Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 12, 2023 | Matthew 26:31-32 KEY VERSE: ³¹Then Jesus told them, "This very night you will all fall away on account of me, for it is written: "'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered.' ³² But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee." Matthew 26:31-32 (NIV) MESSAGE: It has been said that leadership is a lonely job, and there is a lot of truth in that saying. Those who carry on the task of leadership, in the general course of life, but especially in the context of the Church, travel a path of extreme difficulty, danger, and enormous responsibility. An authentic leader, and a Christian leader at that, must be a wounded-healer, a person with sensitive tough skin; so vulnerable, and yet so caring of those he or she leads. In Matthew 26:31-32 the Lord Jesus gave us an example of the vulnerability of the godly leader. As the true Shepherd of the sheep, God’s flock, Christ the Shepherd was about to be struck by the pre-determined purpose of God, to be handed over to sinful people who would maltreat Him and put Him to death. He knew the intricacies of His impending sufferings, and He spoke so freely about it to the disciples. He was to be wounded and He was aware of it. Godly leaders must be conscious of the sufferings attached to their positions, accept them as necessary evils, and forge ahead with their divine mission. Otherwise, they will be taken unawares and will become disorganized in their mission. The sufferings of the godly leader are sometimes to the point of those they love and serve distancing themselves, either because they cannot withstand the pains of the leader enough to share in them, or because they are sufficiently influenced by the bad press given their godly leader, which poison gets into them and makes them disown the leader. The above notwithstanding, the godly leader, as wounded as they might be, still has to be a healer of their followers. They must wipe the tears of others while they themselves struggle with their unwiped tears. Again, the Lord Jesus is our supreme example. He said to His soon-to-be scattered disciples, in verse 32, “But after I have risen, I will go ahead of you into Galilee." He looked beyond His sufferings and their desertion of Him and announced His seeking loving care, that will make Him look forward to meeting them and loving them after His resurrection. Godly leaders, for the sake of their followers, learn to smile through their pain, not as an act of hypocrisy but as an attitude of their understanding of their place in the lives of those who look up to them. A godly leader must be a wounded-healer; they must also have sensitive-tough skin. This is the burden of Christ-like leadership. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you a leader in the home, in the marketplace, in the hospital ward, over a church community, or over an auxiliary in a local church? Then be reminded to be a true wounded-healer and develop a sensitive-thick skin. God will help you. Will you commit to praying for and supporting those who lead you in any aspect of your life, especially in the context of the Church? If you did, the Lord would answer you and provide more godly leaders in a world that needs leadership and direction. PRAYER: Dear Father, in Heaven, thank you for the gift of leadership which you give to us to assist our life on earth, and our journey to you in eternity. Please keep us from making our leaders suffer. And when they have to suffer, please grant them the grace to suffer patiently, with a firm reliance on you. Please grant us godly leaders who, in spite of personal pain, continue to care for the flock of God under their care. In Jesus’ matchless Name, Amen THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! ___________________________ DAILY word study: SHEPHERD The word "shepherd" in Matthew 26:31 is translated from the Greek word "ποιμήν" (poimēn). This Greek noun specifically refers to a "shepherd". In a broader sense, it can also symbolize a leader, guide, or protector. The use of the word "shepherd" in this verse has both prophetic and pastoral significance. Prophetic because it foretells the scattering of Jesus' disciples when He is arrested, and pastoral because it reflects Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd who cares for and guides His flock. In the prophetic sense, this verse reminds us of the frailty of human faith and the disciples' vulnerability in the face of crisis. It underscores the reality that even those who are closest to Jesus can falter in their commitment. In the pastoral sense, Jesus' reference to Himself as the shepherd offers comfort and assurance. He is the One who will be struck, ultimately by His crucifixion, but He will also be the One who gathers and restores His scattered disciples after His resurrection. Reflections: How does Jesus' role as the Good Shepherd resonate with your own faith journey? In times of trial or when you face challenges, how do you find comfort and guidance in the knowledge that Jesus is your Shepherd? How can you be more mindful of following His guidance in your life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 11, 2023 | Matthew 26:26-30 KEY VERSE: When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. Matthew 26:30 (NIV) MESSAGE: Peace is an essential commodity all over the world. It has cost the United Nations billions of Dollars to try and instate peace within and between nations. The peace that the world has at any time is fragile, and there are forces at work to take advantage of that situation to cause confusion. This situation exists in homes, in families, in communities, in nations, among nations and worse still within the Church. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace. He gives true peace in the individual soul, establishes the peace of the human soul with God, reconnects people who otherwise should be at war, and creates a force in human society that works for the peace of the society. In our text today, we read that “When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.” The Lord led His disciples away from the house where they had eaten the last meal because He was aware of the events that were about to happen, with the arrest, the surging mob, the soldiers, and the elders coming after Him. He had enjoyed the hospitality of his host and would like for him and his family to have their peace. He had to move away from their house in the desire to ensure their pace. He moved away from the city to the Mount of Olives to move the scene of His arrest and the commotion it would cause from the midst of people where it could probably result in a fight that could spread and disturb the peace of the city. He moved the action of the arrest to the Mount of Olives, to a quiet place outside the city. We have been called to peace and must consciously work for peace. As beneficiaries of the peace of God, we are bound to seek to live in that peace and to ensure that it affects whatever environment we find ourselves in. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Can you truly say you are a person of peace? Can people testify that you love peace, live peaceably and seek out peace, even when you are offended by others and their mean ways? As much as it depends on you, live at peace with all manner of people, as it depends on you! Commit to seeking peace with all manner of people, and the God of peace will help you. PRAYER: O my King of Peace, I come to you to thank you for the peace I have with you through the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ. I pray that I will remain in that peace all the days of my life. May I live peaceably with all people and make choices that will spell peace in my home, in my work environment, in the wider society, and especially in your Church. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! __________________________ DAILY word study: MOUNT OF OLIVES The phrase "Mount of Olives" holds special significance in the biblical narrative. In Greek "Mount" is translated as (ὄρος - oros). It is used to describe elevated landforms."Olives" is also translated as (ἐλαιῶν - elaiōn). It refers to olive trees or olive groves. It signifies an area known for the cultivation of olives. The "Mount of Olives" mentioned in Matthew 26:30 is a prominent location on the eastern side of Jerusalem, located just across the Kidron Valley. It is a place of historical and spiritual significance in the Bible. In the context of this verse, the "Mount of Olives" serves as the setting for a pivotal moment in the life of Jesus and His disciples. After the Last Supper and the singing of a hymn, Jesus and His disciples depart for the Mount of Olives. It is on this mount that Jesus will experience the agony of Gethsemane, where He prays earnestly to His Father before His arrest and crucifixion. The "Mount of Olives" symbolizes both the physical and spiritual journey of Jesus as He approaches the climax of His earthly ministry. It is a place of transition, where the peace and tranquillity of the olive groves contrast with the imminent trials and suffering that await Jesus. This verse invites us to reflect on the significance of places and settings in our spiritual journeys. Just as the "Mount of Olives" marked a critical juncture in the life of Jesus, there are moments and locations in our lives that hold deep spiritual significance. They can be places of decision, revelation, and communion with God. Reflections: Are there places or moments in your own life that have served as spiritual markers or settings for significant encounters with God or moments of decision and transition? How can you make space for such moments of reflection and communion with God in your life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 10, 2023 | Matthew 26:26-30 KEY VERSE: When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. Matthew 26:30 (NIV) MESSAGE: Music is universal. All human cultures have different musical forms to suit different occasions and to mark birth, marriage, work, death etc. Our focus today is on the singing of the Church. The Christian faith is a praising, singing faith. The songs of the faith embody our experiences of God in life, and our appropriation of the words of the Bible, as we embark on our pilgrimage to the City above. We are told in today’s focal text that the Lord Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn after He had instituted the Lord’s Supper. A hymn was in place, for a great ceremony had been enacted. The music, the melody, and the lyrics of the hymn they sang are not reported in the biblical text, but it was most probably a selection from Psalms 113 to Psalm 121, which the Jews normally sang at the end of the Passover meal. A song, a hymn, or a psalm, is in place for the people of God at all times. The wide range of experiences, of joy, of sorrow, of anguish, of pain, of trials and tribulations, of liftings and casting downs, all of these can find expression and outlet in music which communicates to our God, and our souls and the comfort of others. The Apostle Paul caught this revelation of singing; we read in Acts 16:25 that after they had been arrested, beaten, and thrown in prison for preaching Christ and the freedom He offers to those under Satan’s power, “About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. NIV Led by the Holy Spirit, and empowered by his own experiences Paul writes to us in Col 3:16, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.” FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you singing, in the day and the night? Have your songs stilled because of the noise around you? Start singing again. Sing the songs of faith, hope and victory. Sing in the midst of the fires of your trials. Sing for the joy of the Lord. God loves to hear you sing! Let the music begin!!! PRAYER: Dear Lord and Master Jesus Christ, I sing your praises and sing the songs of faith with the family of God. Please give me a spirit that sings, in the day and the night. Lord, help your Church to be a singing Church, in line with your Word and with your Spirit. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! ____________________________ DAILY word study: HYMN The word "hymn" in Matthew 26:30 is translated from the Greek word "ὕμνον" (hymnon). This Greek noun specifically refers to a song of praise or a hymn. It is used in the New Testament to describe songs of worship and praise to God. The mention of singing a hymn in this verse signifies a moment of worship and praise, even amid the profound events that are about to unfold. It reflects the Jewish tradition of concluding the Passover meal with hymns of praise to God. This hymn likely served as a way for Jesus and His disciples to acknowledge and express their reverence and dependence on God, even in the face of impending trials. This verse invites us to reflect on the role of worship and praise in our own lives, especially during challenging times. Just as Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn before facing the crucible of Gethsemane and the subsequent events of the Passion, we can find strength, comfort, and spiritual renewal through worship and praise in all circumstances. May our reflection on the singing of hymns inspire us to cultivate a heart of worship, recognizing that even amid trials and uncertainties, praising God can bring peace, strength, and a deep sense of His presence in your life. Reflections: How does the act of worship, including singing hymns and songs of praise, impact your spiritual journey and your ability to face life's challenges with faith and resilience? How can you incorporate more moments of worship into your daily life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 9, 2023 | Matthew 26:26-30 KEY VERSE: ²⁷Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. ²⁸This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins._ Matthew 26:27-28 (NIV) MESSAGE: The second element of the Lord’s Supper is the wine. The Lord “. . . took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you. ²⁸This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” The Lord Jesus indicated that the ordinary wine usually drank as part of the Passover meal was now to be understood in terms of His blood sealing a new covenant. A covenant demands the offering of blood; this time the blood offered was unlike the blood of the lambs that were slaughtered by the Israelites in Egypt by which they were by covenant spared from the angel of death. This is the blood of the sinless Son of God sealing a new covenant that spares those who walk in and by it, from eternal death, from the separation from God which has been brought upon us, by our slavery to sin and Satan. The cup of the wine signifying this precious blood is offered to all to drink. It is noteworthy that the Lord offered the blood-signifying wine to all the disciples. In the Lord’s Supper, we must partake of both the bread and the wine. For the significance is incomplete if one or the other is left out or abstained from. The significance of the wine as the blood of the new covenant also imposes upon true believers the responsibility to share the Good News of salvation with all people. It was a blood sacrifice “which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” For many not for a few! The blood of the Lord Jesus Christ was not shed just for a few beneficiaries. It is powerful enough to deal with the sin-problem of all humanity. We must therefore commit to telling the world that the Saviour came and poured out His lifeblood for their salvation. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Much sacrifice is being offered by non-Chirstian people around us in their search for the supernatural, seeking protection, preservation, and promotion. But for those of us who believe in Jesus Christ as our Saviour and Master, our Passover Lamb has been slain (1 Cor. 5:67). The last and most powerful sacrifice of blood has been made for us in Christ. Go forth in confidence, the covenant of the blood of the Lord Jesus speaks for you in Heaven, on earth and in the covens of darkness. You are a beneficiary of the new and everlasting covenant in the blood! PRAYER: O, what relief, O what peace, to know that your blood, dear Lord Jesus, was shed for me. May that blood that speaks better things than the blood of Abel, of goats and bulls, speak persistently for me before the throne of grace. Lord, please let your blood cover me from the assailing forces of evil in this fallen world. Thank you for the power of the blood to save souls. May I be an excited proclaimer of the efficacy of the blood. Thank you for the body that was broken, thank you Lord for the blood that was shed. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! _____________________________ DAILY word study: THE BLOOD OF THE COVENANT The phrase "blood of the covenant" is of utmost significance in the context of the Lord's Supper or Communion. In Greek: "Blood" (αἷμα - haima): literally refers to blood. However, in this context, it carries a profound spiritual meaning, symbolizing the sacrificial shedding of Jesus' blood on the cross. "Covenant" (διαθήκη - diathēkē): denotes a covenant, an agreement, or a testament. In the Old Testament context, it is often used to refer to God's covenant with His people. The phrase "blood of the covenant" underscores the central message of Christianity—the redemptive work of Jesus Christ on the cross. It draws from the rich symbolism of blood in the Old Testament, where the blood of sacrificial animals was used for the atonement of sins. In the New Testament, Jesus' blood is presented as the ultimate and perfect sacrifice, sufficient to atone for the sins of all who believe in Him. This passage invites us to reflect on the significance of the new covenant in Christ's blood. It signifies the forgiveness of sins, reconciliation with God, and the promise of eternal life. Through this covenant, believers are brought into a close and intimate relationship with God. Reflections: How does understanding and participating in the symbolism of the "blood of the covenant" impact your relationship with God and your perspective on forgiveness and reconciliation? How can you share the message of this covenant with others in your life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 8, 2023 | Matthew 26:26-30 KEY VERSE: While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take and eat; this is my body." Matthew 26:26 (NIV) MESSAGE: The Lord Jesus gave His Church the ordinance of the Lord’s Supper, also called the Communion. In today’s text, He gave them the bread of the Passover meal and put a new meaning to it. Similarly, He gave them the wine of the meal and gave it new meaning. We do well to understand the significance of this directive, and to approach the Lord’s Table, whenever we do, with due understanding and appreciation. The Lord said about the bread that He offered to the disciples, ". . .. this is my body." We need to appreciate the body of the Lord. He had to take on a human body, which must subsequently be killed as the last and eternal Lamb sacrificed for our salvation. God took on a human body in the Person of Jesus of Nazareth. His coming into human flesh must be understood by His Church, and that truth must be communicated to the world whenever we celebrate the Lord’s Supper. He took the bread, as He was taken by the wisdom of the Godhead, He gave thanks as we should give thanks for the Man of Galilee, and He broke it to show the battering, beating and heart-wrenching pain that He would go through in the next few hours, for our salvation. Then He gave the bread to the Disciples; Christ offered Himself to us and the world. The accompanying instruction was "Take and eat.” As much as Christ is made available by the foreknowledge of the Father by the power of the Holy Spirit, we gain nothing if we fail to make Christ personal to ourselves. To eat the bread meant to incorporate Christ in ourselves so that we become the embodiment of Christ Himself. The food we eat becomes an inseparable part of us, it nourishes us and gives us energy to live and work. So, must Christ be incorporated in us, and so like Paul we can say “It is no longer I that live but Christ who lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Have you taken from the hands of the Saviour the bread which represents and is a memorial of His body? Have you so invited Christ into your life that you have become inseparable from Him? Are you receiving your life from Him daily? We are also to take that bread of life and pass it on to hungry souls. Let us resolve to do these so that we might truly partake of the Lord’s Supper. PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for your body that was broken for my sins. I now take of that body, I now eat of that body, and I now live by that body. May the body that was broken mend my body, soul, and spirit. Lord, please give me the grace to pass on the message of the broken body to the hurting lost humanity around me, so that they may also find life, health, and peace. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! _____________________________ DAILY word study: BREAD The word "bread" in Matthew 26:26 is translated from the Greek word "ἄρτον" (arton). This Greek noun specifically refers to "bread," which is a staple food made from flour, water, and typically yeast. Bread holds great significance in various cultures as a symbol of sustenance and nourishment. In this verse, Jesus is with His disciples during the Passover meal, which includes elements such as unleavened bread and wine. He takes the bread, gives thanks, breaks it, and shares it with His disciples, making a profound statement: "This is my body." This moment is significant because it marks the institution of the Lord's Supper or Communion, a central ritual in Christianity. In this act, Jesus uses bread to symbolize His body, which will be broken for the forgiveness of sins. He is preparing His disciples for the events that will soon unfold, including His crucifixion. The word "bread" in this passage carries layers of meaning. It represents sustenance, provision, and nourishment, which are central to the physical life of individuals and communities. However, in the context of the Lord's Supper, it takes on a profound spiritual significance. Jesus uses this common element to symbolize His self-sacrifice and the spiritual sustenance and nourishment that He provides to His followers through His body and blood. This passage invites us to reflect on the significance of Communion or the Lord's Supper in our Christian faith. It is a reminder of Jesus' sacrificial love and the spiritual nourishment and forgiveness of sins that He offers to all who believe in Him. Bread, a basic and essential food, becomes a symbol of the profound grace and salvation found in Christ. Reflections: How does partaking in the Lord's Supper or Communion deepen your understanding of the sacrifice and spiritual nourishment provided by Jesus? How can you carry the significance of this act into your daily life and relationships with others?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 7, 2023 | Matthew 26:20-25 KEY VERSE: Then Judas, the one who would betray him, said, "Surely not I, Rabbi?" Jesus answered, "Yes, it is you." Matthew 26:25 (NIV) MESSAGE: In our dealings with our fellow humans, we sometimes prove unfaithful, hypocritical, subversive, and hateful without any amount of fear, for we are dealing with frail fellow humans whom we have under our control, or have so successfully maligned or even compromised, that they can do little to or against us. In politics, we may be emboldened to continue our impunity because we have succeeded in deceiving most of the people most of the time and we think we have become masters at people-control that we can do more and more of our disrespect of the masses. As bad as the foregoing is one must shudder to think that sometimes we take our audacity into the very presence of God and thrust our puny forefingers into the nostrils of God, defiant and disregarding the all-knowing nature and all-powerfulness of God. We know in Matthew 26:14-16 that Judas had gone out to the enemies of the Lord Jesus and had covenanted with them a contract on the life of the Lord and had received a financial reward for his perfidy. We also know that in-between that dirty deal with the enemy and the Passover meal Judas had been looking just for the opportunity to make good his promise to hand the Lord over to those who hated His holy soul with burning hatred. With all this in his wicked heart, Judas could still pretend before the one whose eyes are life-burning fire and say, "Surely not I, Rabbi?" What disrespect, what disregard of who the Lord Jesus is, what betrayal of our blindness when we allow Satan and his sinful venom to blind us so much that we become fearless of God and dare put the Lord to the test. When we sin and pretend to God that we have not we are fearless and daring, and we put the Lord to the test. When we hate our brethren and put out a web of hatred and a campaign to discredit them, and then pretend we love them, we tread where angels fear to walk. When we take up Christian ministry and leadership and our motives are ulterior, we dare God and expose ourselves to open rebuke when God is sufficiently fed up with our insincerity and disrespect of His holiness. He spoke to Judas to the face, "Yes, it is you." FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you confronting God and daring Him by your pretence and duplicity? Do you spew poison in the body of Christ against others, and pretend you love them? Are you real in your claims of Christian discipleship, or are you just kidding God, and more so kidding yourself? Are you walking in the joy of the Lord or are you tickling yourself and laughing? We must fear God and live in His holy presence with trembling and holy fear. Let’s start now on the path of humble submission and quick repentance before we receive God’s open rebuke. PRAYER: Dear God, please forgive me when blinded by my limited sight and poor understanding of who you are, have disrespected who you are by daring your knowledge and power. Please help me to be true and open before the One to whom all things lie open and exposed. Thank you for answering me for Jesus’ dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! ___________________________ DAILY word study: YOU HAVE SAID SO The phrase "You have said so" is translated from the Greek words "σὺ εἶπας" (su eipas) "σὺ" (su): This is the Greek pronoun for "you," referring to the person being addressed. "εἶπας" (eipas): This is the second person singular form of the Greek verb "εἶπον" (eipon), which means "to say" or "to speak." The phrase "You have said so" signifies Jesus' acceptance of Judas's acknowledgement. It carries an undertone of solemnity and inevitability, highlighting the fulfilment of a prophetic event. Jesus, in His response, does not deny Judas's role in the betrayal but affirms it. This passage invites us to reflect on the gravity of Judas's actions and the weight of our own words and decisions. It serves as a reminder that our choices have consequences, and sometimes, acknowledging our actions, even when they are wrong, is the first step toward repentance and reconciliation. Reflections: How does this interaction between Jesus and Judas remind you of the importance of acknowledging our actions and taking responsibility for our decisions? In what ways can you strive for honesty and humility in your own life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 6, 2023 | Matthew 26:17-19 KEY VERSE: He replied, "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.'" Matthew 26:18 (NIV) MESSAGE: Appointed times for specific events are fixed by individuals and groups in order to coordinate events and achieve specified aims and objectives in the most beneficial way. Personal as well as group appointed times must be kept by all involved for the best results to be attained. The Lord Jesus Christ came into human form as a man, for the sole purpose of laying down His life for the salvation of lost human souls. From His conception, through His birth and all through His ministry, the enemy had wanted to destroy Him, all to no avail. This was because there was a predetermined time at which His death, His sinless effective sacrifice of His life would be achieved. The Lord Jesus was acutely conscious of His mission and of the timing, and He worked closely to ensure that all things were done according to the eternal plan and timing of the Godhead. In answering the question of the disciples as to where they were to prepare the Passover meal for Him and His team, the Lord Jesus referred to His consciousness of His soon death: He replied, "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.'" Matthew 26:18 (NIV). The reflection today is on how conscious we are, or are not, about the appointed time of our departure from this world. Common culture shies away from death and death-related discussions, but the Bible makes it abundantly clear that we have an appointment and an appointed time with death “Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, . . . Hebrews 9:27 (NIV). Whereas the Lord Jesus was aware of the time and the circumstances of His death, we on the other hand are not aware. Consistently the Lord spoke about His approaching death, and in our text today He indicates a knowledge of the closeness of the time and situates His eating the Passover meal in the context of that appointed time. While we may not have knowledge of the exact dates, times, and circumstances of our exit from this life, it is a useful spiritual exercise to keep in mind the fact that we have an appointment with God in death, and to situate the everyday life events of work and play in the context of that appointment which has been fixed by God. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Does the death of people around you seem sudden and an intrusion? Do you have any names of friends and loved ones who have come within their appointed time? What lessons do you learn from the death of people that were with you one moment, and were gone the next moment? Are we learning any lessons or are we wasting the alerts that the Lord gives us about the times of our appointment to exit this life? Let's face up to the fact of the appointed time and dress up in faith and holiness. PRAYER: Dear Lord of life, I have come to you for life eternal and life abundant, and I am grateful for the privilege of the gift of eternal life in Christ. Thank you for the appointment to exit this life at a time you have pre-determined. Please give me the faith that believes in life everlasting, and produces the courage to contemplate, to appreciate and to anticipate the time appointed for me. May faith rise high in your Church as we grapple with the losses of dear ones who have responded to the higher appointment. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! ____________________________ DAILY word study: APPOINTED TIME The phrase "appointed time" is translated from the Greek words "ὥρα μου ἐγγύς ἐστιν" (hōra mou engys estin). "ὥρα" (hōra): This Greek noun primarily means "hour" or "time." It can also signify a specific season or moment. "μου" (mou): This is a possessive pronoun, which means "my." "ἐγγύς" (engys): This Greek adjective means "near" or "close by." ἐστιν" (estin): This is the Greek verb "to be" in the present tense, indicating existence or presence. The phrase "appointed time" highlights the precision and divine planning inherent in Jesus' ministry and the events leading up to His crucifixion and resurrection. It signifies that Jesus' life, mission, and the fulfilment of God's plan for salvation are unfolding according to a predetermined schedule. This passage encourages us to reflect on God's sovereign timing in our own lives. Just as Jesus' ministry had a set and significant timeline, our lives are also guided by God's timing. Sometimes, we may become impatient or anxious about the pace of events in our lives, but recognizing that there is an "appointed time" for various aspects of our journey can bring comfort and trust in God's plan. Reflections: How can you cultivate patience and trust in God's timing in your own life? What steps can you take to align your goals and aspirations with His divine plan, recognizing that there is a time for every purpose under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1)?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 5, 2023 | Matthew 26:14-16 KEY VERSE: ¹⁴Then one of the Twelve — the one called Judas Iscariot — went to the chief priests ¹⁵and asked, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" So they counted out for him thirty silver coins.¹⁶From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over. Matthew 26:14-16 (NIV) MESSAGE: What is perfidy? It is the state of being deceitful and untrustworthy. We link the text today with the series on the Alabaster Jar Lessons, because we see a link between the anger of the disciples of the Lord with the pouring of the precious perfume with the act of disloyalty by Judas in his betrayal of the King. John’s narrative of the Gospel indicates that Judas was the treasurer of the Jesus-team, and he was a thief. He wanted more money in the coffers so he could steal more unnoticed. “⁴But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, ⁵"Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages. " ⁶He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.” John 12:4-6 (NIV). If the Lord would not allow him to have access to more money in the coffers, then he would sell the Master Himself and get more money into his pocket! The material pursuit of Judas, his love for money that had made him a thief from the purse of God was the root of evil that made him a deceiver and an untrustworthy person. His loyalty to Christ was sacrificed on the altar of material pursuit. His privilege of being one of the closest friends of the Lord Jesus, as he claimed to be, proved useless, because he valued money more than that relationship, and betrayed his Master. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Where is your heart, truly? What are your motivations and your attractions for being in the church or being a church leader? Check your motivations before you prove deceptive and untrustworthy. It is very easy to turn around against the Saviour. May God save us from perfidy! PRAYER: Dear Lord, I shudder again and again at the thought that I could betray you. But how often have I not betrayed you, by placing a higher value on this world, its people, and its attractions. I pray and ask that your grace will abound to me and keep me from the path of betrayal of my privilege as a Kingdom citizen, and of my King who has done so much to bring me into His Kingdom. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! _________________________ DAILY word study: HAND HIM OVER The phrase "hand him over" is translated from the Greek words "παραδοῦναι αὐτὸν" (paradounai auton). παραδοῦναι" (paradounai): This Greek verb means "to deliver," "to give up," or "to hand over." It signifies the act of transferring someone or something to another's custody or control. "αὐτὸν" (auton):** This is a pronoun meaning "him." In this context, it refers to Jesus. The phrase "hand him over" carries significant weight in the narrative of Jesus' arrest and crucifixion. It underscores the theme of betrayal and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. While Judas's actions were driven by greed and deceit, they ultimately played a part in the fulfilment of God's purposes. This passage invites us to reflect on the nature of betrayal and the choices we make in our relationships with others and with God. It also points to the sovereignty of God, who can work through even the darkest actions of individuals to accomplish His divine plan of salvation. Reflections How can we guard our hearts against the temptation to betray trust or act deceitfully in our relationships? How does this passage remind us of God's ability to use even betrayal for His redemptive purposes?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 4, 2023 | Matthew 26:6-13 KEY VERSE: The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. Matthew 26:11 (NIV) MESSAGE: The anger of the undiscerning disciples ignited a response of the master’s rebuke of their lack of discernment and misplaced priorities. We need to weigh our priorities and evaluate what things are needful and expected of us by the Lord. Pragmatism without due sensitivity to God and His leading can make us too earthly that we are no heavenly good (yes, that is a turning around of the accusation of people being too heavenly minded that they are no earthly good!). We must seek out the thin line that separates heavenly usefulness and earthly usefulness and walk that tight rope to please God and serve humanity to the glory of God. The argument of the disciples against the woman’s worshipful extravagance was ⁸. . .. "Why this waste?" ⁹"This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor." Matthew 26:8-9 (NIV). To them the poor among men needed help and certainly they did, and the poor today need help. But the Lord valued the “wastage” by the woman, at least it was so in the eyes of the over-pragmatic disciples, excellent service that would gain global recognition wherever the Gospel was preached, even as it is today. Why? The scales of the Lord were different from those of the disciples because He saw within the action of His death and resurrection the hope for human well-being and a catalyst for society’s progress (I am not advocating a prosperity gospel; I am only declaring Gospel. I do not believe in the prosperity gospel, but I believe there is prosperity in the Gospel!). When people come to terms with the essence of the cross and the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and latch their faith into that truth, they live in such a way that they can only be seen as ushered into a life of progress which we may call prosperity no matter its scope and extent. The poor people in society and the direction of resources for their upkeep, in that instant, was not the solution to the human problem. In fact, when God ushered the Israelites into the land flowing with milk, He promised them that “. . ., there should be no poor among you, for in the land the Lord your God is giving you to possess as your inheritance, he will richly bless you, Deuteronomy 15:4 (NIV). However, in the same context, God also indicated “There will always be poor people in the land. Therefore, I command you to be openhanded toward your brothers and toward the poor and needy in your land.” Deuteronomy 15:11 (NIV). Let us think that God is more realistic and pragmatic than the pragmatism that seeks to take away from the dedication of resources from investment in developing worship and worship-related expenses of time, money, and human resources. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What are your priorities in the handling and distribution of the resources of time, money, skills etc.? Do you realize that it is in your commitment to rightful worship in the Word, prayer, and authentic fellowship that you will find the true resources for helping yourself and the poor around you? Set your priorities right, and you will be blessed to be a blessing. PRAYER: Dear Lord, I desire to truly worship you and to serve humanity in your Name as an expression of my worship of you. Please help me and all who seek to walk in your steps, so that we may prioritize appropriately, and receive your recommendations in all we do with our resources. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! ___________________________ DAILY word study: POOR The word "poor" in Matthew 26:11 is translated from the Greek word "πτωχούς" (ptōchous). This Greek word refers to individuals who are materially or financially lacking, often described as "poor," "needy," or "beggarly." The statement "The poor you will always have with you" is a recognition of the ongoing issue of poverty in the world. Jesus does not dismiss the importance of caring for the poor; instead, He emphasizes the extraordinary nature of His own presence at that moment. He is underscoring the significance of the woman's act of devotion as a preparation for His impending death and burial. This passage invites us to reflect on our responsibility to care for the poor and needy in our midst while also recognizing moments of unique spiritual significance. It reminds us that acts of worship and devotion can have profound spiritual value and should not always be measured solely in terms of their material impact. Reflections How can you strike a balance in your life between caring for the practical needs of the poor and recognizing and participating in moments of unique spiritual significance and devotion to Christ?

Rev. Enoch Thompson | September 3, 2023 | Matthew 26:6-13 KEY VERSE: ⁸When the disciples saw this, they were indignant. "Why this waste?" they asked. ⁹"This perfume could have been sold at a high price and the money given to the poor." Matthew 26:8-9 (NIV) MESSAGE: It is good to do good, but it is better to do good when it is most needed and when it has the greatest effect and usefulness. That sounds a mouthful, and may be complicated on the first hearing, but think about it. Sometimes the good that we do is like charming the snake after it has bitten. Wisdom says, “If a snake bites before it is charmed, there is no profit for the charmer.” (Eccl 10:11), NIV. The generous worship of the woman, of expressing her deep faith in the Lord Jesus as the Christ (the Anointed One), by anointing Him with her best, and her expression of her deep loyalty and worship to Him by pouring her expensive perfume on His head was met with the critical criticism and anger of the disciples. Yes, I said disciples. They who should have applauded this woman, and joined with her in her ecstasy of worship criticised her and made her look foolish and wasteful. Sometimes our criticism of those who are going all out in their worship of the Lord is because we ourselves are not doing enough, and are ashamed, jealous, or dwarfed by the actions of the victims of our criticism. When we cannot express emotions in worship because we have become so callous and insensitive, we choose to underate those who can express emotions because they are child-like and are able to let the rivers of their affections flow. Sadly, some of us who can break down and weep because our football team lost the match are too gentle-manly and lady-like to shed tears in vulnerable times of worship. Some of us are too sophisticated to dance in Church during times of praise to the Lord and castigate our dancing church members as being too ticklish, but the same we can dance away at parties and other social functions. The disciples had failed to understand all that the Lord had been saying about His approaching death and had not been able to bring their minds to understanding the circumstances that would surround His death. They did not envisage that there would not be time to properly anoint and care for the body of the Lord because the circumstances would not allow it. In fact, it would take a divine intervention for His body to be released to them for a proper burial. And yet this woman who saw with the eyes of faith and lent herself to fore-anoint the Saviour against His death was seriously censored and castigated for what the Master Himself endorsed. The disciples turned themselves into thermometers, measuring the spiritual fervour of others, when they should have been coals of fire, burning to raise the spiritual temperature expected to be produced by the teachings of the Master! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Do you blame others for their fervency and fervour in their discipleship life and the seriousness they attach to their Christian commitment? Do you think you are more decent in your faith expression, and that others are below your dignity in the way they express their faith? You may have a point where those expressions are meaningless religious formalities, but who are you to judge? Whenever you feel like venting out such criticism stop and ask yourself why you are doing much less in your time alone with God, in personal Bible reading and study, in attendance to group Bible study and prayer, and in the general assembly of the church. You may want to and need to avoid unnecessary excesses which are mistaken for true spirituality when they are mere formalities. Don’t be a thermometer, be a burning coal, and let God alone test the temperatures! PRAYER: Lord, I get distracted into watching others run and passing commentaries on how they run, while I fail to run. I misjudge others for things that you approve of others. Please forgive me and help me to focus on running to please you. May my life be the attraction to others to follow you. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! _________________________ DAILY word study: INDIGNANT The word "indignant" in verse 8 of Matthew 26 is translated from the Greek word "ἀγανακτέω" (aganakteo). This Greek verb describes a strong emotional response, often translated as "to be greatly displeased," "to be angry," or "to be indignant." It conveys a sense of being upset or annoyed. The disciples' indignation reflects a common human tendency to assess actions based on material value and practicality rather than spiritual significance. They are concerned about the apparent waste of resources on something they view as non-essential. However, Jesus responds by highlighting the spiritual and symbolic significance of the woman's action, connecting it to His impending death and burial. This passage invites us to examine our own reactions to acts of devotion and worship. Are we sometimes quick to judge or question the sincerity of worship when it appears extravagant or unconventional? It reminds us that true worship and devotion to Christ may not always align with human logic or material assessment. Reflections How can you ensure that your perspective on acts of devotion and worship is aligned with the spiritual significance and sincerity behind them, rather than being solely driven by practical or material considerations?

Rev. Enoch Thompson| September 2, 2023 | Matthew 26:6-13 KEY VERSE: A woman came to him with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, which she poured on his head as he was reclining at the table. Matthew 26:7 (NIV) MESSAGE: We all have things that we value, and which we keep securely. Such was the alabaster jar of expensive perfume of the woman we read about in Matthew 26:6-13. What we do with our worth and wealth is the subject of this devotional. First, we must note the fact that the jar of perfume belonged to the woman. Our lives are ours as a gift of God, and at our disposal, and we can decide what to do or not do with it. Secondly, we must understand that our lives are very precious, and no amount can purchase it. The most expensive thing we have is life, and what we do with our lives is also left to our choices. In the third place, we can choose to retain our rich perfume of the life God has given us or release it for the benefit of others and to the glory of His Name. The woman in our text chose to release her perfume, and that on the head of the Master. That is the crux of the matter. She poured out her precious perfume, and on the head of the Lord! Some students of Scripture think that this woman in this narrative is Mary the sister of Lazarus, who is also called Mary Magdalene, the same as the woman who poured perfume on the feet of the Lord in Luke 7:36-50. In that passage, she poured her perfume on the feet of the Saviour, but here she pours her perfume on His head. She must have heard the comment of the Lord to His host, “⁴⁶You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. ⁴⁷Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven — for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little." Luke 7:46-47 (NIV). Whether it was the same woman or two distinct women, we can learn the lesson of progression in our worship of the Master. The anointing moved from the feet to the head of the Lord Jesus! We may come initially at a distanced closeness at the beginning of our walk with the Master, but we must grow from pouring perfume at His feet to pouring perfume on His head. From the comment in Luke cited above, the Lord was pointing to the possibility of, and calling for the practice of greater intimacy with Himself. Perfume at the feet is welcome, but perfume on the head is desired by the King of the Kingdom. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are you aware of the precious perfume, the sweet worshipper within you? Have you drawn close to the feet, nay the head of the willing waiting Saviour, to receive the fragrance of your worship yet? “Come to the Saviour, make no delay.” He awaits our worship; we must empty our jars, our lives, and pour our perfume, our life of worship, not on the floor of human acclamation or at the feet in beginning faith, but on the head of the worshipful Jesus, the fullest expression of our acknowledgement of Him and our allegiance to Him alone always. PRAYER: Lord, thank you that you welcome me to worship you in deeper and deeper intensity and intimacy. I want to let out of my alabaster jar, such sweet perfume as will let the world know that you are my King. May your Church be a truly worshipping Church. May we grow from pouring perfume on the ground, and at your feet, to pouring perfume on your head. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen! THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! _________________________ Daily word study: POURED ON HIS HEAD The phrase "poured on His head" translates to the Greek words "ἀνέχεεν αὐτοῦ ἐπὶ τῆς κεφαλῆς" (anecheen autou epi tēs kephalēs). "ἀνέχεεν" (anecheen): This Greek verb means "to pour" or "to pour out." It signifies the action of pouring a liquid from one container to another. "αὐτοῦ" (autou): This is a possessive pronoun, which means "His" or "His own." In this context, it refers to Jesus. "ἐπὶ" (epi): This Greek preposition means "on" or "upon." "τῆς κεφαλῆς" (tēs kephalēs):** This phrase means "the head." It refers to the physical head of a person. The phrase "poured on His head" captures a deeply symbolic and reverent act of devotion. In the cultural context of that time, anointing someone's head with oil or perfume was a gesture of honour and respect. In this case, the woman's actions go beyond cultural norms; they symbolize her recognition of Jesus as someone of utmost importance and worth. The act of pouring the expensive perfume on Jesus' head foreshadows His impending death and burial. In the Jewish tradition, anointing the head with oil or perfumed ointment was also associated with preparing a person for burial. Therefore, this woman's action can be seen as an act of worship and an acknowledgement of Jesus' sacrificial mission. Reflections What does this woman's act of pouring expensive perfume on Jesus' head teach us about devotion, worship, and recognizing the worthiness of Christ? How can you express your devotion to Jesus in your own life?

Rev. Enoch Thompson| September 1, 2023 | Matthew 26:6-13 KEY VERSE: While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, Matthew 26:6 (NIV) MESSAGE: The section of Matthew 26:6-13 is a beautiful and interesting reading with some good lessons to teach us. It tells us about the woman who anointed the head of the Lord Jesus with very expensive perfume from an alabaster box. Our interest in this reflection today is the identity of the man in whose house this narrative took place. Our reflection is on how we often attach negative references to others, and even sometimes to ourselves. The owner of the house of the incident is described as “Simon the Leper,” and that is a matter of curiosity to us. Certainly, the man was called Simon, a common name among the Jews, but here the man is further identified as “the Leper.” The question that comes to mind is whether this Simon at the time of the narrative was still a leper. If he was still a leper, it is a sad reflection that he was not noted for any other thing but his leprosy. He might have been Simon the Carpenter, Simon the Goldsmith or Simon the Singer, among other things. But society preferred to identify him by his disease. Was it possible that the Lord Jesus had healed him of his leprosy, for which, maybe he was throwing this party as a way of saying thank you to him? In that case, the matter gets worse because even though the man had shed the affliction of the disease by the grace of God, the stigma of the disease had become the label by which people referred to him. We have read in the Bible about “Blind Bartimaeus” whose sight was restored by the merciful healing Jesus, but we still find it easier to say “Blind Bartimaeus” rather than simply “Bartimaeus.” How many times have you heard a true follower of the Lord refer to themselves as “only a sinner”? Yes, we were sinners, but without any personal pride, we must be able to attest with the Spirit of God that sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, homosexual offenders, thieves, greedy, drunkards, slanderers, swindlers, yes, “And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.” 1 Corinthians 6:10-11 (NIV). Yes, we were sinners, but now we have become saints. That sounds too high for some of us to accept. We feel comfortable to tag others and ourselves with the shameful past, and a natural religious mentality encourages that. The Apostle Paul was severely conscious of his sinful past and described himself as the worst of sinners, only in the context and with the understanding that he had been set free and forgiven by the gracious King whom he worshipped: ¹⁵Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners — of whom I am the worst. ¹⁶But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. ¹⁷Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honour and glory forever and ever. Amen. 1 Timothy 1:15-17 (NIV). We are placed in the position of saints, and we can choose to live the saintly life, which is right and good, or live a sinful life, which insults God and places us in the sphere of control by Satan. We must also look at other people, not through the lenses of what they were before they became believers in the Lord, but what they have become and are becoming as they follow the Master. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: How do you see yourself, as Simon or as Simon the Leper, as a sinner or as a saint? Yes, it is good to remember where we were rescued from, but we must not be labelled by that background nor become limited because of our past. If you truly believe in Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Master, you can truly say, “I am not a sinner! I am a saint!! Remember the past, but don’t get stuck in it! PRAYER: Oh God, thank you for the difference that you make in the lives of those who come to you through faith in the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ. You change us from sinners into saints and grant us the power to live the new life. Please help me to see myself in the light of the possibilities of my new status in Christ, and to see that potential in others, and celebrate it too. In Jesus Name, Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! __________________________ DAILY word study: SIMON THE LEPER The phrase "Simon the Leper" carries important historical and contextual implications. "Simon" (Σίμων): This is a common Jewish name that means "hearing" or "he has heard." "The Leper": This phrase indicates a significant aspect of Simon's identity. "Leper" is translated from the Greek word "λεπροῦ" (leprou), which refers to someone who has leprosy, a contagious and debilitating skin disease. The designation "the Leper" distinguishes Simon from others named Simon in the Gospel accounts. While there isn't a recorded account of Jesus healing Simon's leprosy, some scholars suggest that Simon may have been healed by Jesus prior to this event, allowing him to be in the presence of Jesus and host Him. The phrase "Simon the Leper" reminds us of the diverse individuals who interacted with Jesus during His ministry. It underscores the significance of Jesus' presence and influence in the lives of people from various backgrounds and circumstances. The absence of a detailed healing account for Simon highlights that the Gospels prioritize recording the teachings, actions, and interactions of Jesus rather than providing extensive individual biographies. This passage encourages us to consider the diversity of people who encountered Jesus and to reflect on the transformative impact His presence has on individuals, regardless of their past circumstances. Reflections How does the inclusion of various individuals in the Gospel accounts, each with their own unique backgrounds, challenges, and encounters with Jesus, deepen your understanding of Jesus' ministry and His transformative power?