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BIG DAY! about to watch my youngest son swear in to the US Air Force.

Jesus called the twelve, and began to send them out in pairs, giving them authority over unclean spirits. Mark 6:7

How do you imagine this exchange took place?
How did the disciples “receive”
authority?
Did Jesus hand them a badge or give then papers with proof authorization?
How did authority come to rest on the disciples?

I think that the only logical answer is that it came through the mere words of Jesus. The statement “I grant you authority” from someone who possess authority must be enough.

The Gospels state that Jesus granted His disciples authority for healing sickness and casting our demons several times. Why? Because disciples for generations to come would need to know that they are granted authority for doing the works of Jesus.

I am a disciple.
I have authority.
Jesus said so.
It’s that simple.

“Who is this?” they said to each other. “Even the wind and the sea do what He says!” (Mark 4:41).

Do we know this Jesus? Does this storm-calming Jesus disappear when we close our Bibles?

At times, I think I expect much more from my wife than I do from Jesus. But my wife can’t command storms and seas....

We expect far too little from Jesus.

We need to reconcile our creeds with our attitudes, decisions, and general approach to life.

A Jesus of theory or story hour is a sentimental comfort. The real Jesus commands the wind and seas and is a force to be reckoned with.

Brackin Kirkland and his wife Lindsey have created a successful vlog and music ministry. I knew Brackin before starting this creative journey, and I have watched his ministry bloom. Today, I sat down with Brackin to confess my doubts about him when we first met and ask him about his success in art and ministry. How should men measure success in God's eyes?

youtube.com/watch?v=UrBk9C8JeV

I found two saying of Jesus that I consider very harsh. I want to write a blog or do a podcast on these two statements. But I think I should have a third. “The 2 hardest saying of Jesus” does have the same appeal as 3. :)

What do you think is the harshest recorded statement of Jesus?

Susie joined me for the podcast to talk about our journey of family and missions: The ups and downs and the lessons learned.
youtube.com/watch?v=8hslLmvN1X

Good morning! Wake up, get some coffee and a slice of courage!

Have you ever thought about how the scripture says to "take" courage?

"Be strong and let your heart take courage, All you who hope in the LORD." Psalm 30:2

Courage is like faith. It doesn't just appear and insert itself into your life. It is something we must take hold of and exercise. It starts out very small and weak, but it can grow very quickly. We don't often become overcomers overnight. Start small and grow tall.

Let's take some courage today 💪🏼 and advance the Kingdom of God. ✝️ 🔥Can I get an "amen"?

I love this verse and someone needs to hear this today:

"Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed and were created." Revelation 4:11

You are not a mistake. You exist because God wanted you too. You are God's intentional design. Do not throw away God's beautiful and worthwhile creation. You were imagined by God, fashioned by God, and redeemed by God.

Because of God's will, you exist and were created. Do not resist God's will. Live your life, embrace your life, and trust in God's redemptive, forgiving power.

Enjoy this offering as you get a glimpse into 2022 with us! I hope you plan on traveling with us.

youtube.com/watch?v=CrhLNIsMCk

Surrogate Dad

Last night, my wife Susie and I, hosted my three youngest sisters for what we call “Christmas Eve Eve.” (We had to add an extra “eve” this year). This tradition is 15 years old. These are my youngest sisters and they were 3, 5, and 7 when our father suddenly died.

My wife and I married one year after my Dad’s death and we have hosted these young ladies ever since as a means of closing some of the void left by Dad’s absence.

This year, they insisted a read “Mortimer’s Christmas Manger” like I did all those years ago. I can’t explain how full I felt to be surrounded by these young ladies in comfort and acceptance. Not many people get to be Dad and brother. And of course, I am not Dad, except maybe a little. And that little counts for a lot.

It is Gospel work to meet an unmet need. Attempting it will meet a need in you too. I pray that you will answer the call today. Obedience pays high dividends.

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