Auguest 11th, 2007

Who's ready to start back reading/posting to this blog?

Wednesday May 31, 2007

Numbers 28-30/Luke 1:21-38
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 31-33/Luke 1:39-56

Wow.. someone on this team is really behind in their reading (snicker). I've got a lot of catching up to do - sorry for being 'missing in action'.

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Tuesday May 30, 2007

Numbers 26-27/Luke 1:1-20
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 28-30/Luke 1:21-38

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Monday May 29, 2007

Numbers 23-25/Mark 16
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 26-27/Luke 1:1-20

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Sunday May 28, 2007

Numbers 20-22/Mark 15:26-47
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 23-25/Mark 16

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Saturday May 27, 2007

Numbers 17-19/Mark 15:1-25
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 20-22/Mark 15:26-47

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Friday May 26, 2007

Numbers 15-16/Mark 14:54-72
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 17-19/Mark 15:1-25

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Thursday May 25, 2007

Numbers 12-14/Mark 14:27-53
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 15-16/Mark 14:54-72

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Wednesday May 24, 2007

Numbers 9-11/Mark 14:1-26
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 12-14/Mark 14:27-53

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Tuesday May 23, 2007

Numbers 7-8/Mark 13:21-37
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 9-11/Mark 14:1-26

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Monday May 22, 2007

Numbers 5-6,/Mark 13:1-20
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 7-8/Mark 13:21-37

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Sunday May 21, 2007

3-4/Mark 12:28-44
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 5-6,/Mark 13:1-20

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Saturday May 20, 2007

Numbers 1-2/Mark 12:1-17
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 3-4/Mark 12:28-44


Numbers
The count of men 20years or older, able to serve in Army – there was a total of 603,555 that were men, older that twenty and not part of the tribe of Levi. Really didn’t get the significance of the numberings, other than this is what God wanted.

Mark
Parable of Tenants – took me a while to get this one; large estates were left for the locals to tend. Parable ‘exposed the planned attempt on Jesus life and God’s judgment on the planters’.


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Friday May 19, 2007

Lev 26-27/Mark 11:19-33
Tomorrow’s Reading: Numbers 1-2/Mark 12:1-17

Lev
The joys of life revealed as a reward for following His commands, in vv1-13. ‘I will put my dwelling place among you’, v11. ‘But’, v15-39, there will be trouble. Interestingly so, God circles back to ‘but…all you gotta do is confess/turn, it it’ll be all good’ (paraphrased). Parallels to Revaluations and 2nd changes? Finished up Leviticus – bummer, was just getting good (sorry – some of the books of the bible take lots of patience to read… Leviticus was one of them. More are coming up soon, so buckle your seat-belt).

Mark
Parable of Tenants – took me a while to get this one; large estates were left for the locals to tend. Parable ‘exposed the planned attempt on Jesus life and God’s judgment on the planters’. V6; one son he loved and they would respect… many did not – many do not today.

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Thursday May 5, 2007 (Cinco de Mayo)

Lev 25/Mark 11:1-18
Tomorrows Reading: Lev 26-27/Mark 11:19-33


Lev
We sing ‘It’s the year of Jubilee’ – as the land observes the Sabbath year, I hadn’t thought about what people would eat during that time. Seeing now in v20-22; God will provide such a bounty of blessings during that year, it will provide/last for 3years until the following year’s harvest is planted/harvested.. and enough for the year after that.

Ever think about ‘what you own’ - look at v23... we’re just basically taking care of our land/house for the next person – nothing is permanent. Lot’s of speak about land owners/redemption of homes, etc.. this was to protect the poor as well, prevent a monopoly, perhaps.

Mark
The Triumphal Entry – why do you think now, the people laid the cloaks down for His path (which is kinda cool, btw) – up until this point, they just followed him every where he went and were blessed/amazed at his healing/help. But now, it seems to be all about respect and as if they knew about His purpose/deity as the Messiah (but they didn’t, did they?) Still not sure I get the whole ‘fig tree’ deal; this particular tree was full of leaves way before the ‘norm’ – it bore no fruit and Jesus was hungry (hungry not mentioned in Matthew, I don't think). Jesus, in Matthew 21:18-19, condemned the tree which immediately withered. I have a note that says this could be representative of the judgment of Israel.

Side Note:
So, why Cinco de Mayo? "And why should Americans savor this day as well? Because 4,000 Mexican soldiers smashed the French and traitor Mexican army of 8,000 at Puebla, Mexico, 100 miles east of Mexico City on the morning of May 5, 1862."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cinco_de_Mayo


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Wednesday May 16, 2007

Lev 23-24/Mark 10:32-52
Tomorrows Reading: Lev 25/Mark 11:1-18

Lev
Appointed feast – many are mentioned; Passover was a single day (14th day of month) in v5, feast of Unleavened Bread was the following day of the month (15th day for 7 days) – I thought feast of Unleavened Bread/Passover were the same thing. Hmm… shows you what I know. NIV notes say NT version of the ‘feast of weeks’ (23:16) was Pentecost (Acts 2:1, 20:16, 1Col 16:8)

When I read 23:22-C, God is instructs Israelites to leave the very edges of the harvest for the poor – then just says; “I am the LORD your God”. Do you think they didn’t know that – yes… they did. So what’s the point of continued repeating of LORD/God? I get the feel of a power; leadership, direction, and… a sense of ‘trust me’ from God. Sometimes when I talk to my kids, giving instruction that I REALLY want to make sure they understand - and after I just told them what I want, I’ll say… ‘did you hear what I just said’? I’m looking for conformation/commitment from them – maybe this is along the same lines.

In 23:24, notes say ‘first day of seventh month’ is actually known as the Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah) – trumpet blasts were blown to signal beginning of new months (as there were no calendars)

Chapter 24:3 – Aaron is to tend lamps continually – you starting to get the feeling Aaron had a lot going on, much responsibility. In today’s society, how many times, or how many people have you heard taking God’s name in vain, swearing by it – vv10-16 shows how a young boy is stoned to death for doing so and granted no lenience… what lack of respect for God. hmmm, Jesus, the sacrificial lamb for my/your sins.

Mark
‘afraid’ v32, what's going on there – the 12 afraid of harm to Jesus, as He’s been telling them something was going to happen? James/John are requesting privileged/reserved assignments; right/left-hand side of Jesus ‘in your Glory’. Jesus’ questions in his reply of ‘can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?’ Jesus is talking about the suffering He is soon to endure on the cross. Speaking of the 12, do you think there is a parallel to the 12 tribes of Israel?

Jesus talks about He being a servant, not to be served – Isaiah has this exact prediction in Isa 52:13, all of 53, v13-14 ‘my servant…so disfigured’, , Isa 53:3 ‘He will be despised and rejected’, v5 ‘pierced for our transgressions… crushed for our iniquities… punishment that brought us peace was upon him’ and finally in 53:12 ‘for he bore the sin of many’… ‘… intercession for the transgressors’. Wow.


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Tuesday May 15, 2007

Lev 21-22/Mark 10:1-31
Tomorrows reading: Lev 23-24/Mark 10:32-52

Lev
Identifies the importance of cleanliness for Priest – as they v6-B ‘… present the offerings made to the Lord..‘
The unacceptable sacrifices continue to show God’s continued conditioning of Israel – representatives as His chosen people. Notice many versus in ch22 complete his directives with the commanding fact; ‘I am the Lord’.

Mark
Pharisee’s testing Jesus (again) – notes say since Jesus was in Harod’s jurisdiction, they would ask him about divorce – possible hopes were His response would lead to the same outcome as John the Baptist (imprisonment/beheaded 6:17-18). Divorce is such a ‘sticky subject’, tends to ‘label’ folks – thoughts?

Remember reading about little children and Jesus in Matthew – parents bring kids to Jesus for His blessings – I mentioned how proud/happy parents must have been. Important notes on v13-16: the kingdom of God must be received as a gift; it cannot be achieved by human effort. It may be entered only by those who know they are helpless, without claim or merit – ie, the mention/analogy of children. ‘It’s easier for camel to go thru eye of needle than a rich man getting into heaven’ – not talking about money here. Money for this man (young ruler) kept him from ‘seeing/recognizing Jesus’… in other words, an obstacle. See any of that today? Yep. What are "today's" obstacles preventing you/us from getting closer to Him? Is that something that could be fixed with a little desire/effort?


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Monday May 14, 2007

Lev 19-20/Mark 9:30-50
Tomorrow’s Reading: Lev 21-22/Mark 10:1-31


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Sunday May 13, 2007

Lev 17-18/Mark 9:1-29
Tomorrow's reading:

Lev
NOTE: Goat Idols - Bull god, Baal - man body with Calf head. People would sacrafice their children to Molech.

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Saturday May 12, 2007

15-16/Mark 8:22-38
Tomorrow’s Reading: Lev 17-18/Mark 9:1-29

Lev - some new details revealed to me in this reading, that I didn't get the first time we did a read-thru; scapegoat, all-day event, coal/incense, etc..

Mark - why did Jesus have to lay his hands on blind man twice to heal; what was the message there?

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Friday May 11, 2007

Lev14/Mark8:1-21
Tomorrow’s Reading: 15-16/Mark 8:22-38

Thanks to all that have posted to 'Does God let us down?' question - (welcome my pal Dave!! NOTE: if I need to come over there to give you more guitar-lessons, just let me know!)

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Does God let us down?

Trish posted a great question last week and I didn't see it until a few days ago (sorry Trish) - what a great topic for discussion.

The question (click comments to re-read/reply) is about God's unfailing love, yet allows some to suffer/pass with illness, etc... and how to we reply/reflect that to our children and/or our walk - how do we explain that to non-believers, for example.

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Thursday May 10, 2007

Lev 13/Mark 7:14-37
Tomorrow’s Reading: Lev14/Mark8:1-21

Lev
Not sure I get all the medical reasons about the white-hair, and swelling vs. redness during startup/tear-down of any ‘condition’ mentioned, but in all of the examples, what determines a person ‘unclean’ was if condition become more than just on the surface; v3,6,14,20,25,30. NIV notes say the symptoms described, and the fact they may rapidly change, show disease was not true leprosy (Hansen’s disease) and are forms of rashes (ie.. the 7day period to wait/watch). Interestingly so, NIV notes say ‘infectious skin disease’ can also mean ‘mildew’. I think of mildew as a stinky, spreading fungus that is something hard to get rid of – but a passing thought about mildew is something that creeps upon you, often unknowingly/silently, and can do much damage. Hmmm.. may be some parallels there.

Mark
Seems were running parallel with OT themes in our reading; we’re talking about clean/unclean body/food in OT and here in Mark, Jesus is speaking to the same concepts. But changes and says it's not what goes into the body that makes him unclean, but what comes out of the body; v20-23. Did you notice v16 is not there?

Jesus goes to Tyre (NW of Capernaum – coast of Mediterranean) and heals deamon possessed little girl from the plea/faith of her mother – then to region of Decapolis (South of Sea of Galilee area where demons cast into pigs) and heals the deaf and the people were amazed. I wonder if any of the people there some of the same folks that wanted Jesus to leave after He cast demons into their pigs?

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Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Lev 11,12/Mark 7:1-13
Tomorrow's Reading: Lev 13/Mark 7:14-37

Thanks for the post Kev-oh!

Welcome Trish (Friday posting)! Keep'm coming.

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Tuesday May 8th, 2007

8-10/Mark 6:30-56
Tomorrow’s Reading: Lev 11-12/Mark 7:1-13

Lev
The Ordination of Aaron and sons; notice the ‘cleansing’. Moses washed them in bronze basin in courtyard, did mandatory Sin offering for forgiveness of sins and cleansing from defilement, the voluntary Burnt offering for cleansing unintentional sin and expression of devotion to God. Same with establishing the beginning of the Priest’s ministry; they added the voluntary Fellowship offering of thanksgiving and fellowship.

Mark
Staying with the theme of Leviticus, the Pharisees questing Jesus and the 12 eating with unclean hands (Pharisees wash before eating). Jesus calls them hypocrites and quotes Isaiah; honor with lips, but not hearts – worship is in vain. Then Jesus references Moses and honor mother/father… referring to the Corban (offering); NIV notes: irresponsible Jewish son could formally dedicate to God his earnings that otherwise would have gone to support family).

How are you worshiping God - with your lips our your heart? Think about the relevance of this in your walk today.

Prayer Request: my mom had what was to be 'out patient' surgery yesterday - things got a little more complicated than expected and they kept her overnight for observations, etc..


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Monday May 7, 2007

Lev 6-7/Mark 1-29
Tomorrow’s Reading: 8-10/Mark 6:30-56


Leviticus
Once offerings were defined in earlier chapters, now the ‘regulations’ of each are outlined. Fat/’innards’ were burned, hides were given to Aaron and priests, breast/thighs were not burned, but given to Aaron/priest to eat.

Mark
Verses 2-3 further illustrates the crowds didn’t realize who Jesus was – they were amazed yet offended at the same time. Jesus sends the 12 out 2x2 – I have a little hang-up on v11; if they don’t listen to you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave. It’s hard to know ‘when to quit’ when talking to others - also noted in Matthew, symbolizing ‘you have been warned’. I think there is a little ‘tongue in cheek’ here because this is what the Pharisee’s did when they left an unclean Gentile.

Notes on John the Baptist beheading and how Herod feared Jesus was John, raised from the dead. Others thought Jesus was Elijah.

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Sunday May 6, 2007

Lev 3-5/Mark 5:21-43
Tomorrows’s Reading: Lev 6-7/Mark 1-29


Leviticus
As the position/ranking w/in the community became less important, the type of offering became less as well. Priests and ‘the whole Israelite community’ sacrificed a bull, community leader and member of community, a goat, some down to a doves /pigeons. Some parallels were 4:12, ‘taken outside the camp’; NIV Notes ”clearly draws the parallel to our sin offerings, Jesus, who suffered outside the city gate.”

Mark
Jesus raises a dead girl – daughter of synagogue ruler, a layman. As the crowds gather, a woman that had been suffering for 12 years with bleeding, touched Jesus’ robe and was healed. ‘God determined to heal her’ thru Jesus, thru her faith – as Jesus was unaware until the ‘power had gone out from Him’.

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Saturday May 5, 2007

Psalm 90, 91, Lev. 1, 2/Mark 5:1-20
Tomorrow’s Readking: Lev 3-5/Mark 5:21-43

Psalm
‘Book IV of Psalms’ covers ch90-106; 90, ‘The prayer of Moses, the man of God’.
I think they’re still at Mt. Sinai - Job mentions ‘1000 years is like a day to God’ where much discussion stem related to the ‘age/creation of the earth’. Here, Moses isn’t saying a day=1000years to God. Moses is in prayer and simply identifying with God’s greatness.

SMV: psalm 91:1-2 – He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress my God, in whom I trust”… believed to be penned by a priest during that time.

Leviticus
Exodus detailed the building of the temple, here Leviticus “relating to the Levites” gives laws/regulations for worship.

The ‘Burnt, Grain, Fellowship’ offerings were all voluntary acts of worship. Hand on head represents atonement. I found it interesting the details of offerings – burnt morning and night, slaughter on north side of alter, ashes/crop on the east side of alter, etc. Fellowship offering, Shalom, representing peace w/God.


Mark
Jesus/12 travel go Gerasenes where he cast out a ‘Legion’ (represents many = 6000) demons into pigs; oddly so, the towns people resent and ask Jesus to leave as in ‘look what he did to our livestock’, as they ran to the lake and drown (symbolizing the abyss).

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Friday May 4, 2007

Exodus 39-40/Mark4:21-41
Tomorrow’s Reading: Psalm 90, 91, Lev. 1, 2/Mark 5:1-20

Tomorrows reading starts to jump around - be sure you click 'our reading' to the right and print off a copy for easier tracking.

Finished Exodus - tent/tabernacle complete and all were pleased, God's 'glory' fills tent and his presence with them both day and night via cloud/fire.

Notes for Mark's reading on yesterday's post.


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Thursday May 3, 2007

Exodus 36-38/Mark 4:1-20
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 39-40/Mark4:21-41

Exodus
Now, the Israelites come together and put God's word/request into action - they construct the Tabernacle to the detail God outlined. Tough reading sometimes, to re-read the details - so, if you just joined in, have patience.

Mark
The parable of the seed (4 conditions of the ground - think about how each of those conditions are specific to your life... unfortunately for the first 3, I can identify with each). Parable of the lamp - don't hide it under the bed, let it shine. Parable of growing seed (only mentioned in Mark) - 'the mysterious power of the seed' - ie, the gospel has powers of its own. Parable of the mustard seed; in the beginning, the importance of the kingdom had little significance, later to be the tallest of the plants (20', I think). Jesus calms the storms.

I often enjoy reading the OT more so than the new - today, NT text really 'setting heavy' and will be good stuff to be thinking about thru-out today.

Encouragement: remember, the point isn't to just read and to make this a 'task' - I do hope all are enjoying the reading and taking time to apply to your own lives. Hang in there - at the end of the reading, you'll be so glad you stuck with it... I know I was!

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Wednesday, May 2, 2007

Exodus 34-35/Mark 3:20-35
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 36-38/Mark 4:1-20

Exodus - Moses comes down the mountain with the Ten Commandments

Mark - Jesus is accused of being possessed, even his family (Mary/brothers) come to Capernaum from Nazareth.. approx 30miles away -to say "He's out of his mind". Jesus corrects both groups. hehe

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Tuesday May 1st, 2007

Exodus 31-33/Mark 3:1-19
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 34-35/Mark 3:20-35

Exodus

God speaking to Moses, finalized the commands/laws, Israelites make idols to other gods (golden calf made in image of Apis (Egyptian bull-god), see a real relationship/friendship between Moses and God. Some 'new light' for me in today's readings... good stuff.

Mark

Jesus continues to do miracles on Sabbath and Pharisees begin to plot His death.

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Fasting for Marsha Fox

Today, a few will be begin 24hours of fasting for Masha Fox - Marsha is such a strong Christian, humble, and always available/active for church services/projects.

Marsha found out she had cancer and the little I know about her specific situation, it seems relatively aggressive - has already been in/out of hospital for surgeries, and starting all of the follow-up measures already, and this is just week #2.

I've never participated in fasting and am learning more about this (more reading for us all in the comments) but starting 1pm today, we'll start the process of substituting food/substance with prayer for Marsha and her family.

We sing "Our God is an awesome God he rains on Heaven and earth" - I know greater things have happened thru prayer and over time, I have not doubt that the healing of this affliction is within His power. Requesting we collectively keep them in our prayers for a focused 24hours.

Side note: this idea just came up.. we will do this again for Marsha (and others) over time.
Thanks for taking time to read this personal note! csb

Just click comments below for more!

Monday April 30, 2007

Exodus 29-30/Mark 2
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 31-33/Mark 3:1-19

Exodus - preparation of the priest

Mark - Pharisees trying to find fault in Jesus

Ran out of time this a.m. - add your thoughts/details as time permits

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Sunday April 29, 2007 - Addison get Baptised today

Exodus 27-28/Mark 1:23-45
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 29-30/Mark 2

For you locals, John Bailey West getting Baptised today as well during early service.

Exodus
wow, reading is a little slow - not sure I pulled out all the significance of the details. If you've got something to add, please do. May not be a lot of significance other than just the fact God is one of details/exactness and this is what He wants.

Mark
Jesus heals sick, cast out demons, etc..

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Celebration/Praise - Addison Getting Baptised Sunday!

Addison has had a 'solid walk' for several years now, even though he just turned 7-years old. I always like to tell the story when he was only four.

We were flying a kite one day and he said 'Dad, I'd love to be able to fly'. I told him he did know, as we had flown to Orlando Florida for a Disney trip. He said no, not that - I'd like to be on top of the kite, way up in the sky, and see the face of God. Wow.. huge for dad.

We've always had talks of God/Jesus and their roles in our lives and the world around us, but typically I had initiated those discussions.

We have a festival on the square with Keith Cook last year and while I was talking to friends and enjoying the music, Addison walked down on his own and accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. Dec31, he made his public profession of faith at our church, and this week, he asked for baptism.

Just amazing, the minds of children understanding the importance of living a Christian life - just awesome!

UPDATE: see updated pictures below of Kevin's run and Addison Birthday party - side note: Addion scored 4 goals today 'for Kevin' he said - I guess he just keeps those 'in his pocket' for special occations.

Saturday April 28, 2007

Exodus 25-26/Mark 1:1-22
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 27-28/Mark 1:23-45

Exodus
Detailed instructions for building the ark and Tabernacle.

Mark
We'll see lots of repeat from Matthew, but from a different point of view/perspective. Mark talks about John the Baptist and his role, as well as Jesus journey to Cranium (as you know, they spend a lot of time there).

Click comments below for more and/or to post your thoughts/insights...

Let's hear if for Kevin - Marathon AND Birthday.

Kevin is running in the Music City Marathon today (so are several thousand others) - what an accomplishment to reach this point in his training. Good luck, brother - proud of you!

Today's posting will follow late this morning/this afternoon - headed over to see him finish race.

We'll.. I had to walk at least 2 or 3 blocks to get this shot, and I'm exhausted. Not only did he run in/finish this event today, he finished strong (still smiling and not blowing snot) at 2:13:00 (or something like that).

And to top that, his birthday is today - he just turned 63 (I may be off a little) and looks great!

Friday April 27th, 2007

Exodus 23-24/Matt 28
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 25-26/Mark 1:1-22

Exodus - Moses and others ascend to the mountain to talk w/God to celebrate this new OT covenant. When reading this for the first time, the fact that Moses was standing "face to face" to God's glory on a slab of sapphire, was just awesome.

Matthew - finished Matthew today. Jesus dies on cross and is risen on 3rd day - Pharisees devise a plan to tell all His body was stolen and was not raised. Jesus is raised and is alive today - Jesus gives us the Great Commission, go out to the nations and be a witness.

What an awesome God we have! As a new learner myself, this has yet to be boring - I get excited every time I read thru this.

Click comments below for more..

C. - I just wanted to say you're doing a great job keeping up with these posts! Keep up the good work!!!!!

Thursday April 26, 2007

Exodus 21-22/Matt 27:51-66
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 23-24/Matt 28

Exodus
God giving instructions to Israelites at foot of Mt. Sinai - today's reading is one of those that take patience.

Matthew
Jesus dies on the cross and placed in the tomb - Pharisees once again are a little 'insecure', having tomb sealed and guards placed to prevent his body being taken, giving the appearance Jesus would arise on the third day.

Jesus shows us that he cant be kept in a box, there are no limits to his greatness. Do we try to place limits on Him in lack of trust, sometimes? Pray today... 'lay it down at the cross'; prayerfully give unresolved problems/troubles/pains/concerns/sorrow's, etc.. over to Him - and don't 'pick them back up'. He will give you peace.

Wednesday April 25, 2007 (Happy Birthday Addison)

Exodus 19-20/Matt 27:27-50
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 21-23/Matt 27-51-66

Exodus
Israelites are at the foot of Mt. Sinai, gathered around viewing God's glory as he descends in the form of a cloud. Reminds me a little of the movie 'Close Encounters of the 3rd kind'

Matthew
Jesus is beaten/flogged, mocked, and goes to the cross. In our reading, Jesus is paying the price for our sins. We hear that often,... but today, we get an idea as to what that price is.

As we're tempted today, try to associate each failure to another minute of suffering He endured, possibly you (and/or me) standing in the crowds as one of the mockers, or another lash on his back. This is what it's all about guys... our faith that he suffered/died/arose for us!




UPDATE: Addison's party was great - Shawn, Balloon Guy, was just unreal. All you 'locals', you gotta hire this guy for your kid's party!

This is Amelia - our 3.5 year-old... just wanted to give her some 'air time' too!

1000 Hits to this website!!!

Wow.. today, we passed the 1000-hit mark on this website. Can't say that is an over-whelming response but considering that this reading-plan started between two guys, me and Kevin Wood, and all we were doing was text-messaging most every day about our reading.. this has come a long way.

I'm not sure of the exact count of people that we've reached out to and are reading - but I know we had somewhere in the neighborhood of 20-30 that had committed. I'm thinking that number had declined, but there are still many that are reading with us.

I've used this website as a 'door opener' to talk to people, either Christians or not.. just in passing.

This is a great thing for me.. and I hope it continues to be for you as well. Suggestions on how to make this site/posting/project even better, please don't be shy.

Tuesday April 24th, 2007

Exodus 16-18/Matt 27:1-26
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 19-20/Matt 27:27-50

Exodus - Israelites continue to complain about food/water and God provides. Just think for a moment the massive amounts of food/water it would take to feed over a million people every day, for 40 years.

Matthew - Jesus is now held captive and faces Pilate, a Roman Governor. You get a feel of a blood-thirsty crown that must have been stirred by the Pharisees. Their burning anger came from somewhere.. but Jesus has been nothing but kind to all; healing their sick loved ones, etc..

Today... let's think about the provisions/gift we each have received from God and what a blessing they are. Gifts aren't random, I don't think - but thru our faith in Him. Right now in our reading, we really get an appreciation for the sacrifices that were made for our sins - we should honor/respect that sacrifice/suffering thru our actions today. Ok.. what does that mean? Dunno.. will mean something different to each; a choice, a decision, an intervention,.. hmm

Monday April 23, 2007

Exodus 14-15/Matt 26:36-75
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 16-18/Matt 27:1-26

Exodus - Egyptians pursue Israelites across Red sea and die, as sea walls crash on them. God performs miracle providing drinking water thru Moses.

Matthew - Jesus now captured and the beatings/mocking begins. Peter, James, and John identified as being closer to Jesus then the other 12 - Peter denies Jesus three times.

Comments for more...

Why should we trust the bible?

All words in the bible are 'God inspired' - so why would we choose to believe some of the things in the bible, and not others?

Please assist with convincing thoughts/truths as to why you think all stories in the bible are 'actual events' and not just stories... or not? I've heard now from a few that are unsure - some on this reading team and, as I had originally intended, wanted this 'platform' to be a point of discussion not of just what we read, but to voice/post some of the questions that you've always had but just haven't asked.

And really, I'm not sure why we would choose one account in the bible over another to be true,... or not. Personally, I hold the bible as a book of true events/truths... and the faith that I have in Christ, is a faith built on the truths from His book/Word. That's gut, but wanted to toss that out there to be exhausted.

Oh.. be sure to read today's 'reading posting' below too - just needed to get this discussion-trail out there this a.m. too.

Post your comments speaking to this topic... don't be shy. Thanks.. csb

Sunday April 22nd, 2007

Exodus 12-13/Matt 26:1-35
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 14-15/Matt 26:35-75

Exodus/Matthew

Here we go - jumping into the most referenced reading in entire bible with both books; Israelites set out on their long (40 years) journey and Jesus hosts 'the Last Supper', leading into his coming death.

Comments for more... (good stuff today - take your time to relate)

Saturday April 21st, 2007

Exodus 9-11/Matt 25:31-46
Tomorrow’s Reading: Matt. 25:31-46

Exodus
God continues to bring the plagues - we're up to the 9th plague and 16th'ish day - tomorrow's reading will be huge in many references thru-out reading rest of the year.

Matthew
Jesus really 'going deep' with discussions about the final days - and setting the stage for 'are you prepared'. Today's reading in Matt was about God's judgement and consequences to those who won't pass.

NOTE: getting questions about 'is there really a Hell'. Would our God really be cruel to His own creations. Seems in Matt 26:41 it pretty clear, but why is this a question?

Comments for more..

Friday, April 20th, 2007

Exodus 7-8/Matt 25:1-30
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 9-11/Matt 25:31-46

Exodus
We start seeing the miracles of God performed thru Moses and Aaron. Pharoah's heart is hardened by God and in today's reading, doesn't allow God's people (Israelites) to have 3days of worship in the desert.

Matthew
Jesus talking to the 12 on Mount of Olives, just East of Jersalem. He tells parable of those unprepared in 'Ten Virgins' and the 'Parable of the Talents' (may need help here).

Please read comments for more..

Thursday April 19, 2007 (Happy birthday to Scott)

Exodus 4-6/Matt 24:29-51
Tomorrow’s Reading: Exodus 7-8/Matt 25:1-30

Note: all gifts that are larger that 100lbs, please have delivered to 'back deck', as it's easier for me to get them into the house.

Moses is faced with many challenges and soooo has to get outside his comfort zone. He heads back to Egypt to plead with Pharaoh for a 3day Prayer journey to the desert. God asking you/us to do something that puts you outside the 'comfort zone'.

Be sensitive to that today and see if anything materializes... hmmm.

Jesus continues to speak to the end of times. Bottom line here is to live a life pleasing to God now, for ‘it will be good for that servant whose mater finds him doing so when he returns’ 24:46.

See comments for more..

Wednesday, April 18, 2007

Exodus 1-3/Matt. 24:1-28
Tomorrows reading: Exodus 4-6/Matt 24:29-51

Long post - Moses flees to Median, gets married, works for father-in-law and unknowingly being prepared for the Exodus, God's calling to remove Hebrews/Israelites (different name/same people) from Egypt.

Jesus talks about the end of times - worth more discussion than I've posted.

Comments for more...

Tuesday, April 17 2007

Gen 49-50/Matt. 23:23-29
Tomorrows Reading: Exodus 1-3/Matt. 24:1-28

Genesis
Setting: Egypt
Jacob is soon to die - before his death, he details/outlines the ‘12 tribes of Israel’ (Jacob’s son’s) and their characteristics. We’ll be seeing these tribes/land regions in the coming readings many times. Jacob does die and request to be buried in the same place as his fathers – in the land of Machpelah, which was purchased from the Hittite Ephron, back in Caanan.

The brothers were afraid that not Jacob is dead, Joseph at power in Egypt, that he [Joseph] will hold a grudge against this brothers for throwing him in a well, leaving him for dead, selling him into slavery. But Joseph assures them in 50:19: I am in a place of God. You intended to harm me but God intended it for good to accomplish [his will].

Live note: Kevin/Ron (new to the team – welcome Ron) were discussing this yesterday – you may think your success came from choices YOU made, but thru God’s grace and His mercy, we see all gifts are from Him.

Jesus, once again, lays the ‘smack down’ on the teachers of the law/Pharisees; again, he tells them they are hypocrites comparing to a shined up cup, but dirty on the inside, a white-washed tomb – may look great on the outside, but dead on the inside. Not sure I got vv29-33. Never associated before v34 – the suffering those to come will endure for Him.

NOTE: thanks Jeff for the encouragement to get this reading done! We all have to lift each other and keep supporting each to stay on track.

Monday, Apri 16, 2007

Gen46-48/Matt 23:1-22

Tomorrow: Gen 49-50/Matt 23:23-48

Thank you Kevin for stepping in (and to Chris earlier) - and no, I do not mind. Rather, I prefer to share/encourage others to do the same. This being a working/living reference from ALL points of views - that's what makes it 'healthy and meaningful', all of us participating.

Gen 46-48
Joseph’s interpretation of Pharaoh’s dream has really become quite profitable, thru Joseph, for Pharaoh. Storing up grains during the predicted 7years of bountiful harvest was used during the following 7years of famine. All from Egypt and Canaan came to Joseph for food; he sold what was stored up for all their money first, then livestock, and finally their land.

Jacob, because of this famine, travels to Egypt after God calls to him; Jacob! Jacob! (I am here, he responds). Life lesson; how well do we respond to God’s call, shouldn't’t we be ready and willing? NOTE: Goshen was the fertile land just on the edge of Egypt and Sinai

Not real clear why Jacob wanted to adopt Joseph’s son’s Manasseh and Ephraim, and why the younger received blessings over the older – as with Jacob and Esau? Thoughts?

Matt 23:1-22
In v15, Jesus is speaking further of the hypocritical nature of ‘the teachers’; Jesus’ reference to Hell: derived from Greek word ge(h)eena, Hebrew hinnom. The valley of Hinnom… this was the south Jerusalem where heaps of trash was thrown/burned, children were burn/sacrificed. It represented the eternal fire.

Sunday, April 15, 2007

Gen 43-45/Matt 22:23-46

Tomorrow's (Monday) Reading: Gen 46-48/Matt 23:1-22

C. - Hope you don't mind. Know you been busy last week.

Gen 43-45

Seems to me the whole deal behind Joseph returning his brothers silver, keeping Simeon hostage, demanding to see Benjamin, and hiding his silver cup in Benjamin's bag was his (Joseph's) attempt to see if his brothers had changed. They certainly showed they were willing to do just about anything to keep/return Benjamin to their father.

Matt 22:23-40

I've run into people who were like the Sadducees and Pharisees in this scripture. They make every argument they can come up with to disprove (not believe) the gospel of Christ. It's hard to understand why they don't or won't get it.

Gen39-40/Matt. 21:23-46

Tomorrow's (Saturday) Reading: Gen. 41, 42/Matt. 22:1-22

Place holder for comments if you get here before I do..

Gen36-38/Matt 21:1-22

Tomorrow's (Friday) reading: Gen39-40/Matt. 21:23-46

Place holder for today's reading (Thursday)

Joseph is born/introduced and the stage is initially set for Exodus - you seen the movie. Now read 'the book'. eheh. Good stuff.

The events of Jesus' crucifixion are starting to play out per prophesy.

Add comments if you got'm:

Gen33-35/Matt 20:17-34

Tomorrow's reading: Gen36-38/Matt 21:1-22

Jacob deceives Esau once again.. God names Jacob Israel. Jesus and the 12 head to Jerusalem from Capernaum.

Double click map - will see Edom (named after Esau - meaning Red, I think), Judah one of Jacob's sons, land of Israel (Jacob), notice Penuel where Jacob wrestled with God!, Galilee where Jesus and the 12 were hanging out..

Comments for more..

Gen 31-32/Matt 20: 1-16

Tomorrow's (Wednesday) Reading: Gen33-35/Matt 20:17-34

Just a place holder so you guys can post if you like.. catching up soon. Thanks Chris (wow!) for stepping up - I appreciate the assist! As we say in Church, In a small 'valley' right now and a helping-hand is always appreciated . :)

Troy, wow! Welcome - Looking forward to you being part of our group now or just dropping in from time-to-time to share. (As we talked today, I know you said you were doing another study)

Add comments to this reading if you've read (I have not yet.. hehe). Thanks..

--------------------------------

Today's reading in Genesis is just huge in 'connecting the dots' with both old and new testaments. As Chris pointed out, this is were we learn about the naming of the nation Israel, and the significance of the name Israel.

And equally as exciting (yeah.. I'm still new), in Matthew - I finally got it about the parable of the land-owner: It's never too late to trust in Him!

Hope you have time to read comments..

I'm behind

I will get our readings posted asap, but this week has been a 'white knuckle' week. Don't be shy, if someone else wants to do initial posts for next day of so, that would help the 'team' and those that are caught up. Else, I'm sure to get this caught up soon.

Life's point: may not have time everyday to read and spend the time that I/we do most every morning reading. Not sure that is too terribly bad?, being 'choked out by the thorns' (parable of the seeds) sometimes - but we/I can still have our 'daily cup' in prayer/meditation to keep our communion with God, allowing him to guide our paths, I'd say.

Keep the faith!
csb

Gen29-30/Matt 19

Tomorrows Reading: Gen 31-32/Matt 20: 1-16

Jacob takes his wife Rachel and Jesus speaks to giving it all up for him...

Comments for more..

Gen. 27, 28 Matt. 18:21-35

Tomorrow’s Reading : Gen 29-30/Matt 19

Jacob deceives father Isaac, Esau gets a raw deal (it seemed.. I know, this is all part of God's plan). And in Matthew, Jesus speaks to forgiving from the heart.

Comments for more...

Prayer Request

Today is a day that for many, will be the first time all year they'll attend church - we need to pray for those that they're 'eyes and ears' will be wide open... and hearts will be prepared to receive.

For those of you in the Springfield area (my home town), we're having a large event at The Center this a.m., which is a building right across the street from our church were 'special events' are held (basketball games, local concerts, etc.. ). Please be in prayer that this event will be inviting to others that normally don't attend church and this will remove any 'road blocks' that are keeping some away.

Gen 25-26/Matt 18:1-20

Tomorrow’s Reading: Gen. 27, 28 Matt. 18:21-35

Abraham dies, Isaac moves to Gerar - almost on the coast of the Mediterranean, west of Dead sea/Beershebia. Isaac is blessed with riches which is a threat to people of Gerar.

Long post in OT - but understanding the history provides a foundation to the rest of the bible. Exodus is huge and referenced many, many times in both old and new testament. So, we'll spend a lot of cycles there too.

In Matthew, we're still in Capernaum (NW tip of Sea of Galilee) where Jesus is speaking to his disciples about the kingdom in heaven.

Comments for more..

Gen 23-24/Matt 17

Tomorrow’s Reading: Gen 25-26/Matt 18:1-20

Reading plan update: I'm 1/2 way complete in migrating our reading plan to match the days were on. I know it's been tough to follow.

Today: Out of Job now and reading requires a little more ‘association’ with names and places. Take your time.. it pays off to make these associations early. Setting; we’re in the Hebron, just west of Salt Sea (Dead Sea). Last reading in Genesis was when Abraham was tested to sacrifice Isaac in the region of Moriah – today known as the Dome of the Rock.

Matthew reading is the Transfiguration - wow.

Comments for more..

Job 41-42/Matt 16

Tomorrow’s Reading: Gen 23-24/Matt 17

Wow.. very long post today; we're done with Job and in Matthew 16 is the starting point of the Jesus' death - he describes to his deciples in Caesarea Philippi that he must die then he would rise again.

Comments for more...

Job 38-40/Matt 15:21-29

Tomorrow’s Reading: Job 41-42/Matt 16

God speaks to Job and its one of my favorite places in the bible - God outlines his mighty power and all the thing of His creation. Job can do nothing - and has a quite humbling response; 'I am unworthly'. Aren't we all... wow.

Jesus feeds a crowd of 4000 (plus women and children) - didn't realize/remember there were two mass feedings, that were nearly identicle in nature; 7 loaves, and 2/1 fish; the first was chapter 14. Thoughts?

Oh.. Sea of Galilee of 'today' - thought this would be a 'good share'.

Job 36-37/ Matt 15:1-20

Tomorrow’s Reading: Job 38-40/Matt 15:21-29

Elihu continues on – Elihu seems a little full of himself concerning his knowledge and/or his relationship with God. Elihu maintains that Job’s actions were the cause of his afflictions. He then speaks to ‘how great is God – beyond our understanding’. Then Elihu start to preach of God’s mighty creations and ‘to persuade him [Job] into cheerful submission to his providence’ or fate (pretty good read, actually)

Jesus/disciples land at Gennesaret, just below Capernaum on the North West side of Sea of Galilee (click to enlarge map). Jesus accuses the Pharisees of being hypocrites for ‘nullifying the word of God for the sake of tradition’. Does vv8-9 speak to today’s churches as well? Jesus outlines that it’s not what goes in your mouth that makes you ‘unclean’, but what comes out. Do you think Jesus getting a little upset in v16 'Are you so dull'. (snicker)

Job34-35/Matt14:22-36

Tomorrow's read: Job 36-37/Matt 15:1-20

Elihu continues on, addressing 'you wise men', how God has his eyes on 'evil doers' [ie Job], then he addresses Job directly questioning his righteousness.

After Jesus feeds the 5000, he heads to the top of a mountain to pray, he then dismisses his disciples, puts them in a boat to head back to the other side of Sea of Galilee (wonder what Jesus' original intentions were to get back himself - thoughts). Storms come, Jesus walks on water, Peter walks on water, but begins to sink.

Lots of symbolism here... 'points to ponder' - let me know what you're thinking today. I'd love to type stuff all day, but have an appointment this a.m. and gotta run. Good luck!

Job 32-33Matt 14:1-21

Elihu the Buzite (from desert of Buz in the ‘east desert’ – same general area of Arabia, I’d guessing... didn’t have time to look it up this a.m. See map below) joins the scene. He is much younger than the three elders before him (Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar).

John the Baptist is beheaded and Jesus feeds the 5000.

Lend eyes and ears today for the opportunities God puts us/you in....

Comments for more..

30-31/Matt 13:31-58

Tomorrows Reading Job 32-33/Matt 14:-21

Job
Well.. that’s it; this was “Job’s last stand” and outlining his innocence and the injustice based on his character. He has nothing else to say until the last chapter (42).

Matthew
Jesus continues with parables, the mustard seed, yeast, hidden treasures/pearls, and the net.

Job 28-29/Matt 13:1-30

Job’s character gets outlined - Job was quite the man in his community, well respected for his knowledge, wisdom, seems to have been a true gentleman, and 'a ladies man' (ok.. had to throw in a joke about v13 and making a "widows heart sing").

Take a 'new' look at Matthew and 'sewing of the seed' – there are some fresh insights that are sticking in my brain about when is it [sharing the gospel/witnessing] ‘good enough’; I’m struggling with/thinking of Paul and his ‘shaking the dust off his boots’ (forget where that is - God tells Paul to just move on, you've said your peace) and this verse... the ‘path’ example. Thoughts if you got time… just 'throwing the seed', is that good enough?

Comments for more..

Pharisees, Sadducees, Sanhedrin, and teaches...

What's the difference, their role in biblical times, the death of Jesus, etc..

I've not read/soaked thru the information I'm posting, but thought it was a good place to start. I've not found information on 'the Teachers of the Law' yet, but do understand them to be highly studied in Moses law.

Comments for more..

Job25-27/Matt 12:22-50

Tomorrows reading: Job 28-29/Matt 13:1-30

We say good-by to Bildad (not sure that’s such a bad thing) and Job ‘stands tall’ in his faith/patience.

Matthew is still in the same vicinity in Capernaum where he was gathering wheat and healing man in the synagogue. Pharisees accuse Jesus of performing miracles thru powers of Beelzebub and makes a reference in Matt12:40 to the resurrection.

Comments for more..

Praise!

We have a baby! We got our referral yesterday!

Go and check him out: www.jeffandabbey2001.blogspot.com

Job 22-24/Matt 12:1-21

Tomorrows reading: Job 25-27/Matt 12:22-50

More of the same – Eliphaz make his last ‘plea’ to Job. Job wants to meet with God (this has relevance to the end of this book)…

The plot to kill Jesus begins...

Request: someone want to post a mini-lesson on Pharisees, Sadducees, Sanhedrin, and the teachers of the law? It is huge to understand their roles/position bible reading, especially to the reading of Jesus trial.

Important EMAIL I received:
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Got a note from a dear 'friend' that said she is reading every day and visiting this sight, multiple times a day. She said 'I AM learning and enjoying it' - this is huge!! Love ya, by the way!

Then follows up with:
'Where is everybody? I really enjoy reading everyone's comments. Hope to see them back soon'.
--------------------
Me too (wink/wink) ahah.. I do appreciate all the synergy this team has generated. This has become just great tool to open 'conversational doors' with folks that need to hear and/or you have always wanted to 'reach' - or, just those times where 'it feels right' to talk about God and your not sure where to start. I think we all like talking about salvation, 'God stuff', but are just afraid where to start.

You guys/girls rock!

If time permits, drop notes and thoughts - there are many 'first time readers' that can benefit from our 'every day' comments about our reading. Please, don't be shy to share (like Kajagoogoo's 'Too Shy').

Comments for more….

Job 20-21/Matt 11

Tomorrows reading: Job 22-24/Matt 12:1-23

Job
Zophar returns and congers up some very vivid imagery of evil doers and wicked men (ie.. Job, as Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar are all are claiming).

Job's response is 'what's the point' - why do the wicked seem to be 'getting by'. I've thought this before (yeah.. not good, but it happens).

Matthew
John the Baptist is introduced and Jesus speaks 'highly' of him.

Comments for more....

Job 17-19/Matt 10:21-42

Tomorrows reading: Job 20-21/Matt 11

Job
Job continues to speak from yesterdays reading – his outlook not getting any better at all although, there is a ‘high point’ for Job in chapter 19 of his concerning his understanding/relationship with God.

Matthew
We will be hated by ‘all men’ (and a target of Satin too, but not mentioned here) for faith/following Christ – Jesus speaks to this and his protection. In today’s reading as well, there are warnings of end times.

Comments for more…

'Buddy check' request; if you're reading OR just just dropping in from time to time (either way is great), please drop a note here or send me an email (scott.baker@boltedup.com) . Part of the 'buddy system' is knowing someone is going to check in with you from time to time to a) make sure all is ok b) could have questions on reading, c) to ask for prayer requests, etc...

This group has grown past our original goal (as is seems) and I just wanted to help 'admin' that - I have lost track/count. Thanks in advance.. csb

Job14-16/Matt10:1-20

Tomorrow's read: Job 17-19/Matt 10-42

Eliphaz steps back up with a little different tone than his first appearance to Job - before he was noted as the most kind of the the three (Eliphaz, Bildad, Zophar) - but this time, 'brings a little more heat' to the discussion. Job remains steady on his position - his patience with theses three elders is running out.

Cut/pasted from yesterday's post - I read today's date, yesterday... and yesterday's today. Please re-visit yesterday's post/comments for 'discussion topics/observations on Matt 9:18-38.

See Comments for more...

11-13/Matt9:18-38

Tomorrows Reading: Job14-16/Matt10:1-20

Zophar the Naamathite steps up; origin of Naamah not known exactly but thought to be just East of the Jordan, around Ammon, Moab, and Edom (areas immediately adjacent to the Salt sea)

Jesus identifies the 12 and sends them on their way.
Please see Comments for more..

Job8-10/Matt9:1-17

Tomorrow's Reading: Job11-13/Mat9:18-38

Job continues to suffer... and continues to proclaim innocence. Bildad is introduced and has a similar story as Eliphaz.



Matthew's reading outlines healing of a Paralytic, Matthew joins the team of Disciples (note; when called, like the others, 'got up and followed')




Oh.. remember, Job was from the Mesopotamia (dark green on this map);

See Comments for more...

Prayer Request

Please pray for our friends Jerry and Carolyn Ellis. Jerry is having major heart bypass surgery tomorrow. When Mrs. Carolyn asked how many, the doctor replied, "I don't know if I can count that high." Mr. Jerry and Mrs. Carolyn are the founders/owners of Catfish House and are members are FBC Joelton. I know they would appreciate your prayers.

Jeff

Job5-7/Matt 8:18-34

Tomorrow's reading: Job8-10/Matt9:1-17

Job for me was a hard book to read 1st time thru – almost all 42! Chapters are repetitious and somewhat pound on the same points from Job and/or friends over and over – but some ‘inward teachings’, perhaps, is patience to maintain focuses on the details… and more importantly the point that God is revealing in this book. There are so many 'meanings', that may take a few reads to catch them all:

See comments for more:

Job3-4/Matt8:1-17

Tomorrows reading: Job5-7 and Matthew8:18-34

Again.. long post for today's reading - will add as comments to this message. I do hope all are enjoying our read and are staying caught up and understanding...

Job 1-2/Matt7

Tomorrow's reading: Job3-4, Matt 8:1-17

Long post for today's reading.. will add as a comment to this original post. In short, Job has a great life, God recognizes that. Job's life turned upside down to see where his heart is. Matthew's reading also about 'where your heart is'.. good read.

Gen 20-22/Matt6:19-34

Tomorrow's Read: Job1-2/Matt 7: This is a chronological read realitive to time.. as it took place.

Gen20:1-10 The take-away for me was how deception is definitely not part of God’s plan (be we all know that), and how it directly and/or indirectly effects others. Sarah is no longer young – Abimelech probably in his ‘golden years’ as well, has no idea this situation is ‘not good’ – I’m not sure I would have known. Then God was going to bring ‘the smack down’ on him. Note that this is the 2nd time Abraham missrepresented things as 'full truths' about his relationship with Sarah (even though she really was his ½ sister). How bad was this really?

v15 – represents a true state of fear, desperation, and even love for Ishmael (who was probably about 15-16 at this time). Why do you think God ask Hagar what was wrong in v17 – he knew, right?

Gen21
v32 – Beersheba - Well Of The Oath... because they swore on oath there – The name Beersheba is a compound of two elements. The first section is the word (ba'ar) to declare or make plain, with as derivative (be'er), well, pit. The second section is the verb (shaba ) meaning swear, adjure. This too is the place where Jacob, Isaac, and Elijah meet God later in our reading.

Gen22
v5 Abraham taking Isaac up for an offering – why did he say ‘.. we will come back to you’ to the servants?

Matthew's reading –v19 don’t store up on earth, v21 where your treasure is, there you’re heart will be, v24 cant serve both God and money (this is hard even for devout Christians), v34 don’t worry about tomorrow. Good speak to put life in perspective.

A lot of SMV’s (Scott’s Memory Verses) will come from these chapters – more on this later.

3/19/2007 Prayor Reqest

My mom is going into out-patient surgery this morning to hopefully complete a full-cycle of hospital visits, etc.. for the past year realitive to her kidney. Enlisting your prayers that all will go smoothly with anesthesia, the process, and/or the results.

NOTE: I had invisioned this forum for not only bible-reading/study, but fellowship/support.. as in this example. I encourage you all to post similar notes.

Thanks in advanced - have a blessed day!
csb

Gen18-19/Matt6:1-18

Sorry for length of this post
Tomorrow's read: Gen20-22 Matt 6:1-18

Note: I'm hoping to make a posting each day on our reading but gotta tell you, I don't see that happening. I'm reaching out to you to help keep this going - we are all 'new learners' in the grand scheme of things, but there are some that are reading with us are very new (counting myself) or reading for the first time.

I found out today there were two folks reading with us that I wasn't aware - one of which I had a long 'sit down' tonight on just general discussions and bible 'favorite topics'. This individual was just awesome on his knowledge. The point!!!!, please post your questions.. if you don't know, you gotta ask. Where did dinosaurs fit into biblical days.. ? Hmm.. see, those are the type things that I got questions on this week- why not share with rest of the team (.. we are the body, right?)

We have a growing team of just outstanding individuals that are quite versed with the bible; teachers, Chief editors (yeah, gotta say - I'm impressed), lawyers, doctors, veterinarian, staff members (so no swearing), deacons, several that attend seminary, oh and me (I ran two miles in the rain, didn't I Kevin? heheh) - we should be so lucky to have them, I'm very, very happy that each are participating. Ok.. I'm done.

Gen18
v3 – “.. if I have found favor in your eyes, my Lord, do not pass your servant by” – wow, that is my prayer tonight for each on this ‘reading team’

v12-18 – Sarah laughs with a little sarcasm it seems, God calls her out, she lies about it (just like a woman.. just kidding ladies – ahah), then God definitively states – ‘yes you did’.

v17 – Just one of my favorite times in the entire bible – “Then the Lord said, shall I hide from Abraham what I’m about to do”, when talking to Abraham - God just 'checking in with his 'boy' to just to let him in on what was about to happen. My notes say that ‘God convened his Heavenly Counsel at Abraham’s tent’.. and ‘He thus even gave Abraham the opportunity to speak in His court and to intercede for the righteous in Sodom and Gomorrah’. You catch that.. Abraham speaking to ‘His Court’… sitting at the ‘table with God’ discussing 'what was about to go down’. To me, this is just huge

32 – Abraham had ‘talked God down’ (wow.. insert a ‘huge' here too) from 50 to 10. I wondered why he stopped at 10. My notes suggest possibly Lot had in his mind; Lot and his wife, two sons, his 2 married daughters and their husbands (that’s 8), his two unmarried daughters making 10.

Gen19
v8 – what are your thoughts here – Lot offering his virgin daughters to an angry mob?

v22 – Zoar was just below the Salt sea.... almost at the lake's edge on it's most southern point, it seems.

Matt 6
This is a great read about giving to the needy, prayer, and fasting. I love the part about prayer and 'dont babble'. v8 ‘…for your father knows what you need before you ask him’.

God knows our heart..

Gen16-17; Matt5:27-48

Tomorrow Gen18-19/Matt 6:1-18 - it's getting difficult to follow unless you print off and high-light what you've completed. I'm still working on recreating with 'our' dates.

Abram's wife Sarai is barren Gen11, and God's Covenant w/Abram was to make him into great nations in Gen12:1/15:4, 'son from your own body' so how was that going to happen? Sarai gets a little frustrated and takes things into her own hands... notice Sarai says "I can build a family" in 16:2 and 'Abram agreed'.. in the very next sentence. Reminds me a little of Adam/Eve; Abram failed as well. Best part, in v5, Sarai lashes out (just like a woman.. heeh, no offense ladies) and blames Abram for her suggestion. (snicker).

What's in a name: Abram = [God is] Exalted Father, Abraham is Father of many. God marks him as Special . Sarai/Sarah both = Princes, Ishmael=Misery (Hagar, Sarai’s maidservant, in misery because Sarai mistreated her), and Isaac = 'He laughs'(NIV notes) – Abram thought it was a little humorous to have kids at his age, I’d say

Circumcised = God's appointed 'sign of the covenant', God’s covenant with Abraham. Ishmael got Circumcised at age13*/Abraham at 99. NIV notes say that the Arabs use circumcision as transition from childhood to manhood (* wonder if this is why).

Matt5:27-48 Adultery not just a physical act.. Jesus points out, 'deal with sin' as required - remove sin/temptations from your life. Being 'in the word' displaces sinful desires over time!!

Gen 13-15/Matt 4/5:1-26

Lot was son of Haran… great ‘hair band’, Haran-Haran (‘Hungry like the Wolf’ biggest hit) came from this area I think. Note: Lot’s dad died so I wonder if there was a little closer bond between he and Abram – I hadn’t remembered that on first read.

Gen 14:18 ‘Salem’ short for Jerusalem. Seems obvious I’m sure, but I didn’t get it at first. Gen15:18 from the Nile (West) to the Euphrates (East) was a lot of land – and, just on the other side of Euphrates was Babylon.

Matt4:5 ‘.. the Devil took him’ Hebrew ‘Satan’, Greek was ‘Devil’.. means accuser or slanderer.. the devil is a personal being not a mere force or influence… the great archenemy of God and leader of the hosts of darkness. I wonder how he ‘took’ him – vision, physical?

Like Abram, Matt4:20.. Peter/Andrew ‘at once’ left to follow Jesus and James/John ‘immediately’ left their boats.. responding to the call!

Matt 5: the Beatitudes .. ie, Declarations of blessedness. My notes indicated that there is debate as to this was a summary/collection of teachings or a single sermon. The point: a standard for all Christians, realizing the demand can not be met on our own.

Gen 10-12/Matt 4

Gen 9:26 Remember Ham saw Noah naked/drunk and told his brothers; 'May Canaan [son of Ham] be the slave of Shem'.. Shem lineage of Abram (Abraham). Always like to point out Nimrod [part of the Ham clan] was a mighty warrior… heeh

A few notes from where I led Sunday School on this topic
11:3 building the tower of Babel… interesting read; trying to ‘make a name for themselves and not be scattered’. Significance of tower was to preserve their security and union rather than increase in numbers and ‘reflecting His Glory by creating humans in His image who subdue the whole Earth’.
Tower – a ziggurat; zig-yoor-at; square/rectangular stair-step structure
V5 ‘.. the Lord came down’, was that necessary (no…)
V7 ‘.. let US go down’
V8 ‘.. scattered all over the face of the earth’ – G’s original intentions before sin: Gen1:26-28 ‘... rule over the earth’, ‘… fill the earth subdue it’
To date, United nations recognizes 191 nations; 6,912 languages, and 11,200 people groups with distinct cultural identities
--> Question: why do we come to church? What are we preparing for…
Self, God, others?
This has been my motive to 'get into the Word' to be better prepaired as a witness... (more on this later).

Gen 7-9/Matt 3

Notice the ol' 2x2 story is a little different that what we may remember: it was 7x7 (food source) of every clean and 2x2 of unclean in Gen7:2 Ever wonder just how deep the waters got during the flood. As trivia goes, in 7:20, seems to have been 20' higher than the highest mountain. In 7:4, "Seven days from now.. ", did Noah only have 7days to gather all animals, etc.. wow. I've often wondered if there was any significance to the raven vs. the dove in 8:6-9, my NIV study doesn't make any mention. And lastly in Gen for this read, is 9:13; was this the first time Rainbows appeared and/or were 'created' - I had thought so, but my notes seem to say otherwise.

Matt3:7 'you brood of vipers' - Pharisees were hypocritical in their 'faith' - they did keep the law of Moses, but guessing it was on their terms. My notes indicate that the Sadducees denied the resurrection, angels, and spirits and didn't make that distinction with the Pharisees.. did they think differently?

Gen 4-6/Matt. 2

NOTE: please, I encourage you to to create a new post (like this one) for new topics/thoughts so as to 'containerize' discussion threads to refer back to. There will be days where I'll be behind and won't get to initiate conversation on "today's reading" and will rely on you to keep things rolling when Kevin Wood starts to slack, as he often does.

Did you notice it wasn't Cain's offering that offended God, it was his attitude - the result, sin. 'Get right or get left' (Song from my good buddy Tim Tyler and Group Theropy), right? I love Gen4:7 "... sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it".

There are lots of discussions that surround these first few chapters of Genesis. Gen4:14, who was Cain afraid of, 4:17, where did Cain's wife come from, etc.. my notes suggest two things 1) others on earth or 2) anticipation of rapidly growing population. What's your take?

As Jeff mentioned in his post , Enoch didn't experience death, nor Elijah.. how cool is this? Thoughts?

Matt:2 - I hadn't noticed in first reading that the Magi deceived Herod but escaped death (possibly) because they were warned in a dream to leave Bethlehem. And it was because of this that Herod gave orders to kill all boys in Bethlehem/surrounding area that were two and under.

Please start your reading with January 1st..

Start Reading Monday 3/12: I will try to recreate this list, converting existing dates to 'our dates', to make things a little easier to follow.

New Learners: I recommend purchasing a copy of 'The Message' for a much easier read - I prefer the NIV Study, but that's just what I use. Unless you have the patience of Job (will be reading about this cat soon), ... I would NOT start with King James.

Action Requested: we have over 20-30 that have committed to read with us - wow, good job (not Job) to all for passing word around. I don't have an email address for everybody that is reading - if you have a personal/work address I can use, please send to me (scott.baker@boltedup.com). Just a blank email with subject line bible will be fine - if you want to add comments, that would be great too.

Brace Up (Job 40:7), make it happen.

13 group-members so far.. what about a total of 20?

This is getting good; I made several phone-calls tonight and found a common theme - almost all had started reading the bible at some point, but never completed it. I too fell into this category. I appreciate all giving me a few minutes to speak with you.

I had in fact read about 3/4's of a study bible.. which took me 6-years. I thought about how I'd 'finish' someday, but that was 3 years ago since I had stopped reading. So, 'someday' was looking a little far off. It wasn't until Kevin and I hooked up and became 'accountability' partners that it worked.

If you have someone in mind that may benefit from reading the bible (yeah.. there's a concept), I'm guessing you'll get the ol' "I really wanted to, tried it, but never finished it" story. This is where step in with a real-life story.

Pick up the church pictorial and flip thru it... faces will jump out at you that need to be called. Let's see if we can reach 20 people or more. It's easy, just call them with an invitation!

Welcome

Thanks to everyone for joining in reading the bible thru in a year. Gotta tell you, Kevin and I just completed our 'first read' this Feb'07 and it was most awesome. My life seems clearer, I have a new focus, I'm more confident as a witness...

There will be times of frustration, panic, dread, and confusion (and others) but the rewards are eternal. As a 'support team', we'll be encouragers to one another to 'keep the pace' - BRACE UP! (.. as God laid the 'smack down' on Job in Job 40). Expect the greater reward.. His reward.

In Rev-A (Kevin and my initial read thru), we really didn't badger each other about our reading, but each knew we were being held 'accountable'. Huge. Since life seems to be in full-swing for most, I choose to create this blog as a centralized discussion-point for high-lights, prayer concerns, etc.. just a place to praise.

I can make this a private 'venue', but will wait until things get rolling befor making changes.