Just like all of us, each disciple was asked by name “Follow Me.”  Then after the Master touches our heart, we are reborn as a new creation in Him.  As a new life member in His church, we then step into a training class on earth.  We were enlisted into His body of believers before we knew Him completely. Before we fully grasped that Jesus was born, to die and shed His blood for our eternal life, we followed. We did not know where He would lead us, but yet, we know that every time His word speaks to our spirit, new life surges through us, and we become more fully alive. It takes time to grow from a seed into a branch that bears fruit. It is important to be patient as we do fall occasionally, but our Father graciously forgives and lifts us up again, and again.

We follow the One who gives us grace and mercy daily.  What does it look like to seek God with all our mind, heart, and soul?  It looks like a passionate desire to connect to God’s HOLY PRESENCE.  To know Him more, NOT just for what He can do for us, but to experience standing on holy ground. God already did His very best for us. He gave us His Son as the perfect blood sacrifice to cover the sins of all.  God loves everyone — whether it’s a Jew, a Baptist, Luthern, or the town drunk.  God uses His chosen to draw ALL KINDS of folks into the HOPE we carry and walk out. We point them to the Word of God for their answers. John believed, followed, and was eventually beheaded. What would happen to your faith when someone you love dies?

In each season of our lives, we detect change. Our character is being developed by the infusion and application of God’s living Word. The Writer of our story allows moments to test our faith.  We may mourn the loss of a loved one and ponder why God allowed bad things to happen to good people. Why do Christians suffer? We all live in a world that is filled with all kinds of evil because the prince of the air is hard at work. The Bible records the death and resurrection of Lazarus. Why not John the Baptist?  Why does God heal some but not all?  The Author of creation weaves opportunities into situations that cause His followers to realize “this is not our home.” In heaven, there will be no more tears, pain, or suffering.

Jesus told us that we would be hated and that we would endure suffering for a little while.  “Soon” enough Jesus will return to gather those who persevere.  By the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony, the overcomers will be snatched up.  As His disciples, we realize that we belong to Jesus for a long while before we fully understand the Fathers purpose to use us to broadcast HOPE. Like Isaiah, once we encounter God, we cease to echo the worldview, and out of the overflow of His love in us, we speak hope in the only One who can transform people. Our eloquence, our church or best approach, changes nobody. His Ways are not our ways. We all question God and our Father welcomes us into a constant dialog with ears that hear what the Spirit is saying. Jesus said; “If you remain in Me, as I remain in you, and If you treasure My words in your heart — Ask whatever you desire and it will be given to you.” Out of our heart’s treasured overflow, we cast Hope.

In the in-between time, we choose to stay tuned for His trumpet blast.  We all desire understanding, and we also want to please God, not man. When we comfort others, when we are patient; when we issue mercy, that kind compassion is a result of how the gift of our faith expands over time. Our personal transformation gives everyone we contact hope.  Our countenance changes when we get a direct flow of understanding from the Holy Spirit.  Much like Isaiah, our glowing facial expression is in an outward reflection of our internal growth and change. Once Isaiah was anointed in the 6th chapter, his first encounter changed him forever. Just like Saul was changed to Paul, Isaiah began pronouncing HOPE instead of condemnation. Listen to this summary of Isaiah at 40 minutes.

Out of broken pieces, when we say here am I, send me, Jesus builds us up with His word and sends us out.

As His disciples we do not live far off from Gods sight. We cannot hide a single  thought from our Father. Immanuel sees us, He knows us, and He is available 24/7 for a talk. He lavishes us with underseved mercy and grace. Jesus said; “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.” and Peter spoke words to encourage others who were suffering for doing the right thing. 1 Peter 3:18 NLT  “Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but He died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but He was raised to life in the Spirit.” On the other side of earth life, there is eternal life, without pain.