Herodias
Day 1
Herodias means "Heroic" and is the female form of "Herod"
Her Character: She was a proud woman, she used her daughter to manipulate her husband into doing her will. She acted arrogantly, from beginning to end, in complete disregard for the laws of the land.
Her Shame: To be rebuked by an upstart prophet for leaving her husband, Philip, in order to marry his half brother Herod Antipas.
Her Triumph: That her scheme to murder her enemy, John the Baptist, worked.
Key Scriptures: Matthew 14:3 - 12; Mark 6:14 - 29; Luke 3:19 - 20; 9:7 - 9
Matthew 14:3 - 12
3 For Herod had laid hold of John and bound him, and put him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife. 4 Because John had said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” 5 And although he wanted to put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.6 But when Herod’s birthday was celebrated, the daughter of Herodias danced before them and pleased Herod. 7 Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. 8 So she, having been prompted by her mother, said, “Give me John the Baptist’s head here on a platter.” 9 And the king was sorry; nevertheless, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he commanded it to be given to her. 10 So he sent and had John beheaded in prison. 11 And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. 12 Then his disciples came and took away the body and buried it, and went and told Jesus.
Mark 6:14 - 29
14 Now King Herod heard of Him, for His name had become well known. And he said, “John the Baptist is risen from the dead, and therefore these powers are at work in him.” 15 Others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is the Prophet, or[a] like one of the prophets.” 16 But when Herod heard, he said, “This is John, whom I beheaded; he has been raised from the dead!” 17 For Herod himself had sent and laid hold of John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife; for he had married her. 18 Because John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” 19 Therefore Herodias held it against him and wanted to kill him, but she could not; 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just and holy man, and he protected him. And when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly. 21 Then an opportune day came when Herod on his birthday gave a feast for his nobles, the high officers, and the chief men of Galilee. 22 And when Herodias’ daughter herself came in and danced, and pleased Herod and those who sat with him, the king said to the girl, “Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you.” 23 He also swore to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half my kingdom.” 24 So she went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist!” 25 Immediately she came in with haste to the king and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” 26 And the king was exceedingly sorry; yet, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he did not want to refuse her. 27 Immediately the king sent an executioner and commanded his head to be brought. And he went and beheaded him in prison, 28 brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother. 29 When his disciples heard of it, they came and took away his corpse and laid it in a tomb.
Luke 3:19 - 20; 9:7 - 9
19 But Herod the tetrarch, being rebuked by him concerning Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife,[a] and for all the evils which Herod had done, 20 also added this, above all, that he shut John up in prison.
7 Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by Him; and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had risen from the dead, 8 and by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen again. 9 Herod said, “John I have beheaded, but who is this of whom I hear such things?” So he sought to see Him.
Day 2
The Herods
Both husbands of Herodias were part of the Herodian family of rulers, as was Herodias herself. Her first husband, Herod Philip, as well as her second husband, Herod Antipas, were her uncles as well as her husbands.
The family of the Herods ruled in Judea and the surrounding areas for over 125 years. The first Herod, known as Herod the Great, was king of Judea from 37 to 4 B.C. His reign was marked by division and domestic troubles, but also by prosperity. While in power, he built amphitheaters, palaces, fortresses, Gentile temples, and the Temple of Herod in Jerusalem. This temple was his crowning achievement, noted by the historian Josephus as Herod's most noble work. The literature of the rabbis of that time states: "He who has not seen the Temple of Herod has never seen a beautiful building."
Herod's five wives produced seven sons, most of who went on to rule parts of the Near East for the Roman Empire. Herod's son by Mariamne of Simon, Philip, was Herodias's first husband. Herodias herself was a daughter of another of Herod's sons. That made her Herod's granddaughter as well as his daughter-in-law by marriage. Herodias wasn't the only one of Herod's children to form such relationships; Herod's great-granddaughter, Bernice, became the consort of her brother, Herod Agrippa II, aso a great-grandchild of Herod.
The events at the birthday banquet described in Mark 6 are the culmination of years of corrupt living by a family who had power and knew how to use and misuse it. Herodias's actions, though horrifying, are not really surprising. Each step along the way to requesting John the Baptist's death was perhaps a small one, little noticed, but each step made its relentless way down a path to sin, until what would have been unconscionable years before now seemed acceptable and reasonable. Sin is like that. One small lie leads to another bigger lie that leads to another even bigger lie. The path of sin is strewn with small, seemingly insignificant decisions that lead nowhere but farther along the path away from truth and God.
Day 3
Read Mark 6:17 - 29 (from Day 1, or click on link to bible gateway)http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%206:17%20-%2029&version=50
Why do you think Herod had John put in prison? Because he wanted to please his wife or because he was angry and afraid of John himself.
When someone confronts you with something that is wrong in your life, how do you respond?
Note the different responses to John recorded in verses 19 and 20. What do these responses tell you about Herod and Herodias?
Which response is more like yours when confronted with sin? Are you like Herodias - sulking and wanting to get even with those who reveal your sin or failings? Or are you like Herod - willing to listen, curious about what the other person has to say?
What do you think Salome's dance must have been like to produce such and extravagant promise from her stepfather?
Have you ever promised something to someone that you later wished you hadn't? What did you do?
Have you ever plotted, like Herodias, to get your own way? How does that make you feel about yourself? Are you pleased when you get your own way, or is the result less satisfying?
What other response could Herod have given? Was he obligated in some way to fulfill his promise, or could he have told her to come with another, more reasonable request?
When have you done something you later wished you hadn't simply because of the pressure of those around you to do it? What would have been a better response?
Day 4
Her Legacy of Prayer
For John had been saying to Herod, " It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife," So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. - Mark 6:18 - 19
Reflect on Mark 6:14 - 29
Praise God that he gives us opportunities to repent and turn back to him.
Offer thanks for the men and women in your own life who have had the courage to tell you the truth.
Confess any tendency to respond defensively to constructive criticism.
Ask God for the grace to respond to correction with humility.
Day 5
Lift your heart
Most of us hate criticism. Part of our defensiveness stems from our inability to see the connection between brokenness and grace. How differently we would respond if we understood that repentance is like a garden hoe breaking up the soil to make it ready for the seed. If we want to cultivate the fruit of the Spirit in our lives- love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control- we must cherish the truth, however it comes to us. Being receptive to criticism doesn't mean we become persons of low self-esteem. It simply means that we will be open about our sins and faults, believing in God's desire to forgive and help us to change. This week, take some time for a little soul-searching. Is God trying to get your attention about something that is off-kilter in your own life? Is he raising up a prophet in your own family - a child or spouse who is trying to tell you the truth? If so, listen and then pray about what you hear. Resist the temptation to make the person pay for his or her words by sulking, holding a grudge, or criticising him or her in turn. Instead, be the first to say you're sorry. A habit of repentance will make your heart fertile soil for God's grace.
Father, I know how deceitful the human heart can be. Please give us the courage to be honest and the faith to believe in your forgiveness. May our hearts become a place of brokenness, where grace and truth can flourish.
"Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth. Worship the LORD with gladness;come before him with joyful songs. Know that the LORD is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." Psalm 100
Monday, September 24, 2007
Monday, September 17, 2007
The Woman with the Issue of Blood
Day 1
Her Character: So desperate for healing, she ignored the conventions of the day just for the chance to touch Jesus.
Her Sorrow: To have suffered a chronic illness that isolated her from others. (Leviticus 15:25-27)
Her Joy: That after long years of suffering, she finally found peace and freedom.
Matthew 9:20-22
20Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. 21She said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed."
22Jesus turned and saw her. "Take heart, daughter," he said, "your faith has healed you." And the woman was healed from that moment.
Mark 5:25-34
A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28because she thought, "If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." 29Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.
30At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who touched my clothes?"
31"You see the people crowding against you," his disciples answered, "and yet you can ask, 'Who touched me?' "
32But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."
Luke 8:43-48
As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. 43And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. 44She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.
45"Who touched me?" Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, "Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you."
46But Jesus said, "Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me."
47Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. 48Then he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace."
Day 2
Twelve years of loneliness. Twelve years in which physicians had bled her of all her wealth. Her private affliction becoming a matter of public record. Every cup she handled, every chair she sat on could transmit defilement to others. Even though her impurity was considered a ritual matter rather than an ethical one, it had rendered her an outcast, making it impossible for her to live with a husband, bear a child, or enjoy the intimacy of friends and family. Surely the rabbi could censure her.
But instead of scolding and shaming her, Jesus praised her: "Daughter, you faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."
His words must have been like water breaching a dam, breaking through her isolation, setting her free. He had addressed her not harshly, but tenderly; not as "woman" or "sinner," but rather as daughter. She was no longer alone, but part of his family by virtue of her faith.
That day, countless men and women had brushed against Jesus, but only one had truly touched him. And instead of being defiled by contact with her, his own touch had proven the more contagious, rendering her pure and whole again.
How would you feel if you had the opportunity to actually touch Jesus physically? Would Jesus recognize your touch by your faith? Do you have the strength to reach out and grab at the healing and freedom that He desires you to have?
Day 3
"your faith has healed you"
Matthew 17:20 He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Do you believe you can move mountains? Do you believe that the same spirit that healed the woman with the issue of blood lives inside of you?
Heavenly Father, Forgive us for our little faith. Lord, today will you remind me that I am a new creation in you. You have healed me from the curse of death. Remind me that all things are possible with you. In Jesus Name~Amen
Day 4
Promises in Scripture
I am the Lord, who heals you.~Exodus 15:26
O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.~Psalm 30:2
Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his hold name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits--who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.~Psalm 103:1-4
"They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."~Revelations 21:3-4
Day 5
Praise God that His touch produces peace and freedom.
Offer thanks for faith is a gift that increases with use.
Confess any tendency to play it so safe you actually begin to suffocate the faith you have.
Ask God to bring this woman's story to mind the next time you are faced with an opportunity to exercise real faith.
Lift Your Heart. Take a moment this week to sit in quiet. Picture yourself reaching out to touch Jesus' robes. What do you need healing for? What affliction are you suffering from? What part of your life is calling out for freedom? Imagine being released from these things, and believe it will happen. Your faith, no matter how small can move mountains.
Her Character: So desperate for healing, she ignored the conventions of the day just for the chance to touch Jesus.
Her Sorrow: To have suffered a chronic illness that isolated her from others. (Leviticus 15:25-27)
Her Joy: That after long years of suffering, she finally found peace and freedom.
Matthew 9:20-22
20Just then a woman who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak. 21She said to herself, "If I only touch his cloak, I will be healed."
22Jesus turned and saw her. "Take heart, daughter," he said, "your faith has healed you." And the woman was healed from that moment.
Mark 5:25-34
A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26She had suffered a great deal under the care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew worse. 27When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and touched his cloak, 28because she thought, "If I just touch his clothes, I will be healed." 29Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was freed from her suffering.
30At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the crowd and asked, "Who touched my clothes?"
31"You see the people crowding against you," his disciples answered, "and yet you can ask, 'Who touched me?' "
32But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33Then the woman, knowing what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him the whole truth. 34He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."
Luke 8:43-48
As Jesus was on his way, the crowds almost crushed him. 43And a woman was there who had been subject to bleeding for twelve years, but no one could heal her. 44She came up behind him and touched the edge of his cloak, and immediately her bleeding stopped.
45"Who touched me?" Jesus asked. When they all denied it, Peter said, "Master, the people are crowding and pressing against you."
46But Jesus said, "Someone touched me; I know that power has gone out from me."
47Then the woman, seeing that she could not go unnoticed, came trembling and fell at his feet. In the presence of all the people, she told why she had touched him and how she had been instantly healed. 48Then he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace."
Day 2
Twelve years of loneliness. Twelve years in which physicians had bled her of all her wealth. Her private affliction becoming a matter of public record. Every cup she handled, every chair she sat on could transmit defilement to others. Even though her impurity was considered a ritual matter rather than an ethical one, it had rendered her an outcast, making it impossible for her to live with a husband, bear a child, or enjoy the intimacy of friends and family. Surely the rabbi could censure her.
But instead of scolding and shaming her, Jesus praised her: "Daughter, you faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering."
His words must have been like water breaching a dam, breaking through her isolation, setting her free. He had addressed her not harshly, but tenderly; not as "woman" or "sinner," but rather as daughter. She was no longer alone, but part of his family by virtue of her faith.
That day, countless men and women had brushed against Jesus, but only one had truly touched him. And instead of being defiled by contact with her, his own touch had proven the more contagious, rendering her pure and whole again.
How would you feel if you had the opportunity to actually touch Jesus physically? Would Jesus recognize your touch by your faith? Do you have the strength to reach out and grab at the healing and freedom that He desires you to have?
Day 3
"your faith has healed you"
Matthew 17:20 He replied, "Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there' and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."
Do you believe you can move mountains? Do you believe that the same spirit that healed the woman with the issue of blood lives inside of you?
Heavenly Father, Forgive us for our little faith. Lord, today will you remind me that I am a new creation in you. You have healed me from the curse of death. Remind me that all things are possible with you. In Jesus Name~Amen
Day 4
Promises in Scripture
I am the Lord, who heals you.~Exodus 15:26
O Lord my God, I called to you for help and you healed me.~Psalm 30:2
Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his hold name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits--who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.~Psalm 103:1-4
"They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away."~Revelations 21:3-4
Day 5
Praise God that His touch produces peace and freedom.
Offer thanks for faith is a gift that increases with use.
Confess any tendency to play it so safe you actually begin to suffocate the faith you have.
Ask God to bring this woman's story to mind the next time you are faced with an opportunity to exercise real faith.
Lift Your Heart. Take a moment this week to sit in quiet. Picture yourself reaching out to touch Jesus' robes. What do you need healing for? What affliction are you suffering from? What part of your life is calling out for freedom? Imagine being released from these things, and believe it will happen. Your faith, no matter how small can move mountains.
Monday, September 10, 2007
The Woman Who Lived A Sinful Life
Day 1
The Woman Who Lived A Sinful Life
She was a notorious sinner, possibly a prostitute or adulteress. Rather than trying to defend what was indefensible in her life, she admitted her sin and made a spectacle of herself in a passionate display of love and gratitude.
Her sorrow: That she had offended God so grievously.
Her Joy: That Jesus forgave her sins and commended her for her great faith and love.
Luke 7:36-50
A Sinful Woman Forgiven
36 Then one of the Pharisees asked Him to eat with him. And He went to the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to eat. 37 And behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, 38 and stood at His feet behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with the fragrant oil. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he spoke to himself, saying, “This Man, if He were a prophet, would know who and what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner.” 40 And Jesus answered and said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” So he said, “Teacher, say it.” 41 “There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered and said, “I suppose the one whom he forgave more.” And He said to him, “You have rightly judged.” 44 Then He turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head. 45 You gave Me no kiss, but this woman has not ceased to kiss My feet since the time I came in. 46 You did not anoint My head with oil, but this woman has anointed My feet with fragrant oil. 47 Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.” 48 Then He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 And those who sat at the table with Him began to say to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 Then He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.”
Day 2
Washing Feet
This is one of thirteen instances that Scripture talks about washing one's feet. The sinful woman did not act reserved for the lowest, most inexperienced servant of the household.
Most people in Palestine wore sandals or went barefoot, so their feet were constantly dirty from the dust of the roads and fields. When they went into a house, they removed their sandals at the door. A good host or hostess made sure guests' feet were washed as soon as they entered the home. A basin of cool water and a towel were all the equipment that were required. After walking on hot dusty roads, the foot washing provided not only clean feet for entering a home but also a refreshing start to a visit.
When the three visitors came to Abraham when he was living "near the great trees of Mamre" (doesn't that sound like a wonderful place to live?), Abraham provided water for them to wash their feet (Genesis 18:1-5). There are several other stories about washing feet. You can find them in Genesis 19: 1-3, 24:32, 43:24. In Exodus 30:19 -21 the priests were told they must always wash their feet and hands before going into the Temple.
Not surprisingly, the list of good deeds that New Testament widows should be known for included washing the feet of the saints.
The fact that foot washing was a task reserved for the lowest servant in the household makes Jesus' act of washing the disciples feet (John 13) all the more poignant. His simple act shocked them and showed them in the clearest way possible how to be a servant leader. Washing. Touching feet fouled by dust and grime. Kneeling before those who by rights should kneel before him!
Today, there may be a task on your list of things to do that you would rather not do. Maybe a different approach would help. Today, that task can be an offering to your Lord. After all, it is not the task that is important, it is what is in your heart when you do it. How can you be a light today? How can you become a servant to someone who needs a refreshing start?
Day 3
The Sinful Woman's legacy in Scripture
Luke 7:36 - 43
What do you think the woman was looking for when she came to see Jesus at Simon's house? Attention? Forgiveness? An opportunity to express her love? Do you think everyone at the dinner knew who and what she was?
Describe what sort of feelings this woman might have had as she entered the house. When have you felt that way? Were you brave enough to continue like this woman did, or did you stop? Describe the situation and your actions.
How willing are you to be totally transparent in your worship? What should need to happen to make you as open in expressing your love for Jesus as this woman was?
Describe the Pharisee's attitude toward Jesus and toward the sinful woman. Who are you more like: the judgemental Pharisee or the broken woman?
In what ways can you be understanding and sympathetic toward those whose lives have been shattered by sin, like this woman? Toward those whose lives are characterized by judging others, like the Pharisee, who needs forgiveness more?
Jesus made this woman an example to Simon. Has there been a time when you have felt insignificant and someone has made an example of you? How did you feel?
What way do you prepare your guests for a refreshing visit? What do you like from a host when you visit them? If you have a minute, let me know. I am always open to learning how to be a better host and servant to my guests. I will post all the answers for reference. Thanks.
I will start. I always try to have nice music, clean front room and kitchen and yummy food or candle scents. I love it when I visit a home that make me feel welcome by a lovely greeting (smile and a hug). I appreciate an environment that is open for fellowship.
Day 4
Though this woman was a notorious sinner, she recognized her great need for grace. Repentance turned her world on its head, opening up an entirely new view of things. Simon, by contrast, was a religious man who, no doubt, had done his best to live a respectable life. His sin was tucked away, hidden even from himself. His habit of judging others had formed a fence around his one-dimensional view of the universe, shielding his neat and orderly life from the unpredictable power of grace.
But Simon and the woman both owed a debt they could not possibly repay. Though Simon's sin was less obvious, it was the more dangerous. He was like a man who was following a map he was certain would lead to heaven - but when heaven came down and walked into his house, he didn't even know it. The woman realized just how lost she had been. Forgiven much, she loved much. She found heaven at the feet of Jesus.
Luke 7:47
47 Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.”
Praise God for the power of forgiveness in your own life.
Offer thanks to God for he is still ready to forgive you no matter how frequently or seriously you sin.
Confess any self-righteousness that has crept into your life.
Ask God to protect you against pride, to enable you to see your sins and believe in his desire and power to forgive you.
Day 5
Lift your heart
How long has it been since tears of repentance have washed your soul? Do you spend more time lingering over the failings of others? This act of harshness towards others will not only separate you from others, it will dry up your love for God.
Now is a good time to write down all those you have judged. Release your judgements against them and ask god to forgive you for these acts. Next time you start to pass judgement, make sure to remember this exercise. When you are finding it hard to love others, take the time to repent from your attitude of judgement and you will find it easier to love them.
Dear Lord,
this week was a lesson to the innermost of my being. Lord, I praise you for those who have loved me and not judged me. Lord I praise you for your love and your mercy. Lord, please forgive me for those I have not given grace and mercy to. Please continue to give me a spirit of love and acceptance to all who you place in my path. I will continue to worship you daily in all things, even those tasks that seem so tedious, I will open up my home to be a place where others will be welcome, no matter their sin, no matter their status, for, in the end, we are all your children, deserving of the same loving kindness that was revealed in this story of a woman who lived a sinful life.
The Woman Who Lived A Sinful Life
She was a notorious sinner, possibly a prostitute or adulteress. Rather than trying to defend what was indefensible in her life, she admitted her sin and made a spectacle of herself in a passionate display of love and gratitude.
Her sorrow: That she had offended God so grievously.
Her Joy: That Jesus forgave her sins and commended her for her great faith and love.
Luke 7:36-50
A Sinful Woman Forgiven
36 Then one of the Pharisees asked Him to eat with him. And He went to the Pharisee’s house, and sat down to eat. 37 And behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, 38 and stood at His feet behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with the fragrant oil. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he spoke to himself, saying, “This Man, if He were a prophet, would know who and what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner.” 40 And Jesus answered and said to him, “Simon, I have something to say to you.” So he said, “Teacher, say it.” 41 “There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more?” 43 Simon answered and said, “I suppose the one whom he forgave more.” And He said to him, “You have rightly judged.” 44 Then He turned to the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head. 45 You gave Me no kiss, but this woman has not ceased to kiss My feet since the time I came in. 46 You did not anoint My head with oil, but this woman has anointed My feet with fragrant oil. 47 Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.” 48 Then He said to her, “Your sins are forgiven.” 49 And those who sat at the table with Him began to say to themselves, “Who is this who even forgives sins?” 50 Then He said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you. Go in peace.”
Day 2
Washing Feet
This is one of thirteen instances that Scripture talks about washing one's feet. The sinful woman did not act reserved for the lowest, most inexperienced servant of the household.
Most people in Palestine wore sandals or went barefoot, so their feet were constantly dirty from the dust of the roads and fields. When they went into a house, they removed their sandals at the door. A good host or hostess made sure guests' feet were washed as soon as they entered the home. A basin of cool water and a towel were all the equipment that were required. After walking on hot dusty roads, the foot washing provided not only clean feet for entering a home but also a refreshing start to a visit.
When the three visitors came to Abraham when he was living "near the great trees of Mamre" (doesn't that sound like a wonderful place to live?), Abraham provided water for them to wash their feet (Genesis 18:1-5). There are several other stories about washing feet. You can find them in Genesis 19: 1-3, 24:32, 43:24. In Exodus 30:19 -21 the priests were told they must always wash their feet and hands before going into the Temple.
Not surprisingly, the list of good deeds that New Testament widows should be known for included washing the feet of the saints.
The fact that foot washing was a task reserved for the lowest servant in the household makes Jesus' act of washing the disciples feet (John 13) all the more poignant. His simple act shocked them and showed them in the clearest way possible how to be a servant leader. Washing. Touching feet fouled by dust and grime. Kneeling before those who by rights should kneel before him!
Today, there may be a task on your list of things to do that you would rather not do. Maybe a different approach would help. Today, that task can be an offering to your Lord. After all, it is not the task that is important, it is what is in your heart when you do it. How can you be a light today? How can you become a servant to someone who needs a refreshing start?
Day 3
The Sinful Woman's legacy in Scripture
Luke 7:36 - 43
What do you think the woman was looking for when she came to see Jesus at Simon's house? Attention? Forgiveness? An opportunity to express her love? Do you think everyone at the dinner knew who and what she was?
Describe what sort of feelings this woman might have had as she entered the house. When have you felt that way? Were you brave enough to continue like this woman did, or did you stop? Describe the situation and your actions.
How willing are you to be totally transparent in your worship? What should need to happen to make you as open in expressing your love for Jesus as this woman was?
Describe the Pharisee's attitude toward Jesus and toward the sinful woman. Who are you more like: the judgemental Pharisee or the broken woman?
In what ways can you be understanding and sympathetic toward those whose lives have been shattered by sin, like this woman? Toward those whose lives are characterized by judging others, like the Pharisee, who needs forgiveness more?
Jesus made this woman an example to Simon. Has there been a time when you have felt insignificant and someone has made an example of you? How did you feel?
What way do you prepare your guests for a refreshing visit? What do you like from a host when you visit them? If you have a minute, let me know. I am always open to learning how to be a better host and servant to my guests. I will post all the answers for reference. Thanks.
I will start. I always try to have nice music, clean front room and kitchen and yummy food or candle scents. I love it when I visit a home that make me feel welcome by a lovely greeting (smile and a hug). I appreciate an environment that is open for fellowship.
Day 4
Though this woman was a notorious sinner, she recognized her great need for grace. Repentance turned her world on its head, opening up an entirely new view of things. Simon, by contrast, was a religious man who, no doubt, had done his best to live a respectable life. His sin was tucked away, hidden even from himself. His habit of judging others had formed a fence around his one-dimensional view of the universe, shielding his neat and orderly life from the unpredictable power of grace.
But Simon and the woman both owed a debt they could not possibly repay. Though Simon's sin was less obvious, it was the more dangerous. He was like a man who was following a map he was certain would lead to heaven - but when heaven came down and walked into his house, he didn't even know it. The woman realized just how lost she had been. Forgiven much, she loved much. She found heaven at the feet of Jesus.
Luke 7:47
47 Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little.”
Praise God for the power of forgiveness in your own life.
Offer thanks to God for he is still ready to forgive you no matter how frequently or seriously you sin.
Confess any self-righteousness that has crept into your life.
Ask God to protect you against pride, to enable you to see your sins and believe in his desire and power to forgive you.
Day 5
Lift your heart
How long has it been since tears of repentance have washed your soul? Do you spend more time lingering over the failings of others? This act of harshness towards others will not only separate you from others, it will dry up your love for God.
Now is a good time to write down all those you have judged. Release your judgements against them and ask god to forgive you for these acts. Next time you start to pass judgement, make sure to remember this exercise. When you are finding it hard to love others, take the time to repent from your attitude of judgement and you will find it easier to love them.
Dear Lord,
this week was a lesson to the innermost of my being. Lord, I praise you for those who have loved me and not judged me. Lord I praise you for your love and your mercy. Lord, please forgive me for those I have not given grace and mercy to. Please continue to give me a spirit of love and acceptance to all who you place in my path. I will continue to worship you daily in all things, even those tasks that seem so tedious, I will open up my home to be a place where others will be welcome, no matter their sin, no matter their status, for, in the end, we are all your children, deserving of the same loving kindness that was revealed in this story of a woman who lived a sinful life.
Monday, September 3, 2007
The Women of Samaria
Day 1
The Woman of Samaria
She was looked down upon by the Jews because she was a Samaritan, and disdained because of her many romantic liaisons, she would not have been most people's first choice to advance the gospel in a region where it had not yet been heard.
Her Sorrow: To have lived in a way that relegated her to the margins of her society.
Her Joy: That Jesus broke through barriers of culture, race and religion in order to reveal himself to her.
John 4:1-42
Jesus Talks With a Samaritan Woman
1The Pharisees heard that Jesus was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John, 2although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. 3When the Lord learned of this, he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee.
4Now he had to go through Samaria. 5So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour.
7When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 8(His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)
9The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
10Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
11"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?"
13Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
15The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water."
16He told her, "Go, call your husband and come back."
17"I have no husband," she replied.
Jesus said to her, "You are right when you say you have no husband. 18The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true."
19"Sir," the woman said, "I can see that you are a prophet. 20Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem."
21Jesus declared, "Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."
25The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
26Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."
The Disciples Rejoin Jesus 27Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, "What do you want?" or "Why are you talking with her?"
28Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, 29"Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?" 30They came out of the town and made their way toward him.
31Meanwhile his disciples urged him, "Rabbi, eat something."
32But he said to them, "I have food to eat that you know nothing about."
33Then his disciples said to each other, "Could someone have brought him food?"
34"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. 35Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. 36Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. 37Thus the saying 'One sows and another reaps' is true. 38I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor."
Many Samaritans Believe 39Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, "He told me everything I ever did." 40So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. 41And because of his words many more became believers.
42They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."
Day 2
Living Water
Water is used in symbolic ways throughout Scripture. David compared his troubles to "deep waters" (Psalm 69:1-2, 14; 124:5)
The book of Proverbs compares people's words to deep waters and wise words to "bubbling brooks" of water. (Proverbs 25:25)
Several passages refer to our sins being washed away. (Psalm 51:7; Ephesians 5:26; Hebrews 10:22)
Jesus told the Samaritan woman that he had water that would take away her thirst forever. The water he was speaking of was not, of coarse, two parts hydrogen and one part oxygen, but spiritual water--a water that will fill us so full of himself that all our needs will be met, all our wants satisfied, and all our thirst fulfilled.
Heavenly Father, Thank you for the living water that flows within us. The water that purifies, the water that quenches the thirst in our souls.
Day 3
The woman of Samaria, an outcast because of her race and lifestyle, found acceptance in Jesus. When have you associated with someone considered an outcast or befriended someone who wasn't part of your group?
John 4:25-26
25The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
26Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."
This is the very first time Jesus acknowledges exactly who he is. Why do you think he would choose to tell this woman, an outcast of society, instead of the leaders of Jewish religion and culture or even his own disciples? Do you find his action delightful or just a bit distasteful?
Day 4
Are you thirsty? Only Jesus can provide living water that will fill you to overflowing, that will satisfy your every longing, that will soothe your thirst so completely you'll never be thirsty again.
Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing, for joy and be glad all our days. ~Psalm 90:14
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled~Matthew 5:6
Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. ~Luke 6:21
Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."~John 4:13
The Woman of Samaria
She was looked down upon by the Jews because she was a Samaritan, and disdained because of her many romantic liaisons, she would not have been most people's first choice to advance the gospel in a region where it had not yet been heard.
Her Sorrow: To have lived in a way that relegated her to the margins of her society.
Her Joy: That Jesus broke through barriers of culture, race and religion in order to reveal himself to her.
John 4:1-42
Jesus Talks With a Samaritan Woman
1The Pharisees heard that Jesus was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John, 2although in fact it was not Jesus who baptized, but his disciples. 3When the Lord learned of this, he left Judea and went back once more to Galilee.
4Now he had to go through Samaria. 5So he came to a town in Samaria called Sychar, near the plot of ground Jacob had given to his son Joseph. 6Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about the sixth hour.
7When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 8(His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.)
9The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)
10Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."
11"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?"
13Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."
15The woman said to him, "Sir, give me this water so that I won't get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water."
16He told her, "Go, call your husband and come back."
17"I have no husband," she replied.
Jesus said to her, "You are right when you say you have no husband. 18The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true."
19"Sir," the woman said, "I can see that you are a prophet. 20Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, but you Jews claim that the place where we must worship is in Jerusalem."
21Jesus declared, "Believe me, woman, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. 22You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, for salvation is from the Jews. 23Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and in truth."
25The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
26Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."
The Disciples Rejoin Jesus 27Just then his disciples returned and were surprised to find him talking with a woman. But no one asked, "What do you want?" or "Why are you talking with her?"
28Then, leaving her water jar, the woman went back to the town and said to the people, 29"Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?" 30They came out of the town and made their way toward him.
31Meanwhile his disciples urged him, "Rabbi, eat something."
32But he said to them, "I have food to eat that you know nothing about."
33Then his disciples said to each other, "Could someone have brought him food?"
34"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. 35Do you not say, 'Four months more and then the harvest'? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. 36Even now the reaper draws his wages, even now he harvests the crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together. 37Thus the saying 'One sows and another reaps' is true. 38I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor."
Many Samaritans Believe 39Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, "He told me everything I ever did." 40So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. 41And because of his words many more became believers.
42They said to the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."
Day 2
Living Water
Water is used in symbolic ways throughout Scripture. David compared his troubles to "deep waters" (Psalm 69:1-2, 14; 124:5)
The book of Proverbs compares people's words to deep waters and wise words to "bubbling brooks" of water. (Proverbs 25:25)
Several passages refer to our sins being washed away. (Psalm 51:7; Ephesians 5:26; Hebrews 10:22)
Jesus told the Samaritan woman that he had water that would take away her thirst forever. The water he was speaking of was not, of coarse, two parts hydrogen and one part oxygen, but spiritual water--a water that will fill us so full of himself that all our needs will be met, all our wants satisfied, and all our thirst fulfilled.
Heavenly Father, Thank you for the living water that flows within us. The water that purifies, the water that quenches the thirst in our souls.
Day 3
The woman of Samaria, an outcast because of her race and lifestyle, found acceptance in Jesus. When have you associated with someone considered an outcast or befriended someone who wasn't part of your group?
John 4:25-26
25The woman said, "I know that Messiah" (called Christ) "is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us."
26Then Jesus declared, "I who speak to you am he."
This is the very first time Jesus acknowledges exactly who he is. Why do you think he would choose to tell this woman, an outcast of society, instead of the leaders of Jewish religion and culture or even his own disciples? Do you find his action delightful or just a bit distasteful?
Day 4
Are you thirsty? Only Jesus can provide living water that will fill you to overflowing, that will satisfy your every longing, that will soothe your thirst so completely you'll never be thirsty again.
Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing, for joy and be glad all our days. ~Psalm 90:14
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled~Matthew 5:6
Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied. ~Luke 6:21
Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."~John 4:13
Anna
Day 1
Anna
Her name means “favor” or “grace”
Her Character : Married for only seven years, she spent the long years of her widowhood fasting and praying in the temple, abandoning herself entirely to God. A prophetess, she was one of the first to bear witness to Jesus.
Her Sorrow: As a widow, she would probably have been among the most vulnerable member of society, with no one to provide for her financially or to take care of her if her health failed.
Her Joy: That her own eyes beheld the Messiah she had longed to see.
Luke 2:22 - 38
22 Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the LORD”), 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation
25 And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
29"Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you now dismiss your servant in peace.
30For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
32a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel."
33The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."
36There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. 38Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Day 2
Anna’s life was much different from our today. It says she SERVED in the temple. That does not mean that she found something that was fun and volunteered once a week. She made herself open to whatever God had for her. She fasted and prayed night and day. She had an intimate relationship with God. Being a Widow would have made this harder for her. She was devoted, spending over 60 years in the temple. She recognized the Christ because she was in an intimate relationship with God. Learning his Word, fasting and praying and prophesying to the people. She was definitely in a place that would make this type of lifestyle much easier than working 40 hours a week, raising a family and running errands, going to sports, music or other events. Even though she never entered the actual temple, she still loved God and SERVED him.
Temples… what did they look like? Solomon built the first, elaborate, white limestone structure, inlaid with gold. The people wept when they saw the foundation for the new temple (Ezra 3:12 -13). Zerubbabel built the second. Herod the Great built the temple that Anna would have worshipped at. It was located in Jerusalem. It had four successive courts. Each one was more exclusive than the one before it. The outer court was known as the Court of the Gentiles. This was the only place for non-jews. This is where Jesus cleared the temple of the buying and selling. The inner court, divided into 2 sections, the Women’s Court and the Court of Israel. Anna would have worshipped at the Women’s Court. Jewish men were allowed in both courts, but only Jewish women were allowed in the Women’s Court. The Court of the Priests surrounded the actual temple building itself, but was only accessible to those of the Levitical priesthood.
Sometimes we allow our location to bind us from true worship. We can worship God anywhere. There are no earthly rules or restrictions. Find a place, be an Anna! From working with women, I have heard the following places were ideal to worship: bathroom, bed, backyard, in the vehicle, park, office, grocery store and even at the doctor office. Strange as it sounds, many women these days have decided to “spend” their time wisely. They have decided that no matter how hectic, they can worship without ceasing, anywhere, anytime. Now is the time to recognize your Savior, now is the time to worship Him and now is the time to Serve him.
Dear Lord, I thank you that you can still be in our chaotic days. You, in fact, can make those kind of days turn into the best ones we’ve had. I pray for those in this group to seek you no matter what, to stay devoted to you for all the days of their lives, to recognize you at all times. I pray that they become open to your Word and teachings and that they are willing to praise you even in the lonely times. Lord, as Anna was a widow, I ask that you comfort those today that have lost a loved one, those who are feeling lonely and those who wish to serve you, will you fill in the gap, be their husband, father, friend. Will you show them that they were created by your hand and that you desire them to seek you and know you and love you. I am in awe of you. This I pray in your son, my savior’s name, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Day 3
Anna has a legacy in Scripture.
Read Luke 2:22 - 38 (from Anna day 1, or go to http://www.biblegateway.com/)
What does their careful observance of the Law of Moses tell you about Joseph and Mary?
What about your life reveals your Christian Commitment?
What did Simeon’s words reveal about himself? What did they reveal about Jesus’ life and ministry?
The promise Simeon held onto was that he would see the Christ before he died. If you knew death were near, what would you like to see God accomplish before you died?
What do you think Simeon meant when he told Mary that “a sword will pierce your … soul”
Describe what you think Anna’s lifestyle was like.
What about Anna’s lifestyle do you wish were true of your own? What can you do to make that happen in your life?
What do you think Anna said about Jesus? How do you think the crowd who listen responded?
If an Anna were to have spoken (prophesied) about you when you were six weeks old, what might she have said?
Day 4
Psalm 84: 1-3
1 How lovely is Your tabernacle,
O LORD of hosts! 2 My soul longs, yes, even faints
For the courts of the LORD;
My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.
3 Even the sparrow has found a home,
And the swallow a nest for herself,
Where she may lay her young—
Even Your altars, O LORD of hosts,
My King and my God.
Anna was privileged to be in the Women’s Court instead of the Court of Gentiles, closer to the Most Holy Place…but not close enough. A single moment in her life brought her closer than the temple could have ever brought her. When Simeon presented Jesus as Lord, Anna was present. A widow and prophetess from the tribe of Asher, had just experienced the very presence of God. Her eyes set upon the promised child, whose brilliance would scatter the darkness and bring deliverance for all God’s people.
Now she, too, felt like a sparrow soaring freely in the house of God. It no longer mattered that she was forbidden entry into the innermost courts of the temple. God himself was breaking down the dividing walls between Jew and Gentile, male and female, revealing himself to all who hungered for his presence. That day a child had transformed the Women’s Court into the holiest place of all. Anna’s longing for God is obvious. She had a great spiritual appetite, abandoning her life to God. She was rewarded by meeting Jesus face to face. Who could stop her from telling all who came to seek the Lord that she had seen him face to face. What stops you from sharing your story, your face to face moments?
Dear Lord, our souls yearn and faint for your courts. We love you, we cry out to you. We ask in Jesus name that you will reveal yourself to us today, in all things we do and say, we want to honor you, so stay awhile, dwell with us, fellowship with us, as we humble ourselves today and see your glory, your beauty and your love for us. We praise you today for the knowledge we have of your son, we praise you to day that there are no courts, no walls, that keep us from coming to you. Amen.
Day 5
Luke 2:37 And as a widow even for eighty-four years. She did not go out from the temple enclosure, but was worshiping night and day with fasting and prayer.
Reflect on Luke 2:36 - 38
Praise God that Jesus is the true Bread from heaven, who satisfies the hungry heart.
Offer thanks for men and women who hunger and thirst for God’s Kingdom.
Confess any tendency to be so locked into your own concerns that you fail to pray for others in need.
Ask God to increase your hunger for his kingdom.
Lift your heart
Anna not only longed for Jesus, she prayed and fasted daily for the coming of God’s Kingdom. Even though Christianity has spread across the globe there are still others that suffer from war and injustice. Many who have little or nothing to eat, and many more who live in a void of spiritual darkness. Please stretch yourself beyond your immediate concerns, look at an atlas or globe and choose a place to pray for. Find information on that part of the world so that you can understand what they need. Fast and pray for peace, daily bread, freedom, justice and for Christ’s light to shine upon that people. Think of someone you know and do the same. Get to understand their needs, fast and pray for them and see what God will reveal in your life and their hearts
Anna
Her name means “favor” or “grace”
Her Character : Married for only seven years, she spent the long years of her widowhood fasting and praying in the temple, abandoning herself entirely to God. A prophetess, she was one of the first to bear witness to Jesus.
Her Sorrow: As a widow, she would probably have been among the most vulnerable member of society, with no one to provide for her financially or to take care of her if her health failed.
Her Joy: That her own eyes beheld the Messiah she had longed to see.
Luke 2:22 - 38
22 Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the LORD”), 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
Simeon Sees God’s Salvation
25 And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. 27 So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
29"Sovereign Lord, as you have promised,
you now dismiss your servant in peace.
30For my eyes have seen your salvation,
31which you have prepared in the sight of all people,
32a light for revelation to the Gentiles
and for glory to your people Israel."
33The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. 34Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."
36There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, 37and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. 38Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.
Day 2
Anna’s life was much different from our today. It says she SERVED in the temple. That does not mean that she found something that was fun and volunteered once a week. She made herself open to whatever God had for her. She fasted and prayed night and day. She had an intimate relationship with God. Being a Widow would have made this harder for her. She was devoted, spending over 60 years in the temple. She recognized the Christ because she was in an intimate relationship with God. Learning his Word, fasting and praying and prophesying to the people. She was definitely in a place that would make this type of lifestyle much easier than working 40 hours a week, raising a family and running errands, going to sports, music or other events. Even though she never entered the actual temple, she still loved God and SERVED him.
Temples… what did they look like? Solomon built the first, elaborate, white limestone structure, inlaid with gold. The people wept when they saw the foundation for the new temple (Ezra 3:12 -13). Zerubbabel built the second. Herod the Great built the temple that Anna would have worshipped at. It was located in Jerusalem. It had four successive courts. Each one was more exclusive than the one before it. The outer court was known as the Court of the Gentiles. This was the only place for non-jews. This is where Jesus cleared the temple of the buying and selling. The inner court, divided into 2 sections, the Women’s Court and the Court of Israel. Anna would have worshipped at the Women’s Court. Jewish men were allowed in both courts, but only Jewish women were allowed in the Women’s Court. The Court of the Priests surrounded the actual temple building itself, but was only accessible to those of the Levitical priesthood.
Sometimes we allow our location to bind us from true worship. We can worship God anywhere. There are no earthly rules or restrictions. Find a place, be an Anna! From working with women, I have heard the following places were ideal to worship: bathroom, bed, backyard, in the vehicle, park, office, grocery store and even at the doctor office. Strange as it sounds, many women these days have decided to “spend” their time wisely. They have decided that no matter how hectic, they can worship without ceasing, anywhere, anytime. Now is the time to recognize your Savior, now is the time to worship Him and now is the time to Serve him.
Dear Lord, I thank you that you can still be in our chaotic days. You, in fact, can make those kind of days turn into the best ones we’ve had. I pray for those in this group to seek you no matter what, to stay devoted to you for all the days of their lives, to recognize you at all times. I pray that they become open to your Word and teachings and that they are willing to praise you even in the lonely times. Lord, as Anna was a widow, I ask that you comfort those today that have lost a loved one, those who are feeling lonely and those who wish to serve you, will you fill in the gap, be their husband, father, friend. Will you show them that they were created by your hand and that you desire them to seek you and know you and love you. I am in awe of you. This I pray in your son, my savior’s name, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Day 3
Anna has a legacy in Scripture.
Read Luke 2:22 - 38 (from Anna day 1, or go to http://www.biblegateway.com/)
What does their careful observance of the Law of Moses tell you about Joseph and Mary?
What about your life reveals your Christian Commitment?
What did Simeon’s words reveal about himself? What did they reveal about Jesus’ life and ministry?
The promise Simeon held onto was that he would see the Christ before he died. If you knew death were near, what would you like to see God accomplish before you died?
What do you think Simeon meant when he told Mary that “a sword will pierce your … soul”
Describe what you think Anna’s lifestyle was like.
What about Anna’s lifestyle do you wish were true of your own? What can you do to make that happen in your life?
What do you think Anna said about Jesus? How do you think the crowd who listen responded?
If an Anna were to have spoken (prophesied) about you when you were six weeks old, what might she have said?
Day 4
Psalm 84: 1-3
1 How lovely is Your tabernacle,
O LORD of hosts! 2 My soul longs, yes, even faints
For the courts of the LORD;
My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God.
3 Even the sparrow has found a home,
And the swallow a nest for herself,
Where she may lay her young—
Even Your altars, O LORD of hosts,
My King and my God.
Anna was privileged to be in the Women’s Court instead of the Court of Gentiles, closer to the Most Holy Place…but not close enough. A single moment in her life brought her closer than the temple could have ever brought her. When Simeon presented Jesus as Lord, Anna was present. A widow and prophetess from the tribe of Asher, had just experienced the very presence of God. Her eyes set upon the promised child, whose brilliance would scatter the darkness and bring deliverance for all God’s people.
Now she, too, felt like a sparrow soaring freely in the house of God. It no longer mattered that she was forbidden entry into the innermost courts of the temple. God himself was breaking down the dividing walls between Jew and Gentile, male and female, revealing himself to all who hungered for his presence. That day a child had transformed the Women’s Court into the holiest place of all. Anna’s longing for God is obvious. She had a great spiritual appetite, abandoning her life to God. She was rewarded by meeting Jesus face to face. Who could stop her from telling all who came to seek the Lord that she had seen him face to face. What stops you from sharing your story, your face to face moments?
Dear Lord, our souls yearn and faint for your courts. We love you, we cry out to you. We ask in Jesus name that you will reveal yourself to us today, in all things we do and say, we want to honor you, so stay awhile, dwell with us, fellowship with us, as we humble ourselves today and see your glory, your beauty and your love for us. We praise you today for the knowledge we have of your son, we praise you to day that there are no courts, no walls, that keep us from coming to you. Amen.
Day 5
Luke 2:37 And as a widow even for eighty-four years. She did not go out from the temple enclosure, but was worshiping night and day with fasting and prayer.
Reflect on Luke 2:36 - 38
Praise God that Jesus is the true Bread from heaven, who satisfies the hungry heart.
Offer thanks for men and women who hunger and thirst for God’s Kingdom.
Confess any tendency to be so locked into your own concerns that you fail to pray for others in need.
Ask God to increase your hunger for his kingdom.
Lift your heart
Anna not only longed for Jesus, she prayed and fasted daily for the coming of God’s Kingdom. Even though Christianity has spread across the globe there are still others that suffer from war and injustice. Many who have little or nothing to eat, and many more who live in a void of spiritual darkness. Please stretch yourself beyond your immediate concerns, look at an atlas or globe and choose a place to pray for. Find information on that part of the world so that you can understand what they need. Fast and pray for peace, daily bread, freedom, justice and for Christ’s light to shine upon that people. Think of someone you know and do the same. Get to understand their needs, fast and pray for them and see what God will reveal in your life and their hearts