February 29, 2012

Opening Hymns:
Thy Word (Red Praise Book 234)

Scripture Reading:
Mark 8:31-33

Message:

Jesus has gone through the temptations in the desert. He is now being tempted by one of His disciples. Peter doesn’t know God’s plan, and as a friend and a follower does not want Jesus to die, or to leave. We don’t know what Peter said to rebuke Jesus, but it seems to me that he was speaking as a friend. However, Jesus saw it as a temptation not to do what God had called Him to do.

Near the end Jesus faces the temptation once more. He prays “Everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will” (Mark 14:36). As the time of sacrifice comes closer it is harder to resist the temptation.

Jesus was tempted by the devil in the desert. But when you’re being tempted by the devil it is clear to see what to avoid doing. He was then tempted by His friends, a harder temptation to avoid, but as He recognized it He was able to rebuke His friend as well. One of His final temptations was in His prayer of desperation. However, He recognized “Yet not what I will, but what you will”.

Each of us will face different types of temptation. To me it is comforting to know that Jesus had been tempted as well. He is such a wonderful example on conquering temptation that Alcoholics Anonymous and Gamblers Anonymous use scripture in order to help people combat their own temptations.


Time of Prayer
Dear Lord, thank You for showing us how to live a Christian life. Thank You for helping us find a way to overcome temptations. Thank you for Your Son Jesus who was able to overcome temptation and save us all. Amen.


The Lord’s Prayer


Closing Hymn
When I look into Your Holiness (Red Praise Book 206)

May the Lord bless you and keep you: May the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you: May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." Amen.

Go in peace, serve the Lord
Thanks be to God