thing. It is easy for us to be self-absorbed and concerned only for ourselves. It is easy to do what is “best for us” even if it is not good for others. It is easy for us to overlook the needs of others. Paul wrote to the Galatians about this focus on “others” when he said, “…as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.“ (Galatians 6:10 NIV) We are to view fellow believers as part of the spiritual family of Christ to which we all belong.

What does it take to, “look out for the interests of others”? Paul uses the example of Christ and the first thing he points out is Christ’s example of humility.

“Make your own attitude that of Christ Jesus, who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God
as something to be used for His own advantage. Instead He emptied Himself…He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death—even to death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:6,8 HCSB)

First and foremost, humility is an attitude. It is how we view ourselves,  and others. It is natural to be “better than.” We seek for that from our early years. We seek better grades, we seek to be a better athlete, we seek to be a better musician, we seek to be more popular. It thought it was interesting to hear my friend Bud Hill, share about his daughter Twyla (who is my massage therapist) being advanced academically when she was a child in school. He said, “sometimes she would intentionally miss a question or two on a test, because she didn’t want the boys to feel bad.”

If humility is an attitude, serving is the action. Paul says of the eternal Son of God, “He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men.” (Philippians 2:7 HCSB) Paul said that if “someone’s gift is serving, let him serve.” (Romans12:7)

Jesus before the cross took the place of a servant and washed the disciples feet. (John 13:1-3) He said, “I have given you an example that you also should do just as I have done for you.” (John 13:5 HCSB) He also told His disciples, “…even the Son of Man came not be served, but to serve….” (Mark 10:45)

When we serve, God takes care of the recognition and the rewards. Paul said of Jesus , “For this reason God highly exalted Him and gave Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow—
of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth—and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11 HCSB)

Paul consistently in his letters referred to himself as a “servant and a apostle.” Toward the end of his life he affirmed with confidence, “There is reserved for me in the future the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on that day, and not only to me, but to all those who have loved His appearing.“ (2 Timothy 4:8 HCSB)

A servant seeks to please his master and to receive rewards from him. When we focus on serving others, with the attitude and actions of Christ as our example, we can be confident that our actions are pleasing to Him and that He will reward us in His way and in His time.

This morning at our Republican breakfast meeting Senate Candidate John Keyser was the special guest. John served in the State House just after I left, and is truly an impressive young man. He is a Bronze Star Recipient, who has served our nation faithfully and continues his military service in the reserves. I also had a lunch meeting with our Energy Action Project Steering Committee. It was good to be with a number of individuals who are partners with us promoting responsible energy development in northern Colorado.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Remove sorrow from your heart, and put away pain from your flesh, because youth and the prime of life are fleeting. So remember your Creator in the days of your youth: Before the days of adversity come, and the years approach when you will say, “I have no delight in them” Ecclesiastes 11:10; 12:1)

“Getting old ain’t for sissies.” It seems that saying originated with actress Bette Davis, who said, “growing old ain’t no place for sissies.” I first heard it from an older gentlemen by the name of John Crandall, who attended my church as a pastor.

What is interesting is that Solomon of old recognized the challenges of life and growing old thousands of years ago. As I was reading the last two chapters of Ecclesiastes, I recognized the flow from the last verse of chapter 11 to the first verse of chapter 12. Solomon warns, “the prime of life is fleeting.”

The verses of chapter 12 reveal all the challenges of old age, Solomon in poetic words, describes loss of hearing, loss of sight, loss of energy, loss of mobility, loss of mental acuity and loss of enjoyment of life. It seems our younger years are spent “gaining” and our later years “losing.” Such is the cycle of life and the aging process.

Since Solomon is concerned about not just observing some of the “futility” of life, but is also a man of wisdom, we find his advice along with his observations. I see two key words, “remove” and “remember.” Life is to be lived, not just endured. It is to be invested, not just spent.

He says to “remove sorrow from your heart, and pain from your flesh.” I would suggest that relates to how we maintain a healthy spirit and a healthy body. As we grow older the neglect in those two areas can manifest themselves. The resentments that have been hidden for years, come to the surface. The grudges and forgiveness harbored in our hearts, will manifest themselves.

I have noticed that my 91 year-old mother will often revert back to reliving a painful misunderstanding and false accusation from her youth. I have seen the same type of thing in older people from my years of pastoral ministry. I am always delighted when there is an older person who faces their final days with a gracious spirit and a pleasant demeanor.

Taking care of our physical bodies is important as well. There is a commercial that contains the words, “a body in motion stays in motion.” I discovered the truth of that when I was hospitalized for almost five months. During my initial illness time, a friend who is a retired rehabilitation doctor, told me studies have found that for every day in bed, it takes three days to recover. I remember meeting an elderly lady during my political door to door campaign work. She was delightful and spry for being in her mid 90’s and talked about walking two miles a day.

Solomon also says, “remember.” “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth.” A life lived for God, is a life lived with God. In all that life brings it is important to have the support and resilience that comes from knowing God and placing our trust in Him and our life under His care.

Remember to invest your life. “Send your bread on the surface of the waters, for after many days you may find it.” (Eccl. 11:1 HCSB) It is natural to anticipate a “return on investment” of your money. We can also anticipate a “return on our investment” in the lives of others. That is one thing I experienced during my health crisis. Those that we were there for in their time of need, where there for us in our time of need. That wasn’t the motivation for our service to others, but was an unanticipated blessing what it happened.

Remember to make the best of life. “Rejoice, young man, while you are young, and let your heart be glad in the days of your youth.” (Eccl. 11:9 HCSB) This reminds me of the priorities of life. So often life is lived with the idea of, “when I retired…….” “when the kids are grown….” We become so absorbed in “getting ahead” so we can do what we would like to do in order to enjoy life, but we find “that day”  never comes.

I am thankful that we can find guidelines in the Bible that not only reveals how to have “eternal” life, but how to make the most of the life we have right now. Both of those involve Christ at the center of a person’s life. Investing in your spiritual health, impacts all areas of your life.

We ended up enjoying an Easter Sunday, by ourselves this year. Last night we enjoyed an Easter-Eve dinner at the Ewing’s residence with some people that are part of the PrimeTimers group from Timberline. This morning we slept in a little. I worked on a monthly report for my work and then after a nice nap, we head out for an early dinner. It was nice to get some of the Easter Sunday pictures of our Children and grandchildren.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. He also said to them, “This is what is written: The Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead the third day, and repentance for forgiveness of sins would be proclaimed in His name to all the nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” Luke 24:45-47 HCSB

Looking back it is always easier to see, what was so easily missed or misunderstood. As we stand on “this side of the cross and resurrection” we know the “rest of the story.” We know the meaning of all that took place through the crucifixion and resurrection.

However, for the disciples of Jesus and those who followed Him, all the events of His final days, just looked like a tragic end to a life taken way too soon. They would hide in fear, not knowing if “they were next.” Their lives were filled with confusion and turmoil.

To the Jewish leaders, the death of Jesus was getting rid of the one who condemned them and was viewed as undermining their authority.

To the Pilate and the Romans, it was just another death. They seemed to take greater delight in this one as witnessed by their mocking and taunts.

To the masses, it was an unjust death of a great teacher and miracle worker. It was probably a lesson that when you cross the religious system of the day, this is what happens.

At the time of His baptism, John declared Jesus, “The Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.” (John 1:29) During His ministry Jesus, warned and tried to prepare His disciples about what He would face, “From that time on Jesus began to explain to his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things at the hands of the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life.” (Matthew 16:21 NIV)

They were not only confused by Jesus words, Peter even rebuked Him, not being able to understand how those events would be in God’s plan and purpose.

When Jesus rose from the dead, there was wonder, amazement, and confusion mixed with unbelief. During one of His post-resurrection appearances to His disciple, Jesus confronts their unbelief and tells them plainly why all that had taken place had to happen and what it meant to them. “He opened their minds to understand the scriptures.” They were able to see all that had taken place was the fulfillment of that which the prophets had spoken. They understood the “new covenant” that Jesus had told the about, that He was coming to make with all humanity.

Their assignment was to, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.”  (Mark 16:15 NLT) They were able to do so, understanding the contrast between what they saw, and what was being accomplished.

• They saw Him being bruised, but He was bringing peace
• They saw He was being pierced, but He was easing pain
• They saw Him being persecuted, but He was bringing life
• They saw Him risen, but He was bringing power
• They saw Him ascend to the Father, but He was bringing peace.

Just like the disciples, there are many things in our life we don’t understand the significance when they are taking place. But when we have confidence in God’s plan and purpose for our life, we know that “He can open our minds to understand.” That may not happen in this life, but in the end we will be able to see that which was happening in our life was not outside of God’s care and watchful concern. The new life beyond the tomb was not just for Jesus, it was for His disciples and all who place their faith in Him as well.