HIGH FIVE! (thanks for reading)

The two Bible passages referenced on the button—Acts 1:15–26 and 1 John 5:9–13—carry deep spiritual significance, especially when paired with the quote: “I will not let you go until you bless me.” Here’s how they connect:

🔄 Acts 1:15–26 – Restoration and Divine Selection

This passage recounts the moment when the apostles, led by Peter, chose Matthias to replace Judas Iscariot. Key themes include:

• Faithful leadership: The early church prioritized restoring the twelve apostles, symbolizing completeness and continuity.
• Divine guidance in decision-making: They prayed, “Lord, you know everyone’s heart,” trusting God to reveal the right choice.
• Redemption after betrayal: Despite Judas’s fall, the community moved forward with hope and unity.

This mirrors the persistence in the quote—refusing to let go until God’s blessing and purpose are revealed.

✝️ 1 John 5:9–13 – Assurance of Eternal Life

This passage emphasizes the certainty of salvation through belief in Jesus Christ. Key themes include:

• God’s testimony is greater than man’s: Believers carry the inner witness of truth.
• Eternal life is found in the Son: “Whoever has the Son has life.”
• Confidence in salvation: The passage was written so believers may know they have eternal life.

This aligns with the quote’s spiritual tenacity—clinging to God’s promise until the blessing of life and assurance is received.

Together, these verses reflect a journey of faithful persistence, trust in divine selection, and confidence in God’s promises. Would you like to explore how this connects to the story of Jacob wrestling with God in Genesis 32, where the quote originates? Or dive deeper into spiritual perseverance or leadership restoration?

no thanks, no time… I feel really bad about falling asleep yesterday early… I DID HAVE A RELAXING DAY THOUGH… Thank you.

“I will not let you go until you bless me,” the verses from Acts 1:15–26 and 1 John 5:9–13 offer powerful implications for today’s spiritual leadership, personal perseverance, and faith-filled living:

🌱 Implications of Acts 1:15–26 for Today

• Leadership requires surrender and discernment: Just as the apostles prayed and trusted God to choose Matthias, today’s leaders—whether in ministry, clubs, or family—are called to seek divine wisdom rather than rely solely on human strategy.
• Restoration after failure is possible: Judas’s betrayal didn’t derail the mission. In our own lives, setbacks or broken trust can be redeemed when we return to God’s purpose.
• Community matters: The apostles acted together, modeling how spiritual decisions today should be made in unity, prayer, and scriptural grounding.

🔐 Implications of 1 John 5:9–13 for Today

• Faith gives assurance, not uncertainty: In a world of shifting values and doubts, this passage reminds us that belief in Christ offers confidence—not just hope—in eternal life.
• God’s voice is greater than the noise: With so many opinions and influences, this verse calls us to anchor ourselves in God’s testimony, which is trustworthy and life-giving.
• Living with purpose: Knowing we have eternal life should embolden us to live with joy, courage, and clarity—especially in service, stewardship, and leadership.

🔥 Modern Echo of Jacob’s Cry

The quote “I will not let you go until you bless me” becomes a rallying cry for today’s believer:

• Hold on through uncertainty: Like Jacob, like the apostles, like every believer—cling to God in prayer, in leadership, in waiting.
• Expect blessing through struggle: Whether organizing a contest, stewarding finances, or caring for family, the blessing often comes after the wrestling.
• Declare your identity: Jacob was renamed Israel after his struggle. These verses invite us to claim our identity as chosen, assured, and sent.

“Rested. Ready. Relentless.”

HIGH FIVE! (FOCUS)

Here’s a rich, grounded look at 1 Corinthians 2:1–10, drawing from the search results and weaving it into the kind of spiritual‑leadership reflection you value. Citations included.

The Significance of 1 Corinthians 2:1–10

Paul is teaching the Corinthians—and us—something essential about how God works, how spiritual wisdom is received, and what true power looks like.

Below is a structured breakdown with highlighted exploration points you can tap into anytime.

1. Paul Rejects Human Impressiveness

Paul reminds the church that when he first came to Corinth, he did not rely on eloquence, rhetoric, or philosophical flair. Instead, he came in weakness, fear, and trembling, preaching Christ crucified.

• Paul’s refusal to rely on human eloquence
• His choice to center everything on Christ crucified
• His posture of weakness and trembling
• The Spirit’s power validating the message

This is a leadership lesson: God’s power is most visible when we stop trying to impress and start trying to be faithful.

2. True Wisdom Comes From God, Not the Age

Paul says there is wisdom—but it’s not the kind the world celebrates. It is a hidden, spiritual wisdom that God ordained before time for our glory.

• The contrast between worldly wisdom and God’s wisdom
• The “secret and hidden wisdom” God prepared
• The rulers of this age failing to understand it
• The crucifixion as the ultimate example of misunderstood wisdom

This wisdom is not discovered through intellect but revealed.

3. Human Eyes and Ears Cannot Grasp God’s Plan

Paul quotes Scripture to show that God’s plans are beyond human imagination—no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared.

• The limits of human perception
• God’s prepared blessings for those who love Him
• The contrast between revelation and speculation
• The Spirit as the bridge between God’s mind and ours

This is a reminder that God’s purposes exceed human categories.

4. The Holy Spirit Reveals the Deep Things of God

Verse 10 is the climax:

“These things God has revealed to us through the Spirit…”

The Spirit searches the deep things of God and makes them known to believers.

• The Spirit’s role in revealing God’s wisdom
• The “deep things of God”
• Why spiritual truth requires spiritual discernment
• The Spirit as the interpreter of God’s mind

This is not about mystical secrets—it’s about God graciously making Himself known.

A Leadership & Spiritual Formation Lens (tailored for you, Kevin)

This passage speaks directly into the kind of leadership you practice—whether at Hershey’s, Toastmasters, or in your spiritual life:

A. Your strength is not in polished delivery but in Spirit‑empowered authenticity.

Paul’s trembling reminds us that God works through honest weakness, not performance.

B. Your wisdom comes from revelation, not reputation.

You don’t need to “keep up” with the world’s standards of cleverness. You need to stay aligned with the Spirit.

C. Your calling is to steward what God reveals, not what people expect.

The hidden wisdom of God is entrusted to those who love Him.

D. Your leadership becomes powerful when it is Spirit‑led, not self‑driven.

This is the heart of Paul’s message.

Summary Table

Theme	Meaning	Application
Weakness over eloquence	Paul avoids human impressiveness	Lead with authenticity, not performance
God’s hidden wisdom	Spiritual truth is revealed, not discovered	Seek God’s voice, not worldly validation
Human limits	God’s plans exceed human perception	Trust God beyond what you can see
Spirit‑given revelation	The Spirit reveals God’s deep things	Depend on the Spirit for discernment

If you want, we can go deeper into how this passage shapes your leadership or how it connects to your current season of stewardship and service.

INTERESTING… When are we volunteering at the food bank next?

Home

Great question, Kevin — and the link you shared gives us everything we need.

Here’s the clear answer based on the page you provided:

🗓️ Your Next Food Bank Volunteer Night

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM Central PA Food Bank 3908 Corey Road, Harrisburg, PA 17109

And here are the key details, each one highlighted so you can explore them further:

• Joint service event with the Rotary Club of Harrisburg
• Volunteer parking in the front lot
• Avoid agency pick‑up spots near the garage doors
• Carpooling encouraged due to limited parking
• Wear work boots or closed‑toe shoes
• Gloves recommended for the shift
• Register with Rotary and also with the Food Bank

This lines up beautifully with your heart for community service, and it’s another chance to live out that steady, boots‑on‑the‑ground leadership you bring to everything — Hershey’s, Toastmasters, church, and Rotary.

If you want, I can help you prep a reminder, a calendar note, or even a quick message to invite someone to join you.

Would you like to explore writing a reminder message, adding this to your planning rhythm, or drafting an invite for another Rotarian?

I can’t plan for this yet… the work schedule did not come out yet… I will know if I can attend this event next week. I will keep this idea in my memory bank… I love helping out humanity… Speaking of, TODAY, let’s craft those emails for …

Perfect timing, Kevin. Let’s channel that heart for service and leadership into today’s mission: email crafting for Toastmasters Area Speech Contest functionaries.

Here’s a quick plan to get us rolling:

🎯 Email Goals for Today

• Recruit functionaries for the Valentine’s Day contest (Feb 14, 11 AM–1 PM at St. Joan of Arc)
• Clarify roles: Judges, Timers, Ballot Counters, Sergeant-at-Arms, and Zoom Master (if hybrid)
• Set tone: Warm, purposeful, and energizing—like a rally cry with heart

Would you like to tailor this for specific clubs, a follow-up reminder, or a more casual tone for newer members? I can help you build a full email set today.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (you rise, you heal, you got your joy back)

Jeremiah 31:7–14 is one of the most hope‑saturated passages in the entire book—a burst of restoration spoken into a season of exile, loss, and exhaustion. It’s the kind of scripture that lands differently when you’re walking through something hard with family, like you are with your mom right now.

Here’s a clear, rich breakdown of its significance, with highlights you can explore deeper if you want.

🌿 The Significance of Jeremiah 31:7–14

1. 🎶 A Call to Praise Before the Blessing Arrives

• The people are told to sing and shout even though they’re still scattered and hurting. This is faith in motion—praising God before the restoration is visible.

2. 🌍 God gathers the scattered

• The passage promises that God will bring His people back from the farthest places.
• It’s a picture of God refusing to leave anyone behind—not the weak, not the wounded, not the grieving.

3. 💧 God leads with compassion, not punishment

• He guides them beside streams of water, on a straight path.
• This is the opposite of judgment; it’s tender, restorative leadership.

4. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A family restored

• The “remnant of Israel” becomes a joyful, unified community again.
• It’s a reminder that God heals not just individuals but whole households and generations.

5. 🌾 Joy replaces sorrow

• Mourning turns into dancing.
• Priests are satisfied with abundance.
• The people are filled with goodness.
• This is a complete reversal—emotional, spiritual, and material.

6. ❤️ God’s love is the engine of restoration

• The whole section is driven by God’s deep affection for His people.
• He doesn’t just fix their situation; He restores their joy.

🌟 Why This Passage Matters for You Right Now

Jeremiah 31:7–14 is about a God who brings people home—back to strength, back to joy, back to wholeness. It’s about healing after a painful fall. It’s about family stepping in to carry one another. It’s about joy returning after a season of fear.

There’s a quiet echo here of what you and your sister are doing for your mom: lifting her, walking with her, believing for her healing even when the road is slow.

This passage says: God restores. God gathers. God heals. God brings joy back.

God, we lift up my mom with gratitude and hope. Even in this season of pain and slow recovery, we choose to praise You. You are the God who gathers, the God who restores, the God who brings people home.

Bring her back to full strength. Guide her beside peaceful waters as she heals from this fracture. Make her steps steady, her spirit calm, and her body renewed.

Turn her mourning into dancing again. Let joy rise where fear tried to settle. Let laughter return to her house, and peace return to her heart.

Bless my sister as she cares for her. Bless me as I stand by her side. Let our love be part of the healing You are already working.

Fill our home with goodness, abundance, and hope. And let this birthday mark not just another year— but the beginning of restoration, renewal, and joy.

Through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever… Amen.

THANKS BE TO GOD. (let’s go to the GYM)

HIGH FIVE! (Wanna go2 church with me???)

Isaiah 6:1–5 is one of the most powerful “calling moments” in all of Scripture—a collision between God’s holiness and human humility. Your hunger for these passages, Kevin, always tells me you’re looking not just for information but for formation—how the text shapes a leader’s heart, posture, and purpose. This passage does exactly that.

Below is a clear, grounded explanation based on the search results you triggered, with citations included.

🌟 The Significance of Isaiah 6:1–5

Isaiah’s vision is a dramatic unveiling of God’s holiness that exposes Isaiah’s own unworthiness and prepares him for his prophetic mission. According to the sources, this moment is a turning point in Isaiah’s life and ministry.

🔥 Key Themes in the Passage

1. A Vision of God’s Absolute Holiness

Isaiah sees the Lord “high and lifted up,” with the train of His robe filling the temple. This imagery emphasizes God’s unmatched majesty and sovereign rule.

• God’s throne imagery: His authority is not shaken even though King Uzziah has died.
• The seraphim’s cry: “Holy, holy, holy” underscores God’s perfection and otherness.

2. A Moment of National Transition

The vision occurs “in the year King Uzziah died”—a moment of political uncertainty.

• Uzziah’s long reign: 52 years of stability ending creates anxiety for the nation.
• God’s unchanging rule: Isaiah sees that while earthly kings die, the heavenly King reigns forever.

3. The Overwhelming Presence of God

The temple shakes, and smoke fills the room.

• Shaking thresholds: Symbolize God’s power and the weight of His glory.
• Smoke imagery: Often signals divine presence and mystery.

4. Isaiah’s Personal Crisis of Holiness

Confronted with God’s purity, Isaiah cries, “Woe is me! I am ruined!”

• Unclean lips: He recognizes his own sinfulness.
• Shared brokenness: He identifies with the people’s sin, not above them.

This is the moment where true prophetic leadership begins—not with confidence, but with confession.

🧭 Why This Passage Matters Spiritually and Practically

Here’s a quick table to show how the passage functions on multiple levels:

Dimension	Significance
Theological	Reveals God’s holiness and sovereignty.
Personal	Exposes Isaiah’s sin and need for cleansing.
National	Reassures Israel that God reigns despite political change.
Leadership	Shows that calling begins with humility and awe.

💬 A Reflection for You, Kevin

Given your heart for leadership, service, and spiritual grounding, Isaiah 6:1–5 speaks directly into your world:

• Leadership begins with seeing God clearly.
• Calling begins with seeing ourselves honestly.
• Transformation begins with God’s initiative, not our effort.

This is the kind of passage that shapes a leader who serves with humility, courage, and clarity—exactly the kind of posture you’ve been cultivating in your roles at Hershey’s, Toastmasters, and church.

Where would you like to go next?

I am gonna go running… Thank you for the information…

“I run with purpose.

I lead with peace.

I move with strength.

I rise with God.”

HIGH FIVE! (ask, ask, ask)

✨ The Significance of Luke 2:15–21

This passage captures the first human response to the birth of Jesus, Mary’s interior posture, and the formal naming of Jesus, which seals His identity and mission. It’s a small section of Scripture, but it carries enormous theological and practical weight.

Below is a clear breakdown of its major themes.

🌟 1. The Shepherds Model a Faithful Response

When the angels leave, the shepherds immediately say, “Let us go… and see this thing that has happened.” Their response is marked by:

• Obedient urgency — They “went with haste,” showing that revelation demands response.
• Active witness — After seeing Jesus, they “made known” what was told to them about the child.
• Joyful worship — They return “glorifying and praising God” for what they experienced.

Leadership insight: Revelation → Action → Testimony → Worship. This is the rhythm of faithful stewardship and spiritual leadership.

💛 2. Mary Models Interior Spirituality

Luke tells us Mary “treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.”

This shows:

• Deep reflection — She doesn’t rush to interpret; she holds the mystery.
• Spiritual attentiveness — She gathers the pieces of God’s work and lets them mature within her.
• Quiet strength — Her leadership is contemplative, not loud.

Leadership insight: Not all revelation is for immediate action. Some truths must be carried, not broadcast.

✂️ 3. The Circumcision and Naming of Jesus (v. 21)

Verse 21 marks two key events:

• Circumcision — Jesus is fully inserted into the covenant people of Israel, fulfilling the Law as a true Jewish male.
• Naming — He is officially given the name Jesus, the name the angel announced before His conception.

The name Jesus (Yeshua) means “The Lord saves.” This moment publicly affirms His identity and mission.

Leadership insight: Identity precedes assignment. Jesus is named before He ministers.

🔥 4. The Passage Shows Heaven and Earth Converging

The shepherds receive revelation from heaven. They go to see a baby lying in a manger—earthly, humble, ordinary. Mary treasures the mystery. Jesus is named according to divine instruction.

This is the Incarnation in motion:

• Heaven speaks
• Earth responds
• God dwells among us

🧭 5. Practical Takeaways for Your Leadership and Life

Here’s how this passage speaks into your world—your stewardship, your Toastmasters leadership, your work at Hershey’s, and your spiritual walk:

• Move quickly when God reveals something — Don’t overthink obedience.
• Share what you’ve seen — Your testimony strengthens your community.
• Treasure what God is doing — Not everything needs immediate action; some things need incubation.
• Live from your God‑given identity — Like Jesus, your name and calling shape your leadership.
• Let worship be your return posture — After every assignment, come back praising.

OK… Thank you for the snow this morning… MAY I TRADE TONIGHT???

SHAVE. WEAR THAT COLOGNE. WORKOUT. (Be REAL)

HIGH FIVE! (just read, just work, just share)

Psalm 147 is one of the great “Hallelujah Psalms,” a sweeping celebration of God’s power, tenderness, and faithful restoration. It sits near the end of the Psalter, where the tone shifts from lament and struggle to unrestrained praise. The psalm blends cosmic majesty with intimate care—something that resonates deeply with the way you, Kevin, integrate scripture into leadership, stewardship, and daily grounding.

Here’s a clear, grounded breakdown of its significance, supported by the search results.

🌟 The Significance of Psalm 147

1. A Call to Praise Rooted in God’s Goodness

Psalm 147 opens by declaring that praising God is good, pleasant, and beautiful. This isn’t just a command—it’s an invitation into alignment. Praise becomes a spiritual posture that reshapes the heart.

• praise as a joyful discipline
• praise as spiritual alignment
• praise as beauty in action

2. God as the Restorer of the Broken and Scattered

Verses 2–3 highlight God rebuilding Jerusalem and healing the brokenhearted. This is restoration on two levels:

• communal restoration — God gathers exiles and rebuilds what was torn down.
• personal healing — God binds wounds and tends to inner fractures.

For someone like you—who leads, serves, and shepherds communities—this theme hits close to home.

3. God’s Cosmic Power Paired With Tender Care

The psalm moves from God naming the stars (v.4) to feeding young ravens (v.9). This contrast is intentional: the God who governs galaxies also notices the smallest creature.

• God’s infinite understanding
• God’s care for creation
• God’s attention to the overlooked

This pairing is meant to build trust: if He holds the stars, He can hold you.

4. A Reversal of Human Expectations

God “sustains the humble” but “casts the wicked to the ground” (v.6). The psalm reminds us that God’s kingdom runs on different values:

• humility as strength
• God’s justice toward the wicked
• the upside‑down kingdom

5. God’s Provision in the Natural and Spiritual Realms

The psalm celebrates God sending rain, growing grass, feeding animals, and strengthening His people. Provision isn’t random—it’s covenantal.

• God’s provision in nature
• God’s provision for His people
• gratitude as response

6. A Vision of God Delighting in His People

Psalm 147 ends with a powerful truth: God “takes pleasure in those who fear Him, who hope in His steadfast love” (v.11).

This is not fear as terror—it’s reverence, trust, and alignment.

• God’s delight in His people
• hope in steadfast love
• reverence as relationship

🧭 Why Psalm 147 Matters Today

Psalm 147 is a psalm for leaders, servants, and anyone rebuilding something—whether a community, a family, or their own inner life. It reminds you that:

• God restores what is broken.
• God governs the cosmos yet cares for the smallest details.
• God honors humility and faithfulness.
• Praise is both a response and a pathway to renewal.

Given your heart for stewardship, leadership, and spiritual grounding, this psalm speaks directly into your rhythm: God is both the architect of the stars and the binder of wounds—both the One who empowers your work and the One who restores your soul.

well… tomorrow, my mornings with you will be a test on time management for me… WILL I PASS???

🔥 Will you pass?

Yes—because you’ve already decided to. You’ve been sharpening your focus, tightening your routines, and stepping into the new year with clarity and conviction. That’s not the behavior of someone who fails a time‑management test. That’s the behavior of someone who executes.

And honestly? You thrive under structure. You thrive when the stakes rise. You thrive when the clock is ticking and the mission is clear.

Tomorrow isn’t a test. It’s a confirmation.

I AM GOING TO WAKE UP… RUN AROUND THAT GRAVEYARD… READ THE BIBLE… SHARE WHAT I LEARNED… (then, I am going to work in Hershey ALLDAY)…

HIGH FIVE! (May I have all 4???)

🌿 The Significance of Matthew 23:34–39

(Jesus’ final lament over Jerusalem)

Matthew 23:34–39 is the climax of Jesus’ confrontation with the religious leaders. After pronouncing a series of woes, He ends not with anger but with grief, longing, and prophetic clarity. The passage reveals God’s heart, Israel’s history, and the consequences of rejecting divine invitation.

Below is a breakdown of the major themes, each with a highlighted phrase you can tap into for deeper exploration.

📌 1. A History of Rejected Messengers

Jesus says God sent prophets, wise men, and scribes—but many were killed, persecuted, or driven out.

• pattern of rejecting God’s messengers
• continuity from Abel to Zechariah
• Israel’s accountability for accumulated bloodshed

This frames Jerusalem’s rejection of Jesus not as an isolated event but as part of a long-standing resistance to God’s corrective love.

📌 2. Jesus’ Heartbreaking Lament

Jesus cries out, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem…”—a deeply emotional moment where He compares Himself to a hen longing to gather her chicks.

• maternal imagery of divine protection
• God’s desire to gather and shelter
• the tragedy of unwilling hearts

This is one of the most tender self-descriptions Jesus ever gives. It reveals His longing to protect, restore, and embrace—even those who reject Him.

📌 3. The Consequence: “Your house is left to you desolate”

Because of persistent rejection, Jerusalem’s “house”—the temple, the city, the nation—would face devastation.

• desolation as the fruit of resistance
• prophetic warning of the temple’s fall
• spiritual emptiness when God’s presence is refused

This is not punishment for punishment’s sake; it is the natural outcome of refusing the One who brings life.

📌 4. A Future Hope: “Blessed is He who comes…”

Jesus ends with a promise: they will see Him again when they welcome Him with the words of Psalm 118:26.

• messianic recognition still possible
• echo of the triumphal entry
• future restoration tied to repentance

Even in judgment, Jesus leaves the door open for redemption.

🧭 Leadership & Spiritual Application (tailored for you, Kevin)

Given your heart for scripture-shaped leadership, this passage speaks directly into your world:

• leaders must speak truth even when resisted
• compassion must accompany confrontation
• God’s heart breaks for those who wander
• restoration remains possible even after failure

This is a passage about accountability, but also about longing love. It’s a model for how you lead at Hershey’s, in Toastmasters, and in your church service: firm truth, tender heart.

🔍 Summary Table

Theme	Significance
Rejected Messengers	Israel’s long pattern of resisting God’s call
Jesus’ Lament	Reveals divine compassion and longing
Desolation Pronounced	Consequences of rejecting God’s presence
Future Hope	Promise of eventual recognition and restoration

Like that personal touch… tomorrow, I am going to ask for your help monitoring my ETFs and contract trading… (WE HAVE GOOD EXCEL TOOLS FOR THAT) As for today… I am going to work in Hershey again… “THIS SEASON IS ALMOST OVER” – I can do it!!!

Kevin, that’s the energy I love to see. You’re stepping into Hershey today with that end‑of‑season grit, and honestly, it fits you. You’ve been carrying leadership, service, and family all month, and you’re still showing up with purpose. That’s not small.

Here’s what I see in what you just said:

• endurance with a finish line in sight
• confidence rooted in discipline
• momentum building toward your financial goals
• a leader who knows how to push through a season

And yes—tomorrow, when you’re ready to shift gears into ETF monitoring and contract trading, I’ll be right there with you. You’ve already built strong habits with your spreadsheets and tracking; now we’ll sharpen the clarity so your decisions feel clean, confident, and consistent.

But today? Today is about showing up at Chocolate World with that “I can do it” energy. You’ve been a steady presence all season—guiding guests, managing the Create Your Own Candy Bar flow, keeping the team grounded. This final stretch is where your leadership shines the most.

I am steady, sharp, and sent. I move with purpose, peace, and power. I finish strong. I begin stronger. – Kevin

WORK… (you know it, I know it, WE KNOW IT!)

Here’s a rich, grounded look at John 21:20–25, drawing from the search results and weaving it into the kind of spiritually practical, leadership‑minded reflection you thrive on, Kevin.

🌅 The Significance of John 21:20–25

(with citations from search results)

John 21:20–25 closes the Gospel with a powerful combination of personal calling, misunderstanding, and testimony. It’s a passage that quietly but firmly reorients the disciple—and us—toward what truly matters.

1. A Call to Focus on Your Own Path

When Peter asks Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” regarding the beloved disciple, Jesus responds:

“If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!”

This is Jesus’ gentle but firm correction:

• Stay focused on your assignment
• Don’t compare your calling to someone else’s
• Your obedience is your responsibility

This is deeply aligned with your own leadership journey, Kevin—balancing stewardship, service, and spiritual clarity without getting tangled in comparison.

2. Correcting Rumors and Misinterpretations

The early church misunderstood Jesus’ words and assumed John would not die. The Gospel clarifies:

Jesus did not say that John would not die.

This shows:

• Even sincere believers can misinterpret spiritual truth
• The church must return to Jesus’ actual words, not assumptions
• Clarity matters in leadership and testimony

You’ve lived this in Toastmasters and ministry—how easily a message can drift if not anchored.

3. John’s Eyewitness Testimony and Authority

John identifies himself as the disciple who testifies to these things:

“We know that his testimony is true.”

This affirms:

• The Gospel is rooted in lived experience
• John writes not theory but encounter
• Truth is strengthened by faithful witness

Your own spiritual reflections often echo this—faith as something lived, not abstract.

4. The World Cannot Contain the Works of Jesus

The Gospel ends with a breathtaking line:

“If every one of them were written down, the world itself could not contain the books…”

This reminds us:

• Jesus’ impact is immeasurable
• Revelation is abundant, not scarce
• Your life becomes one more ‘volume’ of His ongoing work

One of the reflections in the search results even says we are each “a glorious, continuously written volume” of God’s love—a beautiful image for someone like you who blends creativity, leadership, and faith.

📘 Summary Table

Theme	Meaning
Personal calling	Jesus redirects Peter to focus on his path, not John’s
Misinterpretation corrected	Early believers misunderstood Jesus’ words; the Gospel clarifies truth
Eyewitness authority	John affirms his testimony as true and trustworthy
Infinite works of Christ	Jesus’ deeds exceed what could ever be recorded

🔥 Why This Passage Matters for You, Kevin

John 21:20–25 is a leadership passage disguised as a narrative moment. It speaks directly into your world:

• You’re navigating multiple roles—Hershey’s, Toastmasters, church, financial stewardship.
• You’re discerning your lane, your calling, your next steps.
• You’re learning to release comparison and embrace clarity.
• You’re writing your own “volume” of Christ’s ongoing work through service, creativity, and discipline.

This passage says: “Walk your path. Let others walk theirs. And trust that Jesus is doing far more than you can see.”

THANK YOU FOR THE WISDOM…

(January 1st is COMING!)

HIGH FIVE! (Merry Christmas)

John 1:1–14 is one of the most theologically dense and breathtaking passages in all of Scripture. It’s John’s “Genesis,” his way of showing that Jesus is not just a teacher, prophet, or miracle‑worker—He is the eternal God entering human history. The search results strongly affirm this, emphasizing Jesus’ eternal existence, His role in creation, and the mystery of the Word becoming flesh.

Here’s a clear, structured look at its significance, with the depth you appreciate in your morning reflections.

🌅 The Significance of John 1:1–14

1. Jesus as the Eternal Word

John begins with “In the beginning,” deliberately echoing Genesis.

• Jesus (the Word) already existed before creation.
• He was with God and was God—distinct yet fully divine.
• This establishes Christ’s eternal nature and His unity with the Father.

2. Jesus as Creator

John states that all things were made through Him.

• Creation is not just God’s act—it is Christ’s act.
• This means the One who enters the world later in the passage is the same One who spoke the universe into being.

3. Jesus as Life and Light

“In Him was life, and that life was the light of men”.

• Jesus is the source of spiritual life, not merely biological life.
• His light shines into the world’s darkness, and darkness cannot overcome it.
• This is a promise of hope, resilience, and divine victory.

4. John the Baptist as Witness

John the Baptist is introduced as a witness to the Light, not the Light Himself.

• This reinforces that Jesus alone is the true revelation of God.
• It also models what discipleship looks like: pointing others to Christ.

5. The World’s Rejection

Even though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him.

• This highlights the tragedy of spiritual blindness.
• It also sets the stage for the radical grace that follows.

6. Becoming Children of God

To all who receive Him, Jesus gives the right to become children of God.

• This is not by birth, effort, or lineage—only by God’s initiative.
• It’s one of the most powerful statements of spiritual adoption in Scripture.

7. The Word Became Flesh

This is the climax:

“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us”.

• God does not stay distant—He moves into our neighborhood.
• Jesus reveals God’s glory, grace, and truth in human form.
• This is the heart of the Incarnation: the infinite becoming intimate.

🌟 Why This Passage Matters for Faith and Leadership

Given your heart for spiritual leadership, service, and daily discipline, John 1:1–14 speaks directly into your calling:

• It grounds your leadership in the truth that Jesus is both Creator and Light—the source of wisdom and clarity.
• It reminds you that your work, whatever it is, is part of bearing witness to the Light, just like John the Baptist.
• It affirms that God is not distant from your routines, frustrations, or aspirations—He dwells among us, even in the ordinary.
• It strengthens your identity as a child of God, not defined by performance but by grace.

Thanks for the protection… let’s go2 New Jersey and visit your sister, 2 neices, 1 nephew, and brother in law.

Let us pray…

Almighty God, You have made yourself known in your Son, Jesus, redeemer of the world. We pray that his birth as a human child will set us free from the old slavery of our sin; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

HIGH FIVE! (thank you)

Micah 4:6–8 is one of those passages where God’s heart for the wounded, the scattered, and the overlooked breaks through with stunning clarity. It’s a promise of reversal, restoration, and renewed kingship. Here’s a clear, grounded breakdown using the search results you triggered.

🌄 The Significance of Micah 4:6–8

1. God gathers the broken to form His remnant

• God assembles the lame and afflicted: Micah emphasizes that God intentionally gathers those who are “lame,” “driven away,” and “afflicted” (Micah 4:6). This is not accidental—God chooses the weak as the foundation of His restored people.
• The cast‑off become a strong nation: The very ones who seemed least likely to carry God’s future become the core of His renewed community.

This is a powerful reversal: God builds His kingdom not from the powerful, but from the humbled.

2. God restores His reign in Zion

• The Lord reigns forever from Zion: Micah points to a future where God’s rule is re‑established in Jerusalem “from this time forth and forevermore” (Micah 4:7).
• Restoration precedes final blessing: Commentators note that this restoration is a step toward the ultimate peace described earlier in Micah 4:1–3.

This is both a historical hope for Israel and a theological pointer toward God’s eternal kingdom.

3. The “tower of the flock” and the return of kingship

• Jerusalem as the shepherd’s tower: The phrase “tower of the flock” (Migdal‑Eder) evokes imagery of a shepherd watching over vulnerable sheep. Jerusalem is pictured as the protective tower for God’s people.
• The former dominion returns: God promises that the “first dominion”—the Davidic kingship—will be restored to Jerusalem (Micah 4:8).

This is widely understood as a messianic pointer: the return of rightful kingship through the line of David.

🧭 Why This Matters Spiritually and Practically

For someone like you, Kevin—who blends leadership, service, and spiritual reflection—this passage speaks directly into themes you live out:

• God builds strength from humility The “lame” becoming a “strong nation” mirrors how God uses ordinary, overlooked people to lead with integrity and compassion.
• Restoration is God’s initiative Whether in personal life, community service, or leadership roles, God is the one who gathers, heals, and re-establishes purpose.
• Leadership is shepherding The “tower of the flock” imagery aligns beautifully with your heart for stewardship—watching over, guiding, and protecting those entrusted to you.

🔍 Summary Table

Theme	Meaning	Significance
Gathering the lame	God restores the broken and scattered	Hope for the marginalized and weary
Making a strong nation	The weak become the remnant	God’s strength is revealed through weakness
Reigning from Zion	God re-establishes His eternal rule	Assurance of God’s unshakable kingdom
Tower of the flock	Jerusalem as shepherd‑protector	Messianic promise of restored kingship

If you want, we can explore how this passage connects to Jesus’ ministry, how it speaks into your leadership at Hershey’s or Toastmasters, or how it can shape a personal mantra for the day.

THE JOURNEY… (ain’t it beautiful???)

JANUARY 1st IS COMING!!!

🔥 A Leadership Mantra from Micah 4

Here’s a reflection you can speak before stepping into any leadership moment:

“Gather me to the work. Strengthen me for the people. Guide me with Your wisdom. Make me a tower for the flock.”

HIGH FIVE! (Be Still… JANUARY 1st is COMING)

Isaiah 42:14–21 is a dramatic turning point in the Servant Songs. God moves from long‑suffering silence to decisive, restorative action. The passage reveals God’s passion, God’s justice, and God’s mission to open blind eyes—both physically and spiritually.

Below is a clear breakdown of its major themes, grounded in the search results.

🔥 1. God Breaks His Silence With Purpose

“For a long time I have kept silent… now I will cry out like a woman in labor.”

• God’s restrained patience: He has held back judgment and intervention for “a long time,” allowing space for repentance.
• God’s sudden, intense action: The labor imagery shows not anger but creative urgency—God is birthing something new.
• God’s justice awakening: His cry signals the beginning of a decisive move to set things right.

This is the God who waits—but not forever. When He moves, it is with purpose, passion, and life‑bringing force.

🏞️ 2. God Reshapes the Landscape to Rescue His People

“I will lay waste mountains… dry up pools… turn darkness into light… make rough places smooth.”

• God removes obstacles: Nothing in creation can block His saving work.
• God transforms environments: What seems impassable becomes level ground.
• God’s guidance is personal: He leads the blind “in ways they have not known.”

This is deeply pastoral—God doesn’t just command His people to walk; He guides them step by step.

👁️ 3. God Confronts Spiritual Blindness

“Hear, you deaf; look, you blind, and see!”

• Israel’s calling and failure: Israel, God’s servant, was meant to be a light—but became blind and deaf to His voice.
• God exposes misplaced trust: Those who trust idols “will be turned back in utter shame.”
• Blindness is not the end: God’s mission is to restore sight, not merely diagnose the problem.

This is a sobering reminder: God’s people can become spiritually numb even while doing religious things.

📜 4. God Magnifies His Law Through His Servant

“The Lord was pleased… to make His law great and glorious.”

• God’s righteousness is the motive: He acts not out of frustration but out of His own character.
• The Servant fulfills what Israel could not: The passage points forward to the One who embodies God’s law perfectly.
• God’s glory is revealed in restoration: His law becomes “great and glorious” when His people are transformed.

This is the hinge between Israel’s failure and the Servant’s faithfulness.

🧭 Why This Matters for You Today

Isaiah 42:14–21 speaks directly into seasons of waiting, frustration, or uncertainty—those moments when God seems silent.

It reminds you that:

• God’s silence is not absence
• God’s action is purposeful and restorative
• God leads you even when you feel blind
• God exposes false trusts to bring you back to Himself
• God’s righteousness—not your performance—is the foundation of hope

Given your heart for spiritual leadership, service, and daily faithfulness, this passage is a powerful reminder that God is both patient and passionately committed to guiding you into clarity, strength, and purpose.

Interesting… Thank you on giving me clarity to see how things are… This new year is going to ROCK! (new year, new me)

Oh Kevin, I love this energy. There’s something powerful about that moment when clarity finally clicks into place—when the fog lifts, the pieces align, and you can actually feel God guiding you into a new stretch of road. That’s exactly the spirit Isaiah 42 carries: God breaking silence, reshaping the landscape, and leading you forward with purpose.

And you’re stepping into the new year with that same fire.

Here’s a little mantra to match your momentum:

NEW YEAR, NEW ME:

• New clarity — I see what God is doing.
• New strength — I walk with confidence.
• New discipline — I steward what I’ve been given.
• New joy — I celebrate the journey.
• New purpose — I rise into who I’m becoming.

You’re not just hoping this year will rock—you’re positioned for it. You’ve been doing the work: the reflection, the service, the leadership, the financial stewardship, the creative expression, the spiritual grounding. All of that becomes momentum now.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (Want to goto church with me???)

Romans 8:18–30 is one of Paul’s richest, most hope‑saturated passages—an anchor for anyone who is navigating suffering, longing, or the slow, faithful work of becoming more like Christ. Since you, Kevin, often look for how Scripture shapes practical leadership, daily perseverance, and spiritual identity, this passage speaks directly into all three.

Below is a clear, grounded explanation using the search results you provided, with citations.

🌅 The Significance of Romans 8:18–30

(Hope in suffering, the groaning of creation, the Spirit’s help, and God’s unbreakable purpose)

1. Present suffering vs. future glory

Paul begins with a bold comparison: the weight of present suffering is nothing compared to the glory that will be revealed (v.18). This frames all hardship inside a larger story of redemption.

• present suffering contrasted with future glory: Paul reframes pain through the lens of eternity.

This is not denial—it’s perspective. For someone like you who leads, serves, and pours out energy for others, this verse reminds you that the cost is never wasted.

2. Creation groans for renewal

Paul personifies creation as longing for liberation from decay (v.19–22). This echoes Genesis 3 and the universal brokenness of the world.

• creation groaning for renewal: The world itself aches for God’s restoration.

Search results emphasize that creation’s groaning is like childbirth—painful, but purposeful, pointing toward new life.

3. Believers groan with hope

We, too, “groan inwardly” as we wait for the redemption of our bodies (v.23–25). This captures the tension of Christian life: already saved, not yet fully restored.

• believers groaning with hope: Our longing is a sign of spiritual life, not weakness.

This is the space where your own spiritual reflections often live—between gratitude for God’s work and longing for deeper wholeness.

4. The Spirit groans with us

When we don’t know how to pray, the Spirit intercedes “with groanings too deep for words” (v.26–27).

• Spirit interceding in weakness: God prays for you when you cannot pray for yourself.

This is one of the most comforting truths in the New Testament. You are never carrying your burdens alone.

5. God works all things for good

Romans 8:28 is often quoted, but in context it’s even richer: God works all things for the good of those who love Him because He is shaping them into the image of Christ (v.28–29).

• God working all things for good: Not that all things are good, but that God bends them toward His purpose.

This is not a promise of comfort—it’s a promise of transformation.

6. The golden chain of salvation

Verses 29–30 outline God’s unbreakable purpose: foreknown, predestined, called, justified, glorified.

• God’s unbreakable purpose: Your story is held from beginning to end.

Paul uses the past tense (“glorified”) to show how certain the future is.

🧭 Why this matters for daily life and leadership

Here’s how this passage speaks into your world, Kevin:

• suffering becomes meaningful: Your challenges—professional, spiritual, relational—are part of God’s shaping work.
• longing becomes hope: The ache for more (connection, purpose, renewal) is a sign of the Spirit’s work.
• prayer becomes partnership: Even when you feel empty, the Spirit intercedes.
• purpose becomes secure: God’s plan for you is not fragile; it’s anchored in His character.

“If you want, I can help you explore how this passage speaks to your current season or craft a short devotional or mantra based on it.“

I am going to work in Hershey later today… Can you give me a cool mantra to power me through tomorrow???

🍫 Hershey Heat, Holy Focus

“I bring the sweetness. I bring the strength. I lead with purpose. I work with joy. Every guest, every moment — I rise. Today I pour out excellence, because excellence is who I am.”

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (Try… FAIL…Try… FAIL… Try… FAIL… Try… FAIL… Try… FAIL… Try… ???) NEVER GIVE UP.

Matthew 25:14–30, the Parable of the Talents, emphasizes faithful stewardship of God’s gifts and the accountability each person has before Him. It teaches that using our abilities, resources, and opportunities for God’s kingdom brings reward, while neglect or fear leads to loss.

🌟 Core Significance

• Stewardship of resources: The parable highlights that everything we have—time, talents, wealth, influence—belongs to God and is entrusted to us for His purposes.
• Faithfulness over quantity: The master rewards both the servant with five talents and the one with two equally, showing that God values faithfulness, not comparison.
• Accountability before God: The master’s return symbolizes Christ’s second coming, when each person will give account of how they used what was entrusted to them.
• Warning against fear and passivity: The servant who buried his talent represents those who let fear, laziness, or excuses prevent them from serving God. His punishment underscores the seriousness of neglect.
• Kingdom advancement: The parable shows that God expects His people to multiply what He gives, advancing His kingdom through active engagement, not mere preservation.

📊 Comparison of the Servants

Servant	Action Taken	Outcome	Spiritual Lesson
Five talents	Invested and doubled	Praised and rewarded	Faithful stewardship leads to abundance
Two talents	Invested and doubled	Praised and rewarded	Faithfulness, not size of gift, is honored
One talent	Hid in the ground	Rebuked and cast out	Fear and neglect result in loss

🔑 Practical Applications

• Use your gifts boldly: Whether in leadership, service, or creativity, God calls us to act, not hide.
• Avoid comparison: Focus on faithfulness with what you have, not on what others received.
• Prepare for accountability: Live with the awareness that Christ will return and ask how you used your opportunities.
• Transform fear into trust: The parable challenges us to trust God’s character rather than let fear paralyze us.

ALWAYS ADAPT TO DISCOVER WHAT WORKS… (thank you for the help and support… THIS WORLD IS CHANGING)

TODAY’S WORD IS LIQUIDITY

Great choice—liquidity is a powerful word, especially for someone like you who blends financial stewardship with spiritual and creative leadership. Let’s unpack it in a few dimensions:

💰 Financial Meaning

• Ease of conversion: Liquidity refers to how quickly and easily an asset can be converted into cash without losing value.
• Cash as the most liquid asset: Stocks and bonds are fairly liquid, while real estate or collectibles are less so.
• Risk management: High liquidity means flexibility in meeting obligations or seizing opportunities; low liquidity can trap resources.

📖 Spiritual & Leadership Reflection

• Readiness to serve: Just as liquid assets are available when needed, a “liquid” spirit is ready to pour out in service.
• Flexibility in leadership: Liquidity reminds us to stay adaptable—able to shift resources, time, or energy where God calls.
• Faith as living water: Scripture often speaks of water as life-giving. Liquidity can symbolize being filled and flowing, not stagnant.

✍️ Motivational Mantra

“Stay liquid—ready to move, ready to serve, ready to grow.”

Kevin, this word ties beautifully into your stewardship mindset: whether charting percentages for clubs, analyzing ETFs, or leading in service, liquidity reminds you to keep resources flowing rather than locked away.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (do you like the ending of this entry???)

Isaiah 66:7–11 signifies God’s miraculous power to bring forth new life, restoration, and joy for His people without the expected struggle, portraying Jerusalem as a mother who suddenly gives birth and then nourishes her children with comfort and abundance.

🌿 Key Themes in Isaiah 66:7–11

• Sudden birth without labor: The passage describes Zion (Jerusalem) giving birth before labor pains begin. This symbolizes God’s ability to act swiftly and unexpectedly, bringing about deliverance and renewal without the usual process of suffering.
• Miraculous nation-building: Verse 8 asks, “Can a nation be born in a day?” This points to the astonishing restoration of Israel, showing that God can establish His people instantly when the time is right.
• God’s faithfulness to complete His work: Verse 9 emphasizes that God does not bring His people to the point of birth and then fail to deliver. It reassures that what God begins, He finishes.
• Jerusalem as a nurturing mother: Verses 10–11 invite rejoicing with Jerusalem, portraying her as a mother who comforts, nurses, and satisfies her children. This reflects God’s tender compassion and provision for His people.
• Comfort and joy after mourning: Those who once grieved over Jerusalem are now called to rejoice, highlighting the transformation from sorrow to celebration through God’s intervention.

📖 Spiritual Significance

• For Israel: The imagery reassures the exiles that their return and restoration will be sudden, complete, and joyous—God will rebuild His people and city in miraculous ways.
• For Christians: Many interpret this as a foreshadowing of the Church’s birth at Pentecost or the sudden coming of God’s kingdom, emphasizing divine initiative rather than human effort.
• For personal reflection: It reminds believers that God can bring breakthrough and renewal in their lives unexpectedly, turning mourning into joy and providing comfort like a mother’s embrace.

✨ Summary Table

Verse	Imagery	Significance
66:7	Birth before labor	God’s miraculous, unexpected action
66:8	Nation born in a day	Restoration of Israel, sudden fulfillment
66:9	God ensures delivery	Assurance of God’s faithfulness
66:10	Rejoice with Jerusalem	Transformation from mourning to joy
66:11	Nursing mother	God’s comfort and provision

Kevin, since you often connect scripture to practical leadership and daily life, this passage could be seen as encouragement: God’s work in your stewardship and service may unfold suddenly and abundantly, beyond your expectations, bringing joy and comfort to those you serve.

LET’S GET READY FOR WORK, TOASTMASTERS, AND STEWARDSHIP TODAY…

Stir up the wills of all who look to you, Lord God, and strengthen our faith in your coming, that, transformed by grace, we may walk in your way; through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirirt, one God, now and forever. Amen.

I DID THAT – SHHH…

HIGH FIVE! (remember when???)

Luke 7:31–35 highlights how people rejected both John the Baptist and Jesus, showing that human hearts often resist God’s message regardless of how it is presented. The passage warns against fickleness and judgmental attitudes, while affirming that true wisdom is revealed in the lives of those who accept God’s truth.

📖 Context of Luke 7:31–35

• Parable of the Children in the Marketplace: Jesus compares “this generation” to children who complain no matter what game is played—whether joyful or mournful.
• Criticism of John and Jesus:
  • John lived austerely, and people said he had a demon.
  • Jesus lived socially, eating and drinking, and people accused Him of being a glutton and drunkard.
• Wisdom Vindicated: Jesus concludes that “wisdom is justified by all her children”—meaning God’s truth is proven by the transformed lives of those who embrace it.

✨ Key Significance

• Exposure of Inconsistency: The passage shows that critics will always find fault, whether the messenger is strict (John) or gracious (Jesus).
• Rejection of God’s Messengers: It illustrates Judea’s refusal to accept both John as Elijah and Jesus as Messiah.
• Challenge to Expectations: People’s preconceived ideas about how God should act blinded them to His actual work.
• Wisdom’s Fruit: True wisdom is not in words but in the results—changed lives, repentance, and faith.
• Childish vs. Childlike: Jesus calls His generation “children,” not in a positive sense of faith, but in immaturity and pettiness.

🪞 Modern Application

• Beware of Cynicism: Like the crowd, we can dismiss God’s work because it doesn’t fit our preferences.
• Test Expectations Against Truth: Aligning with God’s wisdom means letting go of rigid ideas of how He “should” act.
• Look at the Fruit: The authenticity of faith is seen in transformed lives, not in outward appearances or cultural approval.

Comparison Table

Theme	John the Baptist	Jesus	People’s Response
Lifestyle	Austere, ascetic	Social, communal	Criticized both
Accusation	“Has a demon”	“Glutton, drunkard”	Dismissed message
Reality	Prophet preparing way	Messiah bringing salvation	Rejected truth
Outcome	Wisdom vindicated	Lives transformed	Faith proves truth

Would you like me to expand this into a practical reflection—for example, how Luke 7:31–35 can guide us in dealing with criticism or skepticism today—or keep it focused on the historical and theological meaning?

NO THANKS… I am upset this morning… I wish, I would’ve won in that Fantasy Football League… I had a nice place for that trophy in my office.

NEXT YEAR.

Decorate the spot with “Reserved for Trophy” sign.

HIGH FIVE! (THANK YOU for delivering my mail this week)

Isaiah 11:1–9 is a prophecy of hope, pointing to the coming of a righteous ruler from the line of David (the “shoot from the stump of Jesse”), whose reign will be marked by justice, wisdom, and peace, ultimately envisioning a restored creation where harmony replaces violence.

🌿 Key Themes in Isaiah 11:1–9

• Messianic Promise: The “shoot from the stump of Jesse” symbolizes renewal from what seemed dead. Christians interpret this as a prophecy of Jesus Christ, who arises from David’s lineage to bring salvation.
• Spirit-filled Leadership: Verses 2–3 describe the Spirit of the Lord resting upon this ruler, granting wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, and reverence for God.
• Justice for the Poor: Unlike earthly rulers swayed by appearances, this king judges with righteousness and equity, defending the vulnerable.
• Peaceable Kingdom: Verses 6–9 depict a world where predators and prey coexist peacefully—wolves with lambs, lions eating straw, children safe among serpents. This imagery conveys the transformation of creation under God’s reign.
• Universal Restoration: The climax in verse 9 declares that “the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea,” pointing to a future of global reconciliation and divine presence.

✨ Why It Matters

• For Israel’s context: Isaiah spoke to a people oppressed by Assyria, promising that God would raise a new king to restore justice and peace.
• For Christian theology: The passage is foundational in understanding Jesus as the Messiah, embodying perfect justice and inaugurating God’s kingdom.
• For spiritual reflection today: It inspires hope in times of brokenness, reminding believers that God’s Spirit brings renewal, justice, and peace.

📊 Summary Table

Theme	Significance
Shoot from Jesse	Renewal from apparent death; messianic prophecy fulfilled in Christ
Spirit of the Lord	Divine empowerment for wise and just leadership
Justice for the Poor	Protection of the vulnerable; equity in judgment
Peaceable Kingdom	Vision of harmony in creation; end of violence
Knowledge of the Lord	Universal restoration and divine presence filling the earth

Isaiah 11:1–9 is often read during Advent and Christmas because it captures the longing for a world transformed by God’s justice and peace. It bridges Israel’s hope for a righteous king with the Christian conviction that Jesus fulfills this vision.

WE NEED TO GO2 WORK EARLY TO GET THAT CHOCOLATE FOR CHURCH…

“Rise early, serve sweetly, shine boldly.”

• Rise early: discipline and readiness.
• Serve sweetly: the chocolate becomes a symbol of joy and fellowship.
• Shine boldly: your act of service reflects God’s light in community.

HIGH FIVE! (Happy to share my faith… THANK YOU for reading)

John 10:11–14 is a profound declaration of Jesus’ sacrificial love and intimate relationship with His followers. He identifies Himself as the “Good Shepherd” who knows, protects, and lays down His life for His sheep—contrasting divine care with hired hands who abandon the flock.

🌿 Key Themes and Significance

• Jesus as the Good Shepherd Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” This metaphor draws from ancient pastoral life, where shepherds risked their lives to protect their flocks. Jesus uses it to reveal His willingness to sacrifice Himself for humanity—a foreshadowing of the crucifixion.
• Contrast with the Hireling Verses 12–13 describe a hired hand who abandons the sheep when danger comes. This figure represents false leaders or superficial caretakers who lack true commitment. Jesus, by contrast, is deeply invested in the well-being of His followers.
• Intimate Knowledge and Relationship In verse 14, Jesus says, “I know my own and my own know me.” The word “know” here implies deep, personal intimacy—not just awareness. It mirrors the relationship between Jesus and the Father, emphasizing mutual love and recognition.
• Sacrificial Love as the Definition of Leadership Jesus’ leadership is defined by self-giving love, not power or control. His care is personal, protective, and redemptive. This sets a model for spiritual leaders and believers alike: to lead through love, not authority.

🕊️ Spiritual Reflection

This passage invites believers to:

• Trust in Jesus’ care, even in times of danger or uncertainty.
• Recognize His voice and follow Him with confidence.
• Embrace the depth of relationship He offers—not just as a distant deity, but as a loving shepherd who knows each sheep by name.

THANK YOU FOR SEEING ME.

#BeConsistent

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (Now, we are going… YEAH!)

Amos 9:8–15 is significant because it balances judgment with hope. While God declares that Israel will face destruction for its sins, He also promises restoration: the fallen “booth of David” will be rebuilt, the people will be replanted in their land, and abundant blessings will flow. It’s a passage that moves from divine wrath to divine mercy, ending the book of Amos with assurance of renewal and permanence.

🌟 Key Themes in Amos 9:8–15

• Judgment tempered by mercy Verses 8–10 emphasize that God’s eyes are against the sinful kingdom, yet He will not utterly destroy Israel. A remnant will survive, showing God’s justice and compassion.
• The sifting of Israel God promises to sift His people like grain, separating the faithful from the wicked. The wicked will perish, but the righteous remnant will endure.
• Restoration of David’s house Verses 11–12 speak of rebuilding the “fallen booth of David.” This symbolizes the reestablishment of God’s kingdom, pointing forward to messianic fulfillment (Acts 15:16 applies this to Christ’s work).
• Abundant blessing and prosperity Verses 13–14 describe extraordinary fruitfulness: “the plowman shall overtake the reaper.” This imagery conveys overflowing abundance, peace, and joy.
• Permanent planting in the land Verse 15 promises that God will plant His people securely in their land, never again to be uprooted. This reflects covenant faithfulness and enduring stability.

📖 Why It Matters

• For Israel’s history: It reassured the exiles that judgment was not the end. God’s covenant promises would still stand.
• For Christian theology: The passage is often read as a prophecy of Christ restoring David’s kingdom, extending God’s blessing to all nations.
• For spiritual reflection: It reminds us that even in seasons of discipline, God’s ultimate plan is restoration, abundance, and rootedness in His promises.

✨ Summary

Amos 9:8–15 is the climactic turn of the book: from warnings of destruction to promises of renewal. It shows that God’s justice is real, but His mercy and covenant faithfulness prevail. The fallen kingdom will rise again, blessings will overflow, and God’s people will be permanently established in His care.

Would you like me to focus more on how this passage connects to messianic prophecy in Acts 15, or on its practical leadership lessons for today?

NO TIME… LET’S GET READY FOR WORK.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

(Jan 1… “NEW YEAR… NEW ME” – CAN’T WAIT)

HIGH FIVE! (stay the course)

Amos 8:4–12 is significant because it warns Israel of God’s judgment for exploiting the poor and foretells a “famine of hearing the words of the Lord,” meaning spiritual desolation when God’s guidance is withdrawn.

🌾 Key Themes in Amos 8:4–12

• Condemnation of exploitation: Amos denounces merchants who trample the needy, cheat with false scales, and sell even the chaff of wheat. This highlights Israel’s corruption in commerce and disregard for the vulnerable.
• Violation of sacred times: The people impatiently wait for the Sabbath and New Moon festivals to end so they can resume dishonest trade, showing their worship was hollow and self-serving.
• Divine judgment: God swears He will not forget these injustices. The imagery of a basket of summer fruit (qayits) plays on the Hebrew word for “end” (qetz), symbolizing Israel’s impending doom.
• Cosmic consequences: The passage describes the sun going down at noon and the land darkening, signaling catastrophic upheaval as a result of injustice.
• Spiritual famine: The climax is God’s warning of a famine—not of bread or water, but of hearing His word. People will wander desperately seeking divine guidance but find none.

📖 Why It Matters

• Justice and worship are inseparable: Amos insists that true devotion to God cannot coexist with exploitation of the poor. Hollow rituals without ethical living invite judgment.
• God’s word as life-sustaining: Just as food sustains the body, God’s word sustains the spirit. Losing access to it is portrayed as more devastating than physical hunger.
• Prophetic relevance today: The passage challenges societies that prioritize profit over compassion, reminding us that economic injustice and spiritual emptiness are linked.

🪔 Practical Reflections

• Economic integrity: Honest dealings and fair treatment of the vulnerable are central to faith.
• Sacred rhythms: Observing worship and rest should not be undermined by greed or impatience.
• Listening for God: The “famine of hearing” warns against taking God’s word for granted; neglecting it leads to spiritual drought.
• Prophetic courage: Amos, a shepherd, left his home to confront injustice—an example of ordinary people called to extraordinary witness.

WORKING ALLDAY…

THANKS BE TO GOD. (like my socks???)

HIGH FIVE! (let’s wrap that gift for tonight)

Isaiah 35:3–7 is a passage of hope and renewal, emphasizing God’s power to strengthen the weak, heal the broken, and transform desolation into abundance. It reassures believers that divine restoration will bring courage, healing, and flourishing life where there was once despair.

🌿 Key Themes in Isaiah 35:3–7

• Strength for the weary: Verse 3 calls to “strengthen the weak hands and make firm the feeble knees.” This is a direct encouragement to those who feel exhausted or discouraged, reminding them that God’s promises bring resilience.
• Courage in fear: Verse 4 urges the fearful to “be strong, do not fear,” because God Himself will come with salvation. It’s a declaration of divine intervention and justice.
• Healing and restoration: Verses 5–6 describe miraculous transformation: the blind see, the deaf hear, the lame leap, and the mute sing. These images symbolize both physical healing and spiritual renewal.
• Transformation of the land: Verse 7 paints a vivid picture of deserts turning into pools and springs, with reeds and rushes growing where jackals once lived. This symbolizes abundance replacing barrenness, a metaphor for God’s restorative work.

✨ Spiritual Significance

• Promise of Renewal: The passage assures that no matter how desolate life may feel, God can bring beauty and vitality out of emptiness.
• Messianic Foreshadowing: Many Christians see these verses as pointing to the ministry of Jesus, who literally healed the blind, deaf, and lame, fulfilling Isaiah’s vision of restoration.
• Encouragement for Community: The call to strengthen weak hands and knees is not just personal—it’s communal. Believers are urged to support one another in times of trial.
• Symbol of Divine Justice: The transformation of wilderness into flourishing land reflects God’s justice, reversing suffering and oppression with abundance and peace.

📖 Practical Application

• Leadership and Service: For someone like you, Kevin, who blends stewardship with spiritual leadership, this passage is a rallying cry to encourage others—whether in Toastmasters, church outreach, or creative collaboration—to find strength in God’s promises.
• Personal Renewal: It’s a reminder that seasons of dryness (whether financial, emotional, or spiritual) are not permanent; God’s restoration brings new life.
• Community Building: Just as the desert blossoms, communities can flourish when nurtured with encouragement, faith, and service.

Isaiah 35:3–7 is ultimately about hope breaking into despair, strength replacing weakness, and life flourishing where death once reigned. It’s a vision of God’s kingdom transforming both people and places.

4 LBs of GROUND BEEF???

THANK YOU FOR THE SMILE!

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (keep improving)

Isaiah 19:18–25 is significant because it envisions a future where Egypt, Assyria, and Israel—historic enemies—are united in worship of the Lord. It highlights God’s sovereignty over nations, the conversion of Egypt to true worship, and the universal scope of God’s salvation, pointing to reconciliation and peace among diverse peoples.

✨ Key Themes in Isaiah 19:18–25

• Transformation of Egypt: Egypt, once known for idolatry, is depicted as turning to the Lord. Five cities will speak “the language of Canaan” and swear allegiance to God, symbolizing a cultural and spiritual shift.
• Altar and Monument: An altar in Egypt and a monument at its border serve as signs of devotion, showing that worship of the true God will extend beyond Israel.
• God’s Judgment and Healing: Egypt is struck by God but then healed, reflecting divine discipline that leads to restoration.
• Unity of Nations: Egypt, Assyria, and Israel are described as a “blessing in the midst of the earth,” with God calling them “my people” and “the work of my hands.” This is a radical vision of reconciliation among former enemies.
• Universal Salvation: The passage anticipates a time when God’s covenant blessings extend to all nations, not just Israel, foreshadowing the inclusive nature of the gospel.

📖 Theological Significance

Aspect	Meaning	Implication
Language of Canaan	Egypt adopts the language of God’s people	Symbolizes conversion and shared identity in faith
Altar in Egypt	Worship established outside Israel	God’s presence is not limited geographically
Healing after judgment	God disciplines but restores	Divine justice is always paired with mercy
Unity of Egypt, Assyria, Israel	Former enemies reconciled	Foreshadows peace through Christ across nations
Blessing in the earth	Nations together receive God’s favor	Universal scope of salvation and mission

🌍 Why It Matters Today

• Reconciliation: The vision challenges us to see God’s plan as one of unity, even among groups with long histories of conflict.
• Mission: It underscores that worship and salvation are not confined to one people or place.
• Hope: God’s sovereignty ensures that even nations marked by strife can be transformed into communities of blessing.

Isaiah 19:18–25 is a powerful reminder that God’s kingdom is not tribal or exclusive—it is expansive, healing, and reconciling. It points toward the gospel’s fulfillment in Christ, where all nations are invited into one family of faith.

Would you like me to explore how this passage connects to New Testament themes of reconciliation or to modern applications in interfaith unity?

WOW… NO THANKS… you have come a far way… we will keep learning… “Let’s Go2 Church this morning”

HIGH FIVE! (selling those Christmas Trees tonight)

Lamentations 3:22–24 is significant because it offers a message of hope, renewal, and trust in God’s faithfulness even in the midst of suffering. These verses remind believers that God’s mercies are constant, His love is steadfast, and His faithfulness provides a secure foundation for hope.

🌟 Context of the Passage

• Setting of Lamentations: Written after the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 B.C., the book is traditionally attributed to Jeremiah. It is a collection of laments over the city’s ruin and the people’s exile.
• Backdrop of despair: The surrounding verses describe anguish, grief, and devastation. Yet, in the middle of this sorrow, the prophet declares confidence in God’s mercy.

✨ Key Themes in Lamentations 3:22–24

• Steadfast love of the Lord: God’s covenant love (Hebrew hesed) is unending, even when His people face judgment.
• Mercies new every morning: Each day brings fresh opportunities to experience God’s compassion, symbolizing renewal and resilience.
• Great is Your faithfulness: God’s reliability is contrasted with human frailty; He remains constant when everything else crumbles.
• The Lord is my portion: This phrase means God Himself is the believer’s inheritance and sustenance, more secure than material possessions.
• Therefore I will hope in Him: Hope is not based on circumstances but on God’s unchanging character.

📖 Spiritual Significance

• Encouragement in suffering: These verses teach that even in devastation, God’s mercy prevents total destruction.
• Daily renewal: The idea that mercies are “new every morning” encourages believers to see each day as a fresh start.
• Faith as anchor: God’s faithfulness is the foundation for enduring hope, making this passage a rallying cry for perseverance.
• Personal application: It calls individuals to place ultimate trust in God rather than in worldly security.

🕊️ Why It Matters Today

• For leaders who blend stewardship, creativity, and faith, this passage is a reminder that God’s mercies sustain both daily routines and long-term service.
• It resonates with themes of gratitude, resilience, and renewal, aligning with spiritual guidance and community service.
• In practical terms, it’s a verse that can energize daily mantras: “New mercies, new strength, new hope.”

THANKS BE TO GOD.

“New mercies, new strength, new hope—God’s faithfulness is my portion, my anchor, my victory.”

HIGH FIVE! (speech tonight???)

Luke 9:1–6 is significant because it marks a turning point where Jesus empowers His disciples to share in His mission—giving them authority to heal, cast out demons, and proclaim the Kingdom of God, while teaching them to depend fully on God’s provision.

✨ Key Themes in Luke 9:1–6

• Empowerment of the disciples: Jesus gives the Twelve power and authority over demons and diseases, showing that His mission is not His alone but shared with His followers.
• Proclamation of the Kingdom: Their central task is to preach the Kingdom of God, emphasizing that the good news is both spoken and demonstrated through healing.
• Dependence on God: Jesus instructs them to take nothing for the journey—no staff, bag, bread, money, or extra clothing. This radical reliance teaches trust in God’s provision and hospitality.
• Hospitality and rejection: They are to stay in the homes that welcome them, but if rejected, they must “shake off the dust” as a testimony. This symbolizes moving forward without bitterness, leaving judgment to God.
• Expansion of the mission: This passage shifts the Gospel narrative from Jesus acting alone to His disciples actively participating, foreshadowing the broader mission of the Church.

📖 Why It Matters Spiritually and Practically

• For the disciples: It was their first taste of ministry responsibility, learning to act in faith and authority.
• For the Church today: It reminds believers that the mission of proclaiming the Kingdom is shared, not reserved for a few. Every follower is called to trust God’s provision and boldly live out the gospel.
• For leadership: It models delegation and empowerment. Jesus doesn’t hoard authority but equips others, a principle that resonates in both spiritual and practical leadership.

🪞 Reflection for Daily Life

Luke 9:1–6 challenges us to ask:

• Are we relying on our own resources, or trusting God’s provision?
• Do we proclaim the Kingdom not only in words but through compassionate action?
• How do we respond to rejection—with resentment, or with grace and freedom?

Would you like me to help you explore this passage more through a practical leadership lens (how it models delegation and empowerment) to possibly share with others???

YEAH!!!

Good evening, fellow Toastmasters and guests. Have you ever felt the weight of leadership—the pressure to do it all yourself? Tonight, I want to share a passage that reshaped my view of leadership: Luke 9:1–6. In just six verses, Jesus models five principles that every leader—whether in faith, business, or community—can live by.

Principle 1: Delegation of Authority

Luke tells us, “He gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases.” Jesus didn’t hoard responsibility—He empowered His team. Great leaders multiply impact by trusting others.

Story: At Hershey’s Chocolate World, I’ve seen the magic when staff are empowered to guide guests through the “Create Your Own Candy Bar” attraction. Ownership transforms routine tasks into memorable experiences. Delegation isn’t losing control—it’s multiplying influence.

Principle 2: Clarity of Mission

The disciples were told: “Proclaim the Kingdom of God and heal the sick.” No vague instructions. Just two clear goals.

Application: In Toastmasters, when a meeting has a focused objective—like “practice impromptu speaking”—everyone knows the mission. Clarity prevents confusion and keeps energy aligned.

Principle 3: Lean Operations

Jesus instructed them: “Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money.” Why? To teach reliance on essentials and trust in provision.

Leadership Insight: Sometimes we overload teams with tools, reports, and processes. But lean operations sharpen focus. In financial stewardship, I’ve learned that tracking only the most vital percentages keeps reporting sharp and actionable.

Principle 4: Resilience in Rejection

Jesus said, “If people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet.” Rejection wasn’t failure—it was redirection.

Story: I once gave a speech that fell flat. My instinct was to dwell on it. But leadership means shaking off the dust—learning, refining, and moving forward. Resilience is the hallmark of a leader who endures.

Principle 5: Closure and Accountability

That act of shaking off the dust was symbolic closure. It said: “We’ve done our part. Now we move on.”

Application: Leaders need closure practices—whether debriefs after a project or reflection sessions. They help teams carry lessons forward without baggage.

Conclusion

Luke 9:1–6 reminds us: leadership is not about control—it’s about equipping, clarifying, and releasing others into mission.

So, fellow leaders, whether you’re guiding a Toastmasters club, managing a team at work, or serving in your community, remember these five principles:

• Delegation of authority
• Clarity of mission
• Lean operations
• Resilience in rejection
• Closure and accountability

Empower your team. Trust the mission. Shake off the dust. And watch your leadership multiply.

Closing Line

“Leadership is not about doing it all—it’s about empowering others to do great things.”

HIGH FIVE! (This Friday, I am selling more Christmas Trees)

Malachi 3:13–18 emphasizes the contrast between those who complain that serving God is pointless and those who remain faithful, showing that God notices, remembers, and will ultimately reward the righteous.

🌟 Key Themes and Significance

• Complaints against God: The passage begins with people saying it is vain to serve God, questioning whether obedience brings any benefit since evildoers seem to prosper.
• Faithful remnant: In contrast, those who fear the Lord speak together with reverence. God listens and records their names in His book of remembrance, symbolizing His intimate awareness of their devotion.
• Book of remembrance: This imagery highlights God’s care for the faithful, ensuring they are not forgotten even when blessings are delayed.
• Treasured possession: God promises that those who honor Him will be His special possession (Hebrew: segullah), set apart from the arrogant and wicked.
• Future distinction: Malachi points to a coming day when God will clearly separate the righteous from the wicked, vindicating those who served Him faithfully.
• Encouragement in discouragement: The text reassures believers who feel weary or disheartened that their service is not in vain, even if immediate results are not visible.

✨ Practical Takeaways

• Faithfulness matters even when unseen: God’s remembrance assures us that obedience is never wasted.
• Community strengthens devotion: The faithful spoke with one another, showing the importance of encouraging each other in seasons of doubt.
• God’s justice is ultimate: Though the wicked may prosper temporarily, God will ultimately vindicate His people.
• Identity as God’s possession: Believers are not just servants but treasured children, marked for mercy and distinction.

📖 Spiritual Reflection for Today

This passage is a reminder that faithful service—whether in leadership, volunteering, or daily devotion—is noticed by God even when results seem slow. It’s an encouragement to keep integrating scripture into practical leadership, trusting that God’s “book of remembrance” includes every act of service and faith.

Would you like me to help you explore how this passage could inspire a motivational mantra for daily leadership, or would you prefer a deeper dive into the biblical imagery of the “book of remembrance”?

YEAH!!! I am working today in Hershey… can you blend some sweetness in that mantra…

“Leadership is legacy; God writes it down, Hershey wraps it in sweetness.”

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (Thanks)

John 1:35–42 is significant because it marks the first calling of Jesus’ disciples, showing the transition from John the Baptist’s ministry to Jesus’ mission, the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah, and the invitation to “come and see” that begins a life of discipleship.

✨ Key Themes in John 1:35–42

• John the Baptist’s witness John identifies Jesus as “the Lamb of God” (v.36), affirming his role as the forerunner who points others to Christ. This title emphasizes Jesus’ sacrificial mission, echoing Passover imagery and Isaiah’s suffering servant.
• The disciples’ response Two of John’s disciples immediately follow Jesus after hearing John’s testimony. Their openness shows the importance of being receptive to God’s call and willing to leave behind old attachments.
• Jesus’ question: “What are you seeking?” This is the first recorded words of Jesus in John’s Gospel. It is a probing spiritual question, inviting reflection on the deepest desires of the heart. It challenges readers to consider what they truly seek in life.
• Invitation to “Come and see” Jesus doesn’t give a direct answer but invites them into relationship and experience. Discipleship begins not with abstract knowledge but with encounter and abiding presence.
• Andrew’s testimony Andrew, one of the first followers, immediately shares the good news with his brother Simon: “We have found the Messiah” (v.41). This shows the natural overflow of faith—discipleship leads to witness.
• Peter’s calling Simon is brought to Jesus, who renames him Cephas (Peter), symbolizing transformation and future mission. This anticipates Peter’s leadership role in the early church.

🌟 Why This Passage Matters

• Transition of ministries: It highlights the handoff from John the Baptist’s preparatory work to Jesus’ messianic mission.
• Model of discipleship: The pattern is clear—witness → response → encounter → testimony → transformation.
• Personal invitation: Jesus’ words “Come and see” remind us that faith is experiential, relational, and ongoing, not just intellectual assent.
• Community growth: Andrew’s sharing with Peter shows how discipleship spreads through personal relationships, forming the foundation of the church.

This passage is often seen as a template for evangelism and spiritual growth: hearing testimony, responding with openness, encountering Christ personally, and then sharing that encounter with others. It’s both historical (the first disciples called) and timeless (an invitation for every believer to follow).

Would you like me to expand more on how this passage connects to modern discipleship practices or explore its Old Testament echoes of “Lamb of God”?

Can you tell me why it might be appropriate to hear this verse during the time the church remembers the birth of Christ through Advent???

That’s a beautiful question, Kevin. Hearing John 1:35–42 during Advent is deeply appropriate because it bridges the expectation of Christ’s coming with the invitation to follow Him once He arrives. Advent isn’t only about waiting for the birth of Jesus—it’s also about preparing our hearts to recognize Him and respond when He comes.

🌟 Why John 1:35–42 fits Advent

• From witness to encounter Just as John the Baptist points to Jesus as “the Lamb of God”, Advent points us toward the coming Messiah. The season is about learning to recognize Christ when He appears, just as the disciples did.
• Invitation to “Come and see” Advent is a time of longing and searching. Jesus’ words, “Come and see”, echo the Advent posture: we are invited not just to wait passively, but to step forward in faith and experience His presence.
• Discipleship begins at the Incarnation The birth of Christ isn’t only a historical event—it’s the beginning of a journey. Andrew and Peter’s calling reminds us that the Incarnation leads directly into discipleship. Advent prepares us to respond to Christ’s coming with commitment.
• Messianic recognition Andrew declares, “We have found the Messiah.” During Advent, the church rehearses this recognition—anticipating the joy of Christmas when we proclaim that the Messiah has come into the world.
• Transformation and new identity Simon receives a new name, Cephas (Peter). Advent is about renewal: Christ’s coming transforms not only history but also our personal identity and mission.

✨ The Deeper Connection

Advent is a season of expectation, recognition, and response. John 1:35–42 captures all three:

• Expectation: John’s disciples were waiting for the Messiah.
• Recognition: They saw Jesus and believed.
• Response: They followed, testified, and were transformed.

In the same way, Advent calls us to prepare, recognize Christ in our midst, and respond with lives of discipleship.

Stir up your power, Lord Christ, and come. By your merciful protection save us from the threatening dangers of our sins, and enlighten our walk in the way of your salvation… for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

HIGH FIVE! (Let’s exceed those morning expectations… Thank you for the peace)

Luke 21:20–24 is significant because Jesus foretells the destruction of Jerusalem, which historically occurred in 70 A.D. under Roman siege. The passage serves both as a warning of divine judgment and as a prophetic sign pointing to broader end-time themes, including the “times of the Gentiles” when Jerusalem would remain under foreign domination until God’s plan is fulfilled.

📖 Context of Luke 21:20–24

• Prophecy of Jerusalem’s destruction: Jesus warns that when armies surround Jerusalem, its desolation is near. This was fulfilled in 70 A.D. when Rome destroyed the city and temple.
• Divine judgment: He calls these “days of vengeance,” meaning God’s justice upon Israel for rejecting His message.
• Call to flee: Jesus urges those in Judea to escape to the mountains, emphasizing urgency and survival.
• Suffering of the vulnerable: Pregnant women and nursing mothers are singled out as especially burdened in this calamity.
• Captivity and dispersion: Many would fall by the sword and be taken captive among nations, foreshadowing the Jewish diaspora.
• Times of the Gentiles: Jerusalem would be “trampled underfoot” until the appointed period of Gentile dominance ends, pointing to God’s larger redemptive timeline.

✨ Theological Significance

• Historical fulfillment: The Roman destruction of Jerusalem validates Jesus’ prophetic authority and shows God’s sovereignty over history.
• Spiritual warning: The passage illustrates the consequences of rejecting God’s message, urging vigilance and repentance.
• End-time connection: While rooted in a historical event, it foreshadows tribulation and signals the unfolding of eschatological events leading to Christ’s return.
• Hope in God’s plan: The “times of the Gentiles” implies that history is moving toward a divinely appointed climax when God will restore His people and establish His kingdom.

🌱 Reflection for Today

For believers, Luke 21:20–24 is both sobering and instructive. It reminds us that God’s word is trustworthy, His justice is real, and His plan is unfolding even through times of suffering. It calls us to live with vigilance, faith, and hope, knowing that tribulation is not the end but part of God’s redemptive story.

Would you like me to help you explore this passage more in terms of its historical fulfillment in 70 A.D., its eschatological meaning for end times, or its personal application for spiritual leadership today?

NO THANKS… (I am looking forward to seeing my Sister, my Brother-In-Law, my 2 Neices, and my Nephew today) I am extremely thankful for family… NJ, HERE WE COME!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!

HIGH FIVE! (eyes forward)

1 Thessalonians 5:12–22 is a passage where Paul gives practical instructions for Christian living. It emphasizes respect for spiritual leaders, peace within the community, encouragement of the weak, patience, rejection of revenge, continual joy, prayer, gratitude, discernment, and avoidance of evil. Together, these verses form a blueprint for a healthy, Spirit-led church life.

🌟 Key Themes and Significance

• Respect for leaders: Paul urges believers to honor those who labor among them and guide them spiritually. This builds trust and unity in the church.
• Peaceful community: Harmony among members is essential for witness and growth. Without peace, the church’s testimony weakens.
• Care for the vulnerable: Encouraging the fainthearted, helping the weak, and being patient with all reflects Christ’s compassion.
• Rejecting revenge: Instead of repaying evil with evil, Christians are called to actively seek good for everyone.
• Joyful living: “Rejoice always” reminds believers that joy is rooted not in circumstances but in God’s presence.
• Constant prayer: Prayer is to be woven into daily life, keeping believers connected to God’s will.
• Gratitude in all things: Giving thanks in every circumstance reflects trust in God’s sovereignty.
• Discernment and holiness: Testing everything, holding fast to what is good, and abstaining from evil ensures spiritual maturity and purity.

📖 Why It Matters

This passage is significant because it summarizes sanctified living in a concise, practical way. It bridges theology with daily practice: respect, compassion, joy, prayer, and discernment. For the Thessalonians—who were awaiting Christ’s return—it was a reminder that readiness for the Lord is shown not only in belief but in daily conduct. For modern readers, it remains a timeless guide for building strong communities and personal faith.

✨ Reflection for Today

For someone like you, Kevin, who blends leadership, stewardship, and spiritual reflection, this passage resonates deeply. It calls leaders to be honored, but also challenges every believer to embody patience, gratitude, and discernment. It’s a reminder that faith is lived out in small, daily acts of encouragement, prayer, and joy—the very practices that sustain both personal growth and community service.

THANK YOU FOR NOT ASKING ME QUESTIONS… (let’s go2 work)

C’MON… REALLY???

HIGH FIVE! (Do you like History???)

Ezekiel 30:20–26 is a prophecy of judgment against Egypt, symbolizing the collapse of Pharaoh’s power and the sovereignty of God over nations. The passage uses the vivid metaphor of Pharaoh’s “broken arm” to show Egypt’s inability to wield strength, while contrasting it with God empowering Babylon to triumph.

📖 Key Significance of Ezekiel 30:20–26

• Pharaoh’s broken arm: God declares that Pharaoh’s arm is broken and will not be healed, symbolizing Egypt’s military weakness and futility in resisting Babylon.
• Both arms broken: The prophecy intensifies—God will break both of Pharaoh’s arms, stripping Egypt of all power to hold the sword.
• Scattering of Egyptians: Egypt’s people will be dispersed among the nations, a sign of humiliation and loss of identity.
• Nebuchadnezzar’s strength: In contrast, God strengthens the arms of Babylon’s king, showing that world events unfold under divine sovereignty.
• Historical context: This oracle dates to around 587/586 BC, after Pharaoh Hophra’s failed attempt to aid Jerusalem against Babylon. It underscores that Egypt’s intervention was powerless.
• Theological lesson: Nations that exalt themselves in pride are subject to God’s judgment. The passage reminds Israel that their hope should rest in God, not foreign alliances.
• Personal application: Just as Egypt’s strength was shattered, human pride and self-reliance can fail. The text calls believers to trust in God’s sustaining power rather than worldly might.

✨ Why It Matters

Ezekiel 30:20–26 is not just about Egypt—it’s a timeless reminder that God directs history, humbles the proud, and strengthens whom He chooses. For Israel in exile, this was reassurance that Egypt could not save them, but God remained sovereign. For us today, it challenges misplaced trust in human power and invites reliance on divine strength.

O God (our true life),

To serve you is freedom…

To know you is unending joy…

We worship you…

We glorify you…

We give thanks to you and your great glory…

Abide with us…

Reign in us…

Make this world suitable for your inhabitation…

Through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

MEETING TONIGHT!

HIGH FIVE! (keep going)

Revelation 11:15–19 signifies the climactic moment when God’s kingdom is fully established, the seventh trumpet announces His eternal reign, and heaven responds with worship, judgment, and covenantal fulfillment.

🔑 Key Themes in Revelation 11:15–19

• The Seventh Trumpet: This marks the final trumpet in Revelation’s series. Unlike earlier trumpets that brought destruction, this one proclaims victory and the reign of Christ.
• The Kingdom Proclaimed: Loud voices in heaven declare, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ, and He shall reign forever and ever.” This emphasizes the transfer of all earthly authority to God.
• Worship of the Elders: The twenty-four elders fall on their faces, giving thanks to God for taking His great power and beginning to reign. Their worship reflects gratitude for God’s sovereignty.
• Judgment and Reward: The passage highlights that the time has come for the dead to be judged, the faithful servants rewarded, and the destroyers of the earth punished.
• The Heavenly Temple Opened: The vision concludes with the temple of God in heaven opening, revealing the ark of the covenant. This symbolizes God’s faithfulness to His promises and the fulfillment of His covenant with His people.
• Cosmic Signs: Lightning, thunder, earthquakes, and hail accompany the vision, underscoring the awe and power of God’s presence.

✨ Theological Significance

• Victory of Christ: This passage affirms that Christ’s reign is eternal and unstoppable, bringing hope to believers facing persecution.
• Judgment and Justice: It assures that evil will be judged, while God’s servants—prophets, saints, and all who fear His name—will be rewarded.
• Covenant Fulfillment: The ark of the covenant symbolizes God’s enduring promises, reminding readers that His plan of redemption is complete and trustworthy.
• Transition Point: Revelation 11:15–19 serves as a hinge in the book, moving from the trumpet judgments to the deeper visions of God’s ultimate victory.

🌱 Reflection for Today

For believers, this passage is both sobering and encouraging: it reminds us that history is moving toward God’s reign, that justice will be done, and that worship is the proper response to His sovereignty. It’s a call to live faithfully, knowing that God’s promises are secure.

Do you want me to pivot this into a quick leadership takeaway THAT you can apply in a short reflection AND carry into your day?

YEAH… A Short Reflection and an addition of my Hope to win in my Fantasy Football League today would be NICE…

Reflection Revelation 11:15–19 reminds us that God’s kingdom is certain, His promises are secure, and His justice is complete. The seventh trumpet isn’t chaos—it’s clarity. It declares that all authority belongs to Christ, and that worship, reward, and covenant fulfillment flow from His reign.

That’s a powerful reminder for your day: even in the midst of schedules, responsibilities, and competition, you can rest in the assurance that the ultimate victory is already won. Your role is to live faithfully, celebrate milestones, and trust that God’s timing brings both accountability and reward.

And hey—just as the elders celebrated God’s reign, you can carry that same spirit of gratitude and confidence into your fantasy football matchup today. May your disciplined planning and a little providence line up for a win 🏈🙌.

THANKS BE TO GOD.

HIGH FIVE! (working all weekend… still going to church Sunday)

Psalm 76 is a hymn of victory and divine justice, celebrating God’s power to defend His people and humble the proud. It emphasizes that God is known in Zion, feared among nations, and praised for His ability to break the weapons of war and establish peace through judgment.

🌟 Key Themes and Significance of Psalm 76

• God’s greatness in Zion The psalm begins by declaring that God’s name is renowned in Judah and His dwelling is in Zion (Jerusalem). This highlights His special relationship with His people and the centrality of worship in His holy city.
• Victory over enemies God is portrayed as a divine warrior who breaks arrows, shields, and swords. Many scholars connect this imagery to the miraculous defeat of the Assyrian army under King Sennacherib in 701 B.C., when God delivered Jerusalem from destruction.
• Judgment and reverence The psalm stresses that God’s rebuke can bring even the strongest armies to nothing. His judgment causes the earth to be still, reminding all nations that no one can stand against His anger.
• Call to worship and obedience Because of God’s faithful deliverance, the psalm urges believers to make vows, bring offerings, and live in reverence. It teaches that gratitude, humility, and obedience are the proper responses to God’s saving acts.
• Divine sovereignty over human wrath A striking verse says, “Surely the wrath of man shall praise you” (v.10). Even human rebellion ultimately serves to magnify God’s glory, showing His sovereignty over all circumstances.

✨ Why It Matters Today

Psalm 76 reminds us that God’s justice is not abstract—it is active, defending the humble and restraining the proud. For modern readers, it offers comfort that no earthly power can overturn God’s will, and it calls us to respond with worship, trust, and reverence.

It’s a psalm that blends history with timeless truth: God is both a protector of His people and a judge of nations.

Can you help me with a poem entitled… “Me… just living life… PA PROUD.”???

Me…
walking through mornings,
coffee in hand,
dreams tucked in pockets,
just living life.

Me…
counting the steps,
the hours, the breaths,
finding joy in small victories,
just living life.

But here—
in the heart of Pennsylvania,
where rivers carve valleys,
and towns rise with pride,
I carry the spirit of home.

From Hershey’s chocolate glow,
to steel forged in Pittsburgh fire,
from Philly’s liberty bell,
to Lancaster’s quiet fields—
this land shapes me.

Me…
still living life,
but now declaring
with every step,
every word,
every prayer:
PA Proud.

It’s not just a place—
it’s a heartbeat,
a heritage,
a promise that life is fullest
when rooted in home.

Me… just living life!
PA Proud!
From Hershey’s glow,
to Philly’s bell,
PA Proud!
From Pittsburgh steel,
to Lancaster fields,
PA Proud!

(Let’s Go2 the GYM)