This morning I was up early, but seemed to have a hard time getting going. I did make it my Tuesday morning leaders prayer time. We did have some plumbers come to finish some rough in work for our basement refinish. We may just be done by the end of June. It keep pushing out my timeline. I did attend my Rotary meeting in Loveland and was able to get some errands accomplished before the end of the day.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “In that day I will restore the fallen booth of David: I will repair its gaps, restore its ruins, and rebuild it as in the days of old…I will restore the fortunes of My people Israel. They will rebuild and occupy ruined cities, plant vineyards and drink their wine, make gardens and eat their produce. I will plant them on their land, and they will never again be uprooted from the land I have given them. Yahweh your God has spoken.” Amos 9:11,14-15 HCSB

Job observed about the Lord, “For he wounds, but he also binds up; he injures, but his hands also heal.“ (Job 5:18 NIV) Amos is the shepherd/farmer/prophet of the Old Testament. He is called by God to speak the Lord’s words of judgment against both Judah and Israel and other nations as well. The prophecy begins with a stern view of the Lord, “The Lord roars from Zion and raises His voice from Jerusalem; the pastures of the shepherds mourn, and the summit of Carmel withers.” (Amos 1:2 HCSB)

From that beginning, what follows is chapter by chapter and verse by verse of the Lord’s judgment and the reason for His judgment as the shortcomings and failures of God’s people are laid bare. So severe were the words of Amos that the priest of Bethel sent word to King Jeroboam saying, “The land cannot endure all his words…” (Amos 7:10 HCSB)

The King confronts Amos and tells him to leave,  “Go away, you seer! Flee to the land of Judah. Earn your living and give your prophecies there, but don’t ever prophesy at Bethel again, for it is the king’s sanctuary and a royal temple.” So Amos answered Amaziah, “I was not a prophet or the son of a prophet; rather, I was a herdsman, and I took care of sycamore figs. But the Lord took me from following the flock and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to My people Israel.’” (Amos 7:12-15 HCSB) Just when the king and people thought they had enough, the Lord had more to say.

The Lord was preparing to wound His people. But He also was going to bring healing. When the Lord disciplines, He does so for our good. It is not about Him, it is about us and our relationship with Him. The Lord does correct, in order to restore. He does allow destruction, so there can be rebuilding.

When the final words of Amos come to an end, it is like a sigh of relief or a cool breeze  a hot summer day. So Amos ends with power words that reveal God’s final plan. Words like, “rebuild” “restore” “repair” “plant.”

We see this powerful imagery of that which is torn down being rebuilt. That which has experience decay and ruin being brought back to life. We see fortunes and prosperity and fruitfulness and security and permanency. I believe it is a reminder of the Lord’s ultimate redemptive work when He makes a “new heaven and a new earth.” The new emerges out of the destruction of the old.

How important for us, to accept the destruction of that which needs to die, in order for the new life and that which is far better to emerge from the Lord’s plan and purpose being fulfilled. Sometimes, as difficult as it is, when we feel like all the we have built lies in ruins, it may just be the time when the Lord will speak His word and begin the process of “making everything new.” Just as Amos begins with the Lord who “roars” His prophecy ends with words of assurance that, “Yahweh [the Lord ] your God has spoken!” What the Lord speaks comes to pass. God’s final word is a promise of hope and restoration.

Today was a fairly busy day. I was up early and wrote a blog article related to my energy work. I then conducted a funeral midday and then attended another one in the early afternoon. This evening I’m off to a special movie related to “global warming.” Always something to keep me busy.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… Then the Lord spoke again to Ahaz:  “Ask for a sign from the Lord your God—from the depths of Sheol to the heights of heaven.” But Ahaz replied, “I will not ask. I will not test the Lord.” Isaiah said, “Listen, house of David! Is it not enough for you to try the patience of men? Will you also try the patience of my God?  Therefore, the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive, have a son, and name him Immanuel. Isaiah 7:10-14 HCSB

There are many times when people in the Bible asked God to give a sign to prove that what He spoke would happen. This situation is unique in that God turns the tables and invites the request for a sign.

King Ahaz was an evil and idolatrous king of Judah. He sacrificed one of his sons to pagan god and when threatened by Israel and Aram, sought help from the King of Assyria. He gave the King of Assyria gold from the Temple and then brought a pagan altar from Damascus and set it up besides the Lord’s altar in front of the Temple.

When Israel and Aram was mounting forces against Ahaz and Judah we are told, “….the heart of Ahaz and the hearts of his people trembled like trees of a forest shaking in the wind.” (Isaiah 7:2 HCSB) The Lord sends Isaiah and his son (interesting since Ahaz had his son killed) to give a message from the Lord, “Calm down and be quiet. Don’t be afraid or cowardly because of these two smoldering stubs of firebrands…This is what the Lord God says: It will not happen; it will not occur….(within 65 years Ephraim will be too shattered to be a people)…If you do not stand firm in your faith, then you will not stand at all.” (Isaiah 7:7-9 HCSB)

The Lord then tells Ahaz to choose a sign as proof that the prophet’s words will happen. For some reason Ahaz decided to sound noble and pious in saying, “he will not test the Lord;” but in reality he was disobeying the Lord and turning to human power for his help.

As a result, the Lord said He would choose a sign. The sign of Immanuel (God with us). In this sign we see not just a fulfillment from the Lord for Judah of old, but a sign for God’s deliverance from all people from sin and evil in the person of Jesus Christ, “The Immanuel.”

When God is with us, we can have confidence that we are safe, secure and victorious. To summarize the prophets words, “Calm down and be quiet…If you do not stand firm in your faith, then you will not stand at all.”

So often the issues of our life flood our hearts and minds with worry and panic. Do you need a “sign” to give assurance in those moments to have confidence in God’s deliverance and help. It is in the person of Jesus Christ, “God with us.” When God is with us, we can be calm and firm in our faith. When God is with us, that is all we need.

We are ready for the sun to break through overcast skies. In Colorado we are use to over 300 days of sun each year. This morning, I conducted the chapel services at Morning Star Assisted Living, as Debbie headed off to a day of on call responsibilities. Later this afternoon I did get to the fitness center. I finally made a week of four workouts. I just need to keep up that routine.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “What are all your sacrifices to Me?” asks the Lord. “I have had enough of burnt offerings and rams and the fat of well-fed cattle; I have no desire for the blood of bulls, lambs, or male goats. When you come to appear before Me, who requires this from you—this trampling of My courts? Stop bringing useless offerings…When you lift up your hands in prayer, I will refuse to look at you; even if you offer countless prayers,
I will not listen.”  Isaiah 1:11-13,15 HCSB

Isaiah prophesies during a time of escalating sin and rebellion in Judah. His ministry does last until the days of righteous King Hezekiah, when a time of revival and a true return to the Lord and His ways takes place. But as his prophecy begins, we see a description of God’s “children in rebellion.” “I have raised children and brought them up, but they have rebelled against Me.” (Isaiah 1:2 HCSB)

The results of their rebellion against the Lord is impacting all aspects of their life. They had lost their way. In modern vernacular, “they had fallen and couldn’t get back up.” Perhaps more accurately they refused to get back up. Their rebellion was seen in poor crops, a curse on the land and a curse on the people. Even their attempted sacrificial rituals were nauseating to the Lord.

Paul writes to Timothy about those in the last days who will, “have a form of godliness, but deny its power.” (2 Timothy 3:5) That is where God’s people were at in Isaiah’s day. They were good on ritual, but poor on righteousness. They felt they were doing their duty going “through the motions” but they really didn’t want to change or truly obey the Lord.

As a result, the Lord said, “stop bringing useless sacrifices.” They were only fooling themselves, not God. The Lord was not even impressed with their prayers and lifting up of their hands. The problem with God’s people was their hearts and their actions. Richard Halverson, Chaplain of the US Senate once spoke of “practical atheism.” He explained as “believing there is God, but living as though He doesn’t exist.” That’s what God’s people were doing.

In the midst of the devastation the people were experiencing due to their sin and rebellion, we see the Lord calling them back to Himself and offering hope for the future. But it required a willingness for them to change their ways.

“Wash yourselves. Cleanse yourselves. Remove your evil deeds from My sight. Stop doing evil. Learn to do what is good. Seek justice. Correct the oppressor. Defend the rights of the fatherless. Plead the widow’s cause.”  (Isaiah 1:16,17 HCSB) God’s people had become unaware of their need to change their actions, for there to be a change in their condition. David prayed and declared, “The sacrifice pleasing to God is a broken spirit. God, You will not despise a broken and humbled heart.” (Psalm 51:17 HCSB)

Then the Lord calls them to consider there ways and to seize the opportunity for a life different than what they were experiencing. “Come, let us discuss this,” says the Lord. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson, they will be like wool.” (Isaiah 1:18 HCSB)

The Lord presents the possibility of true change and a new life. In working with those struggling with addictions, one of the greatest motivations to recovery is understanding and accepting the fact that, my life as I am experiencing now, can be different. I don’t have to be forever caught in this bondage of addiction. That is what the Lord was communicating to His people. Regardless of what is happening, there is hope. That is a message of good news!

The Lord clearly shows the two options before His people, “If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good things of the land. But if you refuse and rebel, you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.” (Isaiah 1:19,20 HCSB)

“If you are willing and obedient.” I am thankful that if we are “willing” the Lord will give us the strength to “be obedient.” David prayed, “Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you.” (Psalm 51:12 NLT)

Once again, we see the promise of blessing from following the Lord and the warning of hardship by rejecting His ways. The profession of our lips, must match the dedication of our lives. When those two align, we place ourselves in a position of favor and blessing from the Lord.

Our wintry, spring weather has continued today. Some snow in the air off and on, but none that is sticking to the ground. We are told within a week, we will be having 80 degree temperatures. I worked today on a funeral service that I will be conducting on Monday. This will be my first one in a number of years. I was glad that I got in a workout at the fitness center. I am trying to up my frequency to see if I can push forward in my recovery.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…  “Then they all cried out together, “Take this man away! Release Barabbas to us!”  (He had been thrown into prison for a rebellion that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again, but they kept shouting, “Crucify! Crucify Him!” Luke 23:18-21 HCSB

As I read once again the chapters about Jesus crucifixion, I was reminded of the personalities involved and the contrasts. We see Pilate and Herod, two men, different leaders who had been enemies, became friends. We see Pilate the ruthless, desiring to show mercy and the religious leaders demanding death. We see scant evidence of any charges against Jesus from the many witnesses who could not “get their story straight.” As a result, Jesus had to incriminate Himself, so they would have something to charge Him with. As a matter of fact the only time Jesus spoke, was not to defend Himself, but words that ended up condemning Him.

The death of Jesus all hinged on this “great exchange” with Barabbas. What Pilate viewed as a “way out” of a difficult situation backfired. He never thought the jealousy of the religious leaders and their influence over the crowds would allow them to exchange a well known terrorist or the innocent Nazarene.

However, it is in this “turning point” that we find the greatest picture of what the cross is all about. Jesus died in the place of the condemned. He died the innocent one for the guilty.

We see it prophesied in Isaiah, “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him…the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all.“ (Isaiah 53:5,6 NIV) Peter declared, “…Christ suffered for our sins once. He was an innocent person, but he suffered for guilty people so that he could bring you to God.” (1 Peter 3:18 GW) Paul declared, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8 NIV)

Christ…died…for…us! For you and for me and for Barabbas. We don’t relate to the brutality and evil of Barabbas’ actions, but we all have a sentence of death on our head, because no sin can stand in the presence of a Holy God. Whether we view our sin as great or as insignificant, it all separates us from God. “All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23 NIV)

I recall a depiction of a man watching Jesus being whipped and tortured, the man in his dream, goes to stop the solider. As the man grabs the shoulder of the man with whip, the solider turns to look at the man who is stopping him and the man see his own face on the soldier.

It is our sin that placed Jesus on the cross. The words of the old hymn says it well, “He was nailed to the cross for me. One the cross crucified for me He died, He was nailed to the cross for me.” When we read the story of Jesus’ crucifixion, Barabbas is not some legendary ancient criminal, he represents you and I and everyone for whom Jesus died. Jesus was condemned, we are set free. Thank the Lord for His love, grace and mercy offered through Jesus.

This morning I had one of our final planning committee meetings for next week’s National Day of Prayer event here in Northern Colorado. We anticipate close to 400 in attendance. After being “on hold” for several weeks and months, it seems some of the projects we have had on our agenda are making progress around the house. One of those is the build out of our basement which was started last June.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “There will be violent earthquakes, and famines and plagues in various places, and there will be terrifying sights and great signs from heaven.” Luke 21:11 HCSB

It is interesting to hear prognostications from all kinds of sources for all kinds of future events. The predictions run from, invasion of aliens from outer space, to earth destroying asteroids, rising oceans, plagues and famines.

But when we look into scripture some of the events that are believed to be the source of just chance or the impact of human existence on the planet, may actually happen, but the source is going to be different than modern predictions.

When we look at Jesus warnings about the “end times” we see upheaval on many fronts. We see it in conflict among nations, we see it in economics, political systems and we see it in the heavens and earth itself.

“Then there will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars; and there will be anguish on the earth among nations bewildered by the roaring sea and waves. People will faint from fear and expectation of the things that are coming on the world, because the celestial powers will be shaken.“ (Luke 21:25,26 HCSB)

Scripture does not give all the details of events, nor the extent and the timing of their occurrence. But it is clear that in the future before the Lord returns will be times of trials and testing.

We see throughout the Book of Revelation from the opening chapters describing the different colored horses to the plagues brought by angels and the two witnesses all the different aspects of human existence that will be challenged.

What is of interest is that all the events that occur will challenge the pride and superiority of humanity. We are often lead to believe that people are the cause of all problems that exist and are the source of all solutions for those problems. But as Pharaoh of old had to recognize, so all people in the future will recognize that, “this is the finger of God.” We see this because Revelation tells us that they, “cursed the God of heaven because of their pains and their sores, but they refused to repent of what they had done.” (Revelation 16:11 NIV)

Jesus provides the warnings and tells us the proper response. In a word it is simply, “watch” or “be on guard.”

 “Be on your guard, so that your minds are not dulled from carousing, drunkenness, and worries of life, or that day will come on you unexpectedly  like a trap. For it will come on all who live on the face of the whole earth.  But be alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are going to take place and to stand before the Son of Man.” (Luke 21:34-36 HCSB)

For many “carousing” and “drunkenness” don’t seem to be an issue, but everyone is vulnerable to “the worries of life.” We are called to be ready, not to panic,  to pray and trust the Lord for the strength that is needed for whatever comes. These events will provide an opportunity greater than ever to share the hope that is found in Christ.

There is always a desire to know more and to know when “end time” events will take place. But what is most important is clear and emphasized. We are to keep our focus on Christ, and know that the Lord will provide for His own and has a place in His presence prepared for those who love Him.

My morning today was fairly busy. I began with a breakfast meeting Windsor and then two service visits before leaving for my morning Chiropractor appointment. This afternoon was more relaxing and I was even able to get in a workout. Our spring weather has turned to more winter-like and is to last for a few days.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…  “How happy is everyone who fears the Lord, who walks in His ways!…In this very way the man who fears the Lord will be blessed.”  Psalm 128:1,4 HCSB

It is often observed that a tombstone has two dates separated by a dash. The dash between the two dates represents the life of a person. A beginning point and an ending point. It is the dash between the dates that really counts!

The Psalms of Ascent are a collection of psalms that are believed to have been recited as Israel’s men made their way to Jerusalem for the three main festivals of the year. They are “Psalms for going up.” We see a starting point for the journey in Psalm 120 and an ending point in Psalm 134 as a call for worship from God’s holy hill goes out.

What is important is what happens in between the longing for God’s house in a place of distress and arriving at  God’s House in the midst of worship. Between the beginning of the journey and the end of the journey. This psalm is found toward the end of the journey. It addresses and affirms the blessings of those who walk in the “fear of the Lord.” Sometimes in a long journey it is easy to get weary and question is the “journey worth it?”

What we see in between the verses above is a description of those blessings from the Lord that shows keeping to the journey, the commitment to fear the Lord and walk in His ways is “worth it.”

We see described is a life of prosperity. “You will surely eat what your hands have worked for.” (Psalm 128:2 HCSB) In a time when food from the land not only sustained the family, but provided the means for acquiring other things needed for life, being assured that you will enjoy a harvest is significant. When Moses warned the Children of Israel in the wilderness of the consequences for disobedience he said, “You will plant a vineyard, but you will not even begin to enjoy its fruit. Your ox will be slaughtered before your eyes, but you will eat none of it.” (Deuteronomy 28:30-31 NIV)

We see described a life of satisfaction. “You will be happy, and it will go well for you.” (Psalm 128:2 HCSB) In the Old Testament the greeting was, “is it well with you?” Today it is just, “how are you dong?” A life of peace and contentment is a blessed life. It is the promised life of those who follow the Lord. Solomon said,  “…the way of transgressors is hard.“ (Proverbs 13:15 KJV)

I believe even when life is “not good” it can still be “well” for us. The consistent side affect of following the ways of the Lord is described as “blessing” or “Happy.” We see that reflected in the Beatitudes of Jesus. (Matthew 5:3-12) We see it in Psalm 1. “Blessed [or happy] is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers. but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.“ (Psalm 1:1,2 NIV)

We see described a blessed family.   “Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house, your sons, like young olive trees around your table.” (Psalm 128:3 HCSB) We see in scripture that barrenness for women, really for a couple, was viewed as a curse. If money is the greatest source of martial conflict in our world today, barrenness was that in the ancient world. Children were not only viewed as a blessing but having sons (and daughters) that live successful, god-fearing lives is a blessing as well. Another Psalm of Ascent says,

“…Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court.” (Psalm 127:3-5 NIV)

When we keep our eyes on the Lord and continue to walk in His ways and journey with Him, we will discover that it is a life of blessing. Keep to the journey, it is worth it, we have a grand destination in view.

I ended up spending last night in Lakewood. It was good to be with Christian, Bridget and the children overnight. I was able to take the boys to school and then head back to Fort Collins in time for my morning workout appointment. I then attended a lunch meeting with two candidates for the US Senate. This afternoon, I finished up on some logistics for my work and some upcoming events.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “Therefore I tell you, don’t worry about your life, what you will eat; or about the body, what you will wear…. Don’t keep striving for what you should eat and what you should drink, and don’t be anxious.”  Luke 12:22,29 HCSB

If there is a triumvirate that can sap the peace and enjoyment out of life it is worry, striving and anxiety. It is hard to distinguish between “worry” and “anxiety” and to just view them as the same. I found an interesting description of the two from Dr Linda Mintle. She describes “anxiety” as “…that uneasy feeling, apprehension, a feeling of danger, doom or misfortune.” It can be induced by perceived danger or threat when one considers future events. “Worry” is “the mental part of anxiety. Worry has to do with anxious thoughts.”  http://www.beliefnet.com/columnists/doinglifetogether/2013/09/the-difference-between-worry-and-anxiety.html#7jsHMhXcfSsqMMtJ.99

So, “anxiety” can be viewed as the emotional response to a situation, “worry” is related to the thoughts about life or an area of concern. Most people would say, “regardless of how you explain it, it feels the same and has the same impact on my life.” That is so true. That is why Jesus said, “don’t do it…”

The other enemy of peace of “striving.” If anxiety is the emotional response and worry is the mental activity, striving is what I do to solve the problem on my own. In these verses Jesus is talking about food and clothing, not cars and yachts and recreational apparel. Those basic needs of life, if you don’t have them or fear losing them it would seem to be a good reason to be anxious.

But even in the midst of the most basic, fundamental needs of our life, Jesus says, don’t strive, don’t get worked up on how you are going to bring them into your life. Instead, “trust me.” The God who cares for the creatures of field and the birds of the air says, that He cares for each of us, just the same.

Jesus draws a contrast between the “gentiles” who seek after these things and His children who are to “seek His kingdom.” Our priorities and focus is not be dictated by the world around or what others do. This is one of those, “not so with you” contrasts that Jesus presents to His followers.

We are called to put Jesus first and then to “make heaven rich.” “Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Make money-bags for yourselves that won’t grow old, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Luke 12:33 HCSB) In a practical way Jesus says, you have possessions that can be sold and have resources to give to the poor and to have your own needs met.

We trust, we maintain a focus on the eternal and we do what the scripture tells us to do. “What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:9 ESV)

The Lord has a plan to provide peace in the pressure of life. Don’t worry, don’t strive, don’t be anxious. But trust the Lord who knows your need, seek His kingdom, focus on the eternal and follow God’s plan for your finances and your future.

After attending my Tuesday morning prayer and devotional meeting, I joined some Timberline seniors for breakfast. We had a new visitor by the name of “Speck.” Named for his eye glasses. I asked him how old he was when he got glasses, and the nickname. He was eight. The same age as my newly eye-glass wearing grandson. Speck is now 95 and in good health with good eye sight! I then traveled to Denver to visit my mother. This evening I will attend a presentation at Colorado School of Mines.

BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY…  “Summoning the Twelve, He gave them power and authority over all the demons, and power to heal diseases. Then He sent them to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal the sick…When the apostles returned, they reported to Jesus all that they had done. “ Luke 9:1,10 HCSB

When Jesus called His disciples He did so, “…that they might be with him and he might send them out to preach.” (Mark 3:14 ESV) Jesus knew that His life and ministry would one day be entrusted to those He call to follow Him. The preparation for the future ministry of the disciples was not only being with Jesus, hearing His words, seeing the miracles, but experiencing what it was like for God to us them in preaching and healing.

There is a process in training or mentoring that goes something like this, “I do, you watch.” “You do, I watch.” “You do.” Jesus didn’t live in isolation and then one day suddenly call men that He sent out. There was a preparation time. There was an opportunity for them to observe Jesus, to ask questions, to see “how He did it.” Jesus then sent them out so that He could provide the support that was needed. This allows confidence to be built and to “learn by doing.”

Mark records of the twelve’s missions, “They went out and preached that people should repent. They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.” (Mark 6:12,13 NIV) The disciples did what Jesus had done. They preached repentance, drove out demons that healed the sick. Yet after they returned, we see later, Jesus coming down from the Mount of Transfiguration finding the disciples with a demon possessed by that they were unsuccessful in freeing from the demon. This was not so much a failure, as a learning opportunity.

As Jesus was preparing for the cross, His work of preparing and equipping the disciples moved into high gear. “…I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever. He is the Spirit of truth. The world is unable to receive Him because it doesn’t see Him or know Him. But you do know Him, because He remains with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans…” (John 14:16-18 HCSB)

At the ascension Jesus spoke His final words of instruction, “He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the Father’s promise. “This,” He said, “is what you heard from Me…you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now….you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:4,5,8 HCSB)

Jesus showed the way before modern day leadership theorists discovered the “art of successful training.” He allow the disciple to see Him in action, He provided support as they stepped out in ministry and then He sent them out.

“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20 HCSB)

As we continue to train and prepare for ministry or work with others in developing any skill or competence this model is a good one to follow. After all, it comes from Jesus Himself.