WHO IS VISITING YOU?

Jesus wept over Jerusalem. He knew what was coming upon His people because “the things, which belonged to their peace, were hidden from their eyes.”  They didn’t understand the time of their visitation. (Luke 19:41 - 44b) They did not recognize Jesus, their long awaited Messiah.

AN ANGEL? 

Strangers visited Abraham to bring him good news of the promised child fulfilled (Gen. 18:10) and angels gave his nephew, Lot, a warning message of impending judgment (Gen19: 13). Although unrecognized as such, those men were angels sent to them from God, carrying messages.

We are admonished to be hospitable because we entertain angels unawares (Heb 13:2).  We don’t always recognize those around us – we don’t realize what the carry. They appear to be part of the landscape that we pass by everyday.

ORDINARY PEOPLE

Although not as dramatic or seemingly supernatural as Gabriel’s appearance to Mary or the strangers sent to Abraham and Lot, God by his Spirit can send a message to you through the very ordinary people in your sphere of influence.

Is there a gift, a message, some comfort, direction, example or answer for your dilemma residing in your brother or sister - hidden there by God - for you?  Hidden there, just waiting for you to recognize the treasure within them. Each person has value, knowledge and experiences that can teach something.

MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE

We are encouraged to know one another by the spirit and to esteem one another.  We are so busy and therefore quick to put people into categories and little boxes. I believe that we may be surprised, if we slow down long enough, to actually discern who is before us.

UNFORGETTABLE NUGGET

Like the little lady that I gave a ride home one night.  On the way, my car stalled and wouldn’t start again no matter what technique I used. Raising the hood and peering into the machinery did not give up a clue how to fix the issue. I was starting to panic but without reservation the little lady laid her hands on my car, prayed, and boldly declared in the name of Jesus that it would start.  A little embarrassed, I prayed with her and got back in the car, turned the key and my car started right up without hesitation!  I was startled but she just smiled knowingly.  Faith was her lifestyle and her actions taught me something about total dependency on the Father in Jesus’s name. 

That was one night many, many years ago but I still remember. The message of simple faith and dependency on God that she taught me sums up to “faith is a lifestyle”.