Perception = Reality ?

“Now in those days, John the Baptist came, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” Matthew 3:1-2

“And when He saw the multitudes, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. And opening His mouth He began to teach them saying, ‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.’” Matthew 5:1-3

“’Pray, then in this way: ‘Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed by Thy name, Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.’” Matthew 6:9-10

“Therefore, do not let what is for you a good thing be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For he who in this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. So then, let us pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another.” Romans 14:16-19

As soon as Jesus used the term ‘kingdom’ “images sprang to life in the minds of His audience; bright banners, glittering armies, the gold and ivory of Solomon’s day, a nation restored to grandeur. But then something would happen to dash these expectations and all the feelings of disappointment would wash in again. As it turned out, the word ‘kingdom’ meant one thing to the crown and quite another to Jesus.” *

And because of this they focused on restoration of power for them as individuals rather than focusing on the power of restoration with the father. But then perception, even today, seems more real sometimes than the reality of Truth.

Take care to understand His Word. Your servant and friend in Christ, Darlene

PS: NEED PRAYER UPDATES PLEASE:

PRAY FOR THOSE WHO LOST LOVED ONES RECENTLY: Jay lost his Mum. Cris loss of 3 loved ones in past 2 months (affecting her health too). Greg’s lost his father. Di her brother. Milly and David lost their Mom. Linda lost her husband. Lavie lost her 28-year old brother.

JOB Related: Pray for those seeking work, that they will trust the Lord to be preparing the perfect role for them, includes: Barb (who applied at the hospital where she recently had to be), Tim, Carla and Paul.

PRAISE & THANKSGIVING: Barb is better. Lyle’s sacrifice of donating bone marrow has saved the life of his brother, Earl. Joan’s, Aunt Marge, had a serious kidney infection, not a stroke. Adrian who’s found a job and home. Leslie doing great with no remaining signs of cancer. David (great health now!). Reg for his wonderful ministry. Joan did not have cancer. Ulfur growing stronger against his addiction.

PRAY FOR THOSE WITH HEALTH CONCERNS: Fred’s heart surgery (28 Sept) and Nancy, his wife, recovering from major head trauma. Deb, special friend with multiple Myeloma (http://debdarley.blogspot.com/2010_08_01_archive.html ). Sue, not doing well, battling paraneoplastic syndrome. Another Nancy continues her battle with Ovarian Cancer. Wisdom for doctors caring for Doris, David, Poetry and Gary.

OTHER PRAYER REQUESTS: Isaias (family safety and his mission work in Philippines); God’s grace on USA. Randy (unexpected life changes). For Kevin (wisdom with his son). Michael, as he struggles with the pending loss of his Mum. David P – for strength to overcome the hold of powerful addictions.


*Disappointment With God, by Philip Yancey