“And you Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the depths. If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.” (Matthew 11:23, 24 NIV)
Forward Friday!
Moving forward, wanting no one left wondering, always encouraging. Success defined by the world, can leave people empty. Success fulfilling God’s purpose in our lives, is like a bubbling fountain of joy running over. When I heard of Billy Graham’s passing, I became more inspired by this servant of God than ever before. In awe thinking about Jesus’ welcoming and Heaven’s rejoicing, a celebration beyond imagination. Sadly, this will not happen for everyone.
Capernaum…meaningful discussion
Capernaum, discussed in all four gospels, located near hometowns of Simeon Peter, Andrew, James, John, and tax collector, Matthew. Many miracles took place here: healing demon possessed individuals, healing Peter’s mother-in-law, the servant of a Roman centurion, as well as, the guy lowered through the roof by his friends. Even with all these incredible movements forward: Jesus calling disciples to join Him and healing taken place, this area turned out to be worse than Sodom. It’s almost too hard to believe…such a lack of faith, sin entered and took over. A warning for us today, seen in several American cities- God’s Word has weakened, faith withered, sin entered and took over. Nashville, TN…concerns with rapid growth, a left thinking mayor…can this grounded in God’s Word, beautiful city be overtaken by sin? Austin, TX is so different from remaining cities and country sides of Texas…how does this happen?
Flocking Together
Birds of feathers flock together. Therefore, parents think about our actions now compared to how most of us were raised- have we stayed true to God’s Word or moved with the flock? How are we parenting? I almost feel like we homeschool church. We attend a wonderful church, yet our children do not want to attend youth group where it’s meant to be more fun. Everywhere, churches are trying to figure out a balance. Sincere Christ-centered servants understand needs, and others who only sip milk can think about serving milk. We have to know the taste of meat, to know what is missing. No one can offer what they don’t know. Please…this is not a vegetarian vs. meat example. Scripture states we start like babies sipping milk, maturing to handle meat. How can individuals ever mature, if only offered milk?
Hometowns
Capernaum represents many communities, ending…worse than Sodom, and will be more bearable for Sodom. We’re seeing the sovereignty of Jesus. He is love, He is judgment. It has happened and it will happen again in Jesus’s second coming…whenever this will happen. Let’s consider communities/cities we live…moving forward, think about what we can do now to avoid being overtaken by sin. Don’t give up if your community/city has been taken over…plant seeds, start a small group, and really seek God’s will. Thankfully, we still have time. Lord, help us. Be encouraged!
No comments yet.