Est.

Reading through the book of Matthew this morning, I came across this little phrase that struck me...  "But Jesus said to him, “Friend, why have you come?”"  The Lord looked with love on the one who was betraying Him.  Obviously we cannot hear the tone in which the Lord spoke it but what tender compassion He displayed for the man who was by that time personally indwelt by the enemy. How amazing that our Saviour would condescend to call any human "friend" but at that moment in those circumstances is past comprehension! He knew the depths of depravity and He still chose such a gracious loving response!!  I don't think I've ever suffered betrayal, but knowing our human nature I would imagine I would not feel at all kindly towards a betrayer. Only recorded in Matthew's account, Mark and John say nothing of Jesus's words to Judas in the garden of Gethsemane, while Luke recorded another equally challenging sentence, "But Jesus said to him, “Judas, are ...

We who are Christians have this sure rock solid foundation : the Lord Jesus Christ. His kingdom is unshakable so if we are indeed rooted in Him, we will be standing firm in our faith. He has given us everything we need for life and godliness. (2 Peter 1:3) and there are so many reminders that as long as we're truly following Him, we have no need to fear because He is with us. Yes the world around us is bound to panic as they have no security in relationship with Jesus. We who belong to Him, who have chosen Him to rule in their lives are convinced that no matter what happens on this earth, we will spend eternity in His presence, giving Him all the glory for His great goodness and faithfulness. What a blessed privilege to know that the Lord alone is our rock, our salvation, our defense, our glory, the rock of our strength, and our refuge.  "Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on ...

I think this may be one of my favourite verses. Time and again I find great comfort in it. It's a great reminder for me that the Lord is so gracious and delights in dealing bountifully with His people. This is the only way to find true rest.  "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 Thank You Lord for dealing bountifully with me!

I came across the above in my great  Grandma's remembrance book and  thought it was a helpful reminder.  Personally I seem to have mixed feelings  about new years, so I'm very glad for this  promise from Matthew 28. "lo, I am with  you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen." " No matter what happens in 2020, we don't  face it alone.  The Lord has promised to be with His  people and His plans really are the best!