When Morning Gilds the Skies

I rarely see a sunrise that I don't think of  the first verse of this traditional hymn translated by Eric Caswell, When Morning Gilds the Skies. I think it is because there was a day the director of BSF, Rosemary Jenson had the staff all go upstairs to the outdoor prayer tower to sing this song while watching the tale end of a beautiful sunrise. 

When Morning Gilds the sky, 

My heart awakening cries,

May Jesus Christ be praised:

Alike at work and prayer

to Jesus I repair;

May Jesus Christ be Praised!!

Here are a few sunrise pictures captured on our Christmas Beach Trip.  The special effects are due to the fact I ran over my Phone Camera lens Christmas night.  Ooops.  It made for cool pictures and thanks to a generous Christmas money gift and irepair of Gainesville, I was able to get it repaired already. Let me know if you have a favorite!

I am thinking this would make a good Christmas Card!

Merry Christmas from Florida!

 If you recall our Christmas beach trip from last year you might remember that it was planned at the last minute, not the nicest of accommodations,  and a bit constrained due to being 2020.  Yet we were glad to be away and be together. Well this year feels like Redemption.  And Redemption is sweet!

In October we decided to head to Destin Florida and I went in search of accommodations.  When I found this 16th story beautiful Condo on the beach, I jumped on it! When we arrived, we weren't disappointed!  Wish I had captured Mom's look of delight and surprise when we entered.  By far the best residency and location we have had for a Christmas Beach trip yet. 

We added an extra day which has added to the relaxation factor.  Our first full day found us shopping, eating good food, enjoying our view and was wrapped up with all of us on the couch watching Home Alone.

Christmas Day included the completion of a puzzle, the now traditional gingerbread house, gifts, a possibly new traditional pancake lunch, Peter on the beach (a Christmas miracle) and relaxed time together.

Personally, I am very grateful we are not headed back today as is the usual custom. Mom and I rose up early for the sunrise and hopefully will head out for our morning walk soon.  Peter's best friend and family are also spending Christmas at Destin so we hope to spend time with them today.

The past few years have made me aware of how things can change in a moment.  There are always uncertainties with Peter's state, Mom's health and well I am not promised tomorrow either.  So for today, I am grateful, extremely grateful for this time together, in this beautiful place, with time to relax and enjoy it.

Homiletics

 Acts 20:1-38

Content:

1. Paul journeys to various places, staying various lengths of time with a variety of people encouraging believers. 1-6
2. In Troas, there was a late night gathering anticipating Paul's departure. 7
3. In the warm upstairs room, Eutychus falls asleep and out the window, dead. 8-9
4. Paul throws his arms around him declaring he is alive, reviving the man and they continued with breaking bread. 10-12
5. Paul walks on foot meeting others at Assos sailing to Milytene and on to Miletus. 13-15
6. Bypassing Ephesus due to eagerness to reach Jerusalem, Paul sends for Ephesian elders to meet him at Miletus. 16-17
7. Paul recounts his bold ministry in spite of persecution when with them, declaring faith in Jesus to Jews and Gentiles. 18-21
8. Paul is compelled to go to Jerusalem knowing by Holy Spirit hardships are ahead. 22-23
9. Paul states his life mission declaring it as gospel of God's grace. 24
10. Paul makes his farewell speech. 25
11. Paul has done his part declaring truth to them without hesitancy. 26-27
12. He encourages the Elders in their work as Shepherds of the church to be on guard and protect the flock. 28-31
13. Paul commits them to God and the word of his grace. 32
14. Paul reminds them of his example of laboring for Jesus. 33-35
15. There was a tearful farewell as they knew it was last time they would see him. 36-38

Divisions:

1. Paul travels place to place encouraging believers. 1-6
2. Paul revives Eutychus who falls out of a window at an all night meeting. 7-12
3. Paul calls for Ephesian elders at Miletus recounting his story of ministry. 13-27
4. Paul encourages elders in their own ministry. 28-38

Subject Sentence:

• Paul revives Eutychus and encourages Ephesian elders during missionary journey.

Aim:

• To cause me to encourage whomever I meet in my life journey with the gospel of God's grace through word and deed. 

Application:

1. Do I make an effort to encourage others with the gospel of grace?
2. Who in my path might I need to go to with loving embrace and Holy Spirit's power to revive or restore?
3. Do I freely share my story of God's grace in my life for encouragement of others? What platform or  opportunity is Cod giving me?
4. How do I or can I encourage others in their own ministry of the gospel?

Homiletics

 Acts  19:1-41

Content:

1. Paul ask Ephesus disciples if they have received Holy Spirit and they didn't know what he was referring to. 1-2
2. Paul explains the baptism of John (water) they received was of repentance and spoke of belief in Jesus. 3-4
3. These 12 men were baptized in name of Jesus receiving Holy Spirit. 5-7
4. After verbal abuse in the Synagogue, Paul left and spent two years teaching disciples in lecture hall at Tyrannus spreading word of the  Lord. 8-10
5. God did miracles of healing through Paul. 11-12
6. Some Jews tried driving out evil spirits to only be revealed by the very spirits that they were fake. 13-16
7. As a result the name of Jesus was revered and resulted in dramatic change in those who practiced sorcery. 17-20
8. Paul and followers make plans to journey visiting disciples on the way. 21-22
9. Demetrius , maker of shrines for god Artemis gathers and stirs up protest  because of the threat Paul's message of Jesus is to their business. 23-26
10. Demetrius also says it is a threat to the goddess herself invoking a riot. 27-28
11. Paul's travel companions Gaius and Aristarchus were taken into the theatre but Paul was warned to stay in hiding. 29-31
12. There was an assembly of confusion and chaos based on frenzy. 32-34
13. The city clerk calms the crowd down using facts (as they believed them.)35-36
14. The city clerk tells them they must make grievances in a legal manner because this riot is also subject to legal charge and the assembly was dismissed. 37-41

Divisions:

1. Paul tells Ephesus disciples of baptism of Holy Spirit which they receive. 1-7
2. Paul's ministry of miracles caused dramatic transformation in lives in Asia. 8-22
3. Paul's ministry results in a a chaotic riot by Artemis supporters, threatened by the spread of the gospel.  23-41

Subject Sentence.

• Paul's ministry results in empowered believers, transformed lives, and rioting.

Aim:

• To Cause Me to trust that as I live and speak the Gospel truth of Jesus , God will transform lives through his Holy Spirit.

Application:

1. Do my words and lifestyle promote salvation by works and rules or do I live by and speak of salvation by grace and empowerment of the Holy Spirit?
2. Am I trying to change people or am I trusting the power of God to transform them as I remain faithful to Jesus and where he leads me to speak gospel truth?
3. Do I let opposition of others or dramatic rejection discourage me or am I willing to trust that God is at work in and through it?

Homiletics

 Acts 18:1-28

Content:

1. Paul leaves Athens for Corinth joining Aquila and Priscilla in tentmaker work, teaching in Synagogue on Sabbath. 1-4
2. Silas and Timothy's arrival allow Paul more concentrated teaching time to Jews. 5
3. Jew's opposition lead Paul to concentrate on preaching to Gentiles and he moves out of Synagogue to preach, gaining converts. 6-8
4. Lord appears in night vision to Paul confirming he was to stay in Corinth preaching word of God. 9-11
5. Jews tried to take Paul to court for trying to persuade people to worship in ways contrary to the law. 12-13
6. Gallio the proconsul rejected the case from the court saying he was not judge over such matters. 14-16
7. They took their anger out on Sosthenes the Synagogue leader and Gallio didn't care. 17
8. Paul, Priscilla and Aquilla head for Syria and they stop at Ephesus for a time. 18-20
9. Paul leaves Priscilla and Aguila at Ephesus promising to return if God's will. 21
10. Paul greets church in Caesarea, spends time in Antioch and strengthens disciples throughout Galatia and Phrygia. 22-23
11. Meanwhile  Priscilla and Aquilla in Ephesus learn of Apollos and they disciple him in the way of God. 24-26
12. Apollos goes to Achaia with Ephesus brother's endorsement where he proves in public debate through scripture that Jesus is the Christ. 27-28

Divisions:

1. While in Corinth, God leads Paul to focus on preaching the gospel to the Gentiles. 1-17
2. Paul travels to Ephesus, Caesarea, Antioch and Phrygia strengthening disciples. 18-23
3. Meanwhile in Ephesus Priscilla and Aquilla disciple Apollos who then goes on missionary journey to Achaia. 24- 28

Subject Sentence:

• Paul preaches Jesus to Gentiles in Corinth and beyond, increasing disciples.

Aim:

• God uses people with different gifts and passions in a variety of ways to spread the truth of the gospel. 

Application:

1. What group of people is God leading me to focus my ministry on.  Who am I to concentrate my energy in sharing the Gospel with?  What things might I need to let go of to do so?
2. What acts  (like Paul's vow) do I need to do for my own spiritual growth and self discipline? Where or in doing what, do I need to be spending time so that my life helps to encourage and strengthen other believers.
3. Who is God showing me to invest time in so that they know truth? Do I value teaching and discipling others in what feels like a small or simple way, trusting that God will use to send them out to share the Gospel?

Flying Miss Millie

Okay so I didn't fly the airplane but I did fly with mom out to Kansas last weekend so she could visit family.  She has wanted to go and see her siblings this whole year but Covid and her own health had prevented it.  In the past month, mom's walking has improved and she has been feeling more energized.  In addition, the Covid numbers seemed to be going downs and we had some Delta vouchers from a 2020 canceled trip.  Not knowing what her health (or that of f her friends and family would be next Spring) we decided now was the time to go.  I took off 2 days of work giving mom 4 days to fly and visit multiple people.  Mom being the gifted administrator that she is, created an itinerary that allowed her to visit friends and family.  I am proud to say that we stayed on schedule the whole time except for once and we blamed it on the Apple pie we had to eat.  And we are SO glad we did - one of the best pieces of Apple pie I have ever had.  At the end of trip Mom felt like she really had seen and done all that she wanted to in the 4 days.  We rented a car and stayed in a hotel  so that we could keep up our busy schedule throughout the day and have a place of quiet when the day ended.  Personally I enjoyed connecting with family, watching my mom interact with long time friends and family, as well as spending unrushed time with mom.  We are so grateful to those who hosted us for a meal and carved time out of their busy schedules to visit with us. I am including a few pictures to help tell the story of our journey.

Early morning flight!

Lee and Frank, Our first stop.  Lee made us the best pork chops!!!

Close friends ever since they were newlyweds.

Mom and Shirley were college friends.

Turns out we there to wish Mom's brother Walt a happy 88th birthday

My father's brother recently died.
We got to see his wife Edith before she moves to Texas.

Mom and her sister Phyllis spent Sunday afternoon
going through family pictures.

It's always fun to see cousin Christine

I regret that I forgot to get picture with cousin Timmy and Uncle Slim
 but we got a selfie with cousin Tonya.

Thanks to Cousin Dale for making biscuits and gravy
 for mom on Monday morning!  

Mom and Elsie have been lifelong friends
having gone to school together 1st through 8th grade.

This is Dad's tree with a view of his and Larry's stones.

Our traditional "Man it is cold out here" Cemetery Selfie.

We decorated the plot for Fall with a little help from Dollar General.

This is the house Mom grew up in.

This is the rural one room school house mom went to grade school. 

Mom and Carolyn are 2 of the 10 classmates that were in their graduating class. 
She makes AMAZING Apple Pie!

My mom's brother-in-law Delbert,  niece Joy (and Gerald) and
nephew Deon (and Mary).

Sharing memories with my dad's cousin, Deloris.

Crazy enough when we returned home, a Nebraska cousin (technically her mom and my mom were cousins) was in the area for the week. I took an extra day off so that we could meet up with her in the cute little town of Helen.  I attended Nadine's wedding when I was 10 and it is one of my favorite childhood memories (and where I fell in love with weddings! )

For these people and this journey, we are grateful!

Delays

So if you haven't noticed, my homiletics have not been quite on schedule.  I could give you a list of excuses but they would be just that, excuses.  There has been a lot going on and I have been busy but it still would be excuses.  The one I just posted was actually written a couple of weeks ago.  As I typed it in this evening I was challenged by the content.  I have chosen other things over diligent bible reading/study and prayer.  I know this does not alter my salvation or God's love for me in any way.  But I do think it contributes to why  I have felt so much stress.  Plus it certainly doesn't give me the truth quickly in my head so that I may share it as Paul demonstrates in Acts 17.  So if I cross your mind and you send up an arrow prayer on my behalf, you can pray that I will want to make bible study a priority as well as I will work through my procrastination issues (which contribute to my not getting important things done.)

Watch for the next post.  It will give you a glimpse of one of my "excuses" for post delay.

Homiletics

 Acts 17:1-34

Content:

1. Paul preached in Jewish Synagogue @Thesalanica using scripture to prove Jesus as Christ. 1-3
2. Some Jews, God-fearing Greeks and prominent women joined Paul. 4
3. Jealous Jews started a riot rushing and terrorizing house of Jason, Paul's host accusing them of defying Caesar. 5-9
4. Following this, the brothers sent Paul and Silas to Berea where message was received eagerly and many believed. 10-12
5. Thessalonian Jews go stir up trouble in Berea causing Paul to be sent ahead to Athens. 13-15
6. Waiting in Athens for Timothy and Silas, Paul begins to reason with Jews and Greeks in Synagogue. 16-17
7. Paul caught attention of philosophers who invite him to the Areopagus to explain this foreign teaching.  18-21
8. Paul appeals to their religious nature as a lead to the gospel. 22-23
9. Paul explains that God who made heaven and earth does not live in a man made temple. 24
10. God made man and gave him breath determining his times and purpose. 25-26
11. God did this so we would seek him.  27-28
12. We are God's offspring called to repent from idol worship. 29-30
13. God will judge the world with his appointed and his proof is Jesus' resurrection. 29-31
14. As a result of Paul's teaching, some sneered and others followed him. 32-34

Divisions:

1.  Paul's preaching at Thessalonica results in new followers as well as riot prompting his leave. 1-9
2. At Paul's next stop, Berea, many diligently study scriptures leading many to believe. 10-15
3. Paul invited to address philosophers in Athens and he shares gospel meeting them where they are at. 16-34

Subject Sentence

• Believers result from Paul's teaching in Thessalonica, Berea and Athens.

Aim:

• To cause me to teach truths of scripture to whomever I encounter seeking to meet them where they are.

Applications:

1. Am I faithful in proclaiming Christ or is it my own agenda?  Do I see opposition as a sign that I am speaking truth?
2. Do I receive the gospel message with eagerness and examine scripture daily for truth?
3. Do I seek to meet people where they are and address it with the truth of God.

The reluctant salesgirl

So one of the things I hate is soliciting or selling.  In Junior Achievement I would happily stay back and make fire starters with Dixie cups, wood chips and wax but beg " PLEASE don't make me go out door to door selling."  Several years ago, needing money I let someone talk me into peddling Melaleuca and I barely made it a month.  God knew how bad I was at soliciting and just brought the funds for my first 3 and half years of missionary life very easily and then for the final 4 gave me a salary so I didn't have to pursue support. 

I am a fan of personality test etc. and think often about why we do or don't do what we do.  I see it in this simplistic way.  We develop a pattern of thought that guides our choices and patterns.  These thoughts come from our hardwiring at birth and the voices and visions we see around us as we grow. You know the whole nature and nurture piece. I think we can get in a pattern of thought and autopilot throughout our lives.  When the patterns are negative or destructive there is a tendency to blame someone.  For example " it's how I was made" or "it's my parent's fault."  But if willing to engage and consider the thoughts behind the patterns, I think it is possible to move off of autopilot and reroute.  Now we know it's not  easy and takes effort to challenge, and as necessary, change thinking.  

So what does this have to do with me being a reluctant salesgirl?  I am currently in the position of needing to promote my "side hustle" of Child Life Coaching that I embarked on a year ago.  I had delusional thoughts that business would generate itself.  It is almost a year later, it hasn't.  I have received some referrals through others at the practice I work out of but it alone will not build my business.  I invested in cutesy promotional postcards this June of which the majority of are still in a box  in my home office. And I have painfully come to the conclusion that either I am going to have to sell and promote my services or close up shop.  I finally sent out packets of cards to some elementary schools and preschools trying to name drop people who know me along with them.  Guess what??? It worked!  As a result I have received some really positive responses and even a couple of clients.  

So this positive response has motivated more cards going out as well as thinking.  I am analyzing, what is it about promoting a product or services that is so challenging for me.  I realize it has a lot to do with my "thoughts."  So wherever they come from (nature or nurture) I have thoughts like this in my head.  "I don't want to bother or inconvenience people." "I don't want people to do anything out of obligation."  " No one is going to want to (nor should) pay for this - it's not worth the money." "I don't want to be thought of poorly or rejected. I want everyone to like me." "There are other people out there offering this so they won't need mine."  Really it  basically boils down to fear of rejection or concern for my reputation. I don't want to be judged, such as to be  thought of as a pushy or even be pitied, 

But what I am learning is that there are people who are interested in the services I offer.  There are people who think what I am offering is valuable.  BUT if they don't know its there, they can't take advantage of it.  So I am working to get over my phobia of rejection to willingly make myself known.  I am not responsible for what people do with it or me.  But I am responsible for sharing the information.

This certainly applies to what I know about Christ.  As I consider both my preschool job and the child life coaching, I often feel inadequate or unqualified.  Yet although there is much I don't know I know the main thing - Jesus love me, Jesus saved me and Jesus has a plan for me.  And that truth can apply to EVERYONE I encounter.  I decided that my goal when I work with kids at school and as a coach is for them to know Jesus loves them, is for them and with them. My job is to let people know and they are responsible for what they do with it.

So I am going to apply this principle one more time here. I am going to tell you that  I am having an online Thirty-One party this week.  You know those cutesy bags and storage containers that can be monogrammed.  I am having the party because I like bags,  I want more bags, and I like things at bargain prices.  Being a hostess has monetary perks.  But all the thoughts in my head say, "Linda if you tell people they will feel obligated or think you are pushy and so forth".  But then I heard this thought.  "What if one of your friends LOVES Thirty-One products and have been thinking to herself, " gee I wish I knew someone having a Thirty-One party to order from."  Therefore here it is!  I am having a Thirty-One Party throughout the week on Facebook.  If you like that kind of thing and haven't been invited, let me know.  Or here is this shopping link if you want to simply order something -  Linda's Thirty-One Party  I don't want anyone to think I am pushy or presumptuous but if you do, it's okay.  I DONT want anyone to buy anything out of obligation or pity but if you do it's on you not me, right? 

Thanks for being my friend in spite of me,  

With Love Linda

Homiletics

 Acts 16:1-40

Content:

1. At Lyshe Paul chooses reputable , young Greek/Jew, Timothy and after circumcising takes him on missionary journey. 1-3
2. Churches encouraged as Jerusalem counsel decision is shared. 4-5
3. Holy Spirit keeps Paul's missionary team from entering Asia at Bithynia. 6-7
4. At Troas, Paul has dream of man in Macedonia beckoning so they immediately head there. 8-10
5. From Troas through Samathrace and Neapolis they reach Philipi in Macedonia 11-12
6. On Sabbath, Paul 's team gathered for prayer At River with many women including Lydia. 13-14
7. Lydia persuades them to come and stay with her. 15
8. Psychic slave girl pesters Paul and team with her knowledge of them as God's Servants until Paul sends spirit out of her. 16-18
9. Perturbed owners of girl drag Paul and Silas to face authorities. 19-21
10. Flogged and beaten Paul and Silas are put under severe jail watch. 22-24
11. While Paul and Silas were praising God , a violent earthquake opens doors. 25-26
12. Paul saves Jailer from ending his life in fear prisoners have left. 27-28
13. Jailer and family are saved as he cares for Paul and Silas wounds. 29-34
14. Magistrate tries to dismiss case but Paul does not allow and uses Roman citizen "card." 35-37
15. Fearful magistrate seek to appease. 38-39
16. Paul and Silas go to Lydia's briefly before leaving the area. 40

Divisions:

1. Paul follows Holy Spirits leading making missionary journey to Macedonia. 1-15
2. Paul's healing of possessed slave girl leads to imprisonment. 16-24
3. Miraculous deliverance from jail results in salvation of jailers family. 25-40

Subject Sentence:

• Paul led by Holy Spirit to Macedonia, experiences persecution and fruit.

Aim: 

1. TCMT to seek to follow the Holy Spirit's leading to serve others trusting in times of affliction as well as fruitfulness.

Applications:

1. Do I see closed doors as God's leading?  Am I listening for the Holy Spirit speaking to my spirit for direction?
2. What is my response when following Holy Spirit leads to affliction? Will I praise him in the midst of it?
3. Am I looking to make the most of every opportunity to share the salvation message?  What difficulty do I need to stay in, trusting that God will use for his glory?

Peach State Challenge

Last Sunday I crossed the finish line at the Georgia - South Carolina State Line after walking up the 180 miles of I-85 that spans the state of Georgia.  Okay so it was in a figurative  way but I covered the milage during the past three months none the less.

The Peach State Challenge virtual race offers several options including covering the distance of Georgia's 285, I-85, I-75 or a combination of all.  Last summer I attempted to run the distance and failed when I hit a health snafu.  At the end of the time frame they sent me a medal and shirt for my effort.  Since I had not accomplished it, I threw away the medal and gave the t-shirt to Goodwill.  This year when I received info on the challenge, I knew running it would not happen but I felt like walking the 180 miles in three months was a doable challenge.  Basically it broke down to an average of 2 miles a day during the time period of June 21 to September 21.

Most of the miles were accomplished while circling the Brenau Mile, a mile loop around Brenau University which starts just yards from my house. These miles were gained while I talked on the phone, walked with a friend, listened to music or books and occasionally just practiced the art of being. Some of the miles were gained while circling the preschools playground as I supervised kids during our outside time.  This usually meant an accompaniment of  little people as I did so.  Basically I walked the  miles  just when and wherever I could fit it into my schedule.  Sometimes it felt like a burden yet it helped keep me accountable to keep moving.  My goal after accomplishing the 180 miles is 7 miles a week - one mile a day.  With the habit in place, it seemed so reasonable.  Okay so this week I think I only got in about 2 miles.  Lets just call it a bye week and I'll try again next week. 

I confess I am pretty proud of my accomplishment.  I didn't run it nor was my walking pace fast but I completed the challenge.  Its amazing what laying down $40 and the promise of a shirt and medal will do to keep me motivated.

 

Homiletics

 Acts 15: 1-41

Content:

1. Some Judean believers in Antioch teaching circumcision required for salvation. 1
2. Paul and Barnabas sharply disagree and lead delegation to Jerusalem to seek Apostles 2-4
3. Pharisee believers said gentile believers must follow Jewish law. 5
4. Peter says Gentiles are purified by faith just as Jews. 6-11
5. Paul and Barnabas tell of God's work among Gentile believers. 12
6. James points to Old Testament prophets for affirmation of God receiving Gentiles. 13-18
7. James lays down simple instructions for Gentile believers excluding circumcisions'. 19-21
8. Paul, Barnabas, Silas and Judas carry letter to Antioch. 22
9. Letter from Jerusalem confirms the senders 23-27
10. Instructed to abstain from idol sacrificed food, blood, meat of strangled animals and sexual immorality. 28-29
11. Antioch church encouraged by letter and the messengers. 30-32
12. Judas and Silas return as Paul and Barnabas continue Antioch ministry. 33-35
13. Barnabas and Paul's disagreement over John Mark lead to parting company. 36-39
14. Barnabas and John Mark head for Cypress. 39
15. Paul and Silas go through Syria and Cilica 40-41

Divisions: 

1. Disagreement over salvation requirements send Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem seeking apostles help. 1-12
2. Apostles use God's word to conclude salvation does not require following Jewish law . 13-35
3. Paul and Barnabas disagreement lead to separate ministries. 36-41

Subject Sentence:

•  Resolving  theology disagreement unifies believers then personality disagreement divides ministries.

Aim: 

• TCMT to trust that God uses disagreements to draw believers to himself and further his kingdom.

Application:

1. Do I put unbiblical expectations on others or even myself based on traditions?  Do I seek Godly counsel for conflict involving living by Godly principles? 
2. Do I seek God's word for truth in resolving questions of spiritual matters? Do I draw closer to God and his words in time of conflict?  Am I adding any observations or behaviors putting it in conflict with truth that salvation is by Grace through faith in Jesus? 
3. Can I see the difference between conflict of biblical truth  and conflict of personal preference? What conflict of personality might God be using to expand the spread of the gospel.? As uncomfortable as conflict may feel, do I trust that God can bring good out of all things, including conflict?

Homiletics

 Acts 14:1-28

Content:

1. Paul and Barnabas preach and perform miracles in Iconium dividing the city with believers and scoffers. 1-4
2. Learning of threats in Iconium, Paul and Barnabas flee to Lystra where they continue to preach the gospel. 5-7
3. Paul seeing crippled man's faith, tells him to stand up and he begins to walk. 8-10
4. The crowd interpret healing as Paul and Barnabas being gods and begin worshiping them. 11-13
5. Paul and Barnabas strongly protest they are not god's but calling the people to turn from gods and worship the true God.14-15
6. Paul says God has shown himself in the world they live. 16-17
7. Even with protest the people want to worship them. 18
8. Iconium and Antioch Jews persuade same crowd to stone Paul leaving him for dead. 19
9. Paul revives and he and Barnabas go to Derbe. 20
10. Many in Derbe believe, becoming disciples before Paul and Barnabas return through Lystra, Iconium and Antioch to strengthen the disciples. 21-22
11. Paul and Barnabas appoint and commission leadership in these churches. 23
12. They continue through Pisidia, Pamphylia, Perga and Attalia. 24-25
13. At Attalia they sail to Antioch where they had been commissioned from. 26
14. At Antioch they tell what God has done through them, opening the Gospel to the Gentiles. 27
15. They remain at Antioch for a long time. 28

Divisions:

1. vs 1-20 Missionaries Paul and Barnabas experience varying types of personal affliction as they seek to share the gospel abroad.
2. vs 21-28 Paul and Barnabas are faithful to share the gospel, establish leadership in new churches and share what God is doing in Gentiles with those who sent them. 

Subject Sentence: Paul and Barnabas travel as missionaries sharing gospel of Jesus.

Aim: TCMT be faithful to share the gospel of Jesus Christ knowing there will be affliction as well as fruit.

Application: 

1. What conflict or affliction is keeping me from persevering in sharing the truth of the gospel?  What affliction might God be using to move me in a different direction so I can share the gospel with another group of people? Am I bold to speak the truth of Jesus whether I am being accused or exalted?
2. Do I seek to hear what God is doing in the lives of missionaries to be encouraged? Do I share with others  the fruit I see from my own life or ministry so that others are encouraged? 

Homiletics

 Acts 13:1-52

Content:

1. Paul and Barnabas sent off from Antioc1-3
2. Holy Spirit send them to Cypress where they traveled and preached. 4-5
3. Elymas (Bar Jesus) apposes Paul and Barnabas as they preach to proconsul Sergius Paulus. 6-8
4. Filled with HS Paul confronts Elymus who is blinded causing proconsul to believe. 9-12
5. Paul and company travel on where Paul is given opportunity to speak At Synagogue. 13-15
6. Paul briefly recaps 1st 450 years of Israel's history 16-20
7. He talks about King Saul and David. 21-22
8. Paul then tells them of Jesus coming from King David and John's preparation for him. 23-25
9. He tells of Israel's rejection of Jesus, the means for which he died and God's resurrection of him. 26-30
10. Witnesses can attest to his resurrection. 31
11. Paul connects the prophets words with events of Jesus. 32-37
12. Through Jesus is forgiveness of sin and justification. 38-41
13. Many believed and followed Paul and Barnabas. 42-43
14. Next Sabbath almost whole city came to hear but jealous Jews spoke abusively. 44-45
15. Paul declares Jesus given to Jews but they are rejecting so now they turn to Gentiles. 46-47
16. Gentiles honored and many believe. 48
17. Gospel spreads as does persecution of Paul and Barnabas who leave for Iconium. 49-51
18. Disciples filled with Joy and Holy Spirit. vs 52

Divisions:

1. Holy Spirit sends Paul and Barnabas to Cypress where Paul's bold confrontation leads to proconsuls belief.  1-12
2. In  Antioch, Paul speaks in Synagogue recounting Israel's history concluding with Jesus as means of forgiveness of sins. 13-43
3. Jealous Jew's rejection , lead Paul to declare gospel message now turning to Gentiles. 44-47
4. Gospel spreads among gentiles as persecution also increases.  48-52

Subject Sentence:

• Paul boldly proclaims gospel turning to gentiles as Jew's reject.

AIM:

• TCMT follow Holy Spirit's leading to boldly proclaim gospel whenever and to whomever the Holy Spirit leads me to.

Application:

1. Am I spending time tuned into God so that that I am aware of the Holy Spirit's leading me to the people he wants me to speak to?  Am I making space for the Holy Spirit so that I speak truth.?
2. Do I point to the scriptures for truth?  Do I always make Jesus as the forgiveness of sins the bottom line when I share with others.
3. Do I truly believe the gospel is for Everyone, willing to share the truth with anyone the Holy Spirit leads me to?
4. Do I trust that as persecution increases, so will the spread of the gospel?

Football Season

 It's Football Season.  Though I am not a big fan, Peter is a BIG FAN so there is excitement in the air.  He worked with his bosses to change his schedule to Monday through Friday instead of Thursday through Monday so he can watch Football.  He has been to a high school football game and a UGA game already.  He is paying for Cable so he has access to ALL the games.  It is fun to see him excited.  I know very little about football but one thing I know is the term, bye week.  A week where a team doesn't have a game. 

 You may have not noticed but last week was a bye week in Linda's Homiletics.  No specific reason other than there were things going on and it didn't happen.  And I gave myself enough grace to say it was okay.  The bottom line is there is not enough hours to do ALL the things I want to do.  So I am really trying to work out the balance of letting go, delegating, and saying no.  Therefore a bye week in Homiletics was needed.  But I am back this week with Acts 13.

Just a little funny

My Tuesday Talks have been quiet - been busy and haven't had much to say that I thought was of real value.  You don't want to hear me whine about my continual struggle healthy living so to deal with physical issues or how "busy and overwhelm" I think I am.  So lets scratch my expectations of Tuesday Talks and go with "Whatever, Whenever , probably not a Wednesday" post. Here is the first one.

Here is just a little funny preschool story.  I have finished 4 weeks with my new littles and my FANTASTIC co-worker Mrs. Lisa.  The kids are cute but of course high maintenance.  And Lisa is a godsend!  A seasoned teacher with such a servant spirit.  However she usually leaves before nap and sometimes it is just me with 11 squirmy littles, some who can't wait to sleep and others who will do ANYTHING to stay awake.  Somedays I worry I will lose me job for fear of what will come out of my mouth!!.  It can be testing to say the least.  It was in the middle of one such day that the following story appeared, lightening my total frustration and feeling of insanity.

E does not want to sleep and has tried all the tricks in the book.  These tricks tend to be noisy and disruptive, occasionally destructive.  After attending, bribing, and threatening I was now trying ignoring.  So E is on the mat singing.  I am ignoring the behavior when I caught a couple of words.  I paused and listened to make sure I heard right.  E was singing the chorus to London Bridges that I had taught them the day before.  However E's version sounded like this "Take the key and knock her up, knock her up, knock her up......"  That little funny probably saved us both!!

Homiletics

 Acts 12:1- 25 

Content

1. King Herod persecutes the church. 1
2. Herod has James brother of John killed by the sword. 2
3. Pleasing the Jews, Herod goes after Peter. 3
4. Peter is imprisoned under high guard awaiting post Passover trial. 4
5. Church praying for Peter. 5
6. Angel of the Lord appears to Peter, waking him and releasing him from chains. 6-7
7. Angel instructs Peter to follow him out of prison. 8-9
8. Gates opened by itself and Peter finds himself alone at street. 10
9. Peter knew God had rescued him.  11
10. Peter appears to Mary Mother of John Marks house startling the servant girl. 12-14
11. Crowd doesn't believe her. 15
12. Peter keeps knocking until they let him in and tells them to tell the disciples then leaves. 16-17
13. Mayhem breaks out at the prison as a result. 18-19
14. Herod goes to Caesarea on business. 20
15. Herod dies by worms for accepting praise as a god. 21-22
16. The word of God continues to spread. 24
17. Barnabas, Saul and John Mark leave Jerusalem for Antioch. 25

Divisions:

1. Under persecution from Herod, the church prays for imprisoned Peter. 1-5
2. Peter experiences miraculous release from prison by Angel of the Lord. 6-11
3. Church marvels and prison breaks into mayhem at discovery of Peter's miraculous release. 12-19
4. Herod dies and gospel spreads in the aftermath. 20-25

Subject Sentence.

• Herod persecutes church imprisoning Peter whom Angel miraculously delivers. 

Aim:

• TCMT not be afraid but to trust that persecution will spread not suppress the Gospel .

Aim:

1. Do I pray for those who are being imprisoned for their commitment to Jesus Christ?
2. Do I seek to know stories of God's miraculous deliverance for the persecuted church so that I am encouraged and my faith is enlarged?
3. Do I recognize that behind the chaos and Mayhem in this world, there are many coming to know and follow the Gospel.  How am I encourage be this?  How do I contribute to this spread of the Gospel?
4. Do I praise, thank and trust God for his justice over the wicked and his care for his own?

Homiletics

 Acts 11

Content:

1. Peter is criticized by circumcised believers for dining with Gentiles. 1-3
2. Peter tells of the vision and voice telling him to eat unclean animals. 4-7
3. Peter says he too questioned but three times he heard the voice. 8-10
4. Peter continues telling about the Caesarean men appearing and Holy Spirit assuring him to go with them. 11-12
5. Peter relays how upon going, Cornelius tells how God lead him to call for him. 13-14
6. Peter tells of Holy Spirit coming upon believers, his recalling Jesus' words and his acceptance this was from God. 15-17
7. Jewish believers accept God granted Gentiles repentance into life through Jesus. 18
8. Persecution spreads gospel to Jews in Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch. 19
9. In Antioch, Greeks began to hear gospel and turn to God. 20-21
10. Jerusalem church hears of Antioch and sends Barnabas to encourage. 22-23
11. Barnabas full of Holy Spirit and faith brought many to the Lord. 24
12. Barnabas gets Saul and brings him to Antioch where they teach for a year. 25-26
13. Antioch believers first called Christians. 26
14. Agabus from Jerusalem predicts famine in Roman world. 27-28
15. Antioch Disciples choose to send provisions for Judean Christians via Barnabas and Saul 29-30

Divisions:

1. Peter's testimony leads Jerusalem counsel to agree repentance into life is for ALL people, Jews and Gentiles. 1-18
2. Paul and Barnabas teach gentile believers in Antioch. 18-26
3. Gentile believers share generously with Jewish believers in Jerusalem. 27-30

Subject Sentence:

• Peter confirms salvation for gentiles and Barnabas goes disciple gentiles.

Aim:

• To cause me to not limit whom I discuss the gospel of Jesus Christ with knowing God orchestrates encounters so all may hear and know.

Application:

1. Am I listen to the Holy Spirit's leading so that I can share the gospel with those God is preparing to hear it? Do I believe the gospel is for all and does my speaking of Jesus reflect it?
2. Is there someone God is asking me to teach about Jesus?  Is there someone God is asking me to bring along in doing so? 
3. Is there a ministry or people God is asking me to support with provisions?

Homiletics

 Acts 10: 1- 48

Content:

1. Devout God fearing Caesarean man, Cornelius has vision of Angel of God. 1-3
2. Angel tells him to send for Simon Peter in J0ppa. 4-6
3. Cornelius deploys servants to Joppa for Simon Peter. 7-8
4. Meanwhile Peter is praying and sees a vision. 9-10
5. A large sheet with pure and impure animals descends and Peter is told to kill and eat. 11-13
6. Peter questions the impurity but God says he has made it clean; interchange repeats 3 times. 14-16
7. While Peter is wondering, Cornelius' men find him and Holy Spirit sends Peter to them. 17-22
8. Peter goes to Caesarea to Cornelius who is expecting him. 23-26
9. Peter addresses gathered crowd as to his coming, then ask why they sent for him. 27-29
10. Cornelius explains his angelic visitor and obedience to call for Peter 30-33
11. Peter says God accepts all people. 34-35
12. Peter speaks of God's message to Israel through Jesus. 36-38
13. Peter speaks as witness testifying to Jesus death and resurrection. 39-41
14. Peter says commanded to preach Jesus as prophecy's fulfillment and means of purification. 42-43
15. Holy Spirit descends on these Gentiles to the amazement of witnessing Jews. 44-46
16. Peter calls for water baptism and stays with them awhile. 47-48

Divisions:

1. Cornelius obeys angelic vision sending for Simon Peter. 1-8
2. God prepares Peter to answer and obey Cornelius call to go to Caesarea. 9-26
3. Peter uses opportunity to preach Jesus and through him the forgiveness of sins for ALL people. 27-43
4. Descension of Holy Spirit on the gathered Caesareans confirmed Peter's words of inclusion of Gentiles. 44-48

Subject Sentence

• Peter tells Caesareans, Jesus is means of forgiveness for ALL people.

Aim:

TCMT go to whomever God is sending me, believing and declaring that Jesus is the source of forgiveness of sins and healing for ALL people.

Application:

1. Am I spending time with God to hear him speak.  Am I obedient to be with people God is asking me to be with?
2. Do I trust that God will be preparing the people he is telling me to share biblical truth with?
3. What opportunity is God giving me to speak of Jesus forgiveness of sins for All people?  Does my life testify to this truth?
4. How do I see the evidence of the Holy Spirit working in those who hear the truth of God's forgiveness of sin for ALL people?

Homiletics

 Acts 9:1-43

Content:

1. Saul headed to Damascus to imprison Jesus followers 1-2
2. Saul encounters bright light and voice of Jesus asking why he was persecuting him. 3-6
3. Saul follows instructions of Jesus and now blinded goes to Damascus with help of companions. 7-8
4. In vision the Lord calls Ananias to go to Saul and restore his sight. 9-12
5. Ananias reluctant yet God reassures Saul is God's chosen instrument. 13-16
6. Anenias goes, lays hands on Saul who is immediately physically and spiritually able to see. 17-19
7. Saul baffled crowd as he preached Jesus as the Christ. 20-22
8. Saul lowered in basket to escape city and persecuting Jews there in Damascus. 23-25
9. Jerusalem disciples afraid of him but Barnabus stood up for him. 26-27
10. Saul taught in Jerusalem until threats sent him to Tarsus. 28-30
11. the church experiences a time of peace. 31
12. Peter heals Aeneas of 8 year paralysis in Lydda, leading many to the Lord. 32-35
13. Disciples call for Peter to come and heal Tabitha (Dorcus) who did in Joppa. 36-38
14. Peter goes, removes mourners and prays then Dorcus is restored to life. 39-40
15. Miracle draws many believers in Joppa where Peter remains for a time. 41-43

Divisions:

1. Saul encounters Jesus on Damascus Road and with help of Ananias receives new vision, becoming follower of Jesus. 1-19
2. Saul experiences persecution, support and growth as new believer. 20-31
3. Peter heals Aeneas and Dorcas in Lydda and Joppa resulting in many believers. 32-43

Subject Sentence:

• Saul encounters Jesus becoming follower while Peter continues to heal.
• (alternative*) Believers increase as Saul receives sight, Aeneas mobility and Dorcas life. 

Aim:

• TCMT act upon the truth that as God does his work of healing through the obedient act of believers, more will come to know and believe in Jesus.

Application:

1. Where is fear keeping me from going to some one or a group of people to help them see the truth of the gospel? What is God asking me to do to impart spiritual vision to another?
2. Who is God asking me to support as they grow in spiritual truth?
3. What  ministry of healing is God calling me to for the advancement of his kingdom.  Am I trusting God to draw followers as I am obedient to serve where he puts me.
4. Here is an extra application question related more to my second subject sentence than an individual division)  - How might I to be involved in helping people see spiritual truth?  How might I to be involved in giving mobility - enabling others to go and do something they have been paralyzed to do? How might I to be involved in restoring life?

* Here is a little side note on subject sentence.  I am giving two of which both I think are appropriate.  The first one seems the most straight forward in being  identifiable of which passage in scripture it is as it points specifically to Saul's  conversion and Peters continued ministry of healing.  However the second one while hopefully points to the scripture also pulled out for me the idea of believers resulting from experiencing the work of healing in the life of others (in this case Saul, Aeneas and Dorcas.)

Homiletics 8:1-40

Acts 8 : 1-40

Content:

1. Persecution scatters believers as Saul begins destroying the church . 1-3
2. Scattered believers preach word, Phillip draws crowd in Samaria town. 4-8
3. Simon the sorcerer has great following in Samaria amazing with his magic. 9-11
4. Simon believed Phillip , was baptized and began following him. 12-13
5. Peter and John come to Samaria praying for Holy Spirit to come upon the believers. 14-17
6. Simon offers money for the power of laying hands he sees of Peter and John. 18-19
7. Peter rebukes him and calls him to repentance 20-23
8. Simon ask for prayer fearing Peter's words. 24
9. Peter and John return to Jerusalem preaching on the way. 25
10. Phillip follows divine direction to desert road where he encounters influential Ethiopian Eunuch reading Isaiah. 26-29
11. Phillip ask if he understands Isaiah passage reading. 30
12. Man invites Phillip to explain the prophecy of the lamb to slaughter. 31-34
13. Phillip used passage to share gospel of Jesus. 35
14. Eunuch ask to be baptized 36-38
15. Spirit takes Phillip and he reappears in Azotus preaching all way to Caesarea.

Divisions:

1. Persecution scatters church to preach gospel in other places. 1-8
2. Simon the Sorcerer offers money for Holy Spirit power and is called to repentance by Peter. 9-25
3. Phillip follows divine guidance and is available to share gospel with Ethiopian Eunuch. 26-40

Subject Sentence:

• As Persecuted church scatters, Peter rebukes Sorcerer and Phillip teaches Ethiopian..

Aim: 

• TCMT (to cause me to) follow Holy Spirit's leading, making the most of every opportunity to speak the truth regarding repentance and salvation through Jesus Christ.

Application

1. Do I see persecution and opposition as road blocks or as an opportunity to spread Jesus? What current opposition might I embrace as an opportunity to share gospel.
2. Where is God asking me to speak truth about motives even if it is to myself?
3. Am I entuned to Holy Spirits leading and willing to follow? Am I looking for people who need to hear the gospel message and ready to share it?

Why I didn't post this past Tuesday again

After taking advantage of my last Monday off for the summer, I returned to school early Tuesday morning to get ready for Thursday's open house and a new batch of 3 year old's coming in this coming Monday.  This was all in the midst of herding the kids who have been with me all summer.  Needless to say its been a busy week.  I am excited about the upcoming year as my co-leader is a former Pre-K teacher form FBDS Mrs. Lisa Sage.  She also taught Public school, is a former florist, and humble servant of God.  I have always admired and enjoyed her so am excited to work with her in the mornings.  I also met the new cuties coming into my room.  Quite a few are siblings or cousins of children I have taught previously.  One is the child of a former running buddy.  However it is always a bit shocking to the system because a year makes such a difference when you are three and four years old. I always forget how much the kids I have just had have matured until the new ones come in and they are so little and needy.  None the less I am looking forward to our new year.

Why I didn't post this past Tuesday...

 Pete the Cat and I joined some very cool people on a little beach trip to Savannah and the area earlier in the week.