The Message and the Mission: Luke 24 and Our Call Today

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Mark Cole

At the end of Luke’s Gospel, Jesus appears to His disciples and offers them clarity about the message they are to carry into the world. He says:

“It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of His name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: ‘There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.’” (Luke 24:47, NLT)

In one short sentence, Jesus gives both the message and the mission. It’s simple, powerful, and eternally life-changing.

1. The Message: Forgiveness for All Who Repent

Jesus didn’t leave the content of the Gospel up for debate. At the heart of His message is forgiveness—a gift that is offered to all who repent. This means acknowledging our sin, turning from it, and turning to Jesus. The Gospel is not just good advice; it is good news for sinners.

We live in a world that often avoids the topic of sin. Many would rather talk about self-improvement than repentance. But Jesus doesn’t sidestep it. He puts repentance and forgiveness front and center.

This message is radically inclusive—for all who repent. Not just the religious. Not just the moral. Not just the people who grew up in church. All.

2. The Authority: In His Name

We are to proclaim this message in the authority of Jesus’ name. That means it’s not just a suggestion from one religion among many. It comes with the backing of heaven. Jesus, the risen Son of God, has the authority to forgive sins. That’s what the cross and the empty tomb are all about.

When we share the Gospel, we’re not just giving our opinion. We’re declaring what heaven has already declared: Jesus Christ is Lord, and forgiveness is found in Him alone.

This also brings comfort. It means we don’t have to rely on our own power, eloquence, or charisma. We go in His authority, not ours.

3. The Mission: To All Nations, Starting Where You Are

Jesus tells the disciples to begin in Jerusalem—right where they were. But they weren’t to stop there. This message was destined to reach “all the nations.”

For us, the call is the same. Begin where you are. Maybe that’s your church, your family, your workplace, your neighborhood. And from there, ask God to expand your reach—through your prayers, your giving, your encouragement, and even your going.

The Gospel is not meant to stay in one place. It moves. It spreads. It’s missional by nature.

4. A Personal Challenge

Here are a few questions to consider as you reflect on this verse:

  • Do I still believe that repentance and forgiveness are at the heart of the Good News?
  • Am I proclaiming this message in Jesus’ name—with His authority and love?
  • Where is my “Jerusalem”? Where can I start sharing this message today?
  • How can I be part of reaching the nations—near and far—with this message?

5. A Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the forgiveness You offer to all who repent. Help me to live in that forgiveness each day. Empower me to share this message with others—not in my own strength, but in the authority of Your name. Begin with me, right where I am. And send me, however You choose, to be part of reaching all nations. Amen.

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“Then He Opened Their Minds”: How Jesus Helps Us Understand Scripture

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Mark Cole

“Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.”
— Luke 24:45 (CSB)

This simple phrase tucked into Luke 24 has sparked my curiosity. Jesus, the risen Lord, is walking with His disciples, and in this quiet moment, He opens their minds to understand the Scriptures. What a beautiful, powerful picture—Jesus personally unlocking spiritual truth for His followers.

But how did He do that? And how does He still do that today?

1. The Context: Disciples Who Were Confused and Grieving

The disciples in Luke 24 were heartbroken. Their Master had been crucified, and though there were rumors of resurrection, many were still trying to piece it all together. Jesus met them on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35) and again later in Jerusalem. As He walked and talked with them, He explained the Scriptures concerning Himself.

It wasn’t just a Bible study—it was divine revelation. He wasn’t giving them new Scriptures, but opening their hearts to see the true meaning of what had been there all along.

2. How Jesus Opened Their Minds Then

Jesus used several means:

  • He was present – The Word (Jesus) was walking them through the Word (Scripture).
  • He pointed to the whole story – “Everything written about Me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets, and the Psalms must be fulfilled” (Luke 24:44).
  • He gave divine understanding – “Then He opened their minds…” (v. 45).

This wasn’t just intellectual understanding. It was spiritual revelation. They finally saw what they had missed all along: that the Scriptures were about Him—His suffering, death, and resurrection.

3. How Jesus Opens Our Minds Today

Jesus is still in the business of opening minds and hearts.

Here’s how He does it now:

A) Through the Holy Spirit

Before ascending to heaven, Jesus promised the Holy Spirit would teach and guide us into truth (John 14:26; 16:13). When we read Scripture, the Holy Spirit illuminates, convicts, corrects, and comforts us. He whispers, “This is for you.”

B) Through the Word Itself

Hebrews 4:12 says God’s Word is “living and active.” When we approach it with hunger and humility, the Word begins to read us. Verses we’ve read for years come alive in new ways. Patterns emerge. Jesus is revealed.

C) Through Fellowship and Teaching

Sometimes our minds are opened through a pastor’s sermon, a small group discussion, or a friend’s insight. Like the disciples walking with Jesus, we learn in community.

D) Through Prayerful Seeking

When you open your Bible and spend time with God, ask for clarity and guidance: “Lord, open my eyes to see wonderful things in Your Word” (Psalm 119:18).
I’ve learned that revelation follows relationship. Jesus opens the minds of those who walk with Him, listen, and want to understand.

4. What This Means for Us Today

You don’t need a theology degree to understand the Bible. You need a heart that seeks Jesus and a mind that’s open to His Spirit.

Ask Him, “Lord, open my mind to understand.”
Expect insight. Expect revelation. Expect Jesus to meet you in the pages of His Word.

Let’s not just read the Bible for information. Let’s read it for transformation.

Closing Thought
Jesus still walks with us on our “Emmaus roads.” In the moments when we’re confused, grieving, or uncertain, He still opens minds and hearts. He’s not hiding truth—He’s revealing it.

Open your Bible today. Invite Him to open your mind. He still does it.

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Dining in Heaven: A Closer Look at Luke 24

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Mark Cole

Luke 24 offers one of the most surprising and comforting images of the risen Jesus. After appearing to His startled disciples, He reassures them of His resurrection not with a sermon—but with supper.

“Still they stood there in disbelief, filled with joy and wonder. Then He asked them, ‘Do you have anything here to eat?’ They gave Him a piece of broiled fish, and He ate it as they watched.”
— Luke 24:41–43 (NLT)

Why does Luke go out of his way to mention this simple meal?
Why did Jesus ask to eat?
And perhaps most curiously—what does this say about our future with Him in eternity?

Let’s take a closer look.

1. Jesus Was Reassuring His Disciples—He Was Really Alive

The disciples were overwhelmed. Jesus had just appeared in their midst—resurrected from the dead—and they didn’t know what to think. Some thought they were seeing a ghost.

So Jesus said:

“Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.” (v. 39)

Then He did something utterly human—He asked for food.

When He ate that broiled fish in front of them, He was giving physical evidence of a spiritual reality:
He was truly alive, in a real body, risen from the grave.

2. Resurrection Bodies Are Real—But Glorified

This brief moment in Luke 24 shows us something powerful: resurrection life isn’t floaty or mystical—it’s physical, but transformed.

Jesus could walk and talk, be touched, and eat.
But He could also appear in locked rooms and disappear from sight. His body was glorified, not limited by our current physical constraints.

The apostle Paul expands on this in 1 Corinthians 15, where he explains that our resurrection bodies will be:

  • Imperishable
  • Glorious
  • Powerful
  • Spiritual (in the sense of being Spirit-empowered, not immaterial)

This gives us a hopeful picture: eternity with God involves new, physical life—not just spiritual survival.

3. So, Will We Eat in Heaven?

If Jesus could eat after the resurrection, will we?

All signs point to yes.

  • Jesus told His disciples He would again “drink the fruit of the vine” with them in His Father’s Kingdom (Matthew 26:29).
  • Revelation 19:9 describes the “wedding supper of the Lamb,” a celebration with food and fellowship.
  • Isaiah 25:6 says, “On this mountain the Lord Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples.”

Food in Scripture often represents fellowship, joy, and covenant relationship. It’s no surprise that heaven is described as a banquet.

So yes—we may well dine in heaven. Not from necessity, but from delight.

4. This Changes How We Think About Eternity

Sometimes we imagine heaven as disembodied, cloudy, and vague. But the Bible paints a richer picture—one of renewed creation, restored bodies, and shared meals in the presence of Christ.

Jesus didn’t need to eat that fish in Luke 24. But He did—to ground our hope in something real.

He wasn’t a ghost.
He wasn’t a myth.
He was—and is—alive.

And so will we be.

Final Thought: The Table Awaits

That moment around the table in Luke 24 is more than a comforting detail—it’s a preview of what’s coming.

A day is coming when we will eat with Jesus again, face to face, in glorified bodies, in the presence of God.
We won’t just “make it” to heaven—we’ll dine there.

So take heart.
Death doesn’t have the final word.
The table is set.
And the Risen Christ is already there, waiting.

Want to explore more about the resurrection or our eternal hope in Christ? I’d love to hear from you at markcole.ca. Leave a comment or send a message.

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Do You Really Love God?

Posted on May 8, 2025 by Mark Cole

Keys to Really Loving the God Who Loves and Made You

How can you know if you truly love God? It’s a deeply personal and challenging question. Jesus once said the greatest commandment is to “love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength” (Mark 12:30). That’s not a casual or half-hearted kind of love. It’s total, consuming, and life-defining.

But in the routine of daily life—busyness, ministry, family, even church—it’s easy to say we love God without actually examining how that love is expressed. So, how do we know if we’re truly loving God, and how can we grow in loving Him more deeply?

Here are a few keys to really loving the God who loves and made you:

1. Love Is More Than a Feeling—It’s a Decision

Feelings can come and go, but real love involves the will. Jesus said, “If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15). That doesn’t mean we earn God’s love—it means our obedience is one of the ways we show our love for Him.

Loving God means choosing Him even when we don’t feel like it. It’s saying yes to His way when our flesh wants something else. It’s opening His Word and spending some quiet time with Him. It’s worshiping when we’re weary and trusting when we’re unsure.

2. We Love Because He First Loved Us

It’s impossible to love God without first understanding that He loved us first (1 John 4:19). He made you, saved you, and calls you by name. Any love we give back is simply a response to the overwhelming love He’s already shown.

When you meditate on His sacrifice—the cross, His patience, His daily mercy—it stirs real affection in your heart. Love grows when you slow down and let yourself be loved by Him again.

3. Love God with All You Are

Jesus didn’t say “Love God with most of your heart” or “on Sundays.” He said: “All your heart, soul, mind, and strength.”

  • Heart – your emotions, affections, and desires
  • Soul – your inner life and spiritual identity
  • Mind – your thoughts, beliefs, and worldview
  • Strength – your body, energy, and actions

Loving God isn’t compartmentalized. It touches every part of who we are.

Ask yourself: Is my love for God showing up in the way I think, feel, speak, and live?

4. Love for God Leads to Love for Others

Jesus paired the greatest commandment with the second: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” If you say you love God but harbor bitterness, gossip, or indifference toward others, something’s off.

Loving God spills over. It’s generous, kind, forgiving, and patient. It makes you a better spouse, parent, friend, and neighbor. You can’t love the Father and despise His children.

5. Loving God Is a Daily Choice

True love takes time and attention. Just like a healthy marriage or friendship, your love for God grows when you intentionally nurture it.

  • Start each day with Him in Scripture and prayer
  • Talk to Him throughout the day
  • Thank Him for His goodness
  • Repent quickly when you stumble
  • Praise Him even when life is hard
  • Serve Him and others with joy

Loving God isn’t something you settle once and for all—it’s a lifelong relationship of choosing Him over and over again.

6. Love That Lasts Is Rooted in Grace

Maybe you’ve failed. Maybe you feel dry or distant. The good news is, God’s love for you doesn’t depend on your performance. He’s not waiting for you to be perfect—He’s inviting you to draw near.

Let grace bring you back. Let the cross remind you: He loves you more than you know, and He’s worthy of your love in return.

Final Thoughts

So, do you really love God? Not just in theory—but in the way you live, worship, think, serve, and love others?

Don’t be discouraged if you fall short. We all do. But don’t settle either. Let today be a fresh start to love God more deeply, more practically, and more joyfully.

Because the God who made you—and who gave everything to save you—is worth it.

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Jesus’ Personal Bible Study

Posted on May 7, 2025 by Mark Cole

One of the most incredible moments in the Bible happens quietly, just hours after Jesus rose from the dead. Two discouraged disciples were walking on the road to Emmaus, confused and heartbroken by the events of the crucifixion. A “stranger” joins them, listens to their grief, and then begins to speak.

That stranger was Jesus Himself.

And what He did next was unforgettable:

“Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself.” (Luke 24:27, NLT)

Can you imagine being part of that Bible study? Jesus—fresh from the grave—personally walking through Scripture and showing how every page points to Him. No wonder their hearts burned within them (Luke 24:32)!

While we don’t get a full transcript of that conversation, we do know the Scriptures Jesus would’ve had available—the Old Testament. Let’s explore some of the likely passages Jesus highlighted in His personal Bible study.

What Jesus Might Have Shared: Key Old Testament Highlights

From the Writings of Moses (Genesis–Deuteronomy)

  • Genesis 3:15 – The First Promise
    The seed of the woman will crush the serpent’s head. Right at the beginning, God hints at the coming Messiah—Jesus.
  • Genesis 22 – Abraham and Isaac
    Abraham is willing to sacrifice his only son, but God provides a substitute. A foreshadowing of God giving His Son for us.
  • Exodus 12 – The Passover Lamb
    The blood of the lamb saved Israel from judgment. Jesus is our perfect Passover Lamb.
  • Leviticus 16 – Day of Atonement
    The high priest offers sacrifices for the people’s sins. Jesus became our once-for-all sacrifice and our eternal High Priest.
  • Numbers 21 – The Bronze Serpent
    Moses lifts up a serpent to heal the people. Jesus said, “As Moses lifted up the serpent… so must the Son of Man be lifted up.” (John 3:14)
  • Deuteronomy 18:15 – A Prophet Like Moses
    Moses foretold that God would send a prophet like him—Jesus fulfilled that role perfectly.

From the Psalms and Prophets

  • Psalm 22 – The Crucified One
    Written 1,000 years before Jesus, it describes in detail the crucifixion: pierced hands and feet, mocking, casting lots for clothing.
  • Isaiah 7:14 – Born of a Virgin
    The virgin will conceive and bear a son—Immanuel, “God with us.”
  • Isaiah 9:6–7 – The Coming King
    A child is born… and His name will be Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace.
  • Isaiah 53 – The Suffering Servant
    “He was pierced for our transgressions…” This is one of the clearest prophetic pictures of Jesus in the entire Bible.
  • Daniel 7:13–14 – The Son of Man
    Jesus often used this title for Himself. Daniel saw Him coming with the clouds and receiving eternal authority.
  • Zechariah 12:10 – The Pierced One
    “They will look on Me, the one they have pierced…” A prophecy that looks forward to the crucified and returning Messiah.

Why This Matters

Jesus didn’t just quote a few verses. He gave His disciples a framework—a lens through which to view all of Scripture.

He showed that:

  • The Bible is not just a collection of disconnected stories—it’s a unified narrative.
  • From beginning to end, the story centers on Him.
  • Our faith is rooted not just in experience, but in fulfilled promises and historical truth.

Whether you’re new to reading the Bible, a worship leader seeking depth, or someone walking through doubt like those Emmaus disciples, this truth remains: Jesus meets us in the Word.

Closing Thought

Those two disciples started the walk full of confusion and sadness. But after hearing Jesus teach, they said:

“Did not our hearts burn within us while He talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?” (Luke 24:32)

My prayer for you is the same: that your heart would burn again as you see Jesus in the pages of Scripture. Ask Him to open your eyes. The same Savior who taught on that road wants to walk with you today.

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What Really Happened the Day Jesus Rose from the Dead?

Posted on May 7, 2025 by Mark Cole

“He is not here; He has risen!” – Luke 24:6

The resurrection of Jesus is the most powerful and hope-filled event in human history. It’s more than just a story for Easter Sunday—it’s the moment everything changed.

So what actually happened that first Resurrection Sunday?

Let’s walk through the key moments, step by step.

1. Early Morning: The Stone Was Rolled Away

Just before dawn, a group of women—Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, Joanna, and others—made their way to Jesus’ tomb. They were carrying spices to anoint His body, still grieving and confused after His crucifixion.

To their surprise, the stone was rolled away, and the tomb was empty.

Two angels appeared and declared words that changed history:

“Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen!” (Luke 24:5-6)

2. The Race to the Tomb

The women rushed to tell the disciples. At first, the men didn’t believe them—understandably so. But Peter and John sprinted to the tomb. They found it empty too, with the grave clothes folded neatly.

Something was happening… but they didn’t yet understand.

3. Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene

Mary Magdalene lingered near the tomb, weeping. She saw someone she thought was the gardener—until He called her name.

“Mary.”
She turned and cried out, “Rabboni!” (John 20:16)

It was Jesus. Alive. Real. Standing before her.

He told her to go tell the others: “I am ascending to My Father and your Father.”

She became the first witness to the risen Christ.

4. On the Road to Emmaus

That afternoon, two discouraged disciples were walking to the village of Emmaus. A stranger joined them and began explaining the Scriptures, showing how the Messiah had to suffer and rise.

At dinner, when He broke the bread, their eyes were opened—it was Jesus! (Luke 24:31)

They ran back to Jerusalem to tell the others.

5. Evening: Jesus Appears to the Disciples

That evening, the disciples were hiding behind locked doors, afraid.

Suddenly, Jesus stood among them.

“Peace be with you.”
He showed them His hands and side. He was no ghost. He was alive—bodily, powerfully, gloriously.

He breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.”

6. One Disciple Still Doubts

Thomas missed that first meeting and wouldn’t believe until he saw for himself.

Eight days later, Jesus came again and invited Thomas to touch His wounds.

“Stop doubting and believe.”
Thomas responded with a confession of faith:
“My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28)

So Why Does This Matter Today?

The resurrection is not just a historical fact—it’s a personal invitation.

It means Jesus conquered death—not just for Himself, but for all who believe in Him.
It means your sins can be forgiven, your shame erased, and your future secure.
It means that no matter how dark Saturday feels, Sunday is coming.

Final Thought

I’ve walked with Jesus for many years now, and I’ve seen Him bring resurrection hope to the darkest places—in hearts, families, churches and even countries.

If you’re in a season that feels like Friday’s cross or Saturday’s silence, hold on.
The stone rolls away. Jesus still shows up. And when He does, He speaks peace to your fears.

He is risen—and because of that, so can you.

Blessings,
Mark Cole

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The Fountain and the Light: Where Life Truly Begins

Posted on May 6, 2025 by Mark Cole

There’s a beautiful simplicity and depth in Psalm 36:9 (NLT), where David writes:

“For You are the fountain of life, the light by which we see.”

In just a few words, David captures the essence of God’s sustaining presence. These two images—a fountain and light—speak powerfully to the needs of every human heart.

1. A Fountain That Never Runs Dry

David calls God the fountain of life. A fountain implies a constant, overflowing source—fresh, pure, and life-giving. This isn’t stagnant water or a temporary fix. It’s a stream that never stops flowing.

So many of us are thirsty—not physically, but spiritually. We live in a culture of burnout, endless scrolling, and shallow distractions. But Jesus said something remarkably similar in John 7:37-38 (NLT):

“Anyone who is thirsty may come to Me! Anyone who believes in Me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’”

When we come to God daily, we draw from this fountain—His peace, His wisdom, His joy. Not just once, but over and over again. He is our source of strength, creativity, purpose, and passion. If you’re feeling dry today, it’s time to drink deeply again from the only fountain that satisfies.

2. The Light by Which We See

David continues, “…the light by which we see.”

Light brings clarity. It reveals what’s true and helps us navigate life. Without God’s light, we stumble in confusion and fear. But when we walk in His light, everything changes. Psalm 119:105 (NLT) says:

“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.”

In a world clouded by mixed messages, shifting values, and moral fog, we desperately need God’s light to see clearly. His light reveals our purpose, shows us His heart, and gives us the discernment we need for decisions big and small.

As musicians, leaders, teachers, parents, and worshippers, we must first see by His light before we can lead others. Otherwise, we risk guiding others in the dark.

3. What Does This Mean for Us Today?

Whether you’re leading a worship team, mentoring students, raising a family, or simply trying to live faithfully in your everyday life—Psalm 36:9 invites you to return to the source and walk in the light.

Here are three practical takeaways:

  • Drink deeply from the Word and presence of God. Make time daily to pray, worship, and let His Word refresh your spirit.
  • Ask God for clarity where you feel stuck. His light brings insight into complex problems, strained relationships, and big decisions.
  • Be a reflection of His life and light to others. Let His joy, peace, and truth overflow from you—especially in dark places.

Today, remember that God is not distant or dry. He is the fountain of life—personal, generous, and available. And He is the light by which we see—faithful to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s continue to drink deeply from the fountain of life—and walk daily in the light of His presence.

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“Today You Will Be with Me in Paradise”

Posted on May 6, 2025 by Mark Cole

“I assure you, today you will be with Me in paradise.”
— Luke 23:43 (NLT)

These words, spoken by Jesus while He was dying on the cross, are among the most hope-filled statements in all of Scripture. In just one sentence, Jesus offered complete forgiveness, eternal life, and the promise of immediate joy to a dying criminal. What do they mean for us today?

A Word to a Dying Man — and to All of Us

Jesus was crucified between two criminals. One mocked Him. The other, recognizing his own guilt and Jesus’ innocence, made a simple request:

“Jesus, remember me when You come into Your Kingdom.” (Luke 23:42 NLT)

He didn’t have time to fix his life or do anything religious. He simply acknowledged who Jesus was — a King — and asked to be remembered.

Jesus responded with astonishing grace:

“I assure you, today you will be with Me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43 NLT)

This wasn’t a vague promise for the distant future. Jesus said “today.” That means the moment the man closed his eyes in death, he opened them in the presence of the Son of God.

What Is Paradise?

“Paradise” is a word that describes a place of perfect peace, rest, and joy in the presence of God. In Revelation, it’s associated with the tree of life and being in God’s presence (Revelation 2:7). For the thief, it meant no more pain, no more shame, no more fear. It meant eternal life with Jesus.

Paradise isn’t just a reward for the religious or the righteous. It’s for the forgiven. And that’s good news, because forgiveness is something anyone can receive.

Grace, Not Goodness

The criminal on the cross had no chance to make things right. He couldn’t earn his salvation — and Jesus didn’t ask him to. This wasn’t about being “good enough.” It was about grace. Jesus offered the man eternal life simply because he turned to HIM in faith.

That’s the beauty of the gospel: God doesn’t save us because we deserve it — He saves us because HE is good.

This story reminds us that it’s never too late to turn to Jesus. If He could save a dying thief, He can save you and me.

What About You?

You might feel like you’ve messed up too much. Or maybe you’ve tried to be a good person but still feel empty inside. Either way, this passage reminds us of something important: It’s not about what we’ve done — it’s about what Jesus has done.

He took the punishment we deserved, and He offers us the same promise: “You will be with Me.” Eternal life isn’t a religious system — it’s a relationship with Jesus Christ.

A Simple Prayer

If you’ve never turned to Jesus before, you can do so right now. You don’t need fancy words — just an honest heart.

Here’s a simple prayer you can pray:

“Jesus, I believe You are the Son of God. I know I’ve sinned and I need Your forgiveness. Please remember me. I want to follow You and be with You — now and forever. Amen.”

If you prayed that, I’d love to hear from you. And if you already know Jesus, take a moment today to thank HIM for the grace that saves us — even in our final moments.

Let’s live with the hope and assurance that we will be with HIM in paradise.

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What Did Jesus Do in the 40 Days After His Resurrection?

Posted on May 6, 2025 by Mark Cole

The resurrection of Jesus is the foundation of our Christian faith. But what happened in the time between Jesus’ resurrection and His return to Heaven?

According to Acts 1:3, Jesus remained on earth for 40 days after He rose from the dead. During that time, He appeared to His followers, deepened their understanding of Scripture, gave them instructions for the future, and promised the power of the Holy Spirit.

Let’s explore what Jesus did during those 40 days—and what it means for us today.

1. He Showed That He Was Really Alive

“During the forty days after He suffered and died, He appeared to the apostles from time to time, and He proved to them in many ways that He was actually alive. And He talked to them about the Kingdom of God.”
— Acts 1:3 (NLT)

Jesus didn’t just rise from the grave—He made sure His followers knew it was true. He appeared to individuals and groups, including more than 500 people at one time (1 Corinthians 15:6). He ate with them, spoke with them, and invited them to touch His hands and His side.

This wasn’t just to impress them—it was to reassure them. Jesus met His friends in their confusion and fear and gave them peace and confidence.

He still meets us that way today.

2. He Helped Them Understand the Scriptures

“Then He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures.”
— Luke 24:45 (NLT)

Jesus walked with two of His disciples on the road to Emmaus and opened the Scriptures to show how everything pointed to Him—from Moses to the prophets. He did the same with the rest of the disciples.

Many believers today find parts of the Bible confusing. But Jesus, through the Holy Spirit, still opens our understanding. When we ask Him for insight, He is faithful to help us see how God’s Word connects and how it all centers on Him.

3. He Talked About the Kingdom of God

“And He talked to them about the Kingdom of God.”
— Acts 1:3b (NLT)

Jesus spoke often about the Kingdom of God during His earthly ministry—and He continued to teach about it after the resurrection.

The Kingdom of God isn’t just a future place—it’s God’s rule and reign in our lives now. When we submit to Jesus, love others, and live by His values, we help advance His Kingdom on earth.

4. He Gave the Great Commission

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you.”
— Matthew 28:19–20a (NLT)

Before He returned to Heaven, Jesus gave His followers a mission: to go into the world, make disciples, and teach people to follow Him.

This call wasn’t just for the apostles—it’s for us too. Whether you’re a teacher, student, parent, musician, retiree, or pastor, you’re called to make disciples. We do this through loving conversations, faithful living, prayer, and serving others in Jesus’ Name.

5. He Promised the Holy Spirit

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be My witnesses, telling people about Me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
— Acts 1:8 (NLT)

Jesus knew we’d need help to carry out His mission. So He promised to send the Holy Spirit—His very presence living inside us—to empower us, comfort us, teach us, and give us courage.

That same Spirit is available to us today. We don’t serve in our own strength. We live and minister by the power of the Holy Spirit.

6. He Ascended into Heaven

“After saying this, He was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see Him.”
— Acts 1:9 (NLT)

Jesus’ earthly work was complete, and it was time to return to the Father. But He didn’t leave without hope. As the disciples stood staring into the sky, angels told them:

“Jesus has been taken from you into Heaven, but someday He will return from Heaven in the same way you saw Him go!”
— Acts 1:11b (NLT)

Jesus is now seated at the right hand of the Father, praying for us and preparing a place for us (Romans 8:34; John 14:2–3). One day, He will return in power and glory.

What This Means for Us Today

These 40 days weren’t just a transition—they were foundational. Jesus:

  • Proved His resurrection
  • Opened Scripture to His followers
  • Taught about the Kingdom of God
  • Commissioned the Church
  • Promised the Holy Spirit
  • Ascended in victory

We now live in light of all that.
We walk in resurrection power.
We are part of God’s advancing Kingdom.
We are filled with the Holy Spirit.
And we are waiting for Jesus to return.

Personal Reflection

  • Are you living with the awareness that Jesus is alive and with you?
  • Are you grounded in His Word and His mission?
  • Are you relying on the power of the Holy Spirit in your daily life?

Jesus is alive—and He is still calling us to follow Him wholeheartedly.

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Captivated: A Lifelong Love Worth Pursuing

Posted on May 5, 2025 by Mark Cole

Proverbs 5:18-19 — “Let your wife be a fountain of blessing for you. Rejoice in the wife of your youth. May you always be captivated by her love.”

In a culture obsessed with the new, the flashy, and the temporary, these words from Proverbs ring like a timeless melody: Rejoice in the wife of your youth. Be captivated by her love.

This passage is not only wise, it’s countercultural. It’s a beautiful vision of lifelong love, joy, and intimacy between husband and wife. Let’s look at what this ancient wisdom offers to today’s marriages.

1. “Let your wife be a fountain of blessing for you.”

A fountain brings refreshment, life, and continual flow. When Proverbs calls a wife a “fountain of blessing,” it elevates her role as more than just a partner—she’s a God-given source of joy, strength, and nourishment.

But here’s the key: you have to let her be that. You have to notice, appreciate, and open your heart to the blessing she is.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I still express gratitude for her presence in my life?
  • Do I view her through the lens of God’s gift?

2. “Rejoice in the wife of your youth.”

The word rejoice means to delight, to celebrate. This isn’t just about being faithful—it’s about being joyfully faithful.

As we age, so do our spouses. Life changes us. But this verse reminds us to keep celebrating the person we’ve grown with—the one who’s been there through early struggles, children, moves, ministry, and all the unexpected turns.

It’s easy to drift into routine. Proverbs calls us back: choose joy, again and again.

3. “May you always be captivated by her love.”

“Captivated” means enchanted, overwhelmed, even intoxicated. In the Hebrew, it’s a strong, almost reckless word—like being under the spell of love. And the Bible says that’s exactly where we should stay when it comes to our spouse.

This isn’t a call to fake romance. It’s a call to pursue it—to feed it with words, kindness, touch, time, and attention.

Marriage isn’t meant to fade with age—it’s meant to deepen.

A Word to Husbands (and to Wives Too)

Proverbs 5 gives more than advice—it gives a vision. Not just of staying together, but of staying in love.

To all the husbands reading this:

  • Keep celebrating your wife.
  • Speak well of her.
  • Keep learning how to love her in this season of life.

And to the wives:

  • Know that your love captivates. It matters. You are a blessing in your husband’s life.

Final Thought

Great marriages aren’t built by accident. They’re built by attention, intention, and affection—by coming back again and again to the truth that this person is God’s gift to you.

Rejoice in the wife of your youth. And if you’re no longer in youth? Rejoice anyway. She’s still worth it.

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