Agony in the Garden
Matthew 26:36-46 (NLT)

Then Jesus went with them to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and he said, “Sit here while I go over there to pray.” He took Peter and Zebedee’s two sons, James and John, and he became anguished and distressed. He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.”

He went on a little farther and bowed with his face to the ground, praying, “My Father! If it is possible, let this cup of suffering be taken away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.”

Then he returned to the disciples and found them asleep. He said to Peter, “Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!”

Then Jesus left them a second time and prayed, “My Father! If this cup cannot be taken away unless I drink it, your will be done.” When he returned to them again, he found them sleeping, for they couldn’t keep their eyes open.

So he went to pray a third time, saying the same things again. Then he came to the disciples and said, “Go ahead and sleep. Have your rest. But look—the time has come. The Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Up, let’s be going. Look, my betrayer is here!”

GOING DEEPER:
1. The anguish and grief are overwhelming. Jesus’ soul is being crushed under the weight of all He is about to endure. Though he keeps His friends close, He goes off by Himself to pray. Three times He asks the Father if there could be another way. Three times He surrenders His will to the Father’s. What in your life do you need to turn over to the Lord? Will you follow Jesus’ example and do so today, trusting God’s plan in this situation?
2. As you read the other gospel accounts of Jesus’ time in the garden (see references below), note any additional details you glean from them.

FUTHER READING:
Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46

The Last Supper
Luke 22:7-23 (MSG)

The Day of Unleavened Bread came, the day the Passover lamb was butchered. Jesus sent Peter and John off, saying, "Go prepare the Passover for us so we can eat it together."

They said, "Where do you want us to do this?"

He said, "Keep your eyes open as you enter the city. A man carrying a water jug will meet you. Follow him home. Then speak with the owner of the house: The Teacher wants to know, 'Where is the guest room where I can eat the Passover meal with my disciples?' He will show you a spacious second-story room, swept and ready. Prepare the meal there."

They left, found everything just as he told them, and prepared the Passover meal.

When it was time, he sat down, all the apostles with him, and said, "You've no idea how much I have looked forward to eating this Passover meal with you before I enter my time of suffering. It's the last one I'll eat until we all eat it together in the kingdom of God."

Taking the cup, he blessed it, then said, "Take this and pass it among you. As for me, I'll not drink wine again until the kingdom of God arrives."

Taking bread, he blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, given for you. Eat it in my memory."

He did the same with the cup after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant written in my blood, blood poured out for you.

"Do you realize that the hand of the one who is betraying me is at this moment on this table? It's true that the Son of Man is going down a path already marked out—no surprises there. But for the one who turns him in, turns traitor to the Son of Man, this is doomsday."

They immediately became suspicious of each other and began quizzing one another, wondering who might be about to do this.

GOING DEEPER:
1. It’s the last time Jesus will share a meal with His beloved disciples. As we read His words, we can sense His high level of emotions and deep love for them as He tells them about what He is about to do…and about the new covenant He is about to establish for them and all others who choose to believe. What emotions do you experience as you ponder on this passage?
2. Read the other gospel accounts of Jesus’ last supper with His disciples (see verses below). What new or different information do you learn from these?

FURTHER READING:
Matthew 26:17-30; Mark 14:12-26; John 13:21-30

Jesus’ Triumphant Entry
Luke 19: 28-40 (NLT)

After telling this story, Jesus went on toward Jerusalem, walking ahead of his disciples. As he came to the towns of Bethphage and Bethany on the Mount of Olives, he sent two disciples ahead. “Go into that village over there,” he told them. “As you enter it, you will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks, ‘Why are you untying that colt?’ just say, ‘The Lord needs it.’”

So they went and found the colt, just as Jesus had said. And sure enough, as they were untying it, the owners asked them, “Why are you untying that colt?”

And the disciples simply replied, “The Lord needs it.” So they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments over it for him to ride on.

As he rode along, the crowds spread out their garments on the road ahead of him. When he reached the place where the road started down the Mount of Olives, all of his followers began to shout and sing as they walked along, praising God for all the wonderful miracles they had seen.

“Blessings on the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in highest heaven!”

But some of the Pharisees among the crowd said, “Teacher, rebuke your followers for saying things like that!”

He replied, “If they kept quiet, the stones along the road would burst into cheers!”

GOING DEEPER:
1. Can you picture it? Jesus is riding into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey as crowds of people sing and shout for joy, recounting the wonderful miracles they had witnessed. They just can’t keep their praises quiet for their King! And, even if they could, the stones would declare the glory of Jesus. As you read this account, what stands out to you most? Why?
2. Read the other gospel accounts of the triumphant entry (listed below). What new insights do you learn from each of them?

FURHTER READING: Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; John 12:12-19

Good Friday was in God’s Roadmap
By Pamela Blattner

“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing…”
Luke 23:34a

One week from today will be Good Friday. As I reflect about what really happened that day, I can’t imagine what disillusionment, confusion and suffering took place as those around Jesus watched him die on the cross. Faith was shaken as God seemed to be so silent. His mother, family and friends were experiencing the loss of a loved one. His disciples were bewildered and probably wondered, “Why is this happening, Jesus? Were you really who you said you were?”

Can you imagine being Jesus? He was the Son of God! Jesus was all-powerful and extremely capable of getting down off of that cross. Jesus could have frozen the entire mass of people that were jeering at Him or just chosen to vanish into thin air. He didn’t do that, though, because He was “sent on a mission from God.” The death of Jesus Christ was the greatest act of humility, the greatest act of love and the greatest example of doing God’s will…no matter what the cost.

Down through history, God provided us a road map which foretold various signs and conditions through His prophets. These prophets spoke of things that mankind should watch for so that the Messiah would be recognized and believed. These signs, or prophecies, were given to us in the Old Testament. Its writings were completed hundreds of years before Jesus’ birth, containing over 300 prophecies that Jesus fulfilled through His life, death and resurrection. This historical accuracy and reliability sets the Bible apart from any other book or record. But, even Old Testament evidence and Jesus’ very words, the disciples didn’t understand the cross. They didn’t totally grasp that through His death and resurrection, Christ was opening the way for us to have forgiveness and eternal life. It wasn’t until later that they saw the meaning and purpose of the suffering.

"For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life” John 3:16.

Jesus, as Savior, chose to take the sins of the world on His shoulders so that all of us might have the opportunity to gain forgiveness for our sins and a new and righteous relationship with the One True God. May thanksgiving and love fill your heart as you meditate on all that the Messiah endured and fulfilled for you that first Good Friday.

GOING DEEPER:
1. As you think on Jesus’ sacrifice for you, what emotions are stirred in your heart?
2. This Easter season, who will you tell of the Good News of Jesus?

FURTHER READING:
Matthew 27:11-66; Mark 15:1-47; Luke 23:1-56; John 18:28-19:42

Pam and her husband Richard have two adult children and two grandchildren. She serves Oakwood through its Family Care Ministries.

Wonder of Wonders, Miracle of Miracles…
By Elin Henderson

“He performs wonders that cannot be fathomed, miracles that cannot be counted.”
Job 9:10

Okay, for all of you musical aficionados…what film does this title come from? If you guessed Fiddler on the Roof, you are right! It is sung by Daughter Number One’s fiancé-to-be. He is expressing that of all the great miracles of God, the greatest is that He has given him this wonderful girl to be his wife. It is all quite touching and romantic!

As I think on the miracles that God performs throughout Scripture, I wonder, what is the greatest? God defeating an army of hundreds of thousands with Gideon’s small army of 1200 or the miracle that took place in Gideon’s heart to trust in the Lord? Is it Jesus healing the ear of the soldier or the work of the Holy Spirit that changed Peter from a sword-wielding dynamo to a humble servant of God?

Truly, I think the work that takes place when a heart turns to the Lord and says “Take me, use me, I am yours” is the miracle of all miracles. It’s even beyond the feeding of five thousand and the dead coming back to life. While we are created by God, we are not robots…we can still choose to walk with Him or to turn away. He does not pre-program our wills and make us follow Him. Otherwise, we would be like computers that just do exactly as He says. But, rather, He sends His eyes over all the earth, seeking those whose hearts are open to Him. Why? To “show Himself strong” on their behalves. WOW! That is the wonder of wonders, miracle of miracles that He is after! A heart that is open to Him. Then, He says to that person just as He said to Moses before He began a whole series of amazing miracles in Egypt (both physical and spiritual), “Stand back, and watch the wonders I will do in your midst!”

GOING DEEPER:
1. What wonders has He wrought in your life that you can rejoice about?
2. Are His eyes upon you? Are you open to Him? If not, why?

FURTHER READING:
Exodus 3:20; 2 Chronicles 16:9

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and seven-year-old Elias.

Opening the Closed Mind
By Pamela Blattner

“‘I too was convinced that I ought to do all that was possible to oppose the name of Jesus of Nazareth…’” [Apostle Paul]
Acts 26:9

“‘I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…’” [Apostle Paul]
Philippians 3:8a

A friend of mine recently lost her father without knowing for sure if he had a personal relationship with God before he died. For years, she had shared her faith with him and led a godly life. Do you have anyone in your life who resists learning what the Scriptures say about salvation? Many have closed minds and refuse to have anything to do with Jesus. These individuals respond to Christians in one of two ways. They're either polite but firm in their rejection of Christ. Or, they're belligerent and opposed toward those who call Jesus "Savior."

Before I prayed for my friend, I asked God to show me something in His Word that would bring her comfort the next time we visited. Was there anything in Scripture that demonstrated that God's message of salvation could penetrate those whose minds are shut? God brought to mind the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, who became the apostle Paul. Paul was a very devout, religious person and professed his faith in God the Father. But he rejected Jesus as God, the Son. Consequently, he hated the Lord and all of His followers. In his zeal, Paul single-mindedly persecuted believers, even going so far as to try to force them to blaspheme Christ. And yet, God's Spirit convicted this cruel man of his sin, gave him an awareness of his own need for a Savior, and revealed that Jesus was the only solution for him and everyone else. Paul’s story proves that no one is beyond the reach of God's love.

As you think of that someone in your life who’s currently resistant to Jesus, be encouraged. Although it’s an extreme, it’s great to know that Paul came under conviction by the Holy Spirit when he was persecuting Christians. What a turnaround that was in his life. He became an apostle who witnessed unwavering devotion to Jesus. What a remarkable, surprising God we have!

This Easter season, ask God to show you how you can confidently join Him in His work. Invite someone to the Easter Production; ask a friend out for coffee and introduce her to Jesus; be Christ’s hands and feet to someone. Truly, no one is beyond the reach of God’s amazing love.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Do you know people who seem beyond God's reach? Continue to ask God for their salvation, and ask Him how He’d like to use you in the process.

FURTHER READING:
Ezekiel 11:19; 1 John 1:9; Acts 9:1-16

Pam and her husband Richard have two adult children and two grandchildren. She serves Oakwood through its Family Care Ministries.

The Answer is in the Word
By Susan Klein

“‘Test me in this’, says the Lord Almighty, ‘and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.’”
Malachi 3:10b

My husband and I just moved into a beautiful new home. The process of “looking” was arduous and painstakingly long! For several years, we had searched for a house that would fit the requirements of our budget, location, and number of rooms. We started our endeavor in prayer, asking God to show us the right house for us, and trusting in His perfect timing and will. A few times we’d come upon one that looked promising, only to have God shut the door. After endless searching, I grew concerned that He either hadn’t heard me or just didn’t care where we lived.

Then, a friend told me about a house just put on the market in his neighborhood. It seemed perfect, fitting all of our criteria. When I called to make an appointment for a showing, I was told it had already sold! We missed it! Disappointed, I called a girlfriend and cried my heart out to her since I was sure God wasn’t listening. She prayed for me and comforted me as any good friend would. Angry and hurt, I cried out to God for the hundredth time. “Why Lord? Why are you shutting every door? I don’t understand what you want for us!”

It wasn’t until I turned to His Word that I got an answer. Paging through my Bible, the verse above caught my eye since it had been previously underlined. As I read the words, I heard God’s still, small voice. He reassured me that He had my best interest at heart, and that He had indeed heard my pleas. I felt certain He was promising to bless me abundantly, more than I could imagine.

To make a long story short, God dropped the perfect house, in the most beautiful location, right into our laps! He showered down blessing upon blessing in the whole buying and selling of our previous house, providing above and beyond our needs at every turn. While I had been looking for a visible sign or answer in the form of an open door, He had provided an answer to my longings in His Word. He wanted me to trust Him even when it seemed He was absent, even when it seemed like we would never move. He was visible to me through His written Word, a place where I can always seek Him, and always find Him.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What questions do you need answers to?
2. Where are you looking for them?

FURTHER READING:
Hebrews 4:12; Isaiah 55:11

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She is the Coordinator of Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and one of its teachers.

A Bird’s Eye View
By Jennie Pierce

“The heavens declare the glory of God…”
Psalm 19:1

Though it has no audible voice, nature has a way of speaking to one’s soul. Its grandeur, complexity and mystery cannot help but proclaim the Creator’s awesomeness. The Creator, God, intended it to be this way.

Recently, an out-of-town trip found me physically flying high in the skies, while my spirit was at an all-time low. For weeks, I had been struggling, desperately, needing God to really show me some sign of His greatness…to reveal Himself, to confirm Who He is.

My window view revealed a rather boring, desert-like landscape…an unfortunate reflection of my heart. I fought hard to rest. Desiring this rest that wouldn’t come, I leaned back, closed my eyes, and plugged in my I-pod in attempts to tune out my worries. Just as I was drifting off to sleep, my body suddenly jolted, as if being physically shaken by someone yelling, “Look!” My eyes opened just in time to witness the parting of a thick blanket of clouds as a steely, snow-capped mountain protruded authoritatively and unexpectedly, as if we were going to collide. At that very same time, the current song playing on my headset was singing, “All of creation rises up and screams out your name!”(1) It felt as if the wind had been knocked out of me. I gasped, fighting for a breath. My heart was pounding so hard, surely everyone around me could hear it!

As tears streamed down my face, I thanked God for showing Himself to me in such a big way. I had a new sense of confidence that He loved me, and would continue to walk with me through the tough times. It took a bird’s eye view to catch my attention and remind me of His greatness. Apparently, I had been walking below the clouds a bit too long, I’d forgotten just how powerful and magnificent my Saviour is; and it also took His masterful, “voiceless” creation to cry out and remind me.

The very next song that played on my I-pod said, “The whole earth is filled with Your glory, Lord. The heavens bow and the oceans roar. May You be honored and glorified, exalted and lifted higher. Here, at Your feet, I lay my life.”(2)

GOING DEEPER:
1. If a voiceless creation can scream out His name, we, who HAVE a voice, should be doing the same thing. Open your eyes in a fresh, new way to the creation around you, so the Creator can reveal Himself to you.

FURTHER READING:
Psalm 8, 19:1-4, 66:1-3

(1) “Come Save” by Sarah Reeves
(2) “Filled with Your Glory” by Starfield

Jennie is a wife and mother of three. She is active in Oakwood’s musical worship ministry and works part-time for a chiropractor.

Lay It Down
by Jen Wollner

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.”
1 John 3:16

A tsunami in Indonesia…hurricane in New Orleans….earthquake in Haiti.

Each of these events were destructive and devastating…homes demolished, lives lost, dreams stolen, hope shattered. But, one silver lining in each of these events was the way that people from around the world came together to help those who were suffering. Billions of dollars in aid were generously donated and countless hours of manpower joyfully sacrificed to rescue survivors and rebuild these three areas of the world. It’s amazing how so many individuals are willing to step up to provide for those who are in the most desperate of need…even for those whom they will never meet face-to-face.

Overall, we’re very willing to put time or money aside to help a large-scale need, especially one that gets a lot of press. But, what about smaller needs and those not so well-publicized? Are we willing to take a few minutes out of our day to help a neighbor shovel her driveway? Will we sacrifice time and money to take a meal to a family in the midst of a medical crisis? What about the woman in our Bible study who’s walking through a valley…will we find a way to encourage her in her pain?

These kinds of needs are harder to spot…they won’t be broadcast on the local news or advertised in the papers. We have to be paying attention to find these opportunities and we have to cultivate relationships with those around us in order to know their needs. It takes time. It takes perseverance. It takes love. It takes laying down our very lives for someone else. Are we willing to intentionally invest in others? Will we leave a margin in our calendars and budgets to do so?

Meeting a need for someone thousands of miles away is a noble and worthy deed…and much needed, given the poverty and heartache around the world…but let’s not ignore the Lord’s prompting for us to walk across the room or the street, too. Let’s “be Jesus” to those He has put on the path of our daily lives!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Think of one person in your life in whom you could invest more time and energy. What would you need to sacrifice to build that relationship?

FURTHER READING:
John 15:13

Jen and her husband are busily parenting three children between the ages of seven and three. Jen heads the Fresh Start ministry and is on the leadership team for Mission: Hope, Oakwood’s orphan care ministry.

Seasons
By Kari Lyles

“…A time to embrace and a time to refrain.”
Ecclesiastes 3:5

One of the many charms of Wisconsin is its change of seasons. As new dog owners, our family rotates walking Max in all kinds of weather. It’s on cold walks that I often daydream about palm branches swaying in the breeze. As the icy wind snaps me back to reality, the truth is, I would probably miss the splendor of the seasons; seeing the first tulip bulb popping through in spring, summer’s first boat ride and the magic of fall.

Seasons bring growth and change. Ecclesiastes 3 states that there is a time and a season for everything. The specific verse about “a time to embrace and a time to refrain” has been a personal theme for me over the last year.

For the past eight years, I have “embraced” a season I’ll call the “yes” season. A time for Bible studies, ministries and outreaches. I said “yes” when asked to teach, sing, act, read, write, cook, stand on my head…whatever it was, I was ready and willing. My “yeses,” were answers to the desire of my heart to serve and I could not have imagined the blessings that came from this season.

However, I have now taken “time to refrain.” Time to figure out what the next “yes” should be. This season has brought a word to my vocabulary I sometimes stumble to say…“NO!”

Can you relate?

The world has convinced us that “no” is an appalling word. The world’s view translates it into “unwillingness, unfriendliness, selfishness”…even, dare I say, “ungodliness.”

While I have prayed about what my “no’s” should be, the word has not left my lips without thoughts of “I hope she’s not mad,” or “I hope she knows my heart is in the right place.” But amidst some doubts, I have felt peace. This little word has given back to me in the forms of family time, quiet time and personal and spiritual growth.

Say “yes” with joy if it’s the right season…go for it, if you have sought the Lord in your decision. But, if you think that the only way you will be “in the know” is if you say “yes,” I am testimony that truly being “in the no” brings many a blessing too.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What season are you in? Are there things in your life that you feel you should prioritize by saying “yes” or “no”? Is God taking a back seat to too many obligations?

FURTHER READING:
Ecclesiastes 3; Psalm 46:10

Kari is a wife, mother to two girls, and works part-time at The Prestwick Group as a sales consultant.

Getting My Hang On
by Pamela Blattner

“But he's already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It's quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, and don't take yourself too seriously…take God seriously.”
Micah 6:8 (MSG)

A few summers back, I taught a spiritual gifts class to several inner-city young ladies. Many of them came to the session feeling inadequate and under-qualified in nearly every area of their lives. I had the privilege of joining God in His work and experiencing His grace and everlasting love that day. He drew these girls to Himself, softened their spirits and crowned them His princesses.

Last year, when I was asked to be a mentor for a younger woman, I didn’t think I was qualified. Being an adult woman’s mentor wasn’t at all like teaching teens or young children, was it? Aren’t the qualifications and criteria different? I should be more of a scholar, more conservative, logical, and my presentation “perfect.” This could be a dilemma, I told myself.

I carried this around for a few days until I shared it with a fellow student in a graduate class. I was very serious about my problem. She listened to me explain and gently smiled. She said, “For as long as I’ve known you, you’ve been discipling and mentoring others; not just kids, but adults, too. You just didn’t see that what you were doing was ‘spiritual.’”

She went on to say, “Girl, you have the ‘gift of hang.’ It’s a little splash of encouragement, a tad of mercy, and a whole lot of love for the lost. You’re the Lord’s free spirit, and when you see an opportunity, you spend time with people. You pour on Christ’s love and add His life lesson. You give God His moment.”

Her response was so freeing. I realized I didn’t have to be at a certain level with certain criteria before God could use me. He wanted me just like I am. I’m free to be me! With Jesus, I can “hang” real each day. Care to join me?

GOING DEEPER:
1. In what ways has God gifted you? How can you use that gift to serve and mentor others?

FURTHER READING:
John 13:34-35

Pam and her husband Richard have two adult children and two grandchildren. She serves Oakwood through its Family Care Ministries.

Stepping Out In Faith
By Karen D’Amore

“We live by faith, not by sight.”
2 Corinthians 5:7

“And the Lord said to Joshua, ‘Today I will begin to exalt you in the eyes of Israel, so they may know that I am with you as I was with Moses.’ …As soon as the priests…set foot in the Jordan, its waters flowing downstream will be cut off…” (Joshua 3:7, 13). The Israelites were to step out in faith; break camp, pack up their belongings and actually step foot into the river before it would be opened.

Joshua embodies stepping out in obedience and faith. God assured Him that He would lead him in the same way that He led Moses through the Red Sea. Drawing from the archives of God’s faithfulness, Joshua trusted in God’s promises and obeyed.

Recently, God called me to step out in faith and cross a modern-day “Jordan.” At a time when financial obstacles barricaded my path, God instructed me to quit my job. Though weary from juggling trade school and a full-time job, financial constraints rendered the option of joblessness…impossible. In addition to financial barriers, other logistical conditions drew common sense and logic to wrestle with God’s timing. My flesh wanted to see a game plan; a visible sign of how God would provide. Flipping through the pages of my personal “faith-book,” I trusted His unequivocal voice and stepped out in obedience and faith. Upon notifying my boss of my resignation, peace flowed like a river from my head to the soles of my feet. With my office packed, belongings gathered, and no “game plan,” I stepped out into my personal Jordan River.

The blind curve on the road home metaphorically mimicked my blind faith journey. Arriving home at the end of that winding road, God met me in the mailbox. Spilling out from the stack of mail was a refund check from an old, unknown over-payment. A check exceeding one month’s salary…God had transformed impossibilities into provisions.

Charles Inwood writes, “When God is going to do something wonderful, He begins with a difficulty. When He’s going to do something miraculous, He begins with an impossibility.”(1) As Christ-followers, we have the confidence that “faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see” (Hebrews 11:1). Today, put feet to your faith…step out into the “Jordan”…and allow God to turn impossibilities into miracles.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What obstacles are hindering you from stepping out in faith? What might you do with those?

FURTHER READING:
Romans 1:17; Psalm 17:5-8

(1) From “Words of Life”

Married to husband Dan, Karen is a retired police officer. She is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and a volunteer at the Wildlife In Need Center.

Where’s Your Fruit?

By Lisa Boyer

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23b

There are a few days in the winter that can be considered truly beautiful. One would be a snowy day when we get to watch from the windows of our warm homes. Another would be a day when the trees are covered with a white frozen mist as though straight off a greeting card.

Traveling down the road, I can’t help but look intently at each and every tree, fascinated by how a little white can transform the barren branches into such a beautiful sight. Then I see it, an apple tree. No, I’m not the type of person who can identify a tree, especially in winter, but this is an apple tree. I know, because it still has its apples! And not just one or two, nearly all of them are clinging to its otherwise barren branches. It’s extraordinary. The tree surrendered every one of its brown withered leaves, but it stands there clinging to its fruit.

How much are we like that tree? Have we surrendered our all to God, or just our leaves, the parts of our life that seem worthless and dead? Do we hold on to the fruit because we sense its value and we believe we can still work with it ourselves and don’t need God?

That tree was to have surrendered everything…its leaves and fruit. What good is fruit if it doesn’t fall from the tree? How many deer may have come and stood under this tree on a cold winter day waiting for an apple to fall so they could be nourished? In the same way, what good is fruit in our lives if we don’t surrender it and let it fall gracefully onto those around us?

One of the purposes of the fruit in our lives is to feed and nourish the faith of others. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control are all powerful fruit that transform lives because they are the fruit of the very Spirit of God in our hearts.

GOING DEEPER: 1. What kind of fruit has the Spirit grown in your life? Who have you been nourishing with that fruit?

FURTHER READING: Proverbs 11:30; Matthew 7:16

Lisa is a wife and mother of two. She is a co-leader for Junior High girls' small group.

Divine Power Bar
By Elin Henderson

“…for it is God, who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.”
Philippians 2:13

Okay, who of us doesn’t feel like we need a little more energy? Our batteries run out of power before we manage to get halfway through our “to-do” list for the day. We try all sorts of strategies to energize ourselves including exercise, food, rest, caffeine, vacations and more!

Interestingly, Scripture speaks of another source, which is a lot more powerful then a mere power bar. According to Warren Wiersbe in his Commentary of Philippians, our English word “energy” comes from the word translated “works” in this particular verse. (1) An amplified version adds, “energizing and creating in you the power and desire.” That same energy force that empowered Christ during His time here on earth is at our disposal, too. It is like a “Divine Power Bar” available 24/7 in the form of the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Now, what does this mean? Will we instantly have energy galore and be able to run from sun up to sun down? I don’t think that is what Paul was referring to…spiritual energy does not always walk hand-in-hand with physical energy. After all, it is Paul who reminds us of the paradox that when we are weak, then we are strong because of God. When we realize that in ourselves we have no real strength and we allow His power to work in us, we will have the energy to complete His will, His tasks! He custom makes the plans He has for us for each day, and then proceeds to give us all that we need to complete them.

So, how is your energy level these days? Are you partaking of your “Divine Power Bar”…are you depending on the person of the Holy Spirit…or trying to slug it out on your own? May we each find our power and energy in the only true Source of strength for the day’s challenges!

GOING DEEPER:
1. What steps can you take to receive enough of God’s “Divine Power Bar” for your tasks today?

FURTHER READING:
Acts 1:8; Romans 15:13

(1) Wiersbe, Warren B. The Bible Expository Commentary: Volume 2. Cook Communications, Colorado Springs, Colorado. p 78.

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and seven-year-old Elias.

Extreme Tree-Hugging
by Carolyn Hulliberger

“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”
Hebrews 11:1

The most adventurous thing I have ever done is zip-lining in the Alaskan rain forest. The day of the escapade, we met our group at the base of the mountain and got our safety gear…harness, gloves, helmet. We then rode up the mountainside on ATV’s to our practice location. It was there that we were taught the proper hold, how to keep our feet up and abdominal muscles tucked for maximum speed, and how to “self-rescue” in the case of an emergency.

At the first platform, our guide…a self-proclaimed “adrenaline junkie”…described our upcoming trek over the trees. It would consist of 6000 feet of cable, 8 rope rides, and 3 suspended aerial bridges. We would be well over 100 feet from the forest floor. The longest line was nearly 900 feet long…or 3 football fields! Our group of eight was literally hugging the tree, sizing each other up to see which brave soul would go first. When my turn came, I sucked in a deep breath, closed by eyes, and jumped off the platform. The ultimate test of my faith in the rope, my harness and my instruction came at that moment.

A funny thing happened during the course of our afternoon. With each landing, our group members stood further from the tree and moved out to the edges of the platforms. We started keeping our eyes open and observing the gorgeous scenery and wildlife from this unusual perspective. And instead of prayers for safety as we stepped off, there was a contest for the best “battle cry.”

There will be times when we are called to step off of our “platform.” But God doesn’t expect us to do this completely unequipped. He has provided His Word…the Bible…as our instruction manual. And our own personal trail guide is the Holy Spirit. God’s desire is for us to have an adventure of His planning. And we just might get a breathtaking view along the way!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Is God nudging you off of a platform? Will you respond by hugging the tree or jumping off in faith?

FURTHER READING:
Hebrews 11:6

Along with caring for her husband, two children and the dog, Carolyn is an Office Representative for State Farm Insurance, serves as a small group leader for Wednesday p.m. Bible study, and is the treasurer for Women’s Ministries.

Mpepe INVASION!
By Elin Henderson

“…that whether we wake or sleep we should live together with Him.”
1 Thessalonians 5:10

About once a year, just after a good soaking rain, up from the ground rise millions of flying termites (in Mwinika they are called “mpepe”). The locals build fires to attract these mpepe and bat them from the sky, collecting basketfuls which are then dry-fried and salted and enjoyed as a crunchy snack! Now, I can’t say this appeals much to me…no buttered and salted mpepe, thank you very much! I will stick with popcorn!

Like the other houses around us, we, too, must endure this crazy invasion of bugs. They are attracted by light and, of course, we have one of the most well-lit places around. Any crack, any crevice and they will find their way in. We try to put towels under the doors and carefully plug up any gaps in the screens, but they still manage to get in. Their sole goal? Invade and dwell!

Isn’t that what God wants in our lives as well…a full invasion of our being? Any crack, any crevice, He wants in! He wants to make His presence known not only to us, but also to those around us. This is true sanctification…God invading more and more of our being. And, as He invades and dwells in us, He transforms us into His image.

What are things that hold back His desired invasion? Why do we plug up the holes and stuff towels under our doors? Oh, as humans, how we love to feel like we are in control! We give Him certain areas and say, “Go ahead, invade away!” But, then in other areas where we think we know better or are just plain afraid to release, we plug up and hold back.

True joy, though, comes in true surrender. Allow Him to invade your life and plunge into every nook and cranny, permeating you with His presence and His character, both for your good and for the good of those around you. Live together with Him and encourage others to fully surrender to His invasion as well.

GOING DEEPER:
1. What area of your life are “plugging up” and not letting the Lord in?
2. Name one woman in your life whom you can encourage to surrender to the Lord.

FURTHER READING:
1 Thessalonians 5:23-24

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and seven-year-old Elias.

Molded by the Master
By Susan Klein

“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Ephesians 2:10

Do you ever wonder about your purpose in life? Have you ever questioned if you were really doing the “work of God”? We’ve probably all walked in these shoes at one time or another. Perhaps you work at a job that seems unfulfilling and pointless. Or, maybe being a stay-at-home mom isn’t the glamorous career you’ve always dreamed of. Or, what about those retirement years? Do you find yourself asking, “Am I past my prime for serving?”

Ephesians 2:10 tells us that we are all created to do good works that were prepared in advance by our heavenly Father for us to do. He was purposeful and intentional in creating each one of us, knowing full well the job He had in mind for us to do before we even came into existence. In Jeremiah, chapter 18, we see a wonderful illustration of a potter at a wheel, shaping a lump of clay. It says that the pot he was shaping was marred, so he formed it into another pot, shaping it as it seemed best to him. God goes on to say, “Can I not do with you as this potter does? Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand....” From our first breath, we were being shaped by the Father! And as we’ve grown and matured, God has been working in us so that He might work through us!

When we fully wrap our minds around this concept, and accept that we are living with a purpose, then we open the door to the will and work of God. Every day has purpose, whether we are 13 or 83, working in a job or staying home, serving out in the world or in our own neighborhoods. No good work is too small, nor is it too large or beyond our capabilities. Not only does God choose the good works in advance for us to do, He also equips us to do them. We never have to question our purpose or how we will accomplish it if we allow His loving hands to mold us and His Word to speak to us.

And remember, you’re never too old to hop back up on the wheel for a little re-shaping!

GOING DEEPER:
1. Take a personal inventory of your “good works.” Are you a vessel being used by God?

FURTHER READING:
1 Peter 2:12; James 2:14-18; Romans 9:21; 2 Timothy 3:17

Susan is a wife and mother of two. She is the Coordinator of Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and one of its teachers.

Beautiful Feet
By Karen D’Amore

“How beautiful are the feet of those who bring Good News!”
Romans 10:15

“Beautiful” is not an adjective I would use to describe my feet! Because I was a distance runner for many years, my feet took a horrible beating. Surgical scars, calluses and remnants of healed blisters memorialize hundreds of miles. I ran a good race physically, but spiritually, I was off-track running away from God. As the distance between myself and God widened and the road of life darkened, He lovingly intervened. One pivotal night a “divine hurdle” knocked me off my feet…bringing me to my knees. In a horrific car accident, on the crest of a bridge, God’s miraculous intervention spared my life. As bridges serve as passages from one place to another, that bridge marked the passage from an old life into a new one. One that forever changed the direction of my life and the object of my race.

Injuries suffered in the accident carried grim news from my surgeon. My running days were over! Relinquishing my running shoes, I crawled barefoot back into the arms of God. His loving salve healed my painful blisters. His grace was the pumice stone that smoothed my hard calluses. His tender mercies provided cushion for my soles.

In my new race, walking hand-in-hand with my Savior, I have “good news” to share. Jesus saved me twice…the first time on a cross, the second time on a bridge. And He faithfully carries me over the daily hurdles of this world. As a result, I am able to raise my hands in victory, and proclaim…my God reigns!

As Christ-followers, we are called to be God’s messengers. We have the marvelous news of victory to share. The battle for our souls was won by Christ on Calvary. My bridge-like high arches serve as a daily reminder; Jesus’ death on the cross bridged the gap between sinful man and a holy God. “Jesus answered, ‘I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me’” (John 14:6).

David Egner says it well: “As we tell the good news to others, let it be with the joy of victory in our hearts, and with feet that are ‘beautiful’ because of the glorious message we bear.”(1)

How beautiful are your feet?

GOING DEEPER:
1. If your feet could speak, what “good news” would they say they’ve shared during your faith journey?
2. What is Jesus calling you to do to have more beautiful feet?

FURTHER READING:
Isaiah 52:7; Ephesians 1:7

(1) Quote found in “Our Daily Bread”

Married to husband Dan, Karen is a retired police officer. She is the administrator for Oakwood’s Tuesday a.m. Bible Study and a volunteer at the Wildlife In Need Center.

You Forgive Him?

By Kelly McFadden

"'My son,’ the father said, 'you are always with me, and everything I have is yours. But we had to celebrate and be glad, because this brother of yours was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.'"
Luke 15:31-32

He was angry! In fact, the Bible indicates that he was beyond angry, he was fuming! He had served his father faithfully his entire life and now his younger, rebellious brother was back. And they were throwing that brother a party. When had they ever thrown him, the faithful son, a party? When had they ever even acknowledged his dedication to the family? NEVER!

While his younger brother traveled the world, spending money and living without a care, he had stayed and done as he should. And now that the money had run out for his brother, he had returned home. What the older brother wasn’t expecting was to see his irresponsible sibling welcomed upon his return. He had expected his father to turn him away or, at the most, let him work as a servant in the fields. It was he, the older brother, whom this party should be for and there was no way he was going in to celebrate his baby brother.

So his father comes looking for him and asks him to come in. The older son explains his hurt and anger, but his father does not apologize. He simply reminds his son that he loves both sons and cannot help but to celebrate the one who has returned.

While his father forgave, the older brother held onto resentment. He resented his younger brother for leaving. He resented his younger brother for returning. And he resented his father for his willingness to forgive, so much so that he could not experience the joy that comes when we are willing to show mercy on others.

How is your forgiving heart? Is there someone out there whom you have trouble believing that God would love because it is so hard for you to love him or her? If so, you are missing out on the celebration and joy you can share with God each and every time one of His children turns from wrong ways and returns to Him.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Why can it be tempting to be angry or bitter about the grace God lavishes on everyone?
2. Is it hard or easy for you to forgive others when they hurt you? Pray today that God will give you a heart of mercy like His.

FURTHER READING:
Jonah 4:1-10; Matthew 6:12-15; Luke 23:32-43

© HomeWord. Used by permission.

Mind Transplant
By Elin Henderson

“Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus…”
Philippians 2:5

Most days I find myself in need of a brain transplant! One that could learn this language I have been studying for the past five years, for instance! But, more so than that, I find myself in desperate need of a mind transplant. Our minds, where the majority of our problems exist, truly need to be transformed daily, as Scripture reminds us. How much time do we waste worrying about the “if only’s” (our past), the “what now’s” (the present) and throw in good old anxiety for the future? We spend so much time considering, that we never get into action.

What was Christ’s mind then, this mind we are told to take hold of in Philippians 2? Verse 6 says, “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness.”

“He considered it not…but took on…” Either we jump to action before considering or just plain sit there considering and never get around to action! How we need minds that don’t worry about the logistics, but just step out in faith and press forward fulfilling the will of God.

What kind of action did Christ’s mind lead Him to? Was it just a bed of roses, a few charity jobs here and there? No, it was servanthood and sacrifice. If we read on in Philippians 2, we see where He ended up, on a cross! I begin to see the suffering and sacrifice and all of the sudden I start wondering if maybe this mind transplant is worth it. Oh, but it is! Like Christ we aren’t seeking earthly rewards, but heavenly!

This mind transplant may not make a lot of sense from a human perspective, but makes plenty of sense from God’s perspective. May we all choose to undergo a true mind transplant and stop considering and start serving!

GOING DEEPER:
1. In what specific do you need a mind transplant? Do you focus too much on your past, present or future instead of living and acting in today?
2. How can you stop considering your options and start serving others?

FURTHER READING:
Philippians 2:6-11

Oakwood’s missionaries Elin Henderson and her husband Phil serve as church planters with New Tribes in Mozambique, Africa. Elin is mother to nine-year-old Callie and seven-year-old Elias.

Laughter

By Leslie Snyder

“There is a time to weep and a time to laugh.”
Ecclesiastes 3:3a

One of our family’s favorite songs is from the musical Mary Poppins. “I Love to Laugh” is sprinkled with laughter and often begins a contagious wave of the giggles. The lyrics give a bit of insight into this silly gift of laughter.

When things strike me as funny
I can't hide it inside
And squeak - as the squeakelers do
I've got to let go with a ho-ho-ho...
And a ha-ha-ha...too!

We love to laugh
Loud and long and clear
We love to laugh
So ev'rybody can hear
The more you laugh
The more you fill with glee
And the more the glee
The more we're a merrier we!
It’s getting worse every year. (1)

Some think that Jesus was always serious, that He never laughed. It is true, that it is never recorded in the gospel accounts that Jesus laughed. Still, Jesus knew the Scriptures. He knew the passage from Ecclesiastes, that there is “a time to laugh.” In Luke, chapter 10, after Jesus has sent out 72 of His followers on a mission, and they had returned and had given their report, we read, “And he (Jesus) said to them, ‘I was watching Satan fall from heaven like lightning…’ At that time Jesus, full of joy through the Holy Spirit, said, I praise you Father…” In my own mind, I don’t see it a stretch to envision Jesus laughing.

Recent statistics share that laughter peaks at the age of four, meaning that four-year-old children laugh more than they will at any other age. Statistics also reveal the healing power of laughter. Laughter decreases stress, releases natural mood-lifting endorphins, fights off depression, and strengthens the body. It is also a gift from God and music to his ears. So, whether you are four, forty or ninety-four, or whether you snicker, tee-hee or enjoy a full belly laugh, find time today to laugh.

GOING DEEPER:
1. How is your sense of humor? When was the last time you had a really good laugh?
2. How does laughter affect your life? How can it serve to strengthen your life as a Christ-follower?

FURTHER READING:
Nehemiah 8:10; Psalm 66:1; Isaiah 55:12; Galatians 5:22

(1) "I Love to Laugh", lyrics by Sherman & Sherman

© HomeWord. Used by permission.

Autumn Walk with the Lord
by Pamela Blattner

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his likeness with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”
2 Corinthians 3:17-18

Like so many, my heart has a deep longing to become a mature Christian woman. Approaching 60, I truly delight in knowing that God would still choose to use me in what He’s doing. I’ve come to appreciate that maturity often comes only through trials and difficulty. We learn to walk alongside of the Lord and benefit by keeping in step with Him.

Jesus demonstrated that He walked with His Father through the difficulties of his life, too. When Jesus’ earthly walk with the Father was approaching its end, He prayed for the disciples, as well as for all those through time who would walk with Him through their own personal journey. “I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one” (John 17:15).

As we trust, obey and walk with Him, we are made into His image. We’re here to be changed into His likeness, and to reflect His character. Don’t you long for a life that’s truly transformed to reflect Jesus…a life that’s pleasing to Him and one that brings Him glory?

As I approach the autumn of my life with Him by my side, I have hope that in each new event, we will walk together and I will remember His grace and continue to have the confident hope that “all things work together for good of those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son…” (Romans 8:28–29a).

To God be the glory!

GOING DEEPER:
1. How can you imitate Jesus in your walk with Him today?

FURTHER READING:
Matthew 11:28–29

Pam and her husband Richard have two adult children and two grandchildren. She serves Oakwood through its Family Care Ministries.

Good Luck? No, Good GOD!
By Jen Wollner

“Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
James 1:16-17

The idea of “luck” has become commonplace in our culture. There are numerous lucky symbols, like the four-leaf clover and horseshoe. Many people have particular numbers or possessions that they believe bring them luck. And, you can’t go too far without hearing phrases like “Good luck,” “Knock on wood” or “I don’t want to jinx myself.” It seems as though, as a culture, we buy into the notion that if good things happen to us, then we are “lucky” and if they don’t, we are “down on our luck.” Superstitions run so deep in our beliefs and language that most of the time we think nothing of the concept.

The definition of “luck” is “success or good fortune due to chance.” By this definition, “luck” isn’t very stable or predictable. A person can have good luck or bad luck; either controlled or not controlled by the individual…it’s all up to chance!

I don’t know about you, but the idea of my life being left to chance isn’t very appealing. That’s why I’m overjoyed that it isn’t! We’ve got a God who takes great care in planning our lives. He has purposes for us that are in accordance with His perfect will. He showers us with blessings; and even the things in our lives that we perceive as bad or painful, He wants to use to mature our faith and draw us closer to Him. Because of Christ, we don’t have to fear that our life is left to “the fates.” Nothing is ever an accident or coincidence. All things are directed by Him and are for our good and His glory. In fact, our Heavenly Father is the God of the “slim chance,” “fat chance” and “not a chance in the world.” He performs the most impossible miracles that go against the odds. With Him, our “luck” never changes and never runs out.

Instead of attributing good things in our lives to the “luck of the Irish” or some other false notion, let’s remember to give thanks to our loving Father in Heaven, from whom all good things come.

GOING DEEPER:
1. Do you think your life is left to chance or luck? If so, what is keeping you from believing that God is in control and has a purpose for you?
2. If you find yourself using the word “lucky” often, practice giving God the credit by replacing it with another more accurate word. (One suggestion would be the word “blessed.”)

FURTHER READING:
Ephesians 1:11; Romans 8:28; Job 42:1

Jen and her husband are busily parenting three children between the ages of seven and three. Jen heads the Fresh Start ministry and is on the leadership team for Mission: Hope, Oakwood’s orphan care ministry.