Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | June 15, 2024 | John 12:1-3 KEY VERSE: Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” John 12:3 (NIV) MESSAGE: In John 12:1-3, we witness Mary's profound act of love and devotion towards Jesus. This passage is set six days before the Passover, during a dinner in Jesus' honour. Martha served the meal, Lazarus, whom Jesus had raised from the dead, was present, and Mary performed a significant and symbolic act. Mary's action of anointing Jesus' feet with expensive perfume and wiping them with her hair demonstrates her deep love, gratitude, and reverence for Jesus. The perfume, described as pure nard, was a remarkable gift to Jesus. It was remarkably humble because attending to the guests' feet was the task of the lowliest slave. Thus, Mary's action demonstrated both great humility and deep devotion. Mary’s gift was remarkably extreme. Judas believed this oil was worth 300 denarii (John 12:5), which was worth a year’s wages for a workingman. Mary’s gift was also remarkably unselfconscious. Not only did she give the gift of the expensive oil, she also wiped His feet with her hair. This means that she let down her hair in public, an action that a Jewish woman would seldom take. Mary's gesture filled the house with a beautiful fragrance, symbolizing how acts of love and devotion to Jesus can permeate our surroundings, touching the lives of others. The situation in today's verses will be anchored in the memory of all who were present. This story will be told and re-told by them every time they catch even the faintest smell of the same aroma. But beyond the literal fragrance, they would remember the beautiful scent of extravagant love that Mary displayed. When we truly know that Jesus loves us and that he ransoms us from death, we will surely be extravagant in our display of love and worship for Him. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: This passage challenges us to consider the depth of our own love and devotion to Jesus and how we express it in our daily lives. How can your love and devotion to Jesus, influence and inspire those around you? Let's be like Mary who was committed to displaying her love extravagantly for Jesus even though it brought about criticism! PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for the example of Mary's great love and devotion. Help me to express my love for you with the same fervour and sacrifice. May my acts of worship and service bring honour to your name and inspire those around me. For your dear name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: WIPED The verb Wipe is translated in the Greek text as ἐκμάσσω (ekmassō). It is often used in contexts involving cleaning or anointing. It suggests a personal, intimate act of care or service. The act of wiping Jesus' feet with her hair by Mary is significant in several ways. In the cultural context, a woman's hair was considered her glory and was usually kept covered or tied up in public. By using her hair to wipe Jesus' feet, Mary demonstrates extreme humility and devotion. Theologically, this act prefigures Jesus' own act of washing His disciples' feet, symbolizing servant leadership and sacrificial love. It also foreshadows Jesus' burial, as the anointing was a customary practice for preparing a body for burial. Reflections: Reflect on Mary's act of wiping Jesus' feet with her hair. How can you show similar humility and devotion in your own life? Are there ways you can demonstrate your love for Jesus through acts of service and worship that reflect the depth of your commitment to Him?

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 14, 2024 | John 11:54-57 KEY VERSE: Therefore Jesus no longer walked openly among the Jews, but went from there into the country near the wilderness, to a city called Ephraim, and there remained with His disciples. John 11:54 (ESV) MESSAGE: Divine Responsibility: John 7:30 and John 11:7-10 suggest that as long as we are within God's timing, our physical safety is assured. This highlights the role of divine protection in our lives. We can trust that God’s providence and care will keep us safe as we fulfil His purposes. Human Responsibility: Other passages emphasize our responsibility to ensure safety in life and ministry. For example, David and his followers sought refuge in strongholds while King Saul pursued him with state intelligence and resources. Yet, "God did not give him into his hand" (1 Samuel 23:14). Similarly, the chief priests and Pharisees launched a widespread manhunt for Jesus. The key verse (John 11:54) illustrates Jesus' practical steps for safety: Jesus avoided public movements. He relocated with His disciples to Ephraim, a town near the wilderness. If Ephraim is the town mentioned in 2 Chronicles 13:19, it was a mountainous place about twenty-two kilometres from Jerusalem—a strategic hiding place. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: God's people have always faced threats to their physical safety. While divine protection is assured, Scripture also emphasizes our human responsibility. We should balance trust in God with practical actions to ensure safety. Reflect on how David and Jesus balanced divine trust and practical actions. We too must take wise steps to protect ourselves and others, trusting in God's protection while doing our part. PRAYER: Lord, we thank You for never abandoning or forsaking us. Give us the wisdom to handle our human responsibilities while trusting in Your divine protection. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: NO LONGER In Greek, οὐκέτι (ouketi) is an adverb that means "no longer," "no more," or "not anymore." It signifies the cessation of a previous state or activity. In John 11:54, the Greek term "οὐκέτι" (ouketi) is used to convey that Jesus "no longer" walked openly among the Jews. This shift marks a pivotal moment in His ministry, where public confrontation gives way to a more secluded phase. Theologically, this withdrawal underscores Jesus' awareness of the mounting danger and His deliberate pacing towards the cross. It illustrates His control over the unfolding events, ensuring His mission progresses according to divine timing rather than human schemes. Reflections: Reflect on the strategic withdrawal of Jesus and how it exemplifies the importance of timing and discretion in fulfilling God's plan. How can you discern when to step back and when to move forward in your own spiritual journey, ensuring that your actions align with God's will and timing?

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 13, 2024 | John 11:46-53 KEY VERSE: So the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the Council and said "What are we to do? For this man performs many signs" John 11:47 (ESV) MESSAGE: It's intriguing how eager some people were to report about Jesus. In John 5:15, the man who was healed went to inform the Jews. Similarly, in John 11:46, some Jews reported to the Pharisees. Did they ever reflect on the miracles they witnessed? In verse 47, the hastily called Council meeting focused solely on discussing Jesus' actions. This reveals a desperate attempt to handle a lost cause. They acknowledged Jesus’ many signs and the implications, yet their actions were driven by fear and self-interest. Consider their previous failures: In John 7:45-52, the officers failed to arrest Jesus, and Nicodemus dissented. In John 7:53-8:11, their attempt to trap Jesus with the woman caught in adultery failed. In John 8:59, they tried to stone Jesus but failed. In John 10:39, another attempt to arrest Him was unsuccessful. The rest of the passage shows a leadership struggling to protect their positions and privileges. This highlights the mixed responses to Jesus' miracles and teachings. Mixed responses to Jesus' miracles reveal the true motives of the heart. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: It is perplexing when leaders pursue lost causes for their own interests, dragging innocent followers with them. Yet, God's purposes are never derailed. PRAYER: Lord, help us learn from the mistakes of the chief priests and Pharisees. Guide us to check our motives and align them with Your will. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: PERFORMS ποιεῖ (poiei) is a verb in Greek which means "to do," "to make," "to perform," or "to accomplish." It denotes action and the carrying out of tasks or activities. In John 11:47, the Greek verb "ποιεῖ" (poiei) highlights Jesus' continuous and active performance of miracles. The religious leaders are faced with the reality that Jesus is not just a teacher but one who actively demonstrates divine power through numerous signs. This verb underscores the ongoing nature of Jesus' miraculous works and their significant impact on the people and the authorities. Theologically, it emphasizes that Jesus' actions were deliberate manifestations of His divine authority, meant to reveal His identity and mission. Reflections: How do the continuous works of Jesus impact your understanding of His divine mission? Reflect on how recognizing Jesus' ongoing actions in your life and the world around you can strengthen your faith and influence your response to His call.

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 12, 2024 | John 11:45, 20:30-31 KEY VERSE: Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what He did believed in Him. John 11:45 (ESV) MESSAGE: The word "therefore" in John 11:45 refers to the preceding event—the resurrection of Lazarus.. The many Jews who believed in the Lord Jesus were not acting on third-person evidence. They were eyewitnesses. In the Christian Faith, experiential belief is essential. As Apostle John asserts in his epistle (1 John 1:1-3), we cannot deny our personal experiences. According to John 20:30-31, Jesus' signs were meant to bring people to a saving knowledge of Christ and eternal life. However, the results of these signs varied: The miracle of turning water into wine led His disciples to believe in Him (John 2:1-11). The healing of a royal official's son brought an entire household to faith (John 4:53). The healing of the man at the pool of Bethesda had an uncertain outcome. Jesus later warned him to avoid sin to prevent worse consequences (John 5:14). The man born blind believed and worshipped Jesus, but the Pharisees rejected Him (John 9:35-41). When Jesus fed the five thousand, many pursued Him for more bread, but He used the occasion to teach about the true bread of life (John 6:1-15). In John 6:29, Jesus declared that the work God requires is to believe in the One He sent. When some disciples found His teaching hard and left, Jesus was not disturbed. He rather challenged the Twelve to declare their stand. And through Peter, they declared a non-return stand with the Lord Jesus Christ. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Our core responsibility is to lead people to the saving knowledge of Christ and eternal life. Not everyone will believe, even in the face of miracles PRAYER: Lord, it's a tough task. Give us your grace. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: THEREFORE οὖν (oun) is the Greek word that is often translated as "therefore," "then," or "so." It indicates a logical consequence or conclusion drawn from preceding events or statements. The term "οὖν" (oun) serves as a conjunction in John 11:45, connecting the miraculous event of Lazarus’s resurrection with the resultant faith among the witnesses. This logical connector emphasizes that the miracle served its purpose: to reveal Jesus’ divine power and to lead people to believe. Theologically, it underscores the notion that signs and wonders performed by Jesus are meant to validate His divine authority and mission, leading people to faith in Him. Reflections: How do the miraculous works of Jesus lead you to deeper faith and understanding of His divine nature? Reflect on moments in your life where witnessing or experiencing God’s work has strengthened your belief.

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 11, 2024 | John 11:38-44 KEY VERSE: Jesus said to her, "Did I not tell you that if you believed, you will see the glory of God? John 11:40 (ESV) MESSAGE: In John 11:4, Jesus stated that Lazarus’s illness would ultimately glorify God and His Son. The key verse highlights a conversation between Jesus and Martha, emphasizing the importance of faith. In this chapter, we don’t explicitly see when Jesus told Martha the message referenced in the key verse. It might relate to their exchange in verse 25, where Jesus declares Himself the resurrection and the life. The prerequisite for witnessing God's glory is faith. This faith often requires a practical action, such as removing the stone from Lazarus’s tomb. Throughout the Gospel of John, faith is a precondition for experiencing God's miraculous works. Consider these examples: At the wedding in Cana, filling jars with water led to the miracle of wine (John 2:1-11). A royal official believed Jesus and found his sick child healed upon returning home (John 4:46-54). A man at the healing pool, infirm for decades, was healed by believing and obeying Jesus’ command to pick up his mat (John 5:1-15). The feeding of the five thousand required people to sit down as directed before being miraculously fed (John 6:1-15). A man born blind was healed by allowing Jesus to work on him and follow His instructions (John 9:1-7). In each instance, faith and obedience to Jesus' instructions preceded the miracle. When Jesus commanded the removal of the stone from Lazarus’s tomb, despite Martha's concern about the odour, He was emphasizing the importance of faith over doubt. Once the stone was removed, Jesus called Lazarus back to life, showcasing God's glory. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: God’s purposes may take time to unfold, but they will certainly come to pass. Our Loving God often pays no attention to our needless protests but rather pushes us to step out in faith and trust Him. Miracles can entail human participation, such as the removal of the stone in Lazarus’s resurrection. PRAYER: Loving God, keep ignoring our needless protests and fulfil Your purposes in our lives. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: GLORY The word Glory is translated in Greek as δόξα (doxa): This word means glory, splendour, or majesty. It often refers to the visible manifestation of God's presence and divine attributes. The term "δόξα" (doxa) in John 11:40 underscores the manifestation of God's power and presence. Jesus assures Martha that her faith will allow her to witness a divine miracle that reveals God's majesty. This event is not just about the miracle of resurrection but about demonstrating God's authority over life and death, thereby glorifying Him. Reflections: Consider how your faith can lead to witnessing the glory of God in your own life. How can you stay open to seeing and recognizing God's majesty in everyday miracles and acts of grace?

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 10, 2024 | John 11:28-35 KEY VERSE: When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come with her also weeping, He was deeply moved in His Spirit and greatly troubled. John 11:33 (ESV) MESSAGE: Two sisters have lost a brother and are grieving but they appear to do it differently and with different results. In verse 3, they both sent a message to Jesus about the sick brother. In verse 21&32, though separately, they both told Jesus that had He come earlier, their brother wouldn’t have died. Then came the different ways. When it was told that Jesus was on His way, Martha went some distance to meet Him. Mary remained seated till Jesus specifically sent for her. We aren’t told why Jesus sent her a private message to see Him. Coming to Jesus, unlike Martha, she fell at His before “complaining”. We can take the falling at Jesus’ feet as an act of worship. Martha went to Jesus unaccompanied, and others went with Mary, although based on an uninformed reason. Now, verse 33 clarifies that the weeping of Mary and others tremendously touched Him. Indeed in Verse 35, He Himself wept. In verse 34, the One who had stated in verse 25 that He’s the Resurrection and Life asked where Lazarus had been buried. In my opinion, Mary’s encounter with Jesus was a game-changer. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: We should know that in life, we generally respond to situations in different ways based on several factors – gender, age, experience, personality, etc. We should please know ourselves and understand others. PRAYER: Lord help us to know ourselves, be ourselves and give space to others to be themselves. Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study. TROUBLE The word Troubled in John 11:33 (ESV) is translated in the Greek text as ἐτάραξεν (etaraxen): This verb means to be troubled, agitated, or disturbed. It conveys a sense of inner turmoil, emotional disturbance, or unrest. In John 11:33, the term "ἐτάραξεν" (etaraxen) is used to describe Jesus' emotional state as He observes the grief of those around Him. This word shows the inner disturbance, reflecting both Jesus' empathy for the mourners and His own sorrow. This reaction highlights Jesus' humanity, showing that He deeply feels the pain and sorrow of those He loves. The use of "ἐτάραξεν" could also suggest a deeper layer of meaning. Jesus' disturbance may reflect His indignation at the reality of death and its devastating impact on humanity. His reaction is not merely emotional but also a response to the broader consequences of sin and death in the world. His troubled spirit in this moment is a powerful testament to His compassion and His intimate involvement in human suffering. Reflections: Reflect on Jesus' deep compassion and empathy. How does His emotional response to sorrow and death influence your understanding of His character and His relationship with humanity?

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 9, 2024 | John 11:17-27 KEY VERSE: ²⁵ Jesus said to her “ I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me though he die, yet shall he live  ²⁶ and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” John 11:25-26 (NKJV) MESSAGE: Life comes with various kinds and degrees of problems and difficulties. The death of a loved one appears to go with a particular weight. In the case of Martha and Mary, they had carried some hope of seeing Lazarus, their brother, getting healed. We’re told many Jews came to mourn with them. Some walked two miles to be with them. Highly commendable. On the issue of death that appears to be all that the human being can do. The Key Verses give us some profound truths – Resurrection and genuine life stem from a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus. Those who now have spiritual life in Christ will ultimately triumph over death. In verses 22 and 27, Martha makes profound affirmations but it appears clear that she was not linking them to the brother's resurrection. Perhaps much like us – God is capable and willing but not in our particular case – as we seem to think and behave. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Death closes all human capabilities. We have a Loving God,  we have a Powerful God, etc. It’s difficult to understand how we appear not to believe in Him in our particular cases. PRAYER: Lord help us to acknowledge the limitations of Human Capabilities and give us grace to trust you in all Circumstances. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: RESURRECTION The word resurrection is translated in the Greek text as ἀνάστασις (anástasis). It means the act of rising from the dead, resurrection, and restoration to life. The word is frequently used in the New Testament to refer to the bodily resurrection, both of Jesus and believers at the end of times. Jesus' declaration: "I am the resurrection and the life," provides a profound revelation of His divine nature and mission. The statement does not only promise life after death but also signifies that eternal life begins in the present for those who believe in Him. This declaration serves to comfort Martha and the disciples, affirming that belief in Jesus transcends physical death. It shifts the focus from a mere future hope to a present assurance of life in Him. Reflections: Consider how the promise of resurrection and eternal life impacts your daily living. How does the assurance of Jesus being the resurrection and the life change your perspective on death and suffering

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 8, 2024 | John 11:1-16 KEY VERSE: When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” John 11:4 (NKJV) MESSAGE: Initial reading of the conversation between Christ and the disciples appears to create a comical scene (very respectfully speaking), of people operating from different pages. For example, Christ is introducing a new meaning to sleep but the disciples are with the old understanding. A careful look at the passage unearths some fundamental principles for life and ministry. Our Lord Jesus refused to be directed by the tyranny of the urgent. Tyranny of the Urgent can make us lose focus. It can even cause us to press the panic button. We can readily make reference to the fatal step of King Saul that caused him the loss of the Kingship (1samuel 13:5-15). Per verse 4, Jesus worked with the Bigger Picture - very important in life and ministry. Again, our Lord Jesus was very much composed. He wasn't going to get stampeded. In 2 Timothy 4:5, we're advised to have our wits with us in all situations. Furthermore, we see Jesus, the Master Teacher, instructing from the known to the unknown FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Let's learn to be sober-minded at critical times so as not to be derailed by the Bigger Picture. PRAYER: Lord, help us see timeless Principles from your Word and apply them. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: UNTO DEATH The phrase "unto death" in John 11:4 is translated from the Greek phrase "πρὸς θάνατον" (pros thanaton). This phrase combines "πρὸς" (pros), which means "towards" or "unto," and "θάνατον" (thanaton), which means "death." In this passage, Jesus addresses the concern about Lazarus's illness by reassuring that it will not lead to a final, irreversible death. Instead, this situation is meant to reveal God's glory and demonstrate Jesus' divine authority and power over life and death. This statement sets the scene for the subsequent miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, which serves as a powerful testament to Jesus' identity as the Son of God. Jesus' declaration challenges the common perception of death and suffering, pointing to a higher divine purpose. It emphasizes that not all suffering or illness leads to an end but can be part of God's redemptive plan to showcase His glory and strengthen faith. Reflections: Reflect on how you perceive and respond to difficult circumstances in your life. How can you trust that God has a purpose and plan, even when facing what seems like insurmountable challenges? Consider how God might be using your trials to display His glory and deepen your faith.

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 7, 2024 | John 11:1-11, 21, 32, 36 and 37 KEY VERSE: When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” John 11:4 (NKJV) MESSAGE: The introduction of Lazarus appears a bit curious to me.  In verse 1, we are told of a certain man who is sick and his hometown. We are also told of two ladies who will turn out to be his sisters. Then in Verse 2, we are told of Mary's encounter with Jesus. In verse 3, we are made aware that Jesus loves this man, Lazarus. By verse 11, we are made aware that Lazarus was a friend to Jesus and His disciples.  We know from the passage the Lord Jesus did not rush to meet the needs of the one He loved and was also a friend.  Jesus’ “inaction” can agitate the mind. In fact, in verses 21 and 32, there appears to be a tinge of rebuke from the sisters. Verse 37 appears to give a sense of disappointment from some Jews. Now, it's instructive to note that except the for disciples, nobody else was aware of Jesus' statement in verse 4. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Not being privy to God's intentions and timing can be very perplexing for God's people. At times, we wonder if He is hiding from us or if He is unmindful of what is bothering us. We may even wonder if we're being treated fairly. How do we navigate that? The passage under discussion establishes Christ's love for and friendship with the Lazarus family. I believe His love for us should assure us that He is always with us and will do us no ill. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, help us to always have faith in your goodness and mercies. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: GLORIFIED The word "glorified" in John 11:4 is translated from the Greek word "δοξασθῇ" (doxasthē), a form of the verb "δοξάζω" (doxazō). This word conveys the concept of giving glory, honour, or praise, often in the context of divine revelation or manifestation. In the context of our key verse, Jesus speaks about the illness of Lazarus not as an end in itself but as an opportunity for God's glory to be revealed. This statement sets the stage for the miraculous raising of Lazarus, which will demonstrate the power and authority of Jesus as the Son of God. It underscores that the purpose of the miracle is to lead people to recognize and honour God, bringing glory to both the Father and the Son. The use of "δοξασθῇ" in John 11:4 emphasizes the broader theological theme of God's glory being revealed through Jesus Christ. The miracle of raising Lazarus serves a divine purpose: to manifest God's glory and to affirm Jesus' divine identity and mission. Reflections: Reflect on the ways God's glory has been revealed in your own life, especially through difficult or challenging circumstances. How can you view your own trials and hardships as opportunities for God's glory to be manifested?

Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 6, 2024 | John 11:1-3 KEY VERSE: ¹ Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha. ³ Therefore the sisters sent to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.” John 11:1&3 (NKJV) MESSAGE: A brother is sick and his sisters go to Jesus on his behalf. Standing on behalf of others appears as a motif, a recurring theme in John's Gospel. Let us please use this maiden piece to remind ourselves of this for as Peter said, reminders have great benefits (2 Peter 3:1) First and foremost is Christ coming on behalf of the sinful world - John 1:14. Secondly, the mother of Jesus helping to avert an embarrassing wedding reception - John 2:1-14. Thirdly we have the Samaritan Woman leaving her water jar to share the good news with others - John 4:28. Fourthly, John 4:46-54 gives us a father seeking healing for a sick son. Finally, in John 6:1-14, a boy's five loaves of bread and two fish are sacrificed to feed five thousand very hungry people. Let us contrast the instances mentioned above with John 5:1-9, where a man stayed by the pool for 35 years because he never had a helper. It is instructive to add that the man was ultimately healed by the Lord Jesus. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Jesus wants us to follow His supreme example by extending helping hands to others. In our case, we must present people and their needs to the Lord Jesus. It may entail some inconveniences and costs but remember Christ paid the Supreme Price PRAYER: Lord help us see the needs of others and give us the willingness to help. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: The word"sick" in John 11:1 is derived from the Greek word "ἀσθενῶν" (asthenōn). This word conveys a state of weakness or illness, indicating a condition that requires attention and care. In this context, the term "ἀσθενῶν" specifically refers to Lazarus's physical condition, indicating that he was gravely ill. The narrative sets the stage for one of Jesus' most profound miracles, the raising of Lazarus from the dead. This passage highlights the severity of Lazarus's illness, for which reason the sisters reached out to Jesus for his intervention. The use of "ἀσθενῶν" in John 11:1 brings to light the human condition of frailty and the need for divine intervention. It emphasizes that sickness and weakness are part of the human experience, and it is in these moments of vulnerability that the power and compassion of Jesus are most profoundly revealed. Reflections: Reflect on how you respond to times of illness or weakness in your own life. Do you see these moments as opportunities to experience Jesus' healing power and compassion? Consider how you can turn to Jesus, the ultimate healer, in your times of need (as Lazarus' sisters did).

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 5, 2024 | John 10:40-42 KEY VERSE: And many believe in Him there. John 10:42 (NKJV) MESSAGE: In John 10:40-42, we observe Jesus withdrawing to the place where John the Baptist had first baptized, beyond the Jordan. This move was strategic and divinely directed. This passage highlights how divine direction can lead us to places where God's work can flourish, even if they seem like retreats or unexpected turns in our journey. Many times one can sense the promptings of the Holy Spirit to take detours or go on retreats like that. The question is, do we pay attention to such promptings? Jesus' return to the Jordan River area was not merely a retreat from hostility; it was a move guided by divine wisdom. This place held significant spiritual history, being where John the Baptist had proclaimed Jesus as the Lamb of God. By returning there, Jesus affirmed John's testimony and provided a fertile ground for faith to grow among the people. This teaches us that God's direction often brings us to places where past spiritual seeds have been sown, ready to bear fruit. We may not always understand why God leads us to certain places or situations, but we can trust that He is orchestrating events for His greater purpose. Just as many came to believe in Jesus at the Jordan, we too can be instruments of faith and transformation when we move in obedience to God's leading. We bring glory to His name and draw others to faith by following Divine Direction. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Seek and follow the divine direction in your own life. Trust God’s guidance, even when it seems like a step back or a detour. You position yourself to witness and participate in His work more effectively. Remain sensitive to His voice, open to His guidance, and confident that wherever He leads, His purpose will prevail. PRAYER: OUR PRAYER IS A SONG by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir ( we have no right to the song) Lead me Lord, I will follow. Lead me Lord, I will go. You have called me, I will answer. Lead me Lord, I will go. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: IN HIM The phrase "in Him" in this passage is derived from the Greek phrase "εἰς αὐτόν" (eis auton). This phrase indicates a directed belief towards Jesus, signifying a personal and relational trust. In John 10:42, "εἰς αὐτόν" encapsulates the response of many individuals who, after hearing Jesus' words and witnessing His works, put their faith in Him. This belief is not just intellectual assent but a deep, relational trust and commitment. The context follows Jesus' profound declarations about His unity with the Father and His role as the Good Shepherd. Theologically, this underscores the importance of a personal relationship with Jesus, moving beyond a mere acknowledgement to a committed faith that transforms lives. Reflections: Reflect on what it means to truly believe "in Him" in your own life. How does your faith in Jesus go beyond mere intellectual belief to a deep, relational trust? Consider ways you can deepen your relationship with Jesus, moving closer to Him in trust and commitment. How can you demonstrate this relational faith in your daily actions and decisions?

Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 4, 2024 | John 10:31-39 KEY VERSE: ³⁷ If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; ³⁸ but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me and I in Him. John 10:37-38 (NKJV) MESSAGE: Jesus was accused of blasphemy by the Jewish leaders and He responded by urging them to believe in the works He has done. Here, Jesus underscores this truth: our actions are evidence of our relationship with God. Our works in His name reveal His presence in our lives and demonstrate our connection to Him. As we faithfully serve, love, and care for others, we reveal our Father to the world, embodying the message of the Gospel through our lives. By our works, men will know our Father and be drawn to His everlasting love. Jesus' miracles were not just displays of power but tangible expressions of God's character and love. Healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and raising the dead were works that reflected the heart of the Father and validated Jesus' divine mission. Similarly, our works serve as a testament to our faith and connection to God. When we engage in acts of kindness, justice, and love, we showcase the transformative power of God's grace in our lives. These actions speak louder than words, providing a living testimony of our Heavenly Father to those around us. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Consider the evidence of your faith in your daily life. Do your actions consistently point others to God? Are you living in a way that reflects His love and truth? Align your works with Jesus's teachings and example, and allow others to see God through you. PRAYER: Source of all life and the giver of life, I connect myself to you in every aspect of my life. May your divine nature be seen in all I am and in all I do. For your dear name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! DAILY word study: DO The Greek word for "do" in this passage is "ποιῶ" (poió), which means to make, do, or perform. This verb is significant in the context of Jesus' ministry, emphasizing not just any action but specifically those actions that align with the will and purpose of God the Father. In John 10:37-38, Jesus uses "ποιῶ" to refer to His divine actions—miracles and teachings—that reflect the will of God the Father. The context shows Jesus addressing the scepticism of the Jews regarding His identity. He asserts that His works (ποιῶ) are not independent but are in perfect harmony with the Father's will. This unity of action between Jesus and the Father serves as crucial evidence of His divine sonship. Theologically, this emphasizes the integral connection between faith and works, demonstrating that true belief in Jesus is affirmed by recognizing His divine deeds. Reflections: Consider how Jesus’ actions and miracles reflect the will of God the Father. How do you discern the will of God in your own life and ensure that your actions align with it? Reflect on the unity between Jesus and the Father, and how recognizing Jesus' works can strengthen your faith. How can you "do" (ποιῶ) the works of God in your daily life, demonstrating your faith through actions that reflect His will and purpose?