Two Words that Change Everything!
Recently, as I reflected on a story in St Marks gospel, two words from the passage covered me in a soft embrace, like being wrapped in my husband’s strong arms in a warm and loving hug. What were the two words? Ah! Let me share more! Jesus had taken his three closest disciples, Peter James and John to a mountain top for a unique experience. While He was away, a man brought a child in need to his other disciples for help. Sadly, they couldn't help him. The boy was possessed by an evil spirit. When Jesus returned, his father cried out to Jesus: '' ... if you can do anything, please take pity and help us!"
“‘If you can’?” said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.”
Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed “I do believe! Help me overcome my unbelief!’
Jesus commanded the evil spirit to leave the boy and at once the spirit fled.
“The boy looked so much like a corpse that many said, “He’s dead.”
But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him to his feet, and he stood up.
So what were the two words that grabbed me?
But Jesus!
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Circumstances are sometimes bleak. But Jesus. He transforms … even water into wine.
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People hurt us. But Jesus. Jesus brings peace. He restores relationships.
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Sickness visits us. But Jesus. He is the Great Physician. He helps us in our weakness.
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Life can be overwhelming and difficult. But Jesus. Jesus is the Master who calms the storm. He is the Master over everything the world brings your way. Everything.
On April 1st 1990, Shan and I held our precious baby son in our arms for the very first time. I still remember his shock of dark hair glistening under the sterile white light as his alert eyes searched all around, trying to figure out where on earth he had landed! My beautiful bonny bouncing baby boy!
Asela Sumith stole our hearts and our lives big time from day one and changed our lives forever.
He filled our home with lots of love and laughter, joy, nonstop chatter, questions (oh the questions!) and fun. He taught us how to live better. He made us a family. He also faced a number of obstacles as he grew up. But Jesus! But Jesus had created Asela with a big dose of perseverence and a strong and vibrant spirit. And God helped him through each challenge! How proud we are of the caring thoughtful hard working young man he has grown into and who blesses our world today!
Happy Birthday, Asela! We are so proud of you! I thank God for you every day!
When Jesus went to the cross, it seemed as if all hell had broken loose. The disciples ran away, every one of them, their dreams crushed, their hearts bewildered, shocked at the turn of events. Like the sun sinking into the sea at day’s end, the hopes of Palm Sunday had disappeared into nothingness. But Jesus! But Jesus did the unthinkable! On the third day, He rose triumphant from the dead and now sits at the right Hand of God the Father. Jesus proved to us that He is the Lord of life who lives forever and ever! He tasted death so we could taste and enjoy LIFE, life that is truly abundant through Him!
Dear one, I wonder what trials and challenges you face today? Life often takes us on surprising detours. It can even throw us with a mighty splash into troubled waters. So … if you are in need of encouragement today, I have two life-giving words for you. But Jesus. Life is hard. But Jesus is good. You may battle illness, hardship, tough relationships or problems that have taken the wind out of your sails! But Jesus is Lord. He is Lord over every circumstance and Lord over your life. Good Friday brought death! But Jesus not only rose from the dead, He also came to gift eternal life to all who believe in Him! If you have never opened yourself to Him, today may be the right day!
The challenges you face are real. But Jesus has overcome the world.
When you walk step by step with Jesus, you too are an overcomer. Hallelujah!
This Easter may you find hope and peace, life and joy in our Risen Saviour.
But Jesus immediately said to them:
“Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid. Matthew 14:27
In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
Jesus looked at them and said,
“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible. Matthew 9:26
