May 2, 2017: SOAP #2707: 1Chronicles 16; Psalm 106; Matthew 19

Scripture:  Matthew (NIV) 19:1 When Jesus had finished saying these things, he left Galilee and went into the region of Judea to the other side of the Jordan.  2 Large crowds followed him, and he healed them there. 

Observation:   Jesus was moving toward Jerusalem where he would offer his life as an atoning sacrifice for sin.  He did not invite the “large crowds” to join Him in Jerusalem.  He did not tell them to meet Him in the temple.  No, He ministered to them—“He healed them there.”   They did not need to be in Jerusalem; they did not need to be in the temple; they only needed to be in the Presence of Jesus!  

Application:   A building, even a church building, is not necessary for the ministry of Jesus.  Costly musical instruments and talented musicians are not necessary; a choir is not necessary.  The only thing necessary for the ministry of Jesus is the Presence of Jesus.  If I am with only one person, and Jesus is present, His ministry can be effective there! 

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, continue to remind me wherever I am, Jesus can do what is necessary there!  May I recognize His Presence and release a knowledge of His Presence in that place by my words and actions.  Amen          

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!