Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
September 18, 2022: SOAP #4672: Ezekiel 45-46; Luke 1

SCRIPTURE:  Luke (NIV) 1:39 At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, 40 where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. 41 When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. 42 In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women and blessed is the child you will bear! 43 But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

OBSERVATION:  Here, in verse 41, we see the baby John recognizing the Presence of the One He was to announce.  He could not recognize His facial features, nor His stature, nor His tone of voice, but He definitely recognized His Presence! 

Later the Holy Spirit verified that Jesus was the Messiah.  John was told that the one on whom he saw the Spirit descend and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.  (John 1:33)

APPLICATION: The Holy Spirit helps me today to recognize the presence and working of Jesus in people and circumstances throughout my day.  Sometimes it is a stirring in my heart.  Sometimes it is a thought the Spirit sends across my mind.  Sometimes He gives me understanding of what is happening and what part I should take.  I should respond to an awareness of His presence! 

There are times I have shut off His still small voice.  I was too busy to look further.  I thought someone else should take care of that matter.  Stopping did not fit into my schedule. I had more important things to do.  And so, I missed an opportunity to do something special for the Lord! 

PRAYER:  Holy Spirit, forgive me for not pausing to see what you would have me do.  When YOU bring something to my attention, YOU have something for me to do.  Even if it is small, may you find me faithful.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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