The Climax of the Ages

THE GODS OF GOLD

2012-02-12T14:42:00.001-05:00

DANIEL 3
When gods of gold are sought by man
Demonic forces rule the mind
As evil plots begin to form
Narcissistic grandeurs soon are born.

Ishtar, Marduk, Nabu and Bel
Were eastern gods that they would choose
But Babel's god was made of gold
So all could worship, they were told.

Along the plains of Babylon
This massive frame of ninety feet
Became the sign of unity
While honoring kings as deity.

The call was sent both far and wide
Upon the sound of horn and flute
All subjects must bow down and pray
Or be destroyed that very day.

So when the pipes and harps were heard
All kingdom subjects bowed as one
Except for three who would not go
Shadrack, Meshach and Abednego.

When news arrived accusing them
The king demanded they repent
But calmly they gave reasons why
And gladly they would rather die.

The angered king spoke from his throne
And ordered guards to fuel the flame
Then these three men were cast alive
Knowing full well they couldn't survive.

But God had other plans in store
He stood amidst the furnace flame
So when the king saw Yahweh near
His hardened heart began to fear.

The order to "come forth" was made
And Yahweh's name was given praise
Then Babylon's king let these three go
Shadrack, Meshach and Abednego.
--B. Pent

DANIEL IN THE LAST DAYS

2012-02-03T19:04:00.000-05:00

DANIEL 12:1-13

THE FINAL PICTURE DANIEL SEES
ARE SCENES TOO GRUSOME TO DESCRIBE
AS WORLD-WIDE ARMIES FACE THE BEAST
WITH MYRIAD SOLDIERS FROM THE EAST.

THE ANTICHRIST WHO COMES FROM ROME
TO RULE FROM ZION'S TEMPLE THRONE
WILL TURN HIS WRATH AGAINST THE JEW
BY KILLING MOST AND LEAVING FEW.

BUT WHEN THE ANGEL MICHAEL COMES
HE WILL PROTECT GOD'S CHOSEN ONES
REFINED BY FIRE, RELEASED FROM SIN
THEY'LL SERVE AS PRIESTS WITH ISRAEL'S KING.

SO LOOKING AT THAT KINGDOM AGE
THE PROPHET SOUGHT TO KNOW THE TIME
WHEN OFFERING PIGS WOULD FINALLY CEASE
AND HOLY DAYS RESUME IN PEACE.

YET QUESTIONS FROM THE PROPHET'S SCROLL
WERE LEFT UNANSWERED FOR THE END
WHEN KNOWLDGE GROWS AND TRAVEL FLOWS
AND JUDGMENTS FROM THE HEAVEN SHOWS.

THEN YAHWEH MADE A SOLEMN VOW
BY PROMISING A FUTURE DAY
WHEN HE WOULD RISE TO TAKE HIS STAND
AND REIGN WITH CHRIST IN BEAULAH LAND.
--B. PENT

THE TIMES OF THE GENTILES (Part III)

2012-01-28T11:34:00.000-05:00

DANIEL 11:36-45

BUT NOW A PARADOX APPEARS!
THE SHADOW OF ANTIOCHUS
BEGINS TO FADE FROM HISTORY'S PLACE
AS FUTURE VIEWS TAKE UP ITS SPACE.

THE BEAST WITH HORNS THAT DANIEL SAW
COMBINED WITH IRON FEET AND CLAY
APPEAR TO TAKE THE CENTER STAGE
AS ANTICHRIST, WITH BEAST-LIKE RAGE.

THIS KING WHO MAGNIFIES HIMSELF
THROUGH SIGNS AND WONDERS ON DISPLAY
WILL CLAIM HIMSELF AS GOD ALONE
DEMANDING WORSHIP ON HIS THRONE.

THE SIGN OF ISRAEL'S FINAL WEEK
BEGINS WHEN EUROPE'S MASTER-PLAN
INCLUDES A TREATY FIRMLY LAID
FOR ZION'S TEMPLE TO BE MADE.

WHEN NATIONS TO THE NORTH AND SOUTH
DISRUPT THE PEACE IN PALESTINE
THE BEAST WILL MOVE TO ZION'S HILL
AS SCRIPTURE CLEARLY STATES HE WILL.

BUT WHEN THE NATION'S OF THE WORLD
DEMAND A MEANING FOR THIS MOVE
THE TRIBULATION FORCES FORM
AND ARMAGEDDON'S TIME IS BORN.

THEN AT THE PEAK OF TOTAL DOOM
MESSIAH'S KING RETURNS TO EARTH
AND GRAFTED ISRAEL WILL REJOICE
FULFILLING GOD'S PROPHETIC CHOICE.
--B. PENT

THE TIMES OF THE GENTILES - (Part II)

2012-01-20T13:04:00.000-05:00

DANIEL 11:5-35

AT ALEXANDER'S SUDDEN DEATH
HIS FIGHTING GENERALS TOOK COMMAND
BUT ONLY TWO CAME INTO VIEW
BECAUSE OF ISRAEL AND THE JEW.

AS DANIEL TOOK A SECOND LOOK
THE BATTLE LINES WERE QUICKLY DRAWN
BETWEEN THE KINGDOM OF THE NORTH
AND EGYPT'S KINGDOM TO THE SOUTH.

A RAPID GROUP OF PHOTO APPS
ARE SEEN DEPICTING BATTLES FOUGHT
BETWEEN THE MEN OF PTOLEMY
AS VERIFIED FROM HISTORY.

SELEUCID KINGS WHILE MARCHING SOUTH
ENGAGING WARS AGAINST THEIR FOE
WOULD OFTEN CONQUER JEWISH LAND
ENSLAVING ALL IN THEIR COMMAND.

BUT ONE WHO STANDS ABOVE THEM ALL
THE LITTLE HORN OF DANIEL EIGHT
REVEALS A MADMAN WITH DECEIT
WHOSE SUBTLE SCHEMES COULD NOT BE BEAT.

THIS KING, ANTIOCHUS THE FOURTH
WHO NAMES HIMSELF EPIPHANES
COMPELLED THE JEWS TO CHANGE THEIR LAW
BY OFFERING SWINE, THE CURSE OF ALL.

AS HELLENISTIC CULTURE SPREAD
WITH PAGAN RITUALS TAKING PLACE
THE TEMPLE MOUNT WHERE YAHWEH DWELT
BECAME THE PLACE WHERE ZEUS WAS FELT.

BUT MATTATHIAS, PRIEST OF GOD
CONDEMNED THE BREAKING OF THEIR LAWS
AND SOON A REVOLUTION SPREAD
BY JUDAS MACCABEAN LED.

THE WARS THAT DANIEL SAW THAT DAY
FULFILLED PRECISELY HISTORY'S CHART
BUT VIDEO SCENES THAT NEXT APPEAR
WERE SEALED UP FOR A FUTURE YEAR.
B. Pent

THE TIMES OF THE GENTILES (Part I)

2012-01-18T11:54:00.000-05:00

DANIEL 11:1-4

AS DANIEL ROSE TO VIEW THE SCENES
FROM GOD'S PRE-WRITTEN HISTORY COURSE
HE STOOD AMAZED AT WHAT HE SAW
THE FINAL WARS THAT END IT ALL.

THE HUB OF ALL PROPHETIC TRUTH
SURROUNDS THE PROMISE YAHWEH MADE
TO ISRAEL, THEIR ETERNAL HOME
SO SCATTERED JEWS CAN CALL THEIR OWN.

THE FIRST BRIEF CLIP TELLS OF FOUR KINGS
THAT SPRING FROM PERSIA'S RULING CLASS
CAMBYSES, SON OF CYRUS CAME
WITH PSEUDO-SMERDIS NEXT TO REIGN.

THEN DARIUS WHO USURPED THE THRONE
BY CLAIMING PROOF OF ROYAL BIRTH
ALLOWED THE JEWS THE TEMPLE WALLS
TO FINISH WHAT THAT PROMISE CALLS.

THEN XERXES WITH HIS WEALTH AND POWER
DESCRIBED IN ESTHER AS HIS QUEEN
INVADED GREECIAN STATES WITH FORCE
COMPLETING PROPHECY'S FIRST COURSE.

THE VERSES END BY POINTING OUT
A MIGHTY KING OF GREECIAN BIRTH
WHO'S CONQUERING POWER LIKE MIGHTY STEEDS
WERE MARKS OF ALEXANDER'S DEEDS.
--B. Pent

SUPERNATURAL FORCES AT WORK

2012-01-15T16:32:00.000-05:00

Daniel 10

THE END OF LIFE WAS NEAR AT HAND
THE RACE FOR DANIEL SOON WOULD END
BUT WHILE HE WALKED THE TIGRIS SHORE
THERE WAS ONE FINAL SCROLL HE BORE.

THE VISION THAT THE PROPHET SAW
INCLUDED FORCES NEVER SEEN
BETWEEN ARCH ANGELS FROM GOD'S THRONE
AND SATAN'S DEMONS ALL UNKNOWN.

FOR THREE WHOLE WEEKS THE PROPHET PRAYED
IN DEEP DISTRESS HE COULD NOT EAT
FOR ISRAEL'S FUTURE WAS MADE PLAIN
DESTRUCTIVE NATIONS WERE TO BLAME.

BUT THEN APPEARED THE SON OF MAN
AS LIVING PROOF HE WAS THE LORD
THEN GABRIEL TOUCHED THE PROPHET'S EYES
AS HE LOOKED ON IN GREAT SURPRISE.

THE PRINCE OF PERSIA TOOK HIS PLACE
CONTROLLING ALL THE HUMAN RACE
BUT WHEN THE PRINCE OF GREECE APPEARS
DEMONIC FORCES RAISE WORLD FEARS.

BEHIND THE VEIL FROM HUMAN VIEW
THE BIBLE WARNS OF SATAN'S PLAN
WHERE DEMON POWERS ARE IN CONTROL
ENSLAVING NATIONAL LEADER'S SOUL.

YET EVEN GABRIEL COULD NOT WIN
WHEN FACING PERSIA'S RIVAL PRINCE
BUT WHEN THE ANGEL MICHAEL CAME
THAT DEMON FLED IN YAHWEH'S NAME.

NOW LIKE A VIDEO ON REPLAY
RECORDING HISTORY'S FUTURE, NOW
THE PROPHET VIEWED THE JEWISH RACE
WHEN KING MESSIAH TAKES HIS PLACE.
--B. Pent

FRAGRANCE & SUMMER FRUIT

2012-01-10T20:18:00.001-05:00

Life is the mysterious gift God gives each of us. Like summer flowers, life comes in all sizes, colors and fragrances. The sunlight that dispels shadows also reveals color and affects taste. For some, blooms scarcely appear and quickly vanish. For others, winter frost terminates their existence. Solomon reminds us that there is "a time to be born and a time to die." Yet in between, our concept of eternity is reflected by the quality of our lives and the effectiveness of our witness.

While at supper in Bethany six days before Passover, Mary took a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume, and poured it on Jesus' feet, wiping them with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of this perfume (John 12:2,3). This humble act was an expression of Mary's love for Christ. But it also symbolized Christ's poured out love for us from Calvary. As spikenard is squeezed from the heart of a flower, so the crushed life of Jesus issued forth a fragrant love that touches us today. We often forget that God uses crushing trials to develop Christian character.

In writing to the Corinthians, Paul reminds us that our lives distill the sweet odor of Christ wherever we go (2 Cor.2:15)with the resulting invitation to "taste and see that the Lord is good." A fragrant life will issue into fruitful service! So, what kind of fragrance is issuing from your life? That is a good question to ponder as we walk down the corridors of this new year!

IS 2012 OUR LAST YEAR?

2012-01-04T13:47:00.000-05:00

THE NEW YEAR LIES BEFORE US
THE SIGNS SPEAK LOUD AND CLEAR
THE END-TIME IS UPON US
THE CHOICE YOU MAKE IS HERE.

THE PROPHETS TELL OF TROUBLE
OF NATIONS IN DISTRESS
WITH WAR AND FAMINES GROWING
OF DEATH AND LONELINESS.

TEN NATIONS, DANIEL TELLS US
WILL FORM A SINGLE HEAD
AND ONE WILL TRY TO CHARM US
BY RISING FROM THE DEAD.

THE BEAST WILL FORM A TREATY
WITH JEWS AND ARABS, TOO
AND ALL THE WORLD WILL WONDER
"CAN LASTING PEACE BE TRUE?"

THEN FROM THE TEMPLE THRONE
THE ANTI-CHRIST WILL SPEAK
AS ARMAGEDDON FORCES
AROUND JERUSALEM MEET.

THE SUN WILL THEN GROW DIMMER
THE MOON WILL HIDE ITS FACE
AS ANGELS POUR OUT JUDGMENT
UPON THE HUMAN RACE.

A CHOICE DEMANDS AN ANSWER
YOU CANNOT NEUTRAL BE
IT'S EITHER CHRIST OR SATAN
THAT MARKS YOUR DESTINY.
--B. Pent

SIXTEEN QUESTIONS FOR MARY

2011-12-11T15:57:00.001-05:00

What was it like watching him pray?
How did he respond when he saw other kids giggling during the service at the synagogue?
When he saw a rainbow, did he ever mention a flood?
Did you ever feel awkward teaching him how he created the world?
When he saw a lamb being led to the slaughter, did he act differently?
Did it ever occur to you that the God to whom you were praying was sleeping under your own roof?
Did he have any friends by the name of Judas?
Did you ever scold him?
Did he ever have to ask a question about Scripture?
Did he ever get angry when someone was dishonest with him?
Who was his best friend?
When someone referred to Satan, how did he act?
Did you ever accidentally call him Father?
What did he and his cousin John talk about as kids?
Did his other brothers and sisters understand what was happening?
Did you ever think, That's God easting my soup?
--Max Lucado

MARY'S PRAYER

2011-12-06T14:20:00.001-05:00

   "God. O infant-God. Heaven's fairest child. Conceived by the union of divine grace with our disgrace. Sleep well. Bask in the coolness of this night bright with diamonds. Sleep well, for the heat of anger simmers nearby. Enjoy the silence of the crib, for the noise of confusion rumbles in your future. Savor the sweet safety of my arms, for a day is soon coming when I cannot protect you.

   Rest well, tiny hands. For though you belong to a king, you will touch no satin, own no gold. You will grasp no pen, guide no brush. No, your tiny hands are reserved for works most precious:
          to touch a leper's open wound,
          to wipe a widow's weary tear,
          to claw the ground of Gethsemane.
   Your hands, so tiny, so tender, so white--cluched tonight in an infant's fist. They aren't destined to hold a scepter nor wave from a palace balcony. They are reserved instead for a Roman spike that will staple them to a Roman cross.

   Sleep deeply, tiny eyes. Sleep while you can. For soon the blurriness will clear and you will see the mess we have made of your world.
          You will see our nakedness, for we cannot hide.
          You will see our selfishness, for we cannot give.
          You will see our pain, for we cannot heal.
    O eyes that will see hell's darkest pit and witness her ugly prince...sleep, please sleep while you can.

     Lay still, tiny mouth. Lay still mouth from which eternity will speak. Tiny tongue that will soon summon the dead, that will define grace, that will silence our foolishness. Rosebut lips --upon which ride a starborn kiss of forgiveness to those who believe you, and of death to those who deny ou--lay still.

     And tiny feet cupped in the palm of my hand, rest. For many difficult steps lie ahead for you. Do you taste the dust of the trails you will travel? Do you feel the cold sea water upon which you will walk? Do you wrench at the invasion of the nail you will bear? Do you fear the steep descent down the spiral staircase into satan's domain? Rest, tiny feet. Rest today so that tomorrow you might walk with power. Rest. For millions will follow in your steps.

     And little heart...holy heart...pumping the blood of life through the universe: How many times will we break you? You'll be torn by the thorns of our accusations. You'll be ravaged by the cancer of our sin. You'll be crushed under the weight of your own sorrow. And you'll be pierced by the spear of our rejection.

     Yet, in that piercing, in that ultimate ripping of muscle and membrane, in that final rush of blood and water, you will find rest. Your hands will be freed, your eyes will see justice, your lips will smile, and your feet will carry you home. And there you'll rest again--this time in the embrace of your Father."
---Max Lucado

ISRAEL MY GLORY

2011-11-30T20:42:00.001-05:00

(Daniel 9:24-27)

WHILE READING JEREMIAH'S SCROLLS
THE PROPHET SENSED THE TIME HAD COME
FOR JUDAH TO BE FREED AT LAST
FROM SOVEREIGN JUDGMENT FOR THEIR PAST.

THROUGH DANIEL'S INTERCESSORY PRAYER
WITH DEEP CONTRITION FOR THEIR GUILT
A BROKEN HEART BEFORE GOD'S THRONE
BECAME THE GIFT THAT WOULD ATONE.

THE ANGEL THEN REVEALED A PLAN
BY USING MULTIPLES OF YEARS
THE TIME OF CURSE WOULD FINALLY END
WITH PROMISED BLESSINGS TO ATTEND.

BEFORE THE CHART COULD BE EXPLAINED
THE ANGEL MADE IT VERY CLEAR
THE DUAL SUBJECTS OF HIS WILL
REFERRED TO JEWS AND ZION'S HILL.

THE WEEKS OF YEARS THAT STRETCHED THROUGH TIME
WILL BRING AN END TO WICKEDNESS
FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS WILL CROWN THE LAND
WHEN GOD'S ANOINTED TAKES HIS STAND.

FOUR HUNDRED EIGHTY THREE LONG YEARS
BEGAN WITH BUILDING ZION'S WALL
BUT WHEN THE PRINCE, MESSIAH CAME
UPON THE CROSS HE HUNG IN SHAME.

THE PROPHET'S CLOCK THEN STOPPED IN TIME
AND SOON ROME'S FORCES CRUSHED "THE LAND."
BUT TWENTY CENTURIES NOW HAVE PAST
YET HATRED FOR THE JEWS STILL LAST.

THEN GOD REVEALED ONE FINAL WEEK
WHEN IN THE MIDST OF WORLD WIDE STRIFE
TEN NATIONS WILL ARISE TO CLAIM
THE KINGDOM ROME ONCE RULED WITH FAME.

THE BEAST WHO'S "LITTLE HORN"APPEARS
WILL BE THE COUNTERFEIT OF CHRIST
WHOSE SIGNS AND WONDERS ON DISPLAY
PROPELS HIM TO BE KING THAT DAY.

A TREATY SIGNED FOR SEVEN YEARS
BETWEEN THE ARABS AND THE JEWS
WILL MARK THE TRIBULATION START
BEFORE ALL NATIONS FALL APART.

THE ANTICHRIST WILL MOVE FROM ROME
AND CLAIM THE TEMPLE FOR HIS THRONE
WITH BROKEN TREATIES NOW IN TWO
HE'LL TRY TO KILL OFF EVERY JEW.

WHILE ALL THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH
ARE GATHERING ON MEGIDDO'S PLAIN
THE WARRIOR KING FROM HEAVEN'S THRONE
WILL MAKE HIS AWESOME PRESENCE KNOWN.

WITH JUST ONE WORD AT HIS COMMAND
THE NATIONS UNDER ANTICHRIST
WILL ALL BE SWEPT FROM EARTH TO HELL
AS HIS PREDICTIONS DO FORETELL.--B. Pent

MEDO-PERSIA AND GREECE

2011-11-22T11:25:00.015-05:00

(DANIEL 8)

WHILE BABYLON'S POWER BEGAN TO WANE
THE PROPHET SAW A VISION CLEAR
THE NEXT TWO KINGDOMS TO ARISE
WERE SEEN IN RAMS AND GOAT DISGUISE.

THE RAM'S TWO HORNS WERE JUST THE SAME
AS DANIEL'S VISION OF THE BEAR
ALONG WITH SILVER ARMS AND CHEST
THE MEDO-PERSIANS PUSHED OUT WEST.

WHEN CYRUS FORMED HIS POWER GRID
NO ARMY WAS AS LARGE OR STRONG
IMPREGNABLE WAS BABYLON'S CLAIM
YET ON DRY BANKS HER CONQUEROR'S CAME.

IN TIME THE JEWS RETURNED TO BUILD
THEIR TEMPLE AND THEIR BROKEN WALLS
WHILE PERSIA PUSHED BOTH NORTH AND SOUTH
ITS LONG PREDICTED RULE PLAYED OUT.

A SUDDEN CHANGE CAME INTO VIEW
THE GREAT-HORNED GOAT CAME CHARGING THROUGH
IT WAS THE KING OF GRECIAN FAME
TWAS ALEXANDER'S FEAR FILLED NAME.

IN EIGHT SHORT YEARS HIS KINGDOM SPREAD
FROM EGYPT'S SHORE TO INDIA'S HEAD
BUT ONCE THE GOAT'S GREAT HORN WAS BROKE
FOUR OTHER SMALLER HORNS AWOKE.

GASSANDER RULED THE WESTERN FLANK
LYSIMACUS THE NORTHERN PART
SELEUCUS TOOK THE EASTERN SEAT
WITH PTOLEMY AT EGYPT'S FEET.

BUT WHAT PERPLEXED THE PROPHET MOST
WAS FROM THESE HORNS A SMALL ONE ROSE
A KING WITH FIERCE AND CRUEL INTENT
WITH EVERY FORM OF EVIL BENT.

ANTIOCHUS EPIPHANESE
REMOVED THE TEMPLE'S SACRIFICE
BY DESECRATING YAHWEH'S NAME
AND OFFERING BLOOD THAT BROUGHT HIM SHAME.

BUT THEN THE ANGEL SEEMED TO POINT
TO YET A FUTURE LITTLE HORN
WHO CLAIMED THE RIGHT TO DAVID'S THRONE
PROCLAIMING HE WAS CHRIST ALONE.

THE SHADOW OF ANTIOCHUS
A PROTOTYPE OF ANTICHRIST
HAS FOLLOWED HISTORY THROUGH EACH AGE
AS DEMAGOGUES ON EUROPE'S STAGE.
--B. Pent

THE TIMES OF THE GENTILES

2011-10-31T14:43:00.012-04:00

(Daniel 7)

ONE NIGHT WHILE DANIEL WAS ASLEEP
A TROUBLING VISION CAME IN VIEW
THE CHURNING SEAS LIKE NATIONS ROSE
FOUR BEASTS DISGUISED IN KINGDOM CLOTHES.

WHAT COULD THIS MEAN, THE PROPHET MUSED
WITH LIONS, BEARS AND LEOPARDS, TOO?
THE OUTWARD FORM THE KING ONCE DREAMT
SEEMED DIFFERENT THAN THIS VISION MEANT.

BUT SOON THE MYSTERY WAS REVEALED
EACH BEAST DESCRIBES A KINGDOM HERE
BEFORE ALL EARTHLY RULE IS DONE
AND CHRIST'S ETERNAL KINGDOM WON.

THE LION WITH FOUR EAGLE WINGS
IS EQUAL TO THE HEAD OF GOLD
WHERE BABYLON RULED WITH CRUEL STRENGTH
AND SWIFTLY TOOK THE WORLD AT LENGTH.

THEN FROM ITS HIBERNATING LAIR
A LUMBERING BEAR ROSE TO ITS FEET
AND WITH BRUTE FORCE IT CRUSHED ITS PREY
AS MEDES AND PERSIANS RULED THAT DAY.

A LEOPARD WITH FOUR HEADS APPEARED
LIKE LIGHTNING SPEED ON EAGLE WINGS
THIS GRECIAN KING SPREAD WIDE HIS REIGN
IN EIGHT SHORT YEARS GAINED WORLD-WIDE FAME.

BUT WHAT DISTURBED THE PROPHET MOST
WAS WHAT APPEARED ON EUROPE'S SHORE
A TERRIFYING BEAST WITH RAGE
FULFILLED ITS ROLE ON CENTER STAGE.

THIS BEAST FROM ROME WHO RULED THE WORLD
WAS NEVER CONQUERED BY A FOE
CORRUPTION TORE ITS HEART WITHIN
BECAUSE OF VILE AND TREACHEROUS SIN.

THE BEAST WITH TEN HORNS THAT APPEARED
WAS NEVER SEEN TO RISE AGAIN
BUT STIRRING SIGNS ARE FORMING NOW
UPON THE HEAD OF EUROPE'S BROW.

A LITTLE HORN WILL SOON ARISE
AND THROUGH DECEIT HIS CRAFTY PLAN
WILL CATCH ALL NATIONS IN ITS WEB
AS REVELATION THIRTEEN SAID.

THE WARNING THAT THIS VISION SHOWS
IS TO REMIND THE WORLD TODAY
THE POWER OF ANTICHRIST IS NEAR
FOR EVERY MAN ON EARTH TO FEAR.
--B. PENT

THE KING AND I

2011-10-20T11:07:00.008-04:00

(Daniel 2)

THE SANDS OF TIME BLOW IN THE WIND
AS HISTORY PAST TELLS OF ITS FLIGHT
THROUGH LIFE'S SHORT COURSE AROUND EACH BEND
WITH CONQUERED NATION'S TRAGIC END.

THE GARDEN SCENE WHERE LOVE WAS BORN
AND PEACE REVEALED ITS SPECIAL ROLE
BECAME THE PLACE WHERE STAN'S CHARM
BROUGHT SIN WITH DEATH'S DEFYING HARM.

THE HIGHEST PEAK ON BABEL'S CREST
WHERE PRIDEFUL MAN SOUGHT TO BE GODS
BECAME THE PLACE WHERE SIN'S DREAD CURSE
WAS SPREAD TO EVERY MAN ON EARTH.

THE STORY LATER FILLED EARTH'S SCENE
AS BABYLON GREW TO RULE THE WORLD
AND SHINAR'S BEAUTY FILLED THE LAND
WHERE CONQUERED JUDAH MADE ITS STAND.

AMONG THOSE CAPTIVES THERE WERE FOUR
WHOSE LIVES REFLECTED YAHWAH'S PLAN
AS DANIEL TOOK THE PROPHET'S STAFF
REVEALING NATION'S DOWNWARD PATH.

ONE NIGHT ITS KING WOKE WITH A START
A DREAM DISTURBED HIS THOUGHTS THAT DAY
A ROBOT-LOOKING MAN STOOD NEAR
ITS METAL FRAME BROUGHT WORLD-WIDE FEAR.

THE PALACE WISEMEN WERE CALLED IN
TO GIVE A MEANING TO HIS DREAM
BUT ONLY DANIEL'S WORDS EXPLAINED
THE BOUNDARY LINES EACH PART CONTAINED.

FOUR BASIC METALS COULD BE SEEN
AS HISTORY MARCHED THROUGH TIME AND SPACE
NEBUCHADNEZZAR'S HEAD OF GOLD
BECAME THE FIRST ONE, HE WAS TOLD.

THE ROBOT'S SILVER ARMS AND CHEST
DESCRIBED THE MEDO-PERSIAN'S STRENGTH
BUT LATER GREECE WITH THIGHS OF BRASS
WE'RE ALEXANDER'S VISION CAST.

THE MIGHTY IRON LEGS OF ROME
THAT RULED THE WORLD WITH BRUTAL FORCE
WAS SEEN AT LAST TO FALL APART
BECAUSE CORRUPTION RULED ITS HEART.

AS TIME MARCHED ON A MYSTERY GREW:
"WHO WERE THE IRON FEET WITH CLAY?"
THE MIX, THOUGH TRACED TO EUROPE'S HOME
WAS NEVER SEEN FULFILLED BY ROME.

THE FINAL ACT THE KING BEHELD
WAS OF A STONE ROLL DOWN A HILL
AND INTO DUST THIS METAL FRAME
WAS FINALLY CRUSHED AND BROUGHT TO SHAME.

THE ROCK THEN GREW TO FILL THE EARTH
HE IS THE KING OF ROYAL BIRTH
A THOUSAND YEARS HIS RULE WILL LAST
AS EVERY WORD FORETOLD WAS PASSED.--B.Pent

EDEN REVISITED

2011-10-12T22:33:00.003-04:00

The decision to accept Christ's redemptive work on our behalf
is God's way of positionally placing us back before Adam sinned
(Eph.1:4),into the second Adam through the Spirit of Adoption
(Gal.4:5;Rom.8:15). With justice satisfied (Rom.3:24), the
Father now sees us through His Son: saved from the penalty of
sin and one day, from sin's presence. It is the only way a sinner
can enter heaven without his sin. "As in Adam all die, so in Christ
all will be made alive" (I Cor.15:22). Each of us must choose:
either pay the penalty for our sin or accept Christ's payment on
our behalf. One leads to eternal separation in hell; the other to
eternal life in heaven. There is no neutral ground.

CHRISTIAN CHARACTER

2011-10-05T16:16:00.005-04:00

Salt is the combination of two basic chemicals: sodium and chlorine. When they are combined they form salt. Christian character is composed of two important ingredients: faith and works. As chlorine gas is a deadly poison by itself, so faith without works is dead. Metal sodium alone is likewise destitute of the saving quality of salt. So is works without faith. As the chemical union of these two elements forms salt, so faith and works, when united, give life and efficiency to Christian character.

Christian character is genuinely qualitative.When Jesus said to "have salt in yourselves" He was inviting us to link up to the authentic Source of Taste! The Psalmist put it this way: "taste and see that the Lord is good" (Ps.34:8). Later, Peter adds: "now that you have tasted that the Lord is good....grow up in your salvation" (I Pet.2:2-3). The most compelling evidence then is demonstrated through what Paul calls "the fruit of the Spirit"(Gal.5:22), which includes "love, joy, peace patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control."

If the Church is to regain its influence in our present decadent society, perhaps we need to
take another serious look at what Scripture says about Christian character and start putting it into practice.

2011-09-30T16:11:00.004-04:00

LIVE YOUR PRAYERS

I KNELT TO PRAY WHEN DAY WAS DONE
AND PRAYED, "O LORD, BLESS EVERYONE
LIFT FROM EACH SADDENED HEART THE PAIN
AND LET THE SICK BE WELL AGAIN."

AND THEN I WOKE ANOTHER DAY
AND CARELESSLY WENT ON MY WAY
THE WHOLE DAY LONG I DID NOT TRY
TO WIPE A TEAR FROM ANY EYE.

I DID NOT TRY TO SHARE THE LOAD
OF ANY BROTHER ON THE ROAD
I DID NOT EVEN GO TO SEE
THE SICK MAN JUST NEXT DOOR TO ME.

YET ONCE AGAIN WHEN DAY WAS DONE
I PRAYED, "O LORD, BLESS EVERYONE"
BUT AS I PRAYED, INTO MY EAR
THERE CAME A VOICE THAT WHISPERED CLEAR,

"PAUSE NOW, MY CHILD, BEFORE YOU PRAY
WHOM HAVE YOU TRIED TO BLESS TODAY?
GOD'S SWEETEST BLESSINGS ALWAYS GO
BY HANDS THAT SERVE ME HERE BELOW."

AND THEN I HID MY FACE AND CRIED,
"FORGIVE ME, GOD, I HAVE NOT TRIED
BUT LET ME LIVE ANOTHER DAY
AND I WILL LIVE THE WAY I PRAY."
--AUTHOR UNKNOWN

2011-09-30T15:38:00.002-04:00

WE REAP WHAT WE SOW! WE REAP LATER THAN WE SOW!
WE REAP MORE THAN WE SOW! SO THESE THINGS WE CANNOT DO:

1. Sow bad habits and reap a good character.
2. Sow jealousy and hatred and reap love and friendship
3. Sow wicked throughts and reap a clean life
4. Sow disloyalty and reap loyalty from others
5. Sow dishonesty and reap integrity
6. Sow profanity and reap clean speech
7. Sow disrespect and reap respect
8. Sow deception and reap confidence
9. Sow cowardice and reap courage.
10. Sow neglect of God's Word and grow spiritually

2011-09-29T15:02:00.005-04:00

HE RANSOMED ME

ONCE I WAS LOST IN DARKNESS BOUND
CHRIST TOUCHED MY HEART, NEW LIFE I FOUND
THE STING OF DEATH FOR ME HE PAID
THE GREATEST PRICE MY RANSOM MADE.

NEW GLORY SHINES IN EVERY PART
SINCE CHRIST MY LORD CAME IN MY HEART.
THE BLACKEST SIN, THE DARKEST NIGHT
IS WIPED AWAY BEFORE HIS SIGHT.

NOW GRACE DIVINE IN EACH DAY'S TASK
FILLS EVERY NEED FOR WHICH I ASK
SINCE I HAVE FOUND THIS GOD ABOVE
I'LL GLADLY SERVE THE LORD I LOVE.

CHORUS

HOW GLAD I AM MY SIN WAS PAID
HOW GLAD I AM A RANSOM MADE
IN JOYOUS PRAISE I NOW CAN SING
TO JESUS CHRIST MY LORD AND KING
--B. Pent

2011-09-06T14:50:00.005-04:00

ONE TRIUNE GOD

TH'ETERNAL TRIUNE GOD IN ONE
IN MYSTERY'S UNION GLORY MEET
AS MORTAL MINDS FIND HARD TO TRACE
THE BLOOD-STAINED PATH OF SAVING GRACE.

BEFORE THE WORLDS WERE EVER FORMED
LOVE'S INCUBATING PLOT WAS BORN
A SPOTLESS LAMB WAS FRAMED IN RED
TO PICTURE CHRIST'S REDEMPTION SHED.

THE PRE-INCARNATE WORD THAT SPOKE
WHEN ALL THE UNIVERSE APPEARED
WITH YAHWEH'S SPIRIT HOVERING NEAR
BECAME IN FLESH THE GODHEAD HERE.

INCOMPREHENSIBLE THE THOUGHT
THAT ONE SO AWESOME TO DESCRIBE
SHOULD STOOP TO FORM A SINLESS BIRTH
BY JOINING GOD IN MAN ON EARTH.

THE GREATEST FORM OF LOVE EXPRESSED
WAS ON A RUGGED CROSS THAT DAY
WHEN AFTER HE HAD OFFERED GRACE
THEY PIERCED HIS HANDS AND MARRED HIS FACE.

YET ONCE AGAIN THE PLAN UNFOLDS
WHEN FROM THE GRAVE GOD'S SON APPEARS
BY CRUSHING DEATH, THE SERPENT'S STING
CHRIST NOW BECOMES THE SOVEREIGN KING.

A RADIANT BRIDE COMPLETES THIS PLOT
WHEN FROM A CLOUD OUR BRIDEGROOM CALLS
THEN AT THE MARRIAGE FEAST WE'LL SEE
THE THREE-AS-ONE, HIS MAJESTY!
---B. PENT

2011-08-05T15:40:00.007-04:00

WHY END IT ALL?

I WANDER THROUGH MY LIFE ALONE
MY HEAD IS SPINNING OUT IN SPACE
I TRY TO FIGURE WHO I AM
BUT PHANTOMS DANCE BEFORE MY FACE.

I TOUCH THE GUN AND SPIN THE CONE
WITH BULLETS STILL INSIDE THEIR BOX
A LINGERING THOUGHT DARTS THROUGH MY BRAIN
ONE LITTLE SHELL AND NO MORE PAIN!

THE DARKENED MYSTERY OF MY PAST
MY FAMILY'S PLAN TO SHRED MY BIRTH
WITHOUT A MOM OR DAD TO SHARE
AND FOSTER HOMES WHO JUST DIDN'T CARE.

IF DRUGS AND SEX COULD SATISFY
THERE WOULD BE REASON TO GO ON
BUT STOLEN CARS AND NIGHT TIME BARS
WAS FODDER FOR MY EMPTY MOAN.

AND THEN ONE NIGHT WHEN I WAS "HIGH"
MY MIND BEGAN TO FLOAT IN SPACE
WHILE OTHER SPIRITS PASSED MY WAY
REPEATING CRIES I COULD NOT TRACE.

SO THIS IS NOT THE END, I MUSED?
WHILE DRIFTING BACK INTO MY MIND
THEN GUILT AND FEAR TORE ME APART
AS I POURED OUT MY BROKEN HEART.

I FOUND THE LETTER GOD WROTE DOWN
THAT JESUS DIED TO SET ME FREE
THE LOVE THAT BROUGHT SALVATION'S PLAN
I FINALLY UNDERSTOOD FOR ME.

I HAVE A MESSAGE FOR MY FRIEND
LIFE HERE ON EARTH IS NOT THE END
GOD HAS A PLAN FOR YOU IN MIND
RECEIVE HIS GIFT, NEW PURPOSE FIND.
--B. Pent

2011-08-03T10:57:00.006-04:00

PAIN
Pain knocked upon my door
I did not ask it to come in
Yet suddenly it pushed its way
An uninvited guest within.

I sought for comfort in distress
A balm to ease the ache and pain
But cries for mercy and relief
Were unattended and in vain.

So why this cross of heavy weight
Be given me so weak and frail?
Must this be carried to my grave
Without some purpose to avail?

Twas then a vision came to light
A Man of Sorrows crushed by blows
Was seen with nails and blood-stained brow
So through His stripes real healing flows.

God's every purpose will prevail
His nail-pierced hands reach from above
And those who seek His healing touch
Will find through you His grace and love.
--B. Pent

The Developing Stage Towards Armageddon

2011-07-10T14:39:00.003-04:00

2011-06-29T15:37:00.009-04:00

ONE LAST FAREWELL

THE TIME HAS COME TO BID FAREWELL
TO SAY ONCE MORE, "I MISS YOU SO!"
IT IS NOT EASY THROUGH THESE TEARS
TO SHAKE THE THOUGHTS OF BYGONE YEARS.

IT SEEMS LIKE ONLY YESTERDAY
WE WALKED AND TALKED ALONG LIFE'S PATH
BUT LIKE A CLOUDY MIST THAT FORMS
SOON SPIRITS FLY BEYOND EARTH STORMS.

WHY DOES THIS STING OF DEATH CAUSE PAIN
WHILE BROKEN HEARTS SEEK JOY IN VAIN?
IT IS THE CURSE WHERE SIN TOOK PLACE
WHICH CALVARY'S BLOOD CAN NOW ERASE.

WHEN TIME SO QUICKLY PASSED AWAY
I FAILED TO NOTE THE YEARS GO BY
SO WHEN I HEARD YOUR FLIGHT TOOK PLACE
I LONGED TO SHARE ONE LAST EMBRACE.

NOW MEMRY'S ALL I HAVE TO HOLD
IT IS THE LIGHT THAT MARKS MY PATH
SO WHEN WE MEET ON HEAVEN'S SHORE
TOGETHER WE WILL PART NO MORE.

I WEEP ONCE MORE ABOVE YOUR GRAVE
THE TENT IS ALL YOU'VE LEFT BEHIND
THE GROOM SENT DOWN HIS CHARIOT FLEET
TO JOIN THE BRIDE AT JESUS' FEET.

THE MANSION CHOSEN FOR OUR HOME
CANNOT DESCRIBE THIS AWESOME GIFT
THAT HE'S PREPARED IN GLORY THERE
FOR HIS VICTORIOUS CHURCH TO SHARE.
--B. Pent

2011-06-27T10:21:00.003-04:00

PAST DREAMS OF A GIRL

SHE CAME TONIGHT AS I SAT ALONE...
THE GIRL I USED TO BE.
AND SHE GAZED AT ME WITH HER EARNEST EYE
AND QUESTIONED REPROACHFULLY:

HAVE YOU FORGOTTEN THE MANY PLANS
AND HOPES I HAD FOR YOU?
THE GREAT CAREER, THE SPLENDID FAME,
ALL THE WONDERFUL THINGS TO DO?

WHERE IS THE MANSION OF STATELY HEIGHT
WITH ALL ITS GARDENS RARE?
THE SILKEN ROBES THAT I DREAMED FOR YOU
AND THE JEWELS IN YOUR HAIR?

AND AS SHE SPOKE, I WAS VERY SAD
FOR I WANTED HER PLEASED WITH ME...
THIS SLENDER GIRL FROM THE SHADOWY PAST
THE GIRL THAT I USED TO BE.

SO GENTLY RISING, I TOOK HER HAND
AND GUIDED HER UP THE STAIRS
WHERE PEACEFULLY SLEEPING, MY BABIES LAY
INNOCENT, SWEET, AND FAIR.

AND I TOLD HER THAT THESE ARE MY ONLY GEMS,
AND PRECIOUS THEY ARE TO ME;
THAT SILKEN ROBES IN MY MOTHERHOOD
OF COASTLY SIMPLICITY.

AND MY MANSIONS OF STATELY HEIGHT IS LOVE,
AND THE ONLY CAREER I KNOW
IS SERVING EACH DAY IN THESE SHELTERED WALLS
FOR THE DEAR ONES WHO COME AND GO.

AND AS I SPOKE TO MY SHADOWY GUEST,
SHE SMILED THROUGH HER TEARS AT ME.
AND I SAW THE WOMAN THAT I AM NOW
PLEASED THE GIRL I USED TO BE.
--Author unknown

The Warrior's Prayer

2011-05-30T11:34:00.003-04:00

Heavenly Father,
Your warrior prepares for battle.
Today I claim victory over Satan by putting on the whole armor of God!

I put on the Girdle of Truth!
May I stand firm in the truth of your Word
so I will not be a victim of Satan
and his demons' lies.

I put on the Breastplate of Righteousness!
May it guard my heart from evil
so I will remain pure and holy,
protected under the blood of Jesus Christ.

I put on the Shoes of Peace!
May I stand firm in the Good News of the Gospel
so Your peace will shine through me
and be a light to all I encounter.

I take the Shield of Faith!
May I be ready for Satan's fiery darts of
doubt, denial and deceit
so I will not be vulnerable to spiritual defeat.

I put on the Helmet of Salvation!
May I keep my mind focused on You
so Satan will not have a stronghold on my
thoughts.

I take the Sword of the Spirit!
May the two edged sword of Your Word
be ready in my hands
so I can expose the tempting words of Satan.

By faith your warrior has put on
the whole armor of God!

I am prepared to live this day, in spiritual victory!
In His most Holy Name!

Amen
(copied)

2011-04-25T11:50:00.003-04:00

WHEN FIRST I SAW YOU!

WHEN FIRST I SAW YOU PASS MY WAY
I COULD NOT HELP A SECOND LOOK
A SUDDEN FLUSH OF RUBY RED
FILLED EVERY CELL FROM NECK TO HEAD.

ANOTHER DAY BY CHANCE I FELT
WHEN YOU BRUSHED BY ME UNAWARE
MY HEARTBEAT THEN BEGAN TO RACE
LIKE FALLING STARS TOO FAST TO TRACE.

ONE DAY THE WIND BLEW THROUGH YOUR HAIR
DID YOU NOT SENSE MY CASUAL STARE?
OR WERE YOUR THOUGHTS ON NOBLER THINGS
NOT NEAR TO WHERE MY JOY BEGINS?

THEN ONE DAY WHEN I MET YOUR EYES
THE BREATH OF LOVE SWEPT OVER ME
I TRIED TO GIVE A FAINT HELLO
BUT WORDS WOULD NOT ALLOW IT SO.

THEN PROVIDENCE BROUGHT YOU MY WAY
IT WAS LIKE COMING HOME TO STAY
I FELT YOUR TENDER TOUCH OF LOVE
LIKE SPRINGTIME COOING OF A DOVE.

WHEN CUPID'S ARROW FOUND IT'S MARK
I SOON BEGAN TO FALL APART
THIS WAS NO DREAM I KNEW THAT DAY
YOU WERE THE PRIZE GOD SENT MY WAY.

NOW LIKE A HARVEST FIELD OF GRAIN
WE DANCE LIKE LOVERS IN THE RAIN
FOR JOY THAT BINDS TWO HEARTS AS ONE
CAN NEVER STOP A RACE THAT'S WON!
--B. PENT

CALVARY’S GUT-WRENCHING CRY!

2011-04-18T14:54:00.026-04:00

MY GOD! MY GOD!
WHY HAVE YOU FORSAKEN ME?
WE WALKED SO CLOSE TOGETHER
BUT NOW YOU’RE FACE IN DARKNESS HIDES
MY BROKEN HEART I LIFT TO YOU.

MY GOD! MY GOD!
THE AGONY OF DEATH IS NEAR
THE MOCKING THRONGS SURROUND ME
I AM A WORM, THE MAN OF SORROWS
MY NAIL-PIERCED HANDS I RAISE TO YOU.

MY GOD! MY GOD!
THIS CUP OF DEATH POURED OUT FOR YOU
HAS DRAINED MY STRENGTH BEYOND COMPARE
BUT IF YOU’RE WRATH FOR SIN IS QUELLED
MY PRECIOUS BLOOD I OFFER NOW.

MY GOD! MY GOD!
I LAY ME IN THE DUST OF DEATH
THE WEIGHT OF SIN HAS BOUND ME
BUT AS THE SERPENT’S HEAD IS CRUSHED
A RANSOMED THRONG WILL PRAISE YOU.

--B. PENT

2011-04-13T14:49:00.005-04:00

HALLELUJAH! HE IS RISEN!

Night had settled in Judea
Death had claimed the crucified
But the stone rent from its mooring
Where the Son of God was held.

Soldiers kept a careful vigil
Pilate's seal could not be torn
But the power of God descended
On that early Easter morn.

Jesus rose the mighty victor
Death no longer held its prey
Captive souls once held in bondage
Were released on Easter day.

Saints and angels join the chorus
Christ has risen from the dead
Heaven echoes back the story
He has risen as He said.

Chorus
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
Christ is risen from the dead
Hallelujah! Hallelujah!
He has risen as He said.
--B. Pent

2011-03-13T14:42:00.007-04:00

ZECHARIAH 14 - THE VICTORY OF MESSIAH-KING

THE FINAL ACT UPON LIFE'S STAGE

REVEALS THE BLOODIEST SCENES OF ALL

WHERE DEATH AND CARNAGE, RAPE AND SWORD

ARE MET WITH JUDGMENT FROM THE LORD.

THE ARMIES OF THE WORLD ARE SEEN

AROUND MEGIDDO'S OPEN PLAIN

WHERE REVELATION FORCES MEET

AND SATAN'S PLOT ENDS IN DEFEAT.

AS ANTICHRIST TAKES DAVID'S THRONE

DEMANDING WORSHIP FOR HIS OWN

THE BROKEN COVENANT HE MADE

LEAVES EVERY JEW IN SHOCK AFRAID.

THEN SUDDENLY ALL LIGHTS GROW DIM

THE SUN AND MOON REFUSE TO SHINE

A SPECIAL DAY BURSTS INTO SIGHT

THE BRIDE AND GROOM APPEAR IN WHITE.

THE KING-MESSIAH TAKES HIS STAND

AND WITH ONE BREATH DESTROYS HIS FOES

WHEN EVERY WARRIOR'S FLESH DROPS OFF

IT IS THE LAST OF ISRAEL'S WOES.

THEN SATAN'S REIGN WILL BE REPLACED

A THOUSAND YEARS OF LASTING PEACE

WILL FLOOD THE WORLD FROM ZION'S THRONE

WHERE JESUS CHRIST WILL REIGN ALONE.

JERUSALEM WILL RISE IN HEIGHT

AND ALL THE NATIONS THAT REMAIN

WILL JOIN WITH JEWS TO CELEBRATE

THE PRAISE AND HONOR DUE HIS NAME.

WHEN PROPHECY AND HISTORY MERGE

THE FINAL SCENE WILL END IN TIME

AND HOLINESS WILL BE THE SEAL

BEFORE WHOM EVERYONE WILL KNEEL.

--B. Pent

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. Three major events are described in this last chapter: the Great Tribulation invasion of Jerusalem; the destruction of those Nations

attacking her; and, the establishment of Christ's millennial reign. As you read Daniel 9:27, what event triggers this final battle?

2. What are some of the contributing factors leading to the final Armageddon Battle (vs.1-2)?

3. Verse 4 seems to be connected with the seventh bowl judgment of Revelation 16:18-19. Explain! How might this great earthquake help the

Jewish people during this time?

4. The special "day" described in verses 6-7 is identical to the passage in Matthew 24:29-30. What are some of the things that will make this

particular day so uniquely different from other days? What "day" is he describing and why might the Lord want that "day" to be

uniquely different from any other day that has ever existed?

5. Verse 8 describes a river that flows out of Jerusalem. Is that the same as the one described in Isaiah 35:1,6; Ezekiel 47:1-12 and

Psalm 46:1-4? What is your opinion?

6. In summary: what will happen when Jesus returns to earth again? Describe some of the major events. What will happen to the

Antichrist, false prophet and Satan? What part does Israel and the Church play during the Millennial Kingdom? What then should

we live in the light of these world-shaking events?

2011-03-10T15:17:00.015-05:00

ZECHARIAH 12-13 - THE WARRIOR KING APPEARS
A SUDDEN BURST OF LIGHT APPEARS

A HUSH OF AWE SURROUNDS THE STAGE
AS YAHWEH TAKES THE LEADING ROLE
IN HISTORY'S LAST PROPHETIC PAGE.

THE WARRIOR -KING STEPS FROM HIS THRONE
AS HE REVEALS THE BATTLE PLAN
THE NATIONS GATHER TO DESTROY
THE JEWISH RACE FROM OFF THEIR LAND.

THE "DAY" DESCRIBED BY PROPHETS PAST
TAKE SEVEN YEARS TO BE FULFILLED
AS ANTI-JEWISH FORCES JOIN
AT ARMAGEDDON'S BATTLE FIELD.

THE SIEGE SURROUNDING ZION'S HILL
WILL BE A ROCK THAT CANNOT MOVE
AS HORSE AND RIDER SEEM CONFUSED
LIKE DRUNKARDS IN A STUPOR MOOD.

THE MIGHTY GOD WILL BE REVEALED
THOUGH JUDAH'S ARMY IS SO SMALL
THEY WILL BECOME A FLAMING TORCH
AND HEAR THE PROMISED VICTORY CALL.

THE HEBREW RACE HAS YET TO TURN
FROM UNBELIEF TO GOD ALONE
FOR BLINDNESS STILL IN PART REMAINS
UNTIL THEY CLAIM THEIR HISTORY'S SHAME.

BUT WHEN THE VEIL OF UNBELIEF
IS TORN AWAY BY CHRIST'S RETURN
REPENTANT JEWS WILL TURN FROM SIN
AND CLAIM THE ONE THEY PIERCED AS KING.

BUT JUST BEFORE THE TRUMPET SOUNDS
THE ANTICHRIST WILL DO HIS BEST
TO KILL THE SEED OF JUDAH'S RACE
UNTIL ONE THIRD ARE LEFT IN PLACE.

IN PREPARATION FOR HIS REIGN
MESSIAH'S REMNANT WILL GO THROUGH
THE TEST OF THOSE REFINED BY FIRE
TO SERVE AS PRIESTS IN WHITE ATTIRE.
--B. Pent

THOUGHT QUESTIONS
1. The last three chapters takes a leap into the future at Christ's return to earth. How does chapter 12:1-3 describe Jerusalem in the final Armageddon conflict? When and where does it take place?

2. Seven times the expression "in that day" is mentioned. What might this repetition suggest about this particular "day?"

3. What crisis event is happening to Judah that drives their attention God-ward and what is their response (vs.10-14)?"

4. Chapter 13 describes the process in Israel's cleansing. How are some of those ways used according to verses 1-6?

5. What tragic evens take place in this final refining process that prepares the remaining remnant to serve with Messiah during His millennial kingdom (vs.7-13)?

2011-03-08T09:23:00.009-05:00

ZECHARIAH 10-11 - TWO SHEPHERDS COMPARED

THE TEMPLE PLANS WERE NOW COMPLETE
SOME TIME HAD LAPSED BUT THEY FORGOT
THAT YAHWEH WAS THEIR SHEPHERD GUIDE
AND ALL THEIR NEEDS HE HAD SUPPLIED.

FALSE SHEPHERDS SOON BEGAN TO LEAD
AND OTHER GOD'S DID INTERCEDE
LIKE WONDERING SHEEP THEY WENT ASTRAY
BECAUSE THEY SOUGHT DIVINER'S WAY.

GOD'S SHEPHERD HEART WAS THEN REVEALED
THE NATURE OF HIS LOVE EXPLAINED
HIS TRUTH WOULD TRIUMPH IN THE END
SO THAT THROUGH HIM THEY COULD DEPEND.

HE IS THE CORNERSTONE OF FAITH
THE PEG THAT STABILIZES TRUTH
THE BATTLE BOW THAT CONQUERS SIN
THE PROMISE OF DECISIVE WIN.

THE WONDERING TRIBES OF ISRAEL STILL
HAVE BLINDED EYES THAT CANNOT SEE
AND YET HE LONGS TO DO HIS PART
IF THEY RETURN WITH CONTRITE HEART.

THE SHEPHERD CALLS HIS WONDERING SHEEP
FROM DISTANT SHORES BEYOND THEIR REACH
SO ALL THEIR CHILDREN COULD RETURN
AND FINALLY REACH THEIR NATIVE HOME.

THOUGH TRIBULATION TRIALS COME
LIKE SURGING WAVES OF WAR AND DEATH
THE ARM OF YAHWEH WILL ARISE
AND GRANT TO THEM THE VICTOR'S PRIZE.

BUT SAD THE STORY QUICKLY SHOWS
HOW SOON THE SUN THAT HARDENS CLAY
CAN TURN THE BLESSINGS HAVEN SENDS
TO GRANITE HEARTS THAT WON'T OBEY.

THE DOORS OF TROUBLE SOON APPEAR
LIKE FIRE DESTROYING HARVEST GRAIN
AS WAILING SHEPHERDS LOOSE THEIR FLOCK
BECAUSE THEIR IS NO LONGER RAIN.

THEN ZECHARIAH WALKED ON STAGE
TO ILLUSTRATE GOD'S ACTIVE PART
HE TOOK A SHEPHERD'S ROD AND STAFF
SO THEY COULD FEEL HIS LOVING HEART.

BUT WICKED SHEPHERDS TOOK THEIR STAND
WITH SCRIBES AND PRIEST'S DECEPTIVE PLAN
THE PRICE OF 30 COINS THEY TOSSED
BY NAILING CHRIST UPON THE CROSS.

SO WHEN THE ROMAN TROOPS ARRIVED
THE BROKEN STAFF GOD SYMBOLIZED
BECAME THE NATION'S BATTLE BLOWS
AS ANTI SEMITE HATRED SHOWS.

YET ONE LAST SHEPHERD FILLS THE STAGE
WHO LOOKS MORE LIKE A BEAST WITH RAGE
BUT WHEN MESSIAH'S KING RETURNS
THIS ARMAGEDDON SHEPHERD BURNS.
--B.PENT

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. The Temple was completed and sacrifices were resumed but instead of seeking the Lord what do verses 1-2 whose counsel were they
following and why? What warning does that trigger for us as Christians? Explain
2. In verses 3-8, Yahweh expresses His longing to Shepherd Israel in spite of their apostasy. What are some of the promises He makes
to them and what comfort would that have been to those remaining faithful to Him?
3. Verses 9-12 tells of trouble ahead and their being scattered among the Gentile nations. Can you recall some of those times in the past
and what is yet ahead for them during the Great Tribulation?
4. Chapter 11:1-3 opens with metaphors that suggest destruction and devastation for Israel. In context it seems to point the Roman
invasion under Titus. What picture did Jesus give in Matthew 24 of Jerusalem and its Temple during that time?
5. The rest of this chapter describes the Good shepherds and the false shepherd. Can you briefly describe each shepherd and according
to verses 12-13 what they finally do to the Good Shepherd?
6. In verses 15-17, Zechariah takes a leap into the distant Tribulation period. How is the false shepherd described and how does it end?

2011-03-03T13:11:00.030-05:00

Zechariah 9:1-17 -- TWO KINGS REVEALED

THE SECOND ACT ONCE MORE BEGINS

WITH SCENES FAR DIFFERENT THAN BEFORE

TWO MIGHTY KINGS APPEAR ON STAGE

ALONG THE ROUTE TO ISRAEL'S SHORE.

THE FIRST LOOKED LIKE A FIERCE-HORNED GOAT

A GRECIAN KING OF YOUTHFUL AGE

DESTROYING EVERYTHING IN SIGHT

WITH UNRELENTING MIGHT AND RAGE.

THE YOUNG COMMANDER ROSE IN STRENGTH

BY CRUSHING PERSIA'S NORTHERN FLANK

THEN SYRIA, TYRE AND SOUTHERN TOWNS

BECAME THE TROPHIES OF HIS RANK.

WHEN ALEXANDER'S FORCES MET

OUTSIDE JERUSALEM'S HOLY LAND

A MIRACLE FROM HISTORY CAME

THE VISION OF GOD'S WARNING HAND.

THE HIGH PRIEST WITH EACH MAN IN WHITE

MARCHED OUT TO MEET THE COMING KING

BUT THROUGH A VISION YAHWEH GAVE

THE LAND WAS SPARED FROM CONQUERING.

YET ISRAEL FAILED TO UNDERSTAND

THE WAY TO FREEDOM WAS MUCH MORE

THAN CASTING OFF THE YOKE OF ROME

BY SOME MESSIAH OF THEIR OWN.

THE PROPHET SAW A SECOND KING

WHO RODE UPON A DONKEY'S COLT

HIS HUMBLE BIRTH FROM DAVID'S LINE

GAVE PROOF HE WAS THE LORD DIVINE.

BUT ISRAEL IN THEIR IGNORANCE THOUGHT

A MILITARY PRINCE WOULD COME

SO WHEN HOSANNA SONGS GAVE PRAISE

THE CRIES OF "CRUCIFY" WERE RAISED.

BUT ZECHARIAH VIEWED A DAY

FULFILLING PROMISES GOD MADE

THAT AFTER "JACOB'S TROUBLED" DAYS

MESSIAH'S KING WOULD COME ABLAZE.

THE BRANCH FROM JUDAH'S PROMISED LINE

WILL REIGN IN REGAL MAJESTY

AND GRAFTED ISRAEL WILL SHINE FORTH

AS HIS CROWNED JEWELS OF ROYALTY.

THEN DESERT LANDS WILL BLOOM AGAIN

AND PEACE THE GIFT FOR EVERY MAN

FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS IS HIS ALONE

WHO SITS AND REIGNS FROM ZION'S THRONE.

--B. PENT

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. The word "oracle/burden" means "to bear" and signifies something heavy or burdensome. What may have been some reasons for the use of

this word?

2. The first 8 verses indicate battles and destruction taking place all around Israel and later in verse 13 Greece is mentioned as a part of it. As

you read Daniel 7:6 and 8:5-7 Alexander the Great is described as a four-headed leopard with wings and a strong he-goat. What kind of

picture is conjured up in your mind after reading these verses? what fear may have gripped their hearts as he was nearing Jerusalem?

3. What affect did Alexander's conquests have on the future expansion of the Gospel in the first century?

4. Verses 9-10 describe the coming of another King. Why does Jesus ride into Jerusalem on a colt instead of a horse? Wouldn't that seem

odd in view of Israel's Messianic expectation? What confusion might have entered their minds after reading verse 10?

5. The "blood covenant" mentioned in verse 11 goes back to his unconditional promise made to Abraham and his seed in Genesis 15:1-10.

The rest of this chapter jumps from Greece to the dark, war days of Armageddon (vs.14-15) and the personal return of Christ (vs.16-17).

What comfort or encouragement would this give to this small returned remnant as they faced present and future struggles as a Nation?

2011-03-01T10:10:00.005-05:00

ETERNITY
"I THINK ETERNITY IS WOVEN THROUGH THE INSIDE OF ME LIKE
A STRING, AND EVERY NOW AND THEN SOMEONE HITS IT LIKE
A NOTE ON A PIANO, AND SUDDENLY MY ENTIRE BEING
VIBRATES WITH THE SOUND OF IT. IT'S BEAUTIFUL BECAUSE
IN THOSE MOMENTS I'M FULLY AWARE THAT I WASN'T MADE
FOR A FEW SHALLOW DAYS. THE SOUND OF ETERNITY IS
THE HOPE FOR GLORIES BEYOND LIFE." --JOY ELIZABETH CLARK
(Copied from HannahGirl.com)

2011-02-28T15:46:00.004-05:00

ZECHARIAH 7-8 - INTERMISSION WITH QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

TWO YEARS PASS BY ON HISTORY'S STAGE
BEFORE THE NEXT PROPHETIC PAGE
REVEALED GOD'S COSMIC MYSTERY PLAN
FOR ISRAEL IN THEIR PROMISED LAND.

THE INTERMISSION TIME WAS SPENT
WITH QUESTIONS BETHELITES HAD SENT
ABOUT IMPORTANT DAYS TO FAST
THAT CALLED FOR MOURNING FROM THE PAST.

THE PROPHET SOUGHT AN ANSWER CLEAR
FOR SCATTERED JEWS BOTH FAR AND NEAR
WHO WERE RELEASED FROM BABYLON'S HAND
AND GIVEN BACK THEIR CONQUERED LAND.

BUT SPECIAL DAYS TO MOURN AND WEEP
HAD TURNED THEIR FAST FOR FOOD TO EAT
THE CALL FOR JUSTICE, LOVE AND GRACE
WAS ABSENT FROM THE HEBREW RACE.

A STRONG REBUKE FROM YAHWEH CAME
BECAUSE OF ALL THEIR SIN AND SHAME
THEY WOULD NOT TURN AND DO HIS WILL
UNTIL HIS JUDGMENT DID FULFILL.

YET IN THE MIDST OF THEIR DISTRESS
THE PROMISES OF PEACE AND REST
TURNED ISRAEL'S NIGHT OF GLOOM AND PAIN
TO LASTING PRAISE THROUGH YAHWEH'S NAME.

THE LORD ALMIGHTY SPOKE IN LOVE
ASSURING JUDAH FROM ABOVE
THEIR TEMPLE SOON WOULD BE COMPLETE
AND ALL OPPOSED WOULD FACE DEFEAT.

BUT THEN HE LEAPS THROUGH SPACE AND TIME
WHERE FEAST AND DANCE WILL THEN COMBINE
AS KING MESSIAH CLAIMS HIS THRONE
THE SOVEREIGN LORD WILL REIGN ALONE.
---B. PENT

2011-02-04T14:48:00.018-05:00

ZECHARIAH 6:9-15 - THE CROWNING OF JOSHUA

THE HIGH PRIEST WITH A CROWN OF GOLD
DEFIES ALL LOGIC AS TO BOLD!
THERE WAS NO PRESCIENCE BEFORE
AND ISRAEL'S KING REIGNED THERE NO MORE.

SO WHY DO PRIEST AND KING COMBINE
IN THIS LAST ACT TO INTERTWINE?
THE PROPS WERE SET TO ILLUSTRATE
GOD'S SOVEREIGN CHOICE UNHEARD OF YET.

AS ZECHARIAH WALKS ON STAGE
THE LORD INVITES HIM TO ENGAGE
THE BAND OF POST EXILIC MEN
WITH GIFTS OF GOLD THE TEMPLE MEND.

GOD DRAWS A PICTURE OF THE TWO
THE HIGH PRIEST REPRESENTS THE JEW
THE KING IS CROWNED AS SOVEREIGN HEAD
OF BOTH THE LIVING AND THE DEAD.

THE CROWN ON JOSHUA WAS A SIGN
THE BRANCH FROM DAVID'S ROYAL LINE
WILL RULE THE WORLD FROM ZION'S HILL
AS KING OF KINGS VICTORIOUS STILL.
--B. PENT

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. AS YOU COMPARE JOSHUA IN CHAPTER 3 WITH THIS CHAPTER, WHAT DO YOU THINK GOD WAS TRYING TO TEACH? WHAT SPIRITUAL LESSONS CAN WE LEARN FROM IT?
2. WHY WAS THE GOLD CROWN PLACED ON JOSHUA INSTEAD OF GOVERNOR ZERUBABBEL? WASN'T THIS A CONTRADICTION OF JEWISH LAW? EXPLAIN!
3. THE TEXT IS FURTHER WRAPPED IN MYSTERY BY STATING THAT HE WOULD BUILD THE TEMPLE OF THE LORD. EARLIER WE WERE TOLD THAT ZERUBABBEL WOULD DO IT (4:8-10)? HOW SHOULD WE RESOLVE THIS SEEMING CONTRADICTION?
4. VERSE 13 IDENTIFIES JOSHUA AS "THE BRANCH." WHAT DOES THIS SYMBOL REPRESENT (NOTE 3:8-9)? CAN YOU NOW BEGIN TO SEE WHERE THIS IS LEADING AND WHY THIS "BRANCH" CAN ASSUME THE TITLE OF BOTH HIGH PRIEST AND KING?
5. IN VERSES 14 AND 15, THE CROWN IS TO BE PLACED IN THE TEMPLE AS A MEMORIAL! HOW WOULD THE JEWS UNDERSTAND THIS REQUEST? WHAT FUTURE PROPHETIC VIEW WAS INTENDED AND WHEN WILL IT BE FULFILLED?

2011-02-04T14:35:00.010-05:00

ZECHARIAH 6:1-8 - THE FOUR CHARIOTS

THE FINAL ACT UPON LIFE'S STAGE
THAT SATISFIED GOD'S HOLY RAGE
DESCRIBE FOUR CHARIOTS ON THEIR WAY
DISPLAYING VENGEANCE ON THEIR PREY.

WHO ARE THESE MIGHTY-SPIRIT BEINGS
BEHIND THESE COLOR-PAINTED STEEDS?
THEY ARE MESSIAH'S MESSENGERS
DESTROYING JUDAH'S PREDATORS.

THE PLAN OF YAHWEH ON DISPLAY
WAS VIEWED IN PERSIA'S MIGHT THAT DAY
DESTROYING BABYLON'S WILLFUL PRIDE
WITH SOVEREIGN JUSTICE SATISFIED.

YET STRETCHED BEYOND THIS PRESENT SCENE
ARE VISIONS THAT FOUR HORSEMEN BRING
AS TRIBULATION WRATH TAKES PLACE
POURED OUT UPON THE HUMAN RACE.

THESE REVELATION COLORED STEEDS
PORTRAY GOD'S WRATH ON EVIL DEEDS
AS ARMAGEDDON FORCES MEET
GOD'S GLORIOUS PLAN WILL BE COMPLETE.
--B. PENT

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. THE PROPHET SEES FOUR CHARIOTS COMING FROM BETWEEN TWO BRONZE MOUNTAINS. WHAT DO YOU THINK THIS MIGHT INDICATE?
2. WHAT DO THESE FOUR CHARIOTS REPRESENT (V.5)? WHAT ARE THEY DOING? WHAT DIRECTIONS ARE THEY HEADING AND WHY?
3. SINCE THERE IS NO EXPLANATION FOR THESE COLORED CHARIOTS, WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THE COLORED HORSES OF REVELATION 6:1-8? IS THERE A POSSIBLE CONNECTION OR PARALLEL?
4. VERSE 8 INDICATES THAT HIS "SPIRIT IS AT REST IN THE LAND OF THE NORTH." WHAT PRESENT AND FUTURE FULFILLMENT MIGHT THIS BE SPEAKING ABOUT? CAN YOU SEE WHERE THIS DRAMA IS HEADING AND HOW GOD IS PREPARING ISRAEL FOR ARMAGEDDON AND MESSIAH'S FUTURE REIGN?

2011-02-04T08:31:00.007-05:00

Zechariah 5:5-11 - THE WOMAN IN A BASKET

THE ANGEL CALLED TO LOOK ON HIGH
TO VIEW SOME OBJECT IN THE SKY
A BASKET WHERE A WOMAN LAY
WAS USED TO PICTURE SIN THAT DAY.

THE PROPHET COULD NOT COMPREHEND
WHAT THIS ODD PICTURE WOULD PORTEND
SO WHEN HE ASKED TO PLEASE EXPLAIN
THE SIN OF BABEL WAS MADE PLAIN.

WAY BACK IN SHINAR'S FERTILE CREST
WHERE MAN REFUSED GOD'S ONE REQUEST
A TOWER OF CONFUSION CAME
AND BABYLON'S PRIDE GAVE BIRTH TO SHAME

THE SIN THIS WOMAN REPRESENTS
IS MAN'S REBELLIOUS WICKEDNESS
THAT SPREAD THROUGH ISRAEL'S HOLY LAND
REPLACING YAHWEH'S MIGHTY HAND.

BUT SOMETHING STRANGE COMES INTO SIGHT
TWO STORK-LIKE BEINGS APPEAR IN FLIGHT
AND TAKES THIS BASKET MADE OF LED
BACK TO THE SERPENT'S EVIL HEAD.

THE FUTURE WHERE THIS DRAMA ENDS
IS FOUND IN JUDGMENT YAHWEH SENDS
WHEN BABYLON IS FOREVER CRUSHED
AND SATAN'S PRIDE IS TURNED TO DUST.
--B. PENT

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. SINCE THE FLYING SCROLL REVEALED GOD'S HOLINESS THROUGH THE LENS OF THE MOSAIC LAW, WHAT DOES THE WOMAN IN A BASKET REPRESENT?
2. WHAT MIGHT BE SIGNIFICANT WHEN THE ANGEL "PUSHED THE WOMAN INTO THE BASKET AND THE LED COVER OVER ITS MOUTH?
3. WHEN THERE IS TRUE CONFESSION AND REPENTANCE, HOW DOES GOD TREAT OUR SIN AS PICTURED IN CLOSING THE LED TOP OVER THE WOMAN?
4. WHAT DO YOU THINK IS MEANT BY THE TWO WOMEN WITH STORK-LIKE WINGS TAKING THE BASKED TO BABYLON?
5. WHERE DID SIN ORIGINATE AND WHY IS WICKEDNESS TAKEN BACK TO BABYLON? DOES THE EXPLANATION OF VERSES 7-11 SEEM TO BE FULFILLED IN REVELATION 17-18? WHY OR WHY NOT?

2011-02-03T10:30:00.010-05:00

Zechariah 5:1-4 - THE FLYING SCROLL

THE PROPHET ZECHARIAH SAW
THE STRANGEST SYMBOLS OF THEM ALL
TWO END TIME SIGNS IN CRYPTIC FORM
REVEALING JUDGMENT'S FUTURE STORM.

A FLYING SCROLL OF PARCHMENT STRENGTH
FROM FIFTEEN FEET BY THIRTY LENGTH
WITH ONE COMMANDMENT ON EACH SIDE
THE LAW OF STEALING AND FALSE PRIDE.

THE TWO STONE TABLETS OF THE LAW
GOD GAVE TO ISRAEL AS A GUIDE
WAS LIKE A TUTOR THAT WOULD SHOW
THE PATH OF RIGHTEOUSNESS BELOW.

BUT DISOBEDIENCE TURNED THEIR HEART
AND NATIONAL ISRAEL FELL APART
FOR WHEN GOD'S GLORY LEFT ITS PLACE
THE GENTILE NATIONS FILLED THEIR SPACE.

MAN'S GUILT CAN NEVER BE ERASED
THE BROKEN LAW IN VIEW IS TRACED
BUT ONLY FAITH IN CHRIST ALONE
CAN THROUGH REPENTANT GRACE ATONE.

A FUTURE DAY IS HERE IN VIEW
WHEN GOD AGAIN GRAFTS IN THE JEW
A NATION TORN BY DEEP DISTRESS
WILL FIND IN HIM TRUE RIGHTEOUSNESS.
--B. PENT

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. AS YAHWEH CONTINUES PREPARING HIS PEOPLE, WHAT WOULD THE VISION OF A FLYING SCROLL COMMUNICATE TO THEM? WHAT MESSAGE SHOULD THEY HAVE UNDERSTOOD WITH ONLY 2 COMMANDMENTS VISIBLE?

2. WHEN JESUS SUMMARIZED THE LAW, WHAT TWO COMMANDMENTS DID HE QUOTE AND WHY? CAN YOU SEE ANY PARALLEL BETWEEN THESE AND THE TWO ON THE FLYING SCROLL? WHAT MIGHT THEY REVEAL?

3. PETER REMINDS US THAT WE TOO ARE "A CHOSEN GENERATION, A ROYAL PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE BELONGING TO GOD, THAT WE MAY DECLARE THE PRAISES OF HIM WHO CALLED US OUT OF DARKNESS INTO HIS WONDERFUL LIGHT" (1 PETER 2:9). SO HOW SHOULD WE PREPARE TO SERVE HIM? WHAT ARE SOME OF THE THINGS SCRIPTURE REMINDS US TO DO IN PREPARATION?

2011-02-01T10:47:00.007-05:00

ZECHARIAH 4:1-14 - THE GOLDEN LAMP STAND & OLIVE TREES

THE SECOND SCENE BEGAN THAT DAY
WITH SEVERAL SYMBOLS ON DISPLAY
A SHROUD OF MYSTERY DULLED HIS MIND
LIKE TRYING TO SEE WHEN ALMOST BLIND.

A LAMP STAND WITH A BOWL ON TOP
WAS SEEN WITH SEVEN LIGHTS ABLAZE
AND FROM EACH SIDE AN OLIVE TREE
SUPPLIED THE OIL SO ALL COULD SEE.

I ASKED THE ANGEL TO EXPLAIN
IN WORDS THAT I COULD UNDERSTAND.
HE POINTED TO JEHOVAH'S MIGHT
WITH HIS ANOINTING OIL FOR LIGHT.

THE FRAME THIS PICTURE DID EMBRACE
WAS ISRAEL'S PRESENT BUILDING BASE
WITH DETAILED PLANS HE HAD IN VIEW
FOR JUDAH'S TEMPLE BUILDING CREW.

THEN FROM THE RUINS OF THE PAST
THE SHOUTS OF PRAISES COULD BE HEARD
AS TEMPLE WALLS FELL INTO PLACE
AND HOLY WORSHIP FILLED ITS SPACE.

THERE IS ONE OTHER SECRET THREAD
TWO "SONS OF OIL" RISE FROM THE DEAD
TO STAND ON ISRAEL'S HOLY LAND
BEFORE THIS COSMIC STORY ENDS.

THESE "OLIVE TREES" ST. JOHN DESCRIBED
ARE THOSE THE PROPHET SAW DISGUISED
AS MEN ANOINTED TO PROCLAIM
MESSIAH'S COMING BACK TO REIGN.
--B. PENT

ZECHARIAH 4:1-14 - THE GOLDEN LAMPSTAND & OLIVE TREES

1. AS ZACHARIAH ENCOURAGES THE COMPLETION OF THE TEMPLE, GOD IS PREPARING A HOLY PRIESTHOOD TO SERVE HIM. LOOKING OVER THE 1ST FIVE VISIONS, WHAT PICTURE DO YOU SEE EMERGING FROM A REPENTANT PRIESTHOOD AND CULMINATING IN A CHANGE OF GARMENTS? HOW WOULD THAT PARALLEL THE CHRISTIAN LIFE IN THE LIGHT OF
1 CORINTHIANS 6:19?
2. WHAT IS SIGNIFICANT ABOUT THE LAMPSTANT (MANORAH) IN THE TEMPLE? WHO DOES IT REPRESENT? WHAT IS THE OIL A SYMBOL OF AND WHAT WAS GOD TRYING TO ILLUSTRATE?
3. THERE WAS A PRESENT APPLICATION FULFILLED IN ZERUBBABEL (VS.5-10) AND A FUTURE IMPLIED IN VERSES 11-14 WHERE THE PROPHET ASKS: "WHAT ARE THESE 2 OLIVE TREES?" WITH THE THE ANSWER: "THESE ARE THE 2 WHO ARE ANOINTED TO SERVE THE LORD OF ALL THE EARTH." IN THE LIGHT OF REVELATION 11:3-12, WHO MIGHT HE BE SPEAKING ABOUT AND WHEN?

2011-01-30T21:57:00.010-05:00

Zachariah 3:1-10 - CLEAN GARMENTS FOR THE HIGH PRIEST

A COURTROOM SCENE COMES INTO VIEW
THE HIGH PRIEST STANDS BEFORE THE LORD
HIS FILTHY CLOTHES OF NATIONAL SHAME
HAS GIVEN RISE TO SATAN'S BLAME.

A SUDDEN HUSH FILLS ALL THE ROOM
THE VERDICT'S WORD REVEALS THEIR GUILT
A RIGHTEOUS JUDGE MUST NOW DEMAND
THE FULL EXTENT THE LAWS COMMAND.

IN THEIR DEFENCE GOD TAKES HIS PLACE
AND SHOWS A LAMB TO FILL THEIR SPACE
THEN HE REBUKES THE SERPENT'S HEAD
BY LIFTING JUDAH FROM THE DEAD.

"REMOVE THOSE FILTHY GARMENTS NOW
FOR JOSHUA STANDS ON HOLY GROUND
I HAVE FORGIVEN ISRAEL'S SIN
AND FOR THEIR SAKE I WILL BE KING!"

THE PICTURE JOSHUA ILLUSTRATES
WITH EXCREMENT UPON HIS ROBES
REFLECTS IDOLATRY AND PRIDE
THAT JUDAH'S NATIONAL GUILT IMPLIED.

THE CALL WENT FORTH FOR ALL TO HEED
TO CLEANSE THEIR LIVES FROM EVIL DEED
SO WHEN THE TEMPLE WAS COMPLETE
ALL PRAISE WOULD CROWN HIS MERCY SEAT.

THEN JOSHUA AND HIS FELLOW PRIESTS
SYMBOLIC OF EMANUEL'S BRANCH
WILL BE A NATION BORN TO REIGN
THROUGHOUT MESSIAH'S WORLD DOMAIN.
--B. PENT

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. THE COURT ROOM SCENE FINDS JOSHUA REPRESENTING ISRAEL AS THEIR HIGH PRIEST WHILE STANDING BEFORE THE ANGEL OF THE LORD. WHAT PICTURE WAS MEANT IN JOSHUA'S FILTHY GARMENTS?

2. WHAT MEANING IS IMPLIED IN VERSE 2 Yahweh STATES: "iS NOT THIS MAN A BRAND PLUCKED OUT OF THE FIRE??

3. iN WHAT WAYS DO VERSES 1-4 PARALLEL GOD'S DEALING IN GRACE WITH US TODAY/ WHAT ASSURANCE AND HOPE DOES IT GIVE US?

4. WHAT DO CLEAN GARMENTS AND A CLEAN TURBAN ON JOSHUA'S HEAD REPRESENT FOR ISRAEL'S PRESENT AND FUTURE? NOTE A SIMILAR PICTURE GIVEN TO THE CHURCH TODAY FROM 1 PETER 5:4; 2 TIMOTHY 4:8; AND REVELATION 2:10.

5. WHO IS SYMBOLIZED BY THE BRANCH? WHAT DO THE SEVEN EYES ON A STONE REPRESENT? AND, WHEN IS THE TIME YAHWEH REMOVES "THE GUILT OF THIS LAND IN A SINGLE DAY? (VS.8-10)

2011-01-30T17:29:00.008-05:00

Zechariah 2:1-13 - The Man With A Measuring Line

A man with measuring line appeared
To mark the boundaries of His work
The prophet asked who he might be?
"The Branch! The incarnate Deity!"

Before this plot could be fulfilled
And Judah's king become revealed
A two-fold plan was put in place
A call to leave and walls to raise.

To leave the comforts of their home
Where Babylon seemed secure
Was not the place where God had planned
As His intended promised land.

The vision for the Temple built
With walls prepared on Zion's hill
Was God's intent to put in place
With promised blessings to embrace.

When Nehemiah felt God's call
To leave the king and build the wall
In fifty-two historic days
They were complete to Yahweh's praise.

But far beyond the present scope
The measuring line was meant to give
A greater goal for Israel's land
Although they did not understand.

"Shout and be glad!" declared the Lord
"You are the apple of my eye!
I will return as Judah's king
And nations will rejoice and sing!"
--B. Pent

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. According to Zechariah 6:12, who is the man with a measuring line? Why is he given that name?
2. The walls of Jerusalem lay in ruins until Nehemiah, some 140 years later, rebuilt them. Why does the angel tell Zechariah "Jerusalem will be
a city without walls?"
3. Two angels are involved in verses 1-5. What confusion might have arisen necessitating further explanation?
4. Since so few left the comforts of the Babylonian lie style to return to Judah, what warning does the Lord give in verse 6, and why?
5. The vision seems to indicate a forward leap into the distant future. What time frame are verse 10-13 speaking about and what comfort or assurance might that have given to the remnant living in Judah at the time?

2011-01-29T14:20:00.013-05:00

Zechariah 1:18-21 - The Four Horns & Four Craftsmen

The prophet looked and saw four horns
As nations rise to rule the world
He asked the angel who these were
"They scattered Jews throughout the earth."

The prophet Daniel saw the same
Four monstrous beasts rose from the sea
Babylon & Persia, Greece & Rome
Gentile powers til Christ's return.

A frightening sight at last appeared
A ten-horned monster looking weired
And from its head a little horn
The beast of Revelation born.

But then four craftsmen did arise
To terrify these national horns
They are the agents God had sent
Until all earthly rule is spent.

The first was Cyrus, Persia's king
Who conquered Babylon from within
Then Alexander ruled from Greece
Destroying Xerxes' ocean fleet.

The power of Rome where Caesar ruled
Crushed all the kings of Grecian fame
Yet from within corruption flowed
Until through time it did implode.

Then in the vision Daniel saw
Ten horns revived where Rome once stood
But to its feet of iron-clay
The "Rock" of Ages crushed its prey.

The final craftsman is that "Stone"
Where Christ will rule from Israel's throne
And all the kingdoms of this world
Will then confess that Christ is Lord.
--B. Pent

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. Whom do the "horns" in verses 19-20 represent and why is this symbol used?

2. "Horns" in Scripture represent "power" and "authority." What "power" is described in Daniel 7:8,11,20-21 and about whom is it speaking?

3. In Daniel 7:3, four "great beasts" are said to come out of the sea, each representing a different nation. Then in Daniel 8 he identifies two of them as a ram with two horns and a goat with one horn which later becomes 4 horns. Can you identify these Nations?

4. The "craftsmen" refer to divine agents used to destroy other nations. Daniel 2 describes the rise and fall of the four world empires. How and by whom were they destroyed?

5. During the time of the revived Roman Empire described by the feet of iron and clay, a final "agent" is seen toppling the last "horn." Who is it and how does that fit into our text?

2011-01-29T11:44:00.009-05:00

Zechariah 1:7-17 - The Man Among The Myrtle Trees

The curtain rises with a start!
A rider on a horse appears
And stands among some myrtle trees
Where other colored steeds are seen.

But who is he who stands alone?
And why do angel riders roam?
It is the Angel of the Lord
Whose word is like a piercing sword.

The sweating steeds had just returned
Patrolling earth's remotest end
And found the world at peace and rest
While Judah still remained oppressed.

Then in the valley of despair
A voice is heard in fervent prayer
As God the Son stands in their place
Imploring Yahweh for His grace.

The Lord spoke kind and loving words
With promises they would be heard
His Temple will again be raised
With Israel's shout: "the Lord be praised!"
--B. Pent

THOUGHT QUESTIONS

1. The first thing Zechariah sees is a rider on a red horse standing in a ravine (v.9). Who is this rider (v.11) and what might "the ravine" suggest
about where Israel found itself at this time?
2. What is a "christophany" and why would He appear as an angel and not man as indicated in John 1:14?
3. Since we are not told the meaning of these colored steeds (v.8b), what do the colored horses in Revelation 6:1-7 represent and might there be
some parallel? Do you wonder if perhaps they are the same? Why? or Why not?
4. Verse 12 pictures the Angel of the Lord praying to Yahweh on behalf of suffering Israel. We find a similar passage in John 17 between Jesus
and His Father. How should this encourage us during our times of greatest need?

2011-01-28T16:00:00.008-05:00

The Prophecy Of Zechariah
Zechariah 1:1-6 - A Call To Return To Yahweh

In vision clear the prophet saw
Invisible to man God's cosmic plan
Revealed in mystery's simple shapes
Ten awesome signs of global weight.

The drama on life's stage appeared
The sovereign Lord produced the plan
Four separate scenes before him passed
And then the Lord returned at last.

A call is heard before the start
"Return to Me with contrite heart
For Babylon's strength has been removed
And grace toward Judah is approved."

Then from the rubble-broken walls
Where once Shekinah's Glory dwelt
The angel's voice comes loud and clear
"He has remembered! He is here!"

The awful bondage from the past
Is now fulfilled as Yahweh said
So why is Israel in distress?
While Persia's rule gives nations rest?

The vision Zechariah saw
Outlines the course of Judah's call
To follow closely His command
Until with Christ they take their stand.

So gather round the prophet's stage
And watch this awesome sight unfold
For blessings fall on all who care
And from their hearts this message share.
--B. Pent

THOUGHT QUESTIONS
1. The three names: Zechariah; his father Berekiah; and grandfather Iddo together in Hebrew mean "Jehovah remembers and blesses in His time." What significance might these names have as they relate to the Book of Zechariah?

2. According to verse 4-6, what are some of the contributing factors which led to the Babylonian captivity?

3. Even after Cyrus urged the Jews to return to their homeland, why did so few leave and so many stay? Might it have something to do with
the comforts of Babylon or the broken down walls of Jerusalem? What do you think?

4. Verses 2 and 6b suggest that they were truly repentant of their past. What are some of the indication that they were returning to Yahweh?

2011-01-10T11:39:00.007-05:00

DECEPTIVE THOUGHTS

Deceptive thoughts that trick the mind
Like flies caught in a spider's web
Try hard to shake its silken grip
Before its venom finds its mark.

How troublesome this rude disguise
Intriguing lures that bate its prey
While offering music that delights
In tones discordant to the heart.

Yet in this net of hopelessness
Like blowing winds that blind the eye
The only path through desert storms
Is standing firm against the night.

When naked truth reveals its worth
Life's phantom thoughts will take their flight
And like a dance in springtime rains
The heart will rise to sing again.
--B. Pent

2011-01-04T11:11:00.008-05:00

THE CHURCH'S PRIORITY - I Thessalonians 2:17-20

Paul saw the Thessalonian Church as being on the cutting edge of service! The imminent return of Christ built a fire in their hearts as they served with passion and vision. They had their priorities in order. They became lights in a dark world. They were filled with passion and compassion.
I wonder what Paul would think of our churches today? What does God really desire for the church of the 21st century? Our text might help us to rediscover our priorities in the light of this new year and new decade.

I. Motivation For Kingdom Ministry - (vs.17-18)
Things were not perfect at Thessalonica. There were some who were gossiping, complaining and even some who refused to work because of Christ's imminent return. Like a nursing mother and a protective father he had helped them in their spiritual growth. His motivation was 2-fold:
1. Commitment - "out of our intense longing, we made every effort to see you"
We often tend to lose interest in serving Christ because of a lack of passion. Service from
selfish motives leads to lukewarmness. Paul not only had an "intense longing" but he
put forth "every effort." His priorities were right because his commitment was real. He
was committed to the will of God, the Word of God and the people of God. That must be
our motivation if we are to serve faithfully this new year!
2. Conflict - "but Satan stopped us"
With whole hearted commitment comes conflict! Paul kept up the fight even in the face
of opposition. The Enemy of our soul doesn't want us to serve Christ, so he will put every
possible obstacle in the way. What should be our response? First, we need to put on the
whole armour of God (Eph. 6:11-18) "with this in mind, be alert and always keep on
praying." Secondly, be aware of Satan's subtle trap (I Peter 5:8-9) and "resist him, standing
firm in the faith." Thirdly, remember it is "not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit
says the Lord Almighty" (Zach.4:6). He is our Victor and through Him we gain the victory!

II. Participation In Kingdom Ministry - (vs.19-20)
Too often we stop at motivation. God wants us to become participants; to get involved! Note
what happens as the process unfolds:
1. The Bridge Of Hope - Hope is built by following the will of God, living in the light of eternity,
and daily being filled with His Spirit (Eph.5:18). Hope is the certainty that God will fulfill
His promises. Involvement guarantees fulfillment of hope in His time.
2. Experiencing Real Joy - Joy is not only the "fruit of the Spirit" (Gal.5:22), but as we serve
together, Jesus promises "the one that sows and the one that reaps rejoice together"(John 4:36). Joy spelled out, reads: Jesus, Others, You!
3. Receiving The Crown Of Glory - Paul's real joy came from seeing people come to new life
in Christ. They were his crown of joy! But Scripture makes it clear that all those who
serve faithfully and love His appearing will receive the victor's crown.

Conclusion: The time is short! God has given us another year in which to serve. In the light of His soon return, I want to be found walking with Him; living for Him; serving Him. Together we can make a difference! That's my goal! Is it yours?

2010-12-29T15:40:00.004-05:00

THE NEW YEAR BEFORE US

The New Year stands before us
The signs speak loud and clear
The end-time is upon us
The choice you make is here.

The prophets tell of trouble
Of nations in distress
With war and famines growing
Of death and loneliness.

Ten nations, Daniel tells us
Will form a single head
And one will try to charm us
By rising from the dead.

The Beast will form a treaty
With Jews and Arabs, too
And all the world will wonder
"Can lasting peace be true?"

Then from the Temple throne
The anti-Christ will speak
As Armageddon forces
Around Jerusalem meet.

The sun will then grow dimmer
The moon will hide its face
As angels pour out judgment
Upon the human race.

A choice demands an answer
You cannot neutral be
It's either Christ or Satan
That marks your destiny.
--B. Pent

2010-12-18T16:15:00.003-05:00

GOD'S GIFT

A thousand gifts may come your way
To bring you joy this Christmas day
With brilliant lights around the tree
For every boy and girl to see.
Yet if you miss the One who came
No other joy is there to claim.

Sweet carols fill the ethereal sky
Like angel choirs once sang on high
With peace on earth to every man
The Christmas story fills the land.
Yet fear can only be a part
If Christ no longer rules the heart.

As busy shoppers seek to find
The perfect gift with love in mind
A voice breaks through life's empty space
"Give Christ a chance to fill its place."
For if you fail to crown Him King
There is no lasting peace within.

God's greatest gift came down to earth
So man can have redemption's birth
He is enough, so please take heed
Receive His Son, that's all you need.
Then you will find fulfilled in Him
Life's deepest joy without, within.
--B. Pent

2010-12-14T11:52:00.003-05:00

THE MYSTERY OF JOY

How vain man searches for a way
Through earthly toys that soon decay
And thinks these things bring happiness
Yet find, its only emptiness.

In every life a God-shaped void
Is built within the heart of man
So he can know down deep inside
Redeeming grace that will abide.

But joy is not made up of things
That bid one soar on eagle wings
The power is found in knowing Him
And helping others bound by sin.

The fruit of joy one can express
Is helping widows in distress
Or helping orphans find a home
So they no longer need to roam.

So as you seek help from above
Let Jesus fill you with His love
Then through the service you impart
Real joy will overflow your heart.
--B. Pent

2010-12-10T16:25:00.007-05:00

I WONDER AS I WANDER!

My thoughts move once again to this incomprehensible mystery! I follow the shepherds from Bethlehem's hillside after hearing the announcement by angels of Christ's birth. I try to comprehend a virgin birth as I look at Mary's new born son: deity and humanity interwoven. He had no halo or visible marks of divinity I am aware of. Just a normal baby who cried, drank mother's milk, burped and needed wiping several times a day. Yet, He was God incarnate who pre-existed from eternity past: spoke the universe into being; created the world and everything in it; and even pre-arranged His visit to planet earth.

The pungent smell of an animal shelter disturbs my thoughts. I would resent spending even one night there! Where was the eastern culture of hospitality for traveling strangers? Was there no righteous family in Bethlehem available? Yet, even more disturbing is that God was coming to visit earth and all we offer Him is a dung infested stable.

It's Christmas time again and its mystery still boggles reason. Why is our King in rags? What is this covering of flesh? What was God thinking when He sent Jesus into this sin-cursed world? I sure wouldn't have risked it! Would you?

I guess the wonder of it all is that He did come. Wrapped in this indescribable Gift Paul talks about in 2 Corinthians 9:15 is the one thing every person seeks: LOVE. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son" (John 3:16).

So I find myself once again metaphorically picturing God coming into this sinfully dung-infested heart of mine, cleaning it up, and living in it forever. Jesus stands at every heart's door and continually knocks (Rev.3:20) waiting for our response: "There is room in my heart for Thee!"

Why He chose me is a question I can't answer. That is what makes Christmas so mysterious to me. I am lost in the wonder of His grace as I continually rejoice in His great salvation. So should you be!

SIGNS OF MATURITY - I Thess.2:7-16

2010-12-04T15:33:00.003-05:00

"A dynamic Church is not built on soft seats and subdued light, but on strong courageous leadership; not tall towers with chimes and bells, but a lofty vision of its people; not big budgets, but big hearts; not what it has done in the past, but what it is doing now and is willing to invest for tomorrow."

The strength of today's Church must be visually seen in its equipped change-agents. The Thessalonian Church turned the world upside down because it was changed inside out! We seem to be spending more time on the outside than on the inside. We have beautiful structures for a church but anemic Christians to model after. The Thessalonian Christians became models because they saw themselves as participators, not just spectators.

What are the signs of a maturing people? Paul seems to indicate a three-fold stage in this passage:
I. The Childhood Stage - (vs.7-9) "as a mother caring for her little children"
Scripture is full of illustrations/metaphors of God's loving care for His children:
Isa.66:13, "as a mother comforts." Psalm 103:13, "as a father has compassion."
Ezek. 34:12, "as a shepherd looks after." Deut. 32:11, "as an eagle hovers over its young"
Matt.23:37, "as a hen gathers its chicks."

A new convert to Christ needs a lot of tender loving care. Note how Paul describes those
needs: gentle among you (v.7); caring like a mother with her children (v.7); loving to
share our lives (v.8); working night and day (v.9). Unfortunately, a large majority of
Christians are still in this infant stage. They need constant pampering; are looking for
an emotional high through music, preaching, worship; they are easily slighted and seem
to always move from church to church looking for self satisfaction.
II. The Adolescent Stage - (v.10-12) "as a father deals with his own child"
The metaphor of a father dealing with his child is a beautiful picture of a son or daughter
beginning to gain maturity in the Christian life. The adolescent is stronger, more
dependent, even taking some responsibility though he/she may have ups & downs.

The Thessalonians could see how the Apostle Paul and his staff lived. "You are witnesses
and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you" (v.10) Then
he urges them as a father would his children: "encouraging, comforting, and urging them
to live lives worthy of God who called them into his kingdom and glory" (vs12). The
sign of a maturing Christian is one who not only listens to instructions but puts them into
practice. James 1:22 states: "be doers of the word and not hearers only."

III. The Adult Stage - (vs.13-16) "you heard; you accepted; you became
imitators"
Paul bursts forth into praise for the progress these Thessalonians demonstrated as they
matured in faith: "we thank God continually because, when you received the word
of God....you accepted it" (v.13). Note how they demonstrated their faith:
1. They receive the Word of God - (v.13).
2. They Modeled the Word of God - (v.14)
3. They suffered for the Word of God - (v.14)
4. They shared the Word of God -
Where are you in your Christian walk? Are you maturing in your faith? God is looking
for growing, maturing Christians who model Christ likeness each day. Don't remain a
spiritual infant but as 2 Peter 3:18 reminds us, "grow in grace and in the knowledge
of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

2010-11-20T11:27:00.002-05:00

WHEN TRIALS COME

In every life some clouds will form
And tears may fall like summer rain
The questions that bring most distress
Are wounds that rob us of our rest.

The loss when we must say goodbye
To those we hold so very dear
And never have another chance
To bid farewell or give them thanks.

Yet far more painful are the words
That crush the spirit from a friend
Creating anguish and despair
When they no longer seem to care.

Is there a lesson we can learn
When uninvited trials come?
Is God concerned with my distress
As I walk through this wilderness?

His answer echoes loud and clear
He is conforming us to Him
So we can clearly point the way
To others who might go astray.

So don't forget when storm clouds come
God's promised rainbow will appear
And you will shine far brighter still
As you reflect His glorious will.
--B, Pent

2010-11-17T14:44:00.009-05:00

DEVELOPING A CARING COMMUNITY - (I Thess.2:1-9)

The Thessalonian Church was transformed by the message of God's redeemed grace in Christ. Paul, Silas and Timothy risked their lives in order to bring the gospel to them. Today's Church wants to avoid conflict! Involvement in ministry is relegated to the paid pastoral staff. But that was not the N.T. model! The world took note that these Christians exemplified authentic faith even under persecuted. They became a caring community . If the Church today is to rediscover this kind of community, at least three steps need to be taken.

I. AVAILABILITY -- (vs.1-2) "Our visit to you was not a failure"
A. It Takes Time - (v.1) "Our visit"
B. It Takes Risks - (v.2a) "we had previously suffered & been insulted"
1. They suffered severe scourging with a roman whip
2. Paul was a Roman citizen & according to their law should not have been whipped
3. At midnight, He and Silas sang in a Philippian jail after being scourged
C. It Takes Effort - (v.2b) "we dared to tell...in spite of strong opposition"
1. "Dared" means "boldness, courage"
2. "Opposition" (Gr.agon). It is a metaphor taken from the Olympic games & sport arena
Heb.12:2, "run with patience the race (agon)"
I Tim.6:12, "Fight the good fight(agon) of faith"
2 Tim.4:7. "I have fought a good fight(agon)"
II. CREDIBILITY -- (vs.3-6) "the appeal does not spring from
error or impure motives"
A. It Includes Integrity - (vs.3,5,6)
1. Not from error or impure motives- (v.3)
2. Trickery was not their method - (v.3)
3. They did not use flattery or a mask of greed - (v.5)
4. It was not for self-effort or praise - (v.6)
B. It Includes Sincerity - (v.4) "we speak as men approved by God...who tests our hearts"
1. Godward Sincerity
2. Inward sincerity
3. Outward Sincerity
III. ACCOUNTABILITY -- (vs.7-9) "we were gentle among you
like a caring mother"
A. Caring - (v.7) "we were gentle..like a caring mother"
1. The spirit of gentleness is part of the fruit of the Spirit - (Gal.5:23)
2. The spirit of tenderness as seen in a nursing mother
B. Sharing - (v.8) "not only the gospel but our lives as well"
C. Reaping - (v.9,19) "you remember our toil & hardships..you are our crown"
The lives of the Thessalonian Church were turned upside down because they were
transformed by the power of the Holy spirit. Their focus changed from themselves to
Christ. They modeled true Christianity. This same message needs to be implemented and
reintroduced in today's church if we are to develop a caring Community.

2010-11-12T10:15:00.003-05:00

LOVE'S MYSTERY

I do not understand the mystery of love
Nor do I claim to know what makes it bloom and grow.

Is love a Cupid's glance that sparks a gambler's chance?
Or is a touch to blame that sets the heart aflame?

Does marriage give a clue that seals a kiss for two?
Or is conjugal's embrace like soaring into space?

Love is more than simple words. Its actions form the frame
It gives without return and doesn't seek the same.

To really understand the mystery power of love
The spirit must embrace the fullness of God's grace.

It's through the death of Christ this priceless Gift was made
So sinful man could know His grace and peace below.

So if you really want to have this mystery love
Go to the One Who holds the key. He reigns above!

Then you will have a clearer view each day you live
Of mystery's grace so others know God's love below.
---B. Pent

2010-11-09T11:00:00.007-05:00

THE KING ETERNAL

O King Eternal on Your Throne
With contrite hearts we humbly bow
May holiness cleanse every part
So we may worship from our heart.

While lost in wonder of Your grace
We long to meet You face to face
So all the praise we lift on high
May bring You glory in reply.

How awesome is this hallowed place
Where from our spirits we embrace
Your holy presence here below
With hearts aflame our thanks to show.

So Holy Father, blessed Lord
And through the Spirit Triune One
May all we are or hope to be
Bring praise and glory unto Thee.
--B. Pent

THE EVIDENCE OF AN EMPOWERED CHURCH (I Thess.1:8-10)

2010-11-08T10:52:00.006-05:00

The Church of Thessalonica was both a "reflector" (v.5) and a "transmitter" (v.8) of the gospel. They had a faith which was Godward, a love which was outward, and a hope which was inward. Verse 8 tells us that "the Lord's message rang out." This word is only found here in the N.T. It is a metaphor that describes a "blast"of a trumpet or a "clap of thunder" that keeps reverberating.

Too often today's church is content to pay a staff to do the witnessing. In the New Testament Church, everyone was involved in sharing their faith. Their consistent walk with Christ authenticated the message they shared. There are three reasons for this:

I. THERE WAS A CHANGE IN DIRECTION - (v.9a)
The word "turned"(Gr. aorist tense) means "they turned once and for all."
A. They Turned To God - That is first step leading to salvation. Their turning to God
made them aware of their sinful condition. That made them aware that only through
Christ was salvation possible. Their lives were changed through faith in Him (2 Cor.5:17).

B. They Turned From Idols - The evidence of authentic Christianity is repentance. True
repentance leads to self-dethronement. Today's Christians too often want God along with
their idols. Is that authentic faith? A faith that doesn't demand repentance may be a bogus
faith. You may be religious but not truly born again.

II. THERE WAS A CHANGE IN PURPOSE - (v.9b)
Verse 3 stated that theirs was a "labour of love." Their service was prompted by love
A. They Had A New Master - "the living God" Their former master, Satan, kept them
enslaved by the idols of fear, retribution, habits, and death without hope. But when
they met their new Master, Jesus Christ, they were freed from the past, the present
and the future. Their lives drastically changed (2 Cor.5:17).

B. They Had A New Message - "the true God!" Their whole motivation changed because
they experienced authentic love. The gospel (1 Cor.15:3-4) is not only the power of God
unto salvation to everyone who believes, but it is that "love that constrains/motivates us"
(2 Cor.5:14) to share the gospel with our world.

III. THERE WAS A CHANGE IN FOCUS - (v.10) "wait for his Son from heaven"
The word "wait" means "to await someone with patience, confidence and anticipation."
Waiting involves activity and endurance. Some of the Thessalonian Christians quit work
and became lazy, inactive, and busybodies. In his second Letter Paul had to rebuke them
and strengthen their misinterpretation of that word "wait." Waiting doesn't mean quitting
or being lazy.
A. Jesus Must Be Central In Our Living - "Jesus whom he raised from the death"
He must be our focus if we are to win others to Christ. Its not about us, our church of
our programs. Its all about Him and for His glory alone.

B. His Coming Must Be Crucial In Our Serving - "wait for his son from heaven"
While waiting we pray and serve. His imminent return, out of love for Christ, must be our
incentive. But we must never forget that "the wrath to come" is the warning for those
who refuse His wonderful salvation. The "great commission" (Matt.28:19-20) call for
our involvement in His kingdom ministry.

2010-11-04T20:58:00.007-04:00

SHEKINAH GLORY

As we gather in Your presence
Pressed by cares this world imparts
May the fullness of Your Spirit
Drive life's burdens from our hearts.

Praises crown Your Throne with Glory
Where all darkness fades from sight
We lift holy hands before You
Bathe us in Shekinah Light.

O Eternal, Sovereign Master
Lord of all we crown You now
Fill these temples with Your power
As before Your presence bow.

Now in full and glad surrender
Offering praise we take our stand
Triune God in One proclaiming
Worship to the risen Lamb.
--B. Pent

THE MODEL TO FOLLOW (I Thess.1:4-7)

2010-11-04T14:36:00.004-04:00

Fall fashions are streaming into our Malls: the latest styles in dress, jackets, shoes & make up. The new TV series and movies introduce us to the latest flavors of sex, violence, and a thousand other doses of perversion to add to our corrupt society.

The Thessalonians lived in a fast moving society too! A constant stream of traffic flowed between Rome on the west, to Istanbul on the east as one followed the Egnatian Highway. This put Thessalonica in direct contact with many other important cities by land as well as by sea. It was one of the most important centers of population in Paul's day, occupying a strategic location both governmentally and militarily. Yet the world of that day is no different from our 21st century world. The real question as Christians is who or what will be our model for living?

I. The Purpose Of His Choice - (v.4) "But we know he has chosen you"
A. Salvation - "brothers, loved of God" means that His act of salvation frees us from the
the penalty of sin, from the power of indwelling sin as we daily yield to Him, and, one day
at His return, from the very presence of sin.

B. Security - "brothers, loved" denotes a spiritual relationship with God and others within
the Body of Christ. "Brothers" is mentioned 15 times in I Thess. (28 times in both Books)

C. Service - "he has chosen you" to bring forth fruit and praises to Him (I Pet.2:9; John 15:16)

II. The Power Of His Call - (v.5) "the gospel came in words, with power, in the Holy Spirit,
and with deep conviction"
A. The Power Of The Word - (Heb.4:12; 2 Cor.10:4-5)

B. The Power Of The World - (I John 2:15-17)

III. The Plan Of His Will - (v.6-7) "you became imitators of us and of the Lord"

A. Imitators - "mimites" means "to mimic, follow, imitate." Eph.5:1 "Be imitators of God
as dearly loved children." Paul wanted the church at Thessalonica to follow their spiritual
mentors. Spiritual mentors are those who consistently follow Jesus Christ.

B. Change Agents - "you welcomed the message with joy given by the Holy Spirit." Obedience
to God's Word results in Joy through God's Spirit.

C. Models - "you became models to all the believers." "Tupon" means "type, fashion, figure,
pattern, example." Titus 2:7 states, "showing yourself a pattern of good works." Christ is
and always will be the supreme Model for us to follow. The lime-light should never be
focused on a person, church or program. That leads to egocentricity. 2 Corinthians 4"18
reminds us that as we "behold Him, we are changed from one degree of glory to another,
even as by the spirit of the Lord." All glory and praise must be Christocentric. Its all
about Him and not about us. Are you truly modeling Him?

2010-10-24T17:45:00.005-04:00

I HAD A DREAM

I dreamed of you last night
I can't explain how scenes unfold
It was a strange mysterious sight
Like chasing phantoms through the night.

Your shadow passed my misty view
I tried to follow close behind
But soon your presence left my gaze
Like howling winds on fire's blaze.

By chance I heard the enchanter's voice
Who told where love and beauty hide
I followed hard to find its lair
With longing heart to find you there.

But dreams are only waking thoughts
When sunlight meets the dawn
Subconscious scenes proclaim their worth
Like movie pictures giving birth.

Yet if I fall asleep tonight
With shadows passing near my bed
I'll take a closer look for you
And pray to have my dream come true.
--B. Pent

SIGNS OF A HEALTHY CHURCH ( I Thess.1:1-3)

2010-10-22T09:48:00.003-04:00

The heart is a working marvel! It can keep on beating automatically even if all other nerves were severed. It beats 75 times a minute, 40 million times a year, 2 1/2 billion by age 70. That means that at each beat it discharges 4 oz. of blood, 3,000 gal. a day, 650,000 a year which is enough to fill more than 81 tank cars of 8,000 gal. each. A healthy heart = a healthy person.

The church of Thessalonica was a healthy church because it had a strong heart. It had a strong heart because it had a strong love for Christ. Their love became contagious because they modeled authentic Christianity. If God were to put His stethescope upon our churches today, how healthy do you think He would find us? Paul gives us 2 vital signs of a healthy church.

I. It Is A Church Of Praying People - (vs.1-2)

Having experience God's "grace and peace" as a church (v.1), Paul "thanks God" for all of them and continually "remembers them in prayer." True thanksgiving come from the overflow of a Spirit-filled life and a Spirit-filled life is the result of a prayer-filled life! Someone put it this way: "much prayer, much power. Little prayer, little power." One of the reasons for a spiritually luke-warming Church is that the "prayer-room" and "prayer-closet" are too often left empty. We organize but do not agonize in prayer! Prayer clarifies our focus, enlarges our vision, depens our concern, and produces Kingdom results. Paul will later close his Epistle with God's command to :"Be joyful always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances."

II. It Is A Church Of Caring People - (V.3)

People will not care how much we know until they know how much we care! The Church that prays is a Church that will develop caring people. Paul "continually remembered before the Lord" three characteristics reulting from this Spirit-filed Church:
1. They had a faith that worked - "your work produced by faith"
It was not a belief that was dead, barren or inaffective. It was a work that sprang from faith. Faith begins at spiritual birth (I Pet.2:2). The power of faith strengthens our walk (Col.2:6-7). The result of faith reproduces life (John 12:24; 15:16).
2. They had God's love to share - "your labor prompted by love"
"Labor" (kapos) means "painful exertion, toil, work beyond the call of duty." Love does not replace faith: it expresses it. It does not count the cost: it surpasses it. Love (agape) is not some sacrin, sentimental thing! God demonstrated His love toward us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us and that took God's only Son. While reading I Corinthians 13 try to match your love to God's standard and see where you stand. I sure come short by comparrison.
3. They had a hope that endured - "your endurance inspired by hope"
Someone expressed it this way: "hope climbs up the latter of love; looks out the window of faith and moves forward in the light of tomorrow." The Thessalonian Church was a healthy Church because their lives were built on prayer, faith, love and hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
These are things we need to rediscover and model personally and colectively as Kingdom saint.

Moments Of Reflection

2010-10-18T21:57:00.005-04:00

Tender moments find their meaning
In the little things you do
They're not found in noisy flatter
That too often prove untrue.

Gentle breezes of reflection
Lets the memory find a nest
For the many loving moments
That bring calm within my breast.

Often when the heart feels lonely
Walking down life's thorny path
One can almost hear you whisper
"Through all times my love will last."

So let thoughts of joyous memory
When by distance we're apart
Live in mystery's understanding
That you're always in my heart.
--B. Pent

The Book of Thessalonians

2010-10-17T18:29:00.006-04:00

Luke tells us in Acts 16:9 that Paul went to Macedonia in response to a call: "come over to Macedonia and help us." He, along with Silas, Timothy and Luke, first arrived at Philippi. Not long after their arrival, they were arrested on false charges, flogged and imprisoned. After an earthquake, the jailer, his family and staff were converted and Paul and Silas were released.

Not long afterwards they headed southwest about 100 miles to Thessalonica. Luke tell us in Acts 17:1-9 that a great revival broke out following their conversion which spread like a wildfire. A powerful church was established with an unprecedented world outreach.

Therssalonica was the chief seaport of Greece. The main Roman road from Rome to the Orient to Istanbul (Turkey) passed through this port city. It was called the Egnatian Way. This put them in direct contact with many other important cities by land and by sea.

Of further interest is that this city of some 200,000 was an ethnic mixture of Greeks, Romans, Oriental and Jews. In 42 BC the city received the status of a "free city" from Anthony and Octavian because the people helped them defeat Brutus and Cassius. "Free City" simply meant that they did not have Roman troops in their city, they minted their own currency and had their own senate and public assembly to govern over them. Today, Thessalonica is an important Industrial and commercial city in modern Greece.

Paul wrote Thessalonians in about 51AD from Corinth which was either his first or second epistle (Galatians may have been written a year or so earlier). The imminent return of Christ is one of the central themes of I Thessalonians. During the next few weeks I want to share some insights found in each chapter that is applicable and needful for the revitalization of today's Church in the light of His imminent return.

2010-10-10T17:03:00.003-04:00

TIME AND DISTANCE

Time and distance met one lonely day
To see what could be done about the sun
For shadows seemed to cross life's path
Too hurriedly for distant love to last.

A court convened to find a way
To solve life's mystery's interlude
That robbed life's distance from its time
By leaving broken dreams so far behind.

Opinions and objections grew
From love and hate to name a few
The former felt the pain within the heart
The later wanted time to be apart.

What can be done was heard its cry?
Can distance form a link with time
So memories past can form a nest
Within the shelter of its breast?

The sun responded in bright hope
"Though time and distance cannot change
Within the boundaries of the human heart
Two souls that beat as one can never be apart."
--B. Pent

2010-10-08T14:40:00.002-04:00

IF YOU LIVE TO BE 100,
I HOPE I LIVE TO BE 100
MINUS ONE DAY,
SO I NEVER HAVE
TO LIVE WITHOUT YOU.
--Winnie the Pooh

2010-10-08T14:31:00.002-04:00

A FRIEND IS ONE THAT KNOWS YOU AS YOU ARE,
UNDERSTANDS WHERE YOU HAVE BEEN,
ACCEPTS WHAT YOU HAVE BECOME,
AND STILL GENTLY ALLOWS YOU TO GROW.
--William Shakespeare

DRIFTING

2010-09-15T13:54:00.006-04:00

I felt so strong and full of hope
The future seemed so free from stress
When suddenly a storm cloud formed
That robbed me of its peace and rest.

It was so subtle at the start
The winds of change that blew my way
Had left me drifting by the tide
Without a compass or a Guide.

Despair gave way to helplessness
As waves of doubt tore me apart
I could not reach the shore alone
Until He saw my pleading heart.

Then side by side with arms of strength
Through grace He drew me back to shore
And like an anchor to my soul
There is no drifting any more.
B. Pent

NEVER EVER GIVE UP IN LIFE

2010-09-04T15:24:00.000-04:00

EDEN

2010-08-20T14:05:00.008-04:00

How beautiful the flowers bloomed on Eden's brow
The lion feeding with the lambs together grew
And perfect peace became the pledge for all to see
God's awesome glory and eternal majesty.

No virgin love could ever match two hearts that day
As heaven's Presence followed them at work or play
The Tree of Life whose leaves brought healing to all men
Gave Paradise one glorious hue of color blend.

But pride began to question freedom's right to choose
The Serpent's plan apart from God seemed better news
So in the course of time the fruit to make one wise
Became the sting of death that caught man by surprise.

But why this veil of night so cloaked in haunting fears
Would man exchange God's righteousness for mortal tears?
It was the price that disobedience had to pay
That formed this chasm touching every man today.

Yet from the ashes of despair the Lamb was slain
To bridge this separation from sin's crimson stain
So while He calls for you to meet Him face to face
Receive this priceless Gift of God's redeeming grace.
--B. Pent

THE GOSPEL OF ISAIAH

2010-08-18T11:51:00.004-04:00

The Book of Isaiah is a miniature Bible. It has 66 chapters and the Bible has 66 Books. Isaiah is divided into two parts, so different that scholars have concluded there must have been two Isaiahs. The Bible is also divided into two parts.

There are 39 chapters in the first part of Isaiah, corresponding to the 39 books of the Old Testament; 27 chapter in the latter part of Isaiah, corresponding to the 27 books of the New Testament.

The first 39 chapter of Isaiah speak of sin, condemnation, judgment and restoration and the OT speaks of sin, condemnation, judgment and restoration. The latter part of Isaiah speaks of redemption, the redeemed and the Redeemer. The NT also speaks of redemption, the redeemed and the Redeemer.

Now, if there are 27 chapter in the latter part of Isaiah, that means there is a central chapter (an odd number always indicated a central number) and that is the 53rd. Christ and His work occupy the central place in the latter part of Isaiah and Christ and Him crucified occupies the central place in the New Testament. The latter part of Isaiah starts with a voice crying in the wilderness (chpt.40); and the NT starts with a voice crying in the wilderness (John the Baptist).

In the latter part of Isaiah there are two chapters starting with the word "who:" the 53rd and 63rd. The 53rd is all about Christ's first coming and what He came to do; the 63rd is all about His second coming and what He is coming to do: to judge. The New Testament likewise tells of Messiah's first coming as Redeemer and later He explains His coming to judge the earth.

There are two chapter starting with the letter "C," the 40th and the 58th. The 40th chapter and verse 1 starts, "Comfort, comfort, my people, says your God." The 58th chapter and verse 1 states, "Shout it loud, do not hold back, raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to my people their rebellion and to the house of Jacob their sins." Thus, Scripture is both a comfort and encouragement to those who diligently seek Him and a warning of wrath to come for those who neglect so great a salvation.

Star Spangled Banner 7 yr old most incredible singer

2010-08-14T16:28:00.000-04:00

THE SILENT SCREAM

2010-08-07T13:40:00.002-04:00

I woke up in hell a few moments ago
Silent screams pouring from my terror-filled soul
The doctor's assured me that all had gone well
So why all this torment of demons from hell?

I noticed my family in stark unbelief
As news reached their ears of my sudden decease.
No plans for the future had ever been made
Now only wild flowers grow over my grave.

I lived for the good things in life to be had
And really didn't think I was doing too bad
Repentance from sin was an old fashion trick
The church had in mind to disturb me when sick.

But now only memories are left to reflect
The voices of warning are haunting me yet
Across from this chasm the knock still is heard
As Jesus still pleads to respond to His Word.

I have an appointment before The White Throne
There's no second chance for my sin to atone
The debt of my guilt Christ had offered to pay
Are the tormenting chains I must carry for aye.
--B. Pent

ARE YOU RUNNING ON EMPTY?

2010-08-04T10:33:00.007-04:00

It was 9:30pm Sunday night, July 3rd! We left Colorado with all our kids, gear and a tank full of gas. I wanted to reach Lincoln, NE. early enough to have breakfast before continuing our trip to St. Paul, MN. where we would spend the night before heading to our vacation home in the UP.

Since Ogallala to Lincoln is a long, boring drive, surrounded by fields on either side, traveling at night while the kids are asleep, seemed the most logical. There is something nostalgic and almost surreal, listening to classical music while driving during the wee hours of the morning.

My full enjoyment of the trip was quickly interrupted sometime after 4am when the amber light on the dash reminded me that I was low on fuel. I didn't panic at first because gas stations have plenty and one couldn't be that far away! Or so I thought! But this was July 4th and between 4 and 5am most places were closed. What could I do if I ran out of gas? The longer I waited and the longer I drove without a gas station in sight, the more tense I became.

I prayed! Confession, panic, fear and pleading became my mantra! I needed a miracle! When the amber light showed that I was below empty, I got off the highway and followed a gravel road running parallel to it. By this time everyone in the car was awake; even the fumes from the tank couldn't carry us any further! I was flat out of gas! The car came to a complete stop near a crossroad.

A half mile away, I could see a farmhouse with a light on! I prayed I could get just a gallon of gas. From the lighted second floor window the farmer poked his head out asking what I wanted. I explained my predicament and with deep humility pled for a gallon or two of gas. When he came down to meet me, he said "follow me." He walked me to his garage, opened a large sliding door, and in wonderment I gazed at a Standard Oil Truck. He said, "I service all the surrounding gas stations." He backed up the truck, told me to hop in, and drove to where my car sat. Instead of a gallon or two of gas, he filled it up to the brim and before long we were happily on our way praising God for what He had done.

I've often reflected on that experience! At times I feel empty spiritually looking for just a gallon or two of God's blessing, when suddenly He calls out and says, "follow Me!" Then He opens the windows of heaven and in obedience to the command to "be filled with the Spirit" (Eph.5:18), He says: "whoever believes in me, streams of living water will flow from within him" (John 7:38) He wants to give us more than a gallon or two of blessing! He longs to fill us to the brim! Let this be our constant prayer: "This the secret of the holy, not our holiness but Him. Jesus! empty us and fill us, with Thy fullness to the brim."

CHEAP GRACE

2010-07-13T11:11:00.004-04:00

Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, communion without confession, absolution without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate. Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again, the gift which must be asked for, the door at which a person must knock. Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs us our life, and it is grace because it gives us the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of God's Son: "you were bought at a price," and what has cost God much, cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon God's Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us. Costly grace is the Incarnation of God.
(copied from A year with Deitrich Bonhoeffer, p.209)

NO CONDEMNATION

2010-07-08T12:14:00.004-04:00

Condemned! I stood before the Judge in fear
His gavel bringing silence to the Court
The sentence for the broken Law was given
In horror I fell prostrate to the floor.

I pled to have my case somehow commuted
For deeds of charity that I had done
Then tried to show my deep religious fervor
By all the accolades that I had won.

But when His blaze of Glory fell upon me
There was no scale of measure to compare
For sin polluted all my human nature
And only filthy rags as proof to wear.

Then suddenly the weight of hell engulfed me
I could not look upon His holy face
But from a broken heart I cried for mercy
And from His throne there flowed redeeming grace.

The Judge stepped down and taking off His garments
The sinless Son of God in human flesh
Stood in my place before His Court of Justice
And paid the fullest price for all my sin.

So now in Christ there is no condemnation
Loves greatest sacrifice is all-complete
Praise floods my soul with love and adoration
And through the ages worship at His feet.
--B. Pent

AMERICA IN THE BALANCE

2010-07-01T18:08:00.005-04:00

At about the time our original 13 States adopted their new Constitution, in the year 1787, Alexander Tyler (a Scottish history professor at The University of Edinburgh) had this to say about "The Fall of The Athenian Republic" some 2,000 years prior."

"A democracy is always temporary in nature; it simply cannot exist as a permanent form of government. A democracy will continue to exist up until the time that voters discover that they can vote themselves generous gifts from the public treasury."

"From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates who promise the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that every democracy will finally collapse due to loose fiscal policy, (which is) always followed by a dictatorship."

"The average age of the world's greatest civilizations from the beginning of history has been about 200 years. During those 200 years, these nations always progressed through the following sequence:
From bondage to spiritual faith;
From spiritual faith to great courage;
From courage to liberty;
From liberty to abundance;
From abundance to complacency;
From complacency to apathy;
From apathy to dependence;
From dependence back into bondage."
(Source unknown)

FEELING BETRAYED

2010-06-23T15:36:00.005-04:00

I'm torn apart, so full of pain
Its arrows shatter all my dreams
My heart is filled with bitter shame
I feel betrayed while given blame.

The anger that disturbs my rest
Has made all trust a distant friend
And like a ship that's lost at sea
Its waves are crashing down on me.

Why did this jagged cross appear
Inflicting so much pain and tears?
Is this the price that I must pay
For following Jesus every day?

Tis then I hear the Shepherd's voice
While clinging to His nail-scared hands
"It is My cross you're called to bear
It is My love you're called to share."

So from the ashes of my grief
The Potter forms a vessel rare
And yielding to His will I find
The Treasure that He has in mind.
--B. Pent

FEELING FREE

2010-06-18T10:31:00.001-04:00

I was born in sin's dominion
Held a captive by the Foe
Prison bars were my companions
Dark and dreadful, full of woe.

Cruel the master that enslaved me
Fear became my dreaded chains
While the auctioneer gave orders
To be sold for piteous gains.

Then amidst the frenzied bidding
There appeared the Son of Man
With the highest price as payment
His own blood, redemption's plan.

Suddenly the doors swung open
As the fetters loosed their grip
I ran out and fell before Him
Freed from Satan's horrible pit.

Then He called me to His family
As a dear beloved son
Now by grace I stand forgiven
Through my Lord, the risen One.

Praises fill my inmost being
Once a captive now set free
Glorious is my Lord and Master
I am His eternally.
--B. Pent

THE VALLEY OF DEATH

2010-06-14T13:26:00.000-04:00

Cliff was in a comma! The tubes throughout his body gave evidence that cancer was claiming his life. The family knew it was only a matter of time!

As a boy, Cliff had attended our Sunday School. But Christ was not a part of his growing up years. Later, his job, family and sports took up most of his time. Then cancer struck! Surgery, radiation and chemo did little to stop its progress.

When I got the call to see him , I felt helpless! While driving to his bedside I prayed for an opportunity to share Christ. Miraculously, he awoke! I explained God's plan of salvation. While doubting God's mercy so late in life, I told him of the penitent thief crucified beside Jesus who cried: "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom" and He answered, "today you will be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:42-43).

After inviting Christ into his life, an unspeakable radiance and peace came over him. Later that night, he went to be with Lord and his memorial service was one of celebration and victory.

If there is any doubt you are outside of God's mercy, His promise is the same to you as it was to that thief on the cross. His promise is guaranteed! But you must decide before you walk through the valley of death.

FEELING DISAPPOINTMENT

2010-06-09T17:59:00.000-04:00

There are times in life we carry
Disappointments and distress
And we try to find its meaning
During days of loneliness.

When a pledge for life together
Finds loves dream walk out the door
Bitter anguish knows no measure
As in death, life is no more.

If your dearest friend has failed you
And its tearing you apart
Or you feel you've been forsaken
There's one Friend that won't depart.

You are not alone this journey
These sharp thorns that mark your path
Are like those He bore on Calvary
To prepare you for life's task.

So when disappointments tempt you
To give way to bitterness
Look to Christ the source of comfort
He'll bring joy and happiness.
--B. Pent

CHARACTER AND REPUTATION

2010-06-03T10:27:00.000-04:00

Abraham Lincoln stated: "character is like a tree and reputation like its shadow. The shadow is what we think of it; the tree is the real thing." Character is what a person is on the inside. Like the backbone in the body, character is the spinal column of the will. Originally, the word "character" signified a sharp pointed instrument or engraving tool. It is like a sharp scalpel in a surgeon's hand.

When James asks: "can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs?" (James 3:12) he was linking character to conduct. In other words, the quality of character will be reflected in the quality of our conduct. Just as a good tree is judged by the kind of fruit it produces, so Christian character is measured by the way we live.

Daniel was snatched from his home and placed in a godless environment. Yet the influence of a permissive Babylonian society did not tarnish his character. He resolved not to defile himself (Daniel 1:8). Honesty and integrity were the hallmarks of his character.

What makes the difference? It is the quality of character that is God centered. James states: "who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom" which results in "a harvest of righteousness" (James 3:13,18). Let Christ shine through your character and a harvest of "fruit" will result!

2010-05-30T16:04:00.000-04:00

"MANY PEOPLE WILL WALK
IN AND OUT OF YOUR LIFE,
BUT ONLY TRUE FRIENDS
WILL LEAVE FOOTPRINTS
ON YOUR HEART"
--Eleanor Roosevelt

FEELING AFRAID

2010-05-28T22:13:00.000-04:00

The winds of change are moving in
Like oozing spills of toxic waste
Our virgin shores destroy its prey
Polluting lands where children play.

The courts have now become like gods
Whose laws no longer stand for truth
Where innocence is bathed in shame
And those who murder feel no blame.

The bitter cries of those unborn
Are ripped apart and left to die
And then we wonder what is wrong
Our Nation is no longer strong?

Just look around both far and near
Our streets are full of drugs and fear
With guns in school, with sex and crime
And so few live with peace of mind.

The prophet sounds a red alert
That judgment lies within our gates
But hardened hearts respond in scorn
Still looking for Utopia's morn.

So weep and wail the time has come
God's bowl of wrath is soon to flow
But only those who fear His name
Will find escape from judgment's blame.
--B. Pent