Have you ever felt like you've messed up so badly that there's no coming back? That your failures have disqualified you from God's purpose for your life? Take heart, because this is not the end of your story.

The journey of Peter, one of Jesus' closest disciples, serves as a powerful reminder that our missteps don't define our destiny. Peter's story is one of tremendous highs and devastating lows. He walked on water with Jesus, proclaimed Him as the Messiah, and yet also denied knowing Him three times in His darkest hour.

But here's the beautiful truth: Jesus didn't give up on Peter, and He doesn't give up on us.

John 21 paints a poignant picture of restoration. We find Peter, having experienced the crushing weight of his failure, returning to what was familiar – fishing. How often do we do the same? When faced with our shortcomings, we retreat to our comfort zones, to what feels safe and controllable.

Yet Jesus meets us there. He calls out to Peter from the shore, guiding him to an abundant catch. Then, in a moment laden with meaning, Jesus asks Peter three times: "Do you love me?" It's no coincidence that this matches the number of Peter's denials. With each affirmation of love, Jesus commissions Peter: "Feed my lambs," "Tend my sheep," "Feed my sheep."

This interaction reveals profound truths about God's heart and our calling:

1. Attention Reveals Love
Jesus' repeated question wasn't meant to shame Peter, but to realign his priorities. Where we place our attention shows what we truly value. Are we giving more attention to our sins, our failures, our own ambitions – or to Jesus? He invites us to demonstrate our love through caring for what matters most to Him: His people.

2. Steward What Was Once Broken
Jesus gives Peter the opportunity to steward the very thing he broke – his loyalty. This process may feel uncomfortable, even frustrating. We want instant restoration, but healing takes time. God often uses the areas of our greatest failures as the platform for our most significant ministry. What if, instead of avoiding our broken places, we allowed God to redeem them?

3. Comparison Kills
Even in this profound moment of restoration, Peter stumbles into the trap of comparison. He asks Jesus, "What about him?" (referring to John). Jesus' response is both firm and freeing: "What is that to you? You follow me."

Comparing our calling, our progress, or our blessings to others is a sure way to derail our spiritual growth. Social media has only amplified this tendency. We see curated glimpses of others' lives and ministries, forgetting that behind those polished posts often lie struggles we know nothing about.

The truth is, when we fixate on how God is working in someone else's life, we risk missing what He wants to do in and through us. Jesus' call is personal and specific. Your journey with Him is unique, tailor-made for the person He created you to be.

Living Beyond Our Failures

So how do we move forward, embracing God's call even when we feel disqualified? Here are some key takeaways:

1. Recognize that failure is not final. Peter's story didn't end in the courtyard of denial or on that fishing boat. God's grace is bigger than our mistakes.

2. Be willing to face your failures. Jesus didn't ignore Peter's denials; He addressed them head-on. Healing often requires honest confrontation of our shortcomings.

3. Accept God's restoration. Allow Jesus to recommission you, just as He did with Peter. Your past doesn't disqualify you from future service.

4. Focus on loving Jesus above all else. When our primary aim is to love God wholeheartedly, everything else falls into proper alignment.

5. Steward the broken areas of your life. Don't run from your pain or failures – offer them to God and watch how He can use them for His glory.

6. Keep your eyes on Jesus, not on others. Comparison will always leave you feeling either superior (pride) or inferior (discouragement). Neither is helpful for spiritual growth.

7. Embrace the specific call God has for you. Trust that He has a unique purpose for your life, regardless of how it compares to others.

Remember, this is not the end of your story. The God who called Peter from a fishing boat to become a fisher of men, who restored him after devastating failure, and who used him to build the early church – that same God is at work in your life.

Maybe you're a recent graduate, unsure of your next steps. Perhaps you're in the midst of a career change, a relationship struggle, or wrestling with doubt. Wherever you find yourself today, know that Jesus is calling you out of the boat of comfort and into the exciting (if sometimes scary) unknown of following Him.

Will you trust Him with your next chapter? Even when you can't see the full picture, will you step out in faith?

Your failures don't disqualify you. Your past doesn't define you. Your comparison to others doesn't determine your worth. Jesus simply says, "You follow me."

This is not the end. It's only the beginning of what God wants to do through you. So step out of the boat, leave behind the familiar shores of your comfort zone, and follow Jesus into the adventure He has planned. Your story of restoration and purpose is still being written.

Disruptive Faith: Choosing God's Kingdom Over Culture

In a world that often seems to be spiraling into chaos, where cultural norms shift like sand beneath our feet, how do we as believers stand firm? How do we navigate the tumultuous waters of societal expectations while remaining true to our faith? The answer lies in embracing a disruptive faith – one that challenges the status quo and chooses God's kingdom over the fleeting trends of our culture.

Let's journey back to ancient Egypt, where we find a powerful illustration of this disruptive faith in action. The book of Exodus introduces us to two remarkable women, Shipra and Pua, Hebrew midwives living under the oppressive rule of Pharaoh. These women faced a harrowing dilemma when Pharaoh commanded them to kill all newborn Hebrew boys. In that moment, they had to choose between obeying the earthly king or the King of Kings.

Their decision was nothing short of revolutionary. Despite the potential consequences, Shipra and Pua chose to fear God rather than man. They allowed the boys to live, directly disobeying Pharaoh's cruel edict. Their actions were not just an act of civil disobedience; they were a profound statement of faith and a disruption of the cultural norms of their time.

This ancient story bears striking relevance to our modern world. How often do we find ourselves in situations where the culture around us demands one thing, but our faith calls us to another? It might not be a matter of life and death, but the principle remains the same. Will we conform to the world's expectations, or will we stand firm in our convictions?

The apostle Paul exhorts us in Romans 12:2, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." This transformation begins in our inner world – our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes. As Proverbs 23:7 reminds us, "As a man thinks in his heart, so is he." Our internal reality shapes our external actions.

Consider for a moment: what occupies your thoughts? What drives your decisions? Are you more concerned with pleasing others or pleasing God? The answers to these questions reveal a lot about the kingdom we're truly serving.

Shipra and Pua's courageous actions teach us several vital lessons about living out a disruptive faith:

1. Choose faith over fear: In the face of potential persecution, these women trusted God rather than succumbing to fear of earthly authorities.

2. Prioritize purpose over pride: They understood their God-given purpose was to preserve life, not to seek personal gain or avoid discomfort.

3. Embrace holy discontent: They were not satisfied with the status quo when it conflicted with God's will.

4. Exercise wise courage: Their response to Pharaoh was both brave and calculated, demonstrating that faith and wisdom can go hand in hand.

Living out this kind of disruptive faith isn't always easy. It often means swimming against the current of popular opinion, risking ridicule or rejection. But remember, we serve a God who specializes in turning the world upside down. Jesus Himself was the ultimate disruptor, challenging religious norms and social hierarchies, all while embodying perfect love and truth.

So, how can we cultivate this disruptive faith in our own lives?

First, we must be intentional about renewing our minds through regular engagement with God's Word. As we meditate on Scripture day and night, our thought patterns begin to align with God's truth rather than the world's lies.

Second, we need to cultivate a hunger for righteousness. Jesus said, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled" (Matthew 5:6). When we develop an appetite for God's ways, the empty promises of culture become less appealing.

Third, we must be willing to stand alone if necessary. Joshua's bold declaration, "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15), is a powerful example of choosing God's kingdom even when it means going against the majority.

Fourth, we need to remember that our actions have ripple effects. Shipra and Pua's decision to spare the Hebrew boys ultimately played a role in preserving the lineage that would lead to the Messiah. Our seemingly small acts of faith and obedience can have far-reaching consequences we may never fully understand in this life.

Lastly, we must rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus promised that when we receive the Holy Spirit, we will be His witnesses "to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8). It's through His power that we can live out a truly disruptive faith.

As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let's challenge ourselves to be more like Shipra and Pua. Let's be willing to disrupt the status quo when it conflicts with God's will. Let's choose to feed our spirits rather than our flesh, to pursue conviction over compromise, and to stand firm in our faith even when the culture pushes back.

Remember, we serve a God who owns "the cattle on a thousand hills" (Psalm 50:10). He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. When we align ourselves with His kingdom, we tap into a power and purpose far greater than anything this world can offer.

So, let us be brave in our belief in Jesus, bold in our defense of the gospel, and brilliant on whatever platform God has given us. Let us live out the legacy of our names as children of the Most High God. And may our lives be a testament to the transformative power of a faith that dares to disrupt the darkness and shine the light of Christ in a world desperate for hope.

In the end, the question we must all answer is this: Which kingdom are we serving? Are we bowing to the Pharaohs of our day, or are we standing firm in our allegiance to the King of Kings? The choice is ours. May we have the courage to choose wisely, to live disruptively, and to let our light shine brightly in a world that desperately needs it.

From Problem to Prophecy: The Transformative Power of Faith

In the pages of 1 Samuel, we encounter a story that resonates deeply with the human experience - a tale of longing, suffering, and ultimately, divine intervention. It's the story of Hannah, a woman whose journey from barrenness to motherhood teaches us profound lessons about faith, perseverance, and the mysterious ways of God.

Hannah's story begins with a problem that many can relate to - unfulfilled desire. She was one of two wives to Elkanah, but unlike Peninnah, Hannah had no children. In a culture where a woman's worth was often measured by her ability to bear children, Hannah's barrenness was more than a personal disappointment; it was a source of social shame and emotional anguish.

Year after year, Hannah endured not only the pain of her unfulfilled longing but also the cruel provocations of Peninnah, her rival. The scripture tells us that "her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her. This went on year after year." How many of us have experienced similar long-term struggles, where our pain is compounded by the words or actions of others?

But Hannah's response to her suffering is where we find the first profound lesson. Instead of lashing out in anger or falling into despair, Hannah turned to God. She wept, yes, but she also prayed. In her anguish, she poured out her soul before the Lord.

There's a powerful truth here: our problems, no matter how deep or long-lasting, can become the very thing that drives us into a more intimate relationship with God. Hannah's problem became the catalyst for her prophecy.

As Hannah prayed in the temple, her lips moving but her voice silent, she made a vow to God. If blessed with a son, she would dedicate him to the Lord's service. This vow reveals another crucial aspect of faith - the willingness to give back to God what He gives to us.

Too often, we approach God with a consumer mentality, asking what He can do for us without considering what we can offer in return. Hannah's vow challenges us to consider: What are we willing to give back to God? How can we use the blessings He provides to further His kingdom?

The priest Eli, mistaking Hannah's fervent prayer for drunkenness, initially rebuked her. But upon realizing his error, he blessed her, saying, "Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of him." This interaction reminds us that even spiritual leaders can misinterpret sincere devotion, and it encourages us to be both gracious in the face of misunderstanding and quick to offer blessing when we recognize true faith.

The narrative takes a remarkable turn when we're told that Hannah "went her way and ate something, and her face was no longer downcast." Notice this: her circumstances hadn't changed yet. She wasn't pregnant. But something had shifted in her heart. She had poured out her anguish to God and received His peace in return.

This is a profound truth for all of us: sometimes, what we need most is not an immediate answer to our prayers, but the peace that comes from bringing our whole selves - our pain, our anger, our tears - before God. True peace isn't the absence of problems, but the presence of God in the midst of our problems.

In due time, Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son, whom she named Samuel, saying, "Because I asked the Lord for him." True to her vow, once Samuel was weaned, Hannah brought him to the temple to serve the Lord.

But the story doesn't end there. Hannah's act of faith and obedience led to something far greater than she could have imagined. Samuel grew to become one of Israel's greatest prophets, anointing both Saul and David as kings. Hannah's problem had indeed become a prophecy - not just for her own life, but for the entire nation of Israel.

In her song of praise recorded in 1 Samuel 2, Hannah prophesies about a king at a time when Israel had no monarchy. She declares, "He will give strength to his king and exalt the horn of his anointed." This prophetic praise, born out of her personal experience of God's faithfulness, points forward to the establishment of the Davidic kingdom and ultimately to Jesus Christ, the eternal King.

Hannah's story challenges us to consider how we respond to our own long-term struggles. Do we allow them to embitter us, or do we use them as opportunities to deepen our faith? Do we give in to despair, or do we persistently bring our petitions before God?

Moreover, Hannah's example encourages us to speak life and destiny over our situations and our loved ones, even when circumstances seem bleak. Just as Hannah prophesied greatness for her son when he was just a baby, we too can declare God's promises over our lives and the lives of others, trusting in His faithfulness to bring those words to fruition.

In our own lives, we may face "Peninnahs" - people or circumstances that provoke us and highlight our perceived inadequacies. But like Hannah, we can choose to respond not with retaliation, but with fervent prayer and unwavering trust in God.

Remember, God is more committed to our sanctification than to our comfort. The trials we face, the longings unfulfilled, the dreams deferred - all of these can be instruments in God's hands, shaping us into the people He has called us to be. Our problems, when surrendered to God, have the potential to become prophecies - declarations of God's faithfulness and power in our lives.

As we reflect on Hannah's story, let us be encouraged to bring our whole selves before God, to persist in prayer even when answers seem delayed, and to trust that God can use our deepest pain as a platform for His greatest work. For in the economy of God's kingdom, no tear is wasted, no prayer unheard, and no faithful act of surrender goes unrewarded.

From problem to prophecy - this is the transformative journey that faith invites us to embark upon. May we, like Hannah, have the courage to take that journey, trusting in the God who hears, remembers, and acts on behalf of His children.

The Wheat and the Weeds: Living as Children of Light in a Dark World

In a world where good and evil coexist, how can we, as followers of Christ, navigate the complexities of life and remain true to our faith? This question lies at the heart of one of Jesus' most profound parables - the Parable of the Wheat and the Weeds.

Imagine a farmer sowing good seed in his field, only to have an enemy come in the night and sow weeds among the wheat. As the plants grow, the farmer's servants notice the weeds and ask if they should pull them up. But the farmer, in his wisdom, tells them to let both grow together until the harvest, lest they uproot the wheat while trying to remove the weeds.

This parable offers us a powerful metaphor for understanding the nature of God's kingdom and our place within it. We live in a world where the children of God (the wheat) grow alongside those who do not follow Him (the weeds). At times, it can be challenging to distinguish between the two, as they may appear similar on the surface.

But what does this mean for us as believers? How should we live in light of this reality?

First and foremost, we must recognize that judgment belongs to God alone. It's not our place to try and separate the wheat from the weeds prematurely. Instead, we're called to focus on our own growth and spiritual development, trusting that God will handle the final judgment when the time comes.

This parable reminds us of the larger narrative of Scripture - from Creation to the Fall, through Redemption, and ultimately to the New Creation. We live in the tension between the "already" of Christ's redemptive work and the "not yet" of its full realization. As we await that final harvest, we're called to bear fruit and shine as lights in a dark world.

But how do we do this? The answer lies in embracing four key pillars of faith:

1. Love: Jesus commanded us to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. This love isn't just a feeling, but an action - one that extends even to those who may be different from us or difficult to love. As 1 John 4 reminds us, if we claim to love God but hate our brother, we are liars. True love is the hallmark of a follower of Christ.

2. Live: Our lives should reflect the transformative power of the Gospel. As 1 John 2 states, whoever keeps God's word truly has the love of God perfected in them. This means living a life worthy of our calling, repenting from sin, and abiding in Christ. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit unless it remains connected to the vine, we cannot produce spiritual fruit unless we remain connected to Jesus.

3. Serve: We're called to serve others humbly, following the example of Christ who came not to be served, but to serve. This service isn't about gaining recognition or reward, but about selflessly giving ourselves for the benefit of others. It's a practical expression of the love we're called to embody.

4. Share: The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 charges us to go and make disciples of all nations. We have a responsibility to share the good news of the Gospel with those around us. This sharing isn't just about words, but about living out our faith in a way that draws others to Christ.

As we embrace these pillars, we must also be aware of the reality of judgment. Matthew 7:21-23 offers a sobering warning: not everyone who claims to follow Christ will enter the kingdom of heaven. It's not enough to simply profess faith or even to do mighty works in Jesus' name. What matters is doing the will of the Father and truly knowing Christ.

This truth should inspire us to examine our own hearts and lives. Are we truly living as wheat, or are we merely weeds masquerading as wheat? Are we bearing fruit that reflects our connection to Christ, or are we simply going through the motions of religion?

The good news is that for those who truly belong to Christ, there is assurance. As Jesus says in John 10:27-29, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand."

Living as wheat in a field of weeds isn't always easy. We may face opposition, temptation, and trials. But we're called to stand firm, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. We're part of a greater story - one that ends with the righteous shining like the sun in the kingdom of their Father.

So how do we respond to this message? Here are a few practical steps:

1. Examine your heart: Are you truly living as a child of God, or are you merely going through the motions?

2. Cultivate spiritual growth: Focus on developing your relationship with God through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers.

3. Serve others: Look for opportunities to humbly serve those around you, reflecting Christ's love in practical ways.

4. Share your faith: Be bold in sharing the Gospel, both through your words and your actions.

5. Trust in God's judgment: Resist the temptation to judge others, knowing that God will ultimately separate the wheat from the weeds.

6. Pray for revival: Let revival begin in your own heart, then spread to your family, your community, and beyond.

As we navigate this complex world, may we always remember that we are called to be wheat - children of light growing in a dark world. Though we may be surrounded by weeds, we can trust in God's ultimate plan and His power to preserve us. Let us live in such a way that when the harvest comes, we will be gathered into His barn, having lived lives that truly reflected His glory and love to the world around us.

The Parable of the Soils: Nurturing Faith in a World of Distractions

In a world filled with constant noise and distractions, how do we ensure that our faith takes root and flourishes? This timeless question finds its answer in one of the most profound parables ever told – the Parable of the Soils. This story, rich in agricultural imagery, offers us a powerful lens through which we can examine the state of our own hearts and spiritual lives.

The parable presents us with a simple yet profound scenario: a farmer scattering seeds across different types of soil. Each soil represents a different condition of the human heart, and the seed symbolizes the Word of God. As we delve into this parable, we're invited to ask ourselves a crucial question: Which soil am I?

The Path: The Hardened Heart

Picture a well-trodden path, its surface packed down by countless footsteps. When seeds fall here, they have no chance to penetrate the hard ground. Birds swoop down and snatch them away before they can even begin to take root. This represents those who hear the Word of God but fail to understand or engage with it. Their hearts are hardened, perhaps by skepticism, indifference, or the cares of this world. The message bounces off, never finding a place to grow.

How often do we find ourselves in this state? Physically present in church or Bible study, but mentally and spiritually absent? It's a sobering reminder that mere exposure to truth isn't enough – we must cultivate receptive hearts.

The Rocky Ground: Shallow Faith

Next, we encounter soil with a thin layer of earth covering bedrock. Seeds that fall here sprout quickly but wither just as fast when the sun beats down on them. Their roots can't penetrate the underlying rock to find moisture and nutrients. This soil represents those who receive the Word with initial enthusiasm but lack the depth to sustain their faith when challenges arise.

It's easy to be a "fair-weather Christian" when everything is going well. But what happens when we face persecution, hardship, or simply the daily grind of life? Without deep roots, our faith can quickly wither. This calls us to build a foundation that goes beyond surface-level engagement with our faith.

The Thorny Ground: A Crowded Heart

The third type of soil is perhaps the most relatable for many of us. Here, the seed falls among thorns that grow up alongside it, eventually choking out the young plant. This represents those who hear the Word, but allow the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of wealth to crowd out its influence in their lives.

In our busy, achievement-oriented culture, it's all too easy to let our spiritual lives take a backseat to career, relationships, hobbies, or the pursuit of material success. We may still identify as believers, but our faith becomes stunted, unable to produce the fruit it was meant to bear. This soil challenges us to examine our priorities and make space for God amidst the many competing demands on our attention.

The Good Soil: A Receptive and Fruitful Heart

Finally, we come to the good soil – deep, rich, and free from rocks or thorns. Seeds that fall here take root, grow strong, and produce an abundant harvest. This represents those who hear the Word, understand it, and allow it to transform their lives. The result is spiritual fruit – love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23).

What sets this soil apart? It's not just about hearing the Word, but truly understanding and applying it. It's about allowing God's truth to penetrate every aspect of our lives, even when it challenges us or goes against our natural inclinations. Good soil is cultivated through consistent spiritual practices, honest self-examination, and a willingness to be shaped by God's Word.

Becoming Good Soil

The beauty of this parable is that it doesn't just diagnose our spiritual condition – it offers hope for transformation. No matter what type of soil we currently resemble, we have the opportunity to become good soil. Here are some practical steps we can take:

1. Soften hardened hearts through regular exposure to God's Word and community with other believers.
2. Deepen shallow faith by studying Scripture, asking tough questions, and seeking mentorship from mature Christians.
3. Clear away the thorns by examining our priorities and intentionally making space for spiritual growth.
4. Cultivate receptivity by approaching God's Word with humility and a desire to be changed.

Remember, the farmer in the parable scatters seed generously, not discriminating between different types of soil. In the same way, God's Word is available to all of us, regardless of our past or current spiritual state. The question is: How will we receive it?

A Challenge to Bear Fruit

As we reflect on this parable, we're called not just to be hearers of the Word, but doers also (James 1:22). Good soil doesn't just absorb nutrients for itself – it produces a harvest that benefits others. When our hearts are truly receptive to God's Word, the natural outcome is a life that bears fruit and impacts those around us.

This fruit might look different for each of us. For some, it might mean showing extraordinary kindness in a harsh work environment. For others, it could involve sacrificial giving to meet the needs of the less fortunate. Still others might find themselves sharing their faith boldly with friends and family. Whatever form it takes, spiritual fruit is the visible evidence of an invisible transformation taking place within us.

In a world hungry for authenticity and hope, Christians who embody the qualities of good soil stand out. They attract others not through forceful arguments or perfect behavior, but through lives visibly changed by the power of God's Word.

Which Soil Are You?

As we conclude our exploration of this profound parable, the question remains: Which soil are you? It's a question worth revisiting regularly, as our hearts can shift between different states depending on our circumstances and choices.

Are you the path, hearing God's Word but never letting it penetrate? The rocky soil, quick to respond but lacking depth? The thorny ground, where faith is choked out by worldly concerns? Or are you striving to be the good soil, where God's Word takes deep root and produces abundant fruit?

Remember, the goal isn't perfection, but progress. Even the good soil requires constant care and cultivation. May we all commit to nurturing hearts that are receptive to God's Word, allowing it to transform us from the inside out. As we do, we'll find ourselves not just hearers of the Word, but living examples of its power to change lives and impact the world around us.

Many of us have expectations. In fact, there are three words used in the Greek for the word ‘expect’ in the Bible.

-Prosdokao, meaning to look forward to what will probably occur, whether in hope or fear.
-Ekdechomai to look for, to await, to receive
-Apokaradokia is anxious or intense anticipation in the sense of watching something.

In the book of Matthew, there was an expectation of Jesus. Matthew 21:5 says,  “Tell the people of Jerusalem, ‘Look, your King is coming to you. He is humble, riding on a donkey—riding on a donkey’s colt.” The origin of this text comes from a prophet in the old testament, named Zechariah. He was a minor prophet whose name meant Yahweh remembers and the book he penned contains the largest number of passages among the minor prophets about the Messiah. Scholars record that Zechariah used a simple structure of eight visions (Zechariah 1:1–6:15), four messages (7:1–8:23), and two oracles (9:1–14:21) to anticipate the completion of the temple and, ultimately, the future reign of the Messiah from Jerusalem. In this verse; he is telling of the coming Messiah who would ride into Jerusalem on a donkey.

The time span from Zechariah 9 to Matthew 21, was about 500 years. You see, Zechariah prophesied about a Messiah that would not come in the way people thought but would proclaim peace, cleanse people from their sins, and rescue His people as a good Shepherd would. The message was clear.

However, the expectation of the hearts of the people; what they allowed into their way of thinking based on their circumstances, based on even their oppression; made them lose sight of why Jesus was coming. The selfishness of their desires overrode the truth of what Jesus was coming/sent to do.

There was an expectation, a popular way of thinking that was becoming embedded in the minds of the Jewish people at the time. An expectation that Jesus would be temporal, that he would make war among the Romans, who were oppressing the Jews, that this Messiah would come to save them not from their sin which Zechariah prophesied but would save them from man…from an empire. There were many who did not see Jesus in a spiritual faith but rather someone who can deliver them temporarily for the time in which they needed Him to do so. They were looking for restoration of Israel, they were looking for a revolt against this Roman army, and they were seeing the Messiah as someone who was coming to do solely that.

This was a clear example of overlooking the specific prophecy of Zechariah and changing it to fit their needs in that moment. Jesus was never coming to fulfill a temporal gain but rather something that was eternal. He was coming to save their souls not to rescue their physical man.

“What is our belief in Jesus rooted out of? Who do we believe Jesus is? If someone were to walk up to us after we leave this service and ask us who Jesus Christ is, what would our response be? What is it rooted out of? Is it rooted in faith, in the knowledge and revelation of Christ through our intimacy with Him, or is it rooted in what we may have heard from someone else?

The fear of God is the beginning of everything good. It is a treasure. It unlocks the purpose of our existence, it attracts the presence, protection and providence of our Creator. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Proverbs 9:10). If we do not have this Holy fear we can even begin to have wisdom.

These men and women with an expectation of Jesus were cheering him on yet had wisdom in their own eyes. They saw what Jesus could do, they saw the miracles he did, they saw the way he taught unlike anyone they heard speak before but in their minds they still did not have Holy fear towards him so their root was still growing out of what Jesus can do for me. Out of selfishness, pride, out of the fear of man. They heard about a Messianic prophecy over 500 years ago but their root was growing through the lens of hurt and oppression and revenge, which caused them to have faulty expectations.

The very people that were awaiting and seeing this Messiah were the very people that Jesus was talking about chapters earlier. They saw him riding on a donkey, they heard of the miraculous things he did but they still did not perceive nor understand who He was.

And so one day He is riding into Jerusalem and they are cheering “Hosanna[b] to the Son of David!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”[c] “Hosanna[d] in the highest heaven!”

What our response will be when our expectations are not met? Jesus comes into Jerusalem and he sees people selling in the temple and he overthrows tables and we can laugh about it but I wonder if Jesus were to come right here in this place or the temple of our heart; what would he be flipping over?

We see that because Jesus did not live up to their expectations, because He did not demand their notion of justice. He did not reveal their image of God. THEIR IMAGE. The same people who said Hosana days later would be the same people that would say crucify him. Or if there were any in the crowd that did know him, they stayed silent as the majority said CRUCIFY HIM.

When Jesus looked at his disciples, He specifically asked them who do the people say I am? And they respond and say some say John the Baptist, some say Elijah, some say Jeremiah, or one of the prophets because their expectation of who Jesus was was not rooted in revelation of the The Father but what they thought in their natural minds. So then Jesus challenges his disciples and says But who do you say that I am? And out of those people, one responded on behalf of the group. Peter, and he says to Jesus, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God.”  You see Peter’s expectation about Who Christ was was rooted in knowing that Jesus was the promised Messiah AND knowing that He was also divine.

Matthew 21:43 Therefore I tell you that the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a people who will produce its fruit.

Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 says, I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

Let us aim to align our expectations to the will of God. We do this by having a heart that will:

• Repent - we have to acknowledge the things that are taking us from being united in God and turn from what He is not pleased with and turn towards Him. 
  1. The Lord has made everything for its purpose, even the wicked for the day of trouble.
  2. Everyone who is arrogant in heart is an abomination to the Lord; be assured, he will not go unpunished.
  3. By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the Lord one turns away from evil.  (Proverbs 16:4-6)
• Commit - commit ourselves, our ways, the things that we do to The Lord. 
  1. The plans of the heart belong to man, but the answer of the tongue is from the Lord. All the ways of a man are pure in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the spirit.
  2. Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.  (Proverbs 16:1-3)
• Pursue to please the Lord
  1. When a man's ways please the Lord,  he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
  2. Better is a little with righteousness than great revenues with injustice.
  3. The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.  (Proverbs 16:7-9)
• Pursue to have the expectations of Christ
  1. Expect to suffer (Phil 1:29) For it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake,
  2. Expect to serve (Marl 10:45) For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
  3. Expect to die (1 Cor 15:31) I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.

The Road to Emmaus: Finding Jesus in Our Moments of Doubt

Have you ever felt lost, confused, or disappointed in your faith journey? Perhaps you've experienced moments where God seemed distant, despite your best efforts to follow Him. If so, you're not alone. The story of the road to Emmaus offers a powerful lesson about recognizing Jesus in our midst, even when we least expect it.

Picture this: Two men, dejected and heartbroken, walking along a dusty road from Jerusalem to Emmaus. They had placed their hopes in Jesus, believing He was the one to redeem Israel. But now, three days after His crucifixion, they were left with shattered dreams and unanswered questions.

As they walked, discussing recent events, a stranger joined them. Unbeknownst to them, this stranger was Jesus Himself. Yet, "their eyes were kept from recognizing him." How often do we find ourselves in similar situations? We may be talking about Jesus, yearning for His presence, while failing to recognize He's right beside us.

This encounter teaches us several profound lessons:

1. Jesus seeks us even when we can't see Him

Even in our moments of doubt and confusion, Jesus draws near. He doesn't wait for us to have everything figured out. Instead, He meets us where we are, joining us in our journey. The Bible tells us that Jesus "drew near to them and went with them." This is a beautiful picture of God's pursuit of us, even when we feel far from Him.

2. Jesus welcomes conversation

As they walked, Jesus asked the men, "What is this conversation that you are holding with each other as you walk?" He invited them to share their thoughts and feelings openly. Similarly, Jesus welcomes our honest conversations with Him. We don't need to hide our doubts, fears, or disappointments. He wants us to bring everything to Him, creating space for authentic dialogue.

3. Jesus listens and engages

Instead of immediately revealing Himself or correcting their misunderstandings, Jesus listened as the men poured out their hearts. He allowed them to process their grief and confusion, demonstrating patience and compassion. This reminds us that God is not intimidated by our questions or frustrations. He's willing to walk alongside us, even in our moments of unbelief.

4. Jesus corrects bad theology

After listening, Jesus gently but firmly addressed their misconceptions. "O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken!" He then proceeded to explain the Scriptures, showing how they pointed to His suffering and glory. This teaches us the importance of aligning our understanding with God's Word. Sometimes, our disappointments stem from faulty expectations or incomplete knowledge of God's plan.

5. Jesus waits for an invitation

As they neared their destination, Jesus "acted as if he were going farther." He didn't impose Himself on them but waited for their invitation. "They urged him strongly, saying, 'Stay with us.'" This beautiful detail reminds us that while Jesus is always near, He respects our free will. He desires a relationship with us but waits for us to open the door of our hearts.

The story culminates in a powerful moment of revelation. As Jesus broke bread with them, "their eyes were opened, and they recognized him." In an instant, their sorrow turned to joy, their confusion to clarity. They realized that their hearts had been burning within them as He spoke to them on the road.

This account challenges us to reflect on our own spiritual journeys:

- Are we walking our own "road to Emmaus," feeling distant from God despite talking about Him?
- Have we allowed unmet expectations to blind us to God's presence and work in our lives?
- Are we open to Jesus' gentle correction of our misunderstandings?
- Are we inviting Jesus into every aspect of our lives, or are we keeping Him at arm's length?

The story of the road to Emmaus reminds us that Jesus is often closest when we feel most alone. He doesn't always reveal Himself in the ways we expect, but He is faithful to walk with us through our doubts and disappointments. Sometimes, He allows us to wrestle with our questions, not to frustrate us, but to deepen our faith and understanding.

Moreover, this account encourages us to look for Jesus in the ordinary moments of life. He may not appear in a blaze of glory, but in the gentle presence of a stranger, in the burning of our hearts as we engage with Scripture, or in the breaking of bread with fellow believers.

As we navigate our own faith journeys, let's remember:

1. God is always seeking us, even when we can't see or feel Him.
2. He welcomes our honest conversations and questions.
3. Sometimes, He allows us to express our doubts before revealing Himself.
4. He lovingly corrects our misunderstandings, aligning us with His truth.
5. He waits for our invitation, respecting our free will while desiring intimacy with us.

Just as the disciples' eyes were opened to recognize Jesus, may our eyes be opened to see Him working in our lives. May we have the courage to invite Him into our doubts, our disappointments, and our everyday moments. And may we, like those disciples, experience the joy of recognizing Jesus in our midst, causing our hearts to burn with renewed faith and passion.

Let's challenge ourselves to look for Jesus in unexpected places and to be open to His presence, even when life doesn't unfold as we anticipated. For in those moments of recognition, we too might find our sorrow turned to joy, our confusion to clarity, and our doubt to unwavering faith.