November 4, 2020: SOAP #3989:  Job 26-27; Mark 15-16

SCRIPTURE:  Mark (NIV) 15:11 But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have Pilate release Barabbas instead. 12 “What shall I do, then, with the one you call the king of the Jews?” Pilate asked them. 13 “Crucify him!” they shouted. 14 “Why? What crime has he committed?” asked Pilate. But they shouted all the louder, “Crucify him!” 15 Wanting to satisfy the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He had Jesus flogged, and handed him over to be crucified.

OBSERVATION:  There were no voting booths or ballots, but the people ruled that day in Pilate’s court.  There was no media coverage, but it was clear who was arousing the crowd for their side.  And so, the One Perfect Candidate for political office was led off to be crucified!  

APPLICATION:  Whoever is elected tonight will not be the perfect candidate.  They will need the prayers of the citizens.  Citizens will need to use their influence to change hearts and minds.  The church may need to recognize that until we storm the gates of heaven, we have little effect in storming the gates of our governments.  Time before the court of heaven increases our efficiency before the courts on earth. 

PRAYER:  Holy Father, you are the ultimate ruler.  No one can resist your will.  Teach us to fight wisely in the battles we face against sin and Satan.  Holy Spirit, teach us to use the weapons so generously provided for our struggle here.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity! 

Personal note:  A pacemaker was surgically inserted in my shoulder this morning.  Although I have yet to hear anything official, the general consensus is that I will be released tomorrow.  The pacemaker is set to take over only when my heart rate drops too low.  So, I am praying that soon it will be not used.  😊   Leon