April 16, 2020: SOAP #3787:  1Samuel 18; 1Chronicles 6; Psalm 11; Matthew 3

Scripture:  Matthew 3:16 As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him.

Observation:   The One who had willingly emptied Himself of His God-ness to live on earth as the Son of Man, was now empowered by the same Holy Spirit who was present at creation (Genesis 1:2). This was the same Holy Spirit the angel spoke of when explaining to Joseph, that Mary’s pregnancy was the work of the Spirit of God. (Matthew 1:18 & 20). The Holy Spirit was a major part of Jesus life and ministry.

Application:  I am called to be like Jesus. But I am often not sure how Jesus would live in Andover, Kansas, USA in 2020. The specifics are not always obvious.
Ten years ago (April 2010), Sharon and I were wondering what we should do about her mother recovering from a broken hip back in Delaware. When should we go back to be with her? What should we do while there? How long should we stay?

Mom has gone to be with the Lord. Those issues were settled. The issue today is COVID-19. My city, my state, my country, even the whole world is living with restrictions. My schedule has changed. I feel like a bird with my wings clipped.

I need help in living like Jesus in my clothes, in my family, in my city. I need the Holy Spirit active in my life. I need to be like Jesus in hearing and following the Holy Spirit.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, among the many changes I face today, the one thing that has never changed is my need for You, Your presence in my life, and Your daily direction. Make me like Jesus! Amen.

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!