Posts from May 2025

Download the PDF Luke 24:44-53, often read during the celebration of the Ascension of Jesus, describes the final moments of Jesus with his disciples before his departure to heaven. In this passage, Jesus reminds his followers of what he had taught them about himself and the scriptures, emphasizes their role as witnesses, and then ascends into heaven.  Key themes and interpretations: Jesus explains to his disciples that his suffering, death, and resurrection were the fulfillment of scriptures, particularly those concerning the Messiah. …

May 21, 2025 I am one who loves the Spring Season. I rejoice in the appearance of buds on the trees, in my perennials poking their heads from beneath the earth and in the grass getting greener and greener with each rainfall. I had work done on a small garden in my front yard and was very pleased with the end result. It is now a fertile, raised flower bed where my hostas and standard hydrangea’s roots have lots of…

Download the PDF Acts 11:1-18 narrates Peter’s defense to the Jerusalem church regarding his actions towards Gentiles, particularly the baptism of Cornelius and his household in Caesarea Maritima. Peter recounts the vision he had in Joppa (Acts 10) where he was commanded to eat unclean foods, symbolizing that God was removing the distinction between Jews and Gentiles. He explains that the Holy Spirit fell upon the Gentiles, just as it did on Jews, demonstrating God’s acceptance of them. This event was met with initial…

Download the PDF John 15:9-17 emphasizes the importance of loving one another as Jesus loved them, highlighting this as a key aspect of discipleship and a source of abundant joy. It also underscores the concept of Jesus choosing his disciples for a specific purpose, to “go and bear fruit,” and the promise that their prayers, made in Jesus’ name, will be answered.  Here’s a more detailed breakdown: Jesus commands his followers to love one another, mirroring the love he has for them,…