Seasons in Life written by Zane Crossen

Seasons in Life

Ecclesiastes 3:1-11
1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;
3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.
9 What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?
10 I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it
11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.

Life revolves around seasons, seasons of change both comfortable and uncomfortable. As Christians, we are not overcome by these hard seasons in life because we have our trust in God. Thinking to the life of David, he went from a Sheppard boy to a servant of the king and then became a fugitive on the run. Throughout this process of him running from King Saul, God was rooting out the Saul in David’s own heart.

There comes a time when David finally understands and comes to a place where he no longer has a “Saul” in his own heart. But God was not finished because as David kept running, God was rooting out the desire for “Saul” in Israel. Our lives are not our own but we have been bought with a price. Throughout our life, God might place us in seasons of comfortable and uncomfortable.

It is important that we are sensitive and ask God what he is wanting with our life for this current season. In this season of life right now, remember that this is not forever but just a moment. It will end and there will be a new season that comes and brings us back to where God wants us to be. 

Day 8 | CAC Easter Devotional | Comfort Others

John 20:1-8 

1 The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.
2 Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him.
3 Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre.
4 So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre.
5 And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in.
6 Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie,
7 And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself.
8 Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed.
9 For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.
10 Then the disciples went away again unto their own home.
11 But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,
12 And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain.
13 And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.
14 And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.
15 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.
16 Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master.
17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.
18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her.

Mary came to visit Jesus as soon as she could. Mary experienced the miraculous things that He did in her life and was forever changed. Changed to the point that she could not stand to be without Him.

The scripture says she came early when it was yet dark. Most of us hardly ever wake before the light and when we do most usually it is for a job or school. 

What a deep need for Christ she reflected. Sometimes we have to deny our own flesh and seek after Jesus. In the uncomfortable times early in the morning setting other things aside to seek Him. 

When Jesus revealed Himself to Mary, she was brought great comfort and assurance. Jesus charged her to go share the good news with the disciples. When God comforts us, it is with this design, that we may comfort others. 

You know the goodness of God when you have truly experienced an encounter with Jesus. You have the beautiful opportunity to share this with others. Not to hold others accountable for not having the same knowledge you have. Jesus wants His people to share His goodness. 

This Easter, we as a church have gone through so much. Adjusting to online services, trial and error as we battle with technology. A storm causing unbelievable damage to our physical building, and so many of our own homes. Saints in our church going without power for days and families still trying to adjust to this “new normal.” 

But Jesus is still the same, His promises are still the same. The same God that died on a cross and rose again, is alive today. We have a wonderful opportunity to share with souls the goodness of God. 

We are the church, we are the body of Christ, and we need to be running from the grave to the lost souls of this world. Telling them our God is ALIVE! He is able to heal, He is able to repair, and He is a provider!

Prayer: Jesus lead me today. Lead me to the soul you would like for me to share your goodness with. Help me to hold fiercely to mercy and grace and greet others with your forgiveness. Help me to remember every blessing you have put in my life and share this with others. Help me to live a life that is a walking testimony to you. 

Day 7 | CAC Easter Devotional | He is not here!

He is not here!

Matthew 28: 1-10
1 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.
9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
10 Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.

In the scriptures of Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, and John 20, we see a glimpse of the followers of Christ between his death and when he reveals himself again. It is a moment where those who know Jesus are confronted by the natural limitations of the human mind.

Jesus had performed many miracles before his followers. However, here we are after the crucifiction and he isn’t here. The women in these scriptures went to the tomb to pay respects to Christ’s death. They went to honor what had died, and grieve over the loss. Most commonly, the death of Christ is associated with our death to sin and selfish desires of the flesh. However, it represented so much more than the old life and what was in the past to these disciples. Christ was a representation of Hope and Love. He was their connection to healing, council, and provision. When Christ died, it represented not just what had changed in their old life, but what they were living for in the future. Limited by human understanding, they returned to pay respects to what ended in the tomb. 

We as people who know God, often find ourselves in a place of loss in life. It doesn’t work the way we imagined. We sometimes watch our hope and everything we live for be brutally crushed and seemingly destroyed. It is in these times we can head toward the tomb of loss and memorialize what was and what could have been. In confusion caused by our earthly view, we can turn towards sorrow and hopelessness. Grieving we can often go to a place where Jesus isn’t at. 

They angel at the tomb, told them “he is not here.” He went on to remind them, Jesus had already spoken about this moment. The angel quoted, “for he has risen as he said.” Jesus wasn’t in what was seemingly lost. He wasn’t in hopelessness and crushed dreams. He had promised there was something greater to come, and he had followed through on his part. We have to remind ourselves, no matter what we see and even if we do not understand, we can always know Jesus is moving on to something far greater. We cannot go back and grieve over what we seemingly lost, as much as it seems to be the only thing to do. We must cling to hope and the promises of God. He will never leave us nor forsake us. His words are always true. God isn’t in the past, or your mistakes, or the tomb of your crushed dreams. It is simply what he used for you to access something greater. 

Prayer: God help me not to lean to mine own understanding. Help me not to go back and mourn over what I feel like has ended and is passed away. Help me to look forward and find You through my faith and hope in the promises of your word. Help me to resist the temptation to look through my limits and instead look through your limitless power.

Day 6 | CAC Easter Devotional | Good Friday

Good Friday

Imagine last night our Savior was praying in the garden when soldiers arrested Him and put Him in jail. That same night His disciple Peter denied Him, Jesus, three times while warming himself by the fire. The sun has slowly risen on this Good Friday, to reveal that Jews have summoned the death of Jesus. 

John 19 
1 Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him. (scourged is to whip)
2 And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and they put on him a purple robe,
3 And said, Hail, King of the Jews! and they smote him with their hands. (smote is to hit)
4 Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in him.
5 Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man!
6 When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, Crucify him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify him: for I find no fault in him.
7 The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law he ought to die, because he made himself the Son of God.
8 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid;
9 And went again into the judgment hall, and saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou? But Jesus gave him no answer.
10 Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee?
11 Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
12 And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him: but the Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not Caesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar.
13 When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, Gabbatha.
14 And it was the preparation of the passover, and about the sixth hour: and he saith unto the Jews, Behold your King!
15 But they cried out, Away with him, away with him, crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar.
16 Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led him away.
17 And he bearing his cross went forth into a place called the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha:
18 Where they crucified him, and two other with him, on either side one, and Jesus in the midst.
19 And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And the writing was Jesus Of Nazareth The King Of The Jews.
20 This title then read many of the Jews: for the place where Jesus was crucified was nigh to the city: and it was written in Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin.
21 Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write not, The King of the Jews; but that he said, I am King of the Jews.
22 Pilate answered, What I have written I have written.
23 Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part; and also his coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top throughout.
24 They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be: that the scripture might be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them, and for my vesture they did cast lots. These things therefore the soldiers did.
25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.
26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!
27 Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.
28 After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst.
29 Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put it to his mouth.
30 When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
31 The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.
32 Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with him.
33 But when they came to Jesus, and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs:
34 But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.
35 And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true: and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe.
36 For these things were done, that the scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken.
37 And again another scripture saith, They shall look on him whom they pierced.
38 And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus.
39 And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight.
40 Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury.
41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid.
42 There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.

It is hard to imagine such hate that would drive men and women to cry out “crucify Him!” For some maybe they understood not the words they were screaming. Maybe there were children in the crowd who were diligently watching the actions of their mother and father. Fear can cause some of the most unbelievable things to happen in our minds. 

It was our sin that killed Jesus. It is possible that they, the jews, were afraid of this man Jesus who was diligently declaring the truth. He stood for truth until the very moment of His death because He wanted us to have access to freedom, true freedom. 

There is a very real fear in our world today. We know our Savior is going to rise in three days. We know this promise is coming and yet sometimes our minds cannot grasp we are safe. 

Today on this good friday take a moment and grieve the things you may have lost during this pandemic. Perhaps you or a spouse has lost a job. Your child may not be having a graduation ceremony and finishing their school year with their friends. Possibly a pay cut has entered your home, and even the fear of losing your job, in general, is ever-present.

Take a moment and let your soul grieve. Just like the disciples did on Friday night watching their Savior die on a tree. Maybe a family member is sick and you can’t visit them. Take a moment and grieve. Maybe a friend has received devastating news. Take a moment and grieve.

Maybe the weight of this world is pushing slowly on you and you can feel yourself slipping into anxiety, depression, and doubt. 

Take a moment and grieve. Jesus desperately wants to hear from you. He wants to hear the cries of his people. The Bible assures us when the people cry out He will hear their prayers. 

So pray today. If it is a prayer of sorrow from a heart that is so desperately hurt it's okay, Jesus wants to hear from you. If the storm two nights ago shook your soul once again, tell Jesus. Resist the spirit of fear knocking on our doors and prayer for the spirit of God to enter your home like never before. 

"Jesus did not die on the cross just so we could live comfortable, well-adjusted lives. His purpose is far deeper: He wants to make us like himself before he takes us to heaven. This is our greatest privilege, our immediate responsibility, and our ultimate destiny.” ~ Rick Warren

Day 5 | CAC Easter Devotional | Suffering

John 13:21-32
21 When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.
22 Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.
23 Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.
24 Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake.
25 He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?
26 Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon.
27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.
28 Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.
29 For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.
30 He then having received the sop went immediately out: and it was night.
31 Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him.
32 If God be glorified in him, God shall also glorify him in himself, and shall straightway glorify him.

When the disciples first started following Jesus He was always pointing them towards one specific moment. The time when Christ would be betrayed only to rise from suffering in a miraculous way that He would be glorified. When Jesus spoke to them and shared that He would be betrayed by someone sitting at this intimate setting this dinner a time usually dedicated to laughter, joy, and fellowship. The disciples were shocked they looked at one another frantically. They could not imagine someone in this room would betray Jesus. 

Jesus knows us better than we know ourselves. The scripture is very adamant to say Jesus was “troubled” in His spirit. Jesus did not enjoy the reality one of His followers was going to sin. God does not delight in our sin but rather it grieves Him deeply. He knows what we are doing will only lead to a separation between you and Him.

This is what drove Christ to the cross knowing He alone had the power to remove the physical separation between us and the spirit of God. True forgiveness true freedom was right on the other side of the Cross. On the Cross was a glorious victory over satan and all the powers of darkness. Christ knew very soon He would triumph over evil. Death would be defeated. The blood that would be shed would bring a fountain of joy and blessing to God’s people. Jesus loves souls and this love drove Him to the cross to endure suffering to destroy the old law and live a life manifested in holiness and mercy. 

Today is a wonderful day to seek a commitment with Christ, to ask for forgiveness, and pursue a relationship with our Savior. Jesus already knows the sin we have committed, He knew our mistakes before they ever happened and yet He still loves us unconditionally. 

Prayer: Jesus I trust in your power to forgive every one of my mistakes. You know me better than I know myself and I trust the things you are bringing into my life even if they are suffering, heartache and pain. They are removing things in my heart you cannot abide with. I want you to live inside me and guide my life.

Day 4 | CAC Easter Devotional | Be Served

Be Served

John 13

1 Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.
2 And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him;
3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God;
4 He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.
5 After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
6 Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet?
7 Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.
8 Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.
9 Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.
10 Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all.
11 For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean.
12 So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?
13 Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.
14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.
15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.
17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

As we look at the story of Jesus in John 13, we see Him once again using cultural and traditional customs to illustrate His point. In this story, Jesus gets up from the table after supper, girds himself as a servant, and begins to wash the disciples’ feet. This was not unusual to have your feet washed as a guest. This was to cleanse the dust and dirt you had been exposed to from the roads on your journey. This act was typically done by a servant, not a peer, and especially not a superior teacher or respected leader. However, Jesus wanted to set an example for his disciples to be able to carry on his ministry after he was crucified.

At first, we like Peter, view this event through traditional eyes and are prone to resist such an act. We would never let someone we looked up to and respect stoop to any level and serve us in such a way. However, Jesus rebuked this attitude. He went as far as to say, if you do not let me serve you, you will have no part in me. It is obvious from the text, this was about spiritual things. Jesus was saying, if we do not acknowledge our need for Him to cleanse us, we will not be able to have the benefits of the relationship with him.

Christ came to this earth and humbled himself to the embarrassment of the crucifixion. He suffered death, to cleanse us from our sins or the filth of this world and make a way for us to enter into a relationship with Him. We have to understand we need the cleansing power of the Cross and his death to serve us. It can be humiliating and even make us feel disrespectful when we consider the underserved Mercy and Grace given to us by the Creator of the universe. Jesus is very clear throughout His word unless we partake in His death on the cross, we will have nothing to do with Him. If we want a relationship and the promises of God, we need to let His Spirit wash over us and cleanse us of the filth of sin and this world.

So we, like Christ have to, in turn, serve in humility those who need the light of this world to shine out of us and lead them to Christ. If we see ourselves through the lenses of social status, judgment, and pride, we will never be able to reach those who are covered in the debris and filth from this world. How can you accept the cleansing of the Spirit of God as He exposes our need for Him, and mirror His grace and mercy by serving others who need to be in relationship with Him?

Prayer: God, help me not be so prideful that I would resist the exposing of my dirtiness by the Spirit. Do not let me be so self-righteous that I would not see my need for you. Help me to apply the Cross to my life by repentance, baptism, and the receiving of your Spirit to be in a relationship with you. Help me to mirror your grace and mercy as I serve others for your Kingdom.

Day 3 | CAC Easter Devotional | Seek Him

Seek Him 
John 12:20-36
20 And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast:
21 The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.
22 Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus.
23 And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.
24 Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
25 He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
26 If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
27 Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour.
28 Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.
29 The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him.
30 Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes.
31 Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.
32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
33 This he said, signifying what death he should die.
34 The people answered him, We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? who is this Son of man?
35 Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.
36 While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them.

It is never made known how these Greek men heard of Jesus. Possibly from the many miracles, he performed or they may have heard Him speak previously in His ministry. It should not go unnoticed that they came to see Jesus. 

The importance is not in who they are, but instead that the moment they knew of this man Jesus they made the decision to seek Him. They wanted to see this Man who opened blinded eyes, rose the dead back to life, and restored people over and over again. 

Verse 26 Jesus says to his disciples “if any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, Him will My Father honour” 

Jesus knew that in just a few short days “the prince of this world” the devil would be cast out. The veil which once separated man from God would be torn and we would have access to forever live with Him. The challenge is we must live in the light. We must live in the light of truth, operate out of this light, and forever abide in His light. 

When we seek Him, we seek the light, we seek the truth. 

Have I sought after you today Jesus?

Prayer: Jesus you are the way, the truth, and the light. I know that were your presence abides there is freedom from the bondage of this life. I want to forever live with you in heaven and refuse to let anything of this world damage my future of eternity with you. Thank you for making a way for me to have access to your spirit that in times like now bring me strength, peace, and joy. 

Day 2 | CAC Easter Devotional | Investment

Investment | Calvary Apostolic Church | Easter Devotional | Day 2

John 12:1-10 KJV
[1] Then Jesus six days before the Passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead.
[2] There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.
[3] Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.
[4] Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray him,
[5] Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?
[6] This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.
[7] Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.
[8] For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.
[9] Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.
[10] But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death;

In the days leading up to the crucifixion, many symbolic events happened. One unique event being the anointing of the feet of Jesus by Mary on the sixth day before the Passover.

It is important to note this was not the first time Mary had been at the feet of Jesus. In Luke 10:39-42, we see Mary choosing to sit at the feet of Jesus as opposed to being distracted with the duties life brings. This same Mary, scripture lets us know, was also the sister to Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead. So because she knew and experienced the power of Jesus in her life, she honored him with the valuable ointment she possessed by anointing his feet.

Everyone around was impacted by the aroma of the ointment and act of worship. Judas scoffed and suggested a more practical use of the valuable substance, which was seemingly wasted. What Mary gave was of no little value. It wasn’t a small investment. It was comparable to a life savings. And, at a glance, we could even be guilty of agreeing with Judas and say “isn’t there a better use in life that would have more impact?” Jesus was very clear in his response, “let her alone.” He didn’t waiver and left no gray area to assume there was any truth in Judas’s comment. He recognized the prophetic implication of Mary’s statement and then made a pro founding statement. He said in verse eight, “For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.” Jesus wasn’t saying don’t give to the poor, He was saying don’t pick a temporary investment over an Eternal investment.
To Mary, Jesus was worth everything. No offering she could bring could match the value Jesus had in her life. Her experience with Jesus caused her to give her best to him. We often wrestle with Judas's voice in life, whether internal or external as we live according to the word of God and live our lives as a sacrifice to him. We often question, is it really the best use of my life to do so much? We need never to place more importance on physical and temporary investments and miss the eternal investment, which is our relationship with God. The story of Mary’s gift of worship forces us to ask ourselves, How much is Jesus worth to me? He gave his life for you, will you invest your life into him?

Prayer: God you have done so much in my life, help me to give myself to you. In everything I do God, let it be for your Glory and according to your will. Help me to not be distracted by material or temporary investments, which may seem as good on the surface, but would cause me to give less of my time, focus, and finances to you.

Children Jelly Bean Prayer Guide!

Attached below is a PDF for children’s Easter prayer guide you can download and use this week with your family!

"Hurry Up to Wait" - Devotion by Bro. Jamie Bice

Bro. Bice has written a devotional for our church family to help remind us of what is important during these times! Click the button below to Dowland the PDF of this devotional.

"Hurry Up to Wait"

Devotion written by Bro. Jamie Bice

Have you ever been in a rush to get somewhere, only to get where you need to be and have to wait?

Ever rushed to arrive at your doctor's appointment on time, only to sit and wait in the waiting room for an hour? Then once you are called back, you sit and wait in the exam room for another 20 mins?

Have you ever made an appointment to get something small fixed on your car, only to have the auto tech discover more things wrong and they end up having your car an additional 2-3 days?

What does it mean to "wait"?
"Stay where one is or delay action until a particular time or until something happens.”

Lamentations 3:25-26 "The Lord is good unto them that wait for Him, to the soul that seeketh Him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord."

We live in a hurry-up, microwave kind of world. We want instant gratification. It is easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and feel rushed or hurried.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all been forced to slow down and wait.
I would like to challenge and encourage us to use this slowdown, take time to reflect, pray, and come together as a family.

These are some things we cannot afford to rush:

Prayer
We need to slow down and spend time with the Lord and hear his voice.

Daily Devotion
His word needs to be hidden in our hearts.

Family Time
Our children need and deserve quality family time. We only have a few short years too instill important qualities in our children. We need to make sure we are investing in them!

Isaiah 40:31 says "But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."

Things to remember:
God is always in control!
God is always with me! God is always good!
God is always watching! God is always victorious! God always wins!

Psalm 46:1 "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

How to have a family bible study written by Rev. Clint Crossen

Our assistant Pastor, Clint Crossen wrote a Bible Study for our families. Included below is a video introducing you to “in home bible studies”, along with 7 points for a successful bible study. Attached at the bottom are two links to PDF’s. The first one is to the Bible Study itself and a quiz at the bottom for everyone to use. The second link is to the answer key for the quiz.

"The Opportunity of More" Written By Bro. Payne

The Opportunity of More
written by Bro. Payne

Job 26:14

14- Lo, these are parts of his ways: but how little a portion is heard of him? but the thunder of his power who can understand?

This scripture text, although spoken by Job in the midst of his loss and calamity, was a beginning for Job. We all know the account of Job, he was a perfect and upright man in the sight of the Lord, feared God, and eschewed evil. But the events Job had recently experienced had taken him to the depths of his life, he was confused and questioning. (Please read the entire chapter of Job 26 at your first opportunity.)

This writing is now, in the course of worldly events and recent history, less about Job, and more about the people of God (Us). We have experienced events no one a short time ago would have thought possible. Purposefully, and methodically, our world is coming to a halt. Things have changed rapidly by worldly standards. We are, largely as a people, confused and questioning, sorting and making determination of our next steps.

Throughout the Bible, we have read and know the promises of God. These promises are sure and steadfast. There is no need to doubt these promises. Keep in mind Job did not have the promises of the New Testament; the comforting words of the Gospels and Epistles are just as real as when the words were penned by the Holy authors. We need not be afraid, nor fear, our God is with us.

Opportunity presents itself in many forms, and with God it is no different. Many is the Pastor who has prayed over his people, praying for the family, and the family unit which the enemy has attacked. Praying strength for those who were distracted by the cares of life, burdened by taskmasters who put job and work before spiritual needs of employees. Prayed for those addicted to drugs and alcohol, and the establishments which cater to those vices, pleading with God to pull people out of the fire and save their souls.

The opportunity before God’s people now is an opportunity. Due to these recent events, many of these prayers have opportunity! Families now have the opportunity to be together more than ever. Workplaces are largely changed as work environments in many cases have become increasingly empty as employees work from home. Establishments which contribute to society in a contrary way to God and his church are now empty.

Is God in control? Absolutely! Is his power on display? Most definitely! The opportunity is now before God’s people to strengthen and perfect the facets of life without many of the distractions of the world. We, as the people of God, have been

granted a time to grow roots deep into the spiritual realm, to have “more” of God than we have ever had before! To move beyond the portion of God we know, and to move into the parts of his ways we have not yet experienced!

What are our opportunities? What will take us into those “parts” yet unknown? God has always made a way, and given his people evidence their steps are in his will. Job was perfect in what he knew, but as we have seen, God desired “more” for him and from him. Here are some opportunities to consider, and pray for our God to show you the path to take regarding these and others:

  1. Use this time to grow “more” in personal relationship with the Lord. Hide the Word of God in your heart to keep sin from entering in. The Spiritual Gifts are there for the seeking. Prayerfully seek the gifts God can use for the Kingdom. Be available and willing to seek the “more”...the parts of his ways you have not experienced yet.

  2. Use this time to make the family unit “more” strong. As we are unable to gather together for services at the church, the home is now the primary spiritual center for the family. When regular Church services resume, the Church family will be stronger because the individual family unit is stronger.

  3. Use this time to encourage one another “more” in our Church family. God has assembled this group of people to accomplish his perfect will. We are strong in leadership, faith, and purpose. Let us not be denied the opportunity to not only be a people of worship and praise, but a mighty army of the Lord’s will and work.

  4. Use this time to do “more” to “shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” The world is full of hurting and confused people. Many are wondering why, and how they are going to recover. We are in the world with them, but we have an answer they do not have. Our witness of Godly strength and purpose will speak to the heart of the hopeless, and our words of hope will allow the forever drawing spirit of God to reach their hearts so they would be saved. Be available to talk with family, co- workers and friends about what God has done for you.

  5. Finally, use this time “more” wisely. Opportunities can pass as quickly as they arise. This time will pass, and the Spirit is saying to his people,” arise, be strong, do exploits, and enter into my perfect will”. We are the called among living for a reason in this time.

The final chapter for Job is best expressed in Job 42:5. This perfect man, one who God favored, finally saw the opportunity he had previously not experienced; “I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee”. Job realized there was more, and received it, and responded to his God with “more”. He then received “more”!

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