Walk United in Christ Jesus

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1 As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism; 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. 7 But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. 8 This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.” 9 (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions ? 10 He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) 11 So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, 12 to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up 13 until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. 14 Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming. 15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work (Ephesians 4:1-16 NRSV Bible)

Prisoners in Ancient Rome did not have a telephone call, like we do in the USA. Well, of course, there were no phones. Paul does ask for a pen and paper. Make that lots of paper! Paul knows he does not have to contact his attorney, as many of us would do; he knows the real Mediator and the judge, and so he begins to share his faith. What sort of letter would you write? I'm pretty sure I might pen a short letter: GET ME OUTTA HERE!!!!

Paul used every opportunity he had to share Jesus. And in this passage he is urging fellow believers to live their lives in a way that gives glory to Jesus, because Jesus called you to faith. Paul says believers in Jesus should be humble and gentle. And he has the nerve to say that believers should be patient. Even behind the wheel as you drive? And Paul says for us to not only be patient, but we should bear, that means put up, with each other, and get this; in love! Our efforts should be to keep unity of the Holy Spirit through the bond of peace. Paul says the Body of Christ is one, just like the Holy Spirit is One; and all of us were called to one hope. Add to your list there is one Lord, and that's Jesus; one Spirit, and He's the Holy Spirit, and one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, Who is over all and through all, and in all. And it is this same Christ, Who equipped believers to serve Him to win the world: Apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. All working different jobs with a common goal: Build up the Body of Christ so that we can truly achieve unity in faith and complete knowledge of Jesus; all moving to maturity in Him.

As we mature in faith, we are called to move beyond immaturity and instability, growing in our knowledge of Christ and in our ability to speak the truth in love. This growth is not merely for personal benefit but for the building up of the entire body of Christ, fostering unity and spiritual maturity. Don't be lulled to sleep in comfort, thinking we have already done enough or that we've done all we could. We must continually move towards maturity, constantly building ourselves in love.

PRAYER: Loving God, For the call You shared with us, thank You. We thank You also for the gifts you have given to us. Help us to live in a manner worthy of this calling, with humility and patience, bearing with one another in love. May we work diligently to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. Guide us as we use our unique gifts to contribute to the growth of Your Church, and help us to speak the truth in love, growing together into the fullness of Christ. Strengthen us to resist the temptations of division and deceit, and empower us to build each other up in faith and love. This is our prayer, in faith, and in the name of Jesus our Lord, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord. YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Engage with others in your church or small group to discover their gifts and find ways to collaborate in ministry. Look for opportunities to promote unity and support within the Body of Christ, and remember that your contributions, no matter how small they may seem, play a crucial role in the growth and health of the Church.

I love you and I thank God for you,

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Jesus Is The Bread of Life!

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24 Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus. 25 When they found him on the other side of the lake, they asked him, “Rabbi, when did you get here?” 26 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. 27 Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” 28 Then they asked him, “What must we do to do the works God requires?” 29 Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” 30 So they asked him, “What sign then will you give that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? 31 Our ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ ” 32 Jesus said to them, “Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 “Sir,” they said, “always give us this bread.” 35 Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. (John 6:24-35 NIV Bible)

The first time I tired Cuban lechón, a slow-cooked, savory pork dish, I almost, I repeat, almost, asked for the tortillas! I can only imagine what the wait person would have said to me! I felt cheated! Such a delicous meat and no, to quote my pastor, Matt Pennington, "cloud of heaven" as he refers to flour tortillas, in which to place that melt-in-your-mouth meat to enhance the flavor, I felt cheated! I did hear from a wait person at Mr. Taco, when I was trying to be good I ordered a Low Carb breakfast and when the plate came I asked, "Where are the tortillas?" She laughed and reminded me, "You asked for the low carb breakfast, sir!" Oh. Right. My wife laughed.

Bread has a rightful place in life, and a more important place on our plates. It has held that place since someone figured out how to take grain and turn it into something wonderful. A quick search shows that some 30,000 years ago, grinding stones existed in Australia and Europe, indicating that wheat had been domesticated and turned into bread. In our area of the world, the Mayans took corn and made tortillas and tamales. And in Jesus' time, bread as a staple, filled many an empty belly at the right time. So much so, this passage relates how the crowds followed Jesus for the reason of finding more bread to eat. Why else would these in the crowd have gotten into boats to cross over to Capernaum to find Jesus. Jesus plainly tells them, "Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because. you saw the signs I performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill." Ouch. But, can you blame them? An empty stomach will eagerly and thankfully receive a gift of bread; and not just any bread, but a miracle bread made by God; can you imagine the taste of such a bread? I ain't gonna lie, I would have swam across to get to that bread! But note that Jesus also warns, "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life." This bread, besides tasting good, served a purpose - to ready them for a life that does not end with death. Jesus is talking about what the title says, but at this point in the passage, He must prepare them for that. He says plainly, "The Son of Man will give you this bread, because God has placed the God's Seal of Approval on His Son. Of course, they ask, "What all do we have to do to receive this?" Jesus says, "Believe in me."

What evidence they demand to know, will we receive to know that we truly have seen You? They ask about what their ancestors had in the old days of manna in the wilderness, to which Jesus answers, "It was not Moses that gave you bread from Heaven, but it was my Fathers who gives you the true bread from Heaven. For the bread of God is the bread that comes down from Heaven and gives life to the world." Boom! They said, as we should be saying, "Sir, always give us this bread!" Wait for it. Jesus said, "I am the Bread of Life." Bam! "Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thristy."

Jesus shifts their focus from the temporary to the eternal. He invites them—and us—to seek not just for the bread that fills our stomachs but for the "bread of life" that satisfies our deepest spiritual hunger. This “bread” is not a mere substance but a person—Jesus Himself. He reveals that true sustenance is found in Him, and that believing in Him is the work God desires.

Jesus' declaration, “I am the bread of life,” is an invitation to trust Him fully. Just as bread nourishes the body, Jesus nourishes the soul. He promises that those who come to Him will never hunger or thirst spiritually. This is a promise of profound and unending fulfillment.

Dear one, why go around hungry when we have access to that bread which fills not only the hungry areas of our souls, but also ends the thirst in our life? Ask, and be filled and satisfied!

PRAYER: Awesome God, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, who is the Bread of Life. We often find ourselves seeking temporary satisfactions and missing the deeper nourishment You offer. Help us to recognize that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with Jesus. Open our hearts to receive His sustenance and to trust in His promises. Teach us to prioritize eternal needs over fleeting desires and to fully embrace the life He provides. Guide us in our daily walk to be more like Him, and let our lives reflect the abundance of Your grace. We thank You for Your provision and pray that we may continually seek the bread that endures forever. This we pray in Christ Jesus' strong name, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Reflect on how you can turn those desires towards seeking a deeper relationship with Jesus. Make it a point to read Scripture daily, spend time in prayer, and involve yourself in activities that strengthen your spiritual walk. Look for opportunities to share the Bread of Life with others who may be searching for true fulfillment. Let your life be a testament to the nourishment that only Christ can provide.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Don't Be a Fool!

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1 The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, their deeds are vile; there is no one who does good. 2 The LORD looks down from heaven on all mankind to see if there are any who understand, any who seek God. 3 All have turned away, all have become corrupt; there is no one who does good, not even one. 4 Do all these evildoers know nothing? They devour my people as though eating bread; they never call on the LORD. 5 But there they are, overwhelmed with dread, for God is present in the company of the righteous. 6 You evildoers frustrate the plans of the poor, but the LORD is their refuge. 7 Oh, that salvation for Israel would come out of Zion! When the LORD restores his people, let Jacob rejoice and Israel be glad! (Psalm 14 NIV Bible)

I can truly understand David's dilemma. He was the product of a God-believing mother and father. He knew the scriptures; he had been taught to pray. He was taught to worship and he taught himself to write songs of praise. His reality was a life where God was real and present. I can only imagine the day he met someone who was not like him. A person who dared say, "There is no God." I sincerely believe that he was kind and refrained from using stronger language, but still used a rough word, fool, to describe what kind of person David considered this man to be.

This psalm contrasts the wisdom of seeking God with the foolishness of denying His existence or ignoring His commands. The "fool" described here is not merely someone lacking intelligence but one who is morally corrupt, choosing to live as if God does not exist and acting accordingly. Perhaps you inow someone like that. Some hide behind nonbelief in order to not feel bad about their actions and/or decisions. As David called them, they have become corrupt.

In our world today, the temptation to live as if God is irrelevant or nonexistent is prevalent. Many voices proclaim ideologies that deny or undermine the reality of God. Yet, the psalmist reminds us that God is sovereign and watches over all humanity. He sees the condition of our hearts and actions, discerning those who seek Him and those who reject Him. God still loves the unbeliever and God's desire is for all to come to Him.

The psalmist also highlights the contrast between the fate of the evildoers and the righteous. While evildoers may seem to prosper temporarily, their ultimate end is one of dread and destruction. In contrast, the righteous find refuge in the Lord, and their hope lies in His salvation and restoration.

PRAYER: Loving God, we come before You acknowledging Your sovereignty and goodness. Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have been tempted to live as if You do not exist, and for the moments we have allowed the voices of this world to overshadow your truth. Help us to have discerning hearts, to seek You earnestly, and to live in alignment with Your will.Grant us the strength to stand firm in our faith, even when the world around us denies Your existence or opposes your ways. Thank you for being our refuge and strength, and for the hope we have in Your salvation through Jesus Christ. May our lives be a testimony to Your grace and truth. Use us, Lord, to proclaim Your kingdom and to bring others into a saving knowledge of You. In Christ Jesus' strong name we pray, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Daily seek God through prayer and Bible study, and seeking to spend time in His presence. Seek to have a deeper relationship with God. Also, let your actions and words reflect your belief in God's existence and God's commands. Become a witness of God's love and truth in your daily interactions. Finally, stand firm in truth and freely share your testimony of how you came to faith. Know that God sees and knows all things and God is there for you.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Resist Temptation!

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1 In the spring of the year, the time when kings go out to battle, David sent Joab with his officers and all Israel with him; they ravaged the Ammonites, and besieged Rabbah. But David remained at Jerusalem. 2 It happened, late one afternoon, when David rose from his couch and was walking about on the roof of the king's house, that he saw from the roof a woman bathing; the woman was very beautiful. 3 David sent someone to inquire about the woman. It was reported, "This is Bathsheba daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite." 4 So David sent messengers to get her, and she came to him, and he lay with her. (Now she was purifying herself after her period.) Then she returned to her house. 5 The woman conceived; and she sent and told David, "I am pregnant." 6 So David sent word to Joab, "Send me Uriah the Hittite." And Joab sent Uriah to David. 7 When Uriah came to him, David asked how Joab and the people fared, and how the war was going. 8 Then David said to Uriah, "Go down to your house, and wash your feet." Uriah went out of the king's house, and there followed him a present from the king. 9 But Uriah slept at the entrance of the king's house with all the servants of his lord, and did not go down to his house. 10 When they told David, "Uriah did not go down to his house," David said to Uriah, "You have just come from a journey. Why did you not go down to your house?" 11 Uriah said to David, "The ark and Israel and Judah remain in booths; and my lord Joab and the servants of my lord are camping in the open field; shall I then go to my house, to eat and to drink, and to lie with my wife? As you live, and as your soul lives, I will not do such a thing." 12 Then David said to Uriah, "Remain here today also, and tomorrow I will send you back." So Uriah remained in Jerusalem that day. On the next day, 13 David invited him to eat and drink in his presence and made him drunk; and in the evening he went out to lie on his couch with the servants of his lord, but he did not go down to his house. 14 In the morning David wrote a letter to Joab, and sent it by the hand of Uriah. 15 In the letter he wrote, "Set Uriah in the forefront of the hardest fighting, and then draw back from him, so that he may be struck down and die." (2 Samuel 11:1-15 The Message Bible)

Dear Friend, here is a prayer request from Mr. Ricardo Gonzalez of Mission, Texas who writes, "I'm scheduled for my fourth spinal injection at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio on July 25 at 12 p.m. This medicine should stop the progression of Muscular Dystrophy. Please keep my wife (Maridol) and me in your prayers! Trusting in God." Signed by Ricardo. May the Lord hear our prayers and help our brother attain the victory over this disease. Thank you for praying in faith for him and Maridol and all, everywhere, who need our prayers!

The Bible is an honest book. It hides nothing. Sometimes it's as if it shows off the goofs and blunders of our heroes and heroines, even with stories that may make us blush and giggle. And for clarification it is not a sin to giggle in church; although some moms and dads may not agree, and I have the now-healed bruises of some very strategically placed pinches for my having giggled in church. Today's passage is, for some preteens, especially in this modern version, a giggle-maker. For the rest it is a serous reflection of what can and does happen in real life with those in similar situations.

While other kings went out to war in the spring as was the custom, this particular year, David decided he would sit this one out. David had a very capable general in Joab and he decides to take a spring break at home. The news on the war front was encouraging; Israel was winning the war against the Ammonites and Rabbahites. "Keep up the good work me boys!" David may have said, and decides to go for a walk on his roof. It's a king of Israel thing; you wouldn't understand! But it so happens that this walk lets him come across a beautiful woman taking her own stay-home-spring break, bathing as the peeping king sees her taking a bath. Her beauty caught his eye so much that he asks about this woman. "Does she have an Instagram account? Is she on Facebook? Does anyone have her cell phone number?" David manages to get her to come to the palace, and one thing led to another, and the king slept with her. Some time later, the woman, who is named Bathsheba, sends word to the king that she is pregnant.

David, as God Himself had said, was a man after God's own heart, but being human, succumbs to temptation. David could have just gazed on this woman for a bit, but he lingered and the lingering led to lust, and the lust led to the temptation and the consensual act which leads to this unexpected pregnancy. Evidence that temptation can often start subtly - an innocent glance, a passing thought, or a brief curiosity. And if we leave it unchecked, that small beginning can grow, as we saw here, into something much larger and can even become larger and destructive. This story of Israel's king reminds us of the importance of vigilance and the need to guard our hearts against temptation. The reality is that even the strongest among us can stumble if we do not remain rooted in God's Word and His ways.

The Bible is also a book that contains some humor for that is what temptation may even lead us to; for the king tries to correct the story by bringing home Bathsheba's husband home. The king invites this faithful soldier into his palace for a report on the battle and then suggest that he go home to rest and "wash your feet." Uriah leaves the palace and decides to sleep in the entrance of the palace rather than his own home. Uriah is invited back to a second audience with King David so he can get an explanation as to why he didn't go home? Uriah has a solid reason and we can see the type of man he truly is, shares that he cannot, in good conscience, stay in the comfort of his own home when the ark and the nation's soldiers are sleeping in tents; and he adds the names of General Joab and the servants who don't even have tents. He adds, "As you live, and as your soul lives, I will not do such a thing." The king invites him (I guess as king he was ordering) Uriah to stay another day away from battle. The king has a big feast and enough food and wine to make Uriah loosen up a bit, but even in a drunken state, stays to sleep again stays away from his home and instead sleeps with the king's servants. The next morning the king writes a letter to the general with the order that Uriah be set in the front of the heaviest fighting and then withdraw other troops leaving Uriah vulnerable for death.

You and I know the rest of the story. Uriah was killed. For the sin of the king. I should say sins of the king. The ones who ground themselves in prayer and in love for and from God, and love for others, will receive the strength to stay strong and true in God to God's ways.

PRAYER: Loving God, We come before you humbly, acknowledging our vulnerability to temptation. Lord, help us to be vigilant and discerning in our thoughts and actions. Give us strength to turn away from anything that leads us away from Your will. Forgive us for times when we have allowed temptation to overcome us, and restore in us a steadfast spirit. Help us, like David, to repent sincerely and seek your forgiveness and guidance. Guard our hearts, O God, and fill us with your Holy Spirit, that we may walk in purity and obedience before you all the days of our lives. May we find our satisfaction and joy in you alone, and may our lives be a testimony of your grace and faithfulness. In Christ Jesus' strong name we pray, amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord. YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Pray that we can guard our eyes and thoughts. Be careful what you allow yourself to see and dwell upon. Set boundaries that helps protect our hearts and minds from inappropriate influences. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can encourage and support you in your walk with the Lord. Confide in someone you trust when you're struggling with temptation. Finally, immerse yourself in prayer and God's Word. These spiritual disciplines will strengthen your faith and help you resist temptation. Never forget that God is faithful and God can provide a way out when we are tempted.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Prayerfully consider supporting this ministry through paypal.me/eradiovalverde. Thank you for your prayers and any and all you can do to win the world for Jesus Christ!

Rooted in God's Love

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14 For this reason I bow my knees before the Father, 15 from whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name. 16 I pray that, according to the riches of his glory, he may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being with power through his Spirit, 17 and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love. 18 I pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the breadth and length and height and depth, 19 and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God. 20 Now to him who by the power at work within us is able to accomplish abundantly far more than all we can ask or imagine, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.(Ephesians 3:14-21 NRSV Bible)

Where are you rooted? By this I mean, where do you find strength, stability, and sustenance for who you are? Some of us give ourselves away by showing we have shallow roots, or worse, deep roots in what is evil. Some, I would venture to guess, have no roots. When I got to college I was thankful for the roots my Dad and Mom tried to have me have. I had been forced to go to church, gasp, against my will! Dad was the old fashioned kind of dad who said I could miss church only if I was dying. I was also forced to be polite to all people, especially my elders (gulp; I resemble that more and more each day!). I was also taught to say yes sir, yes ma'am; no ma'am, no sir. I was taught not to say bad words ever. And the bad words those included were not even to be said. As the years went by words that shouldn't even enter my mind were coming out of the mouths of pre-teens. And the list goes on. But suffice it to say that I was taught to pray; to read the Bible, to attend church; to give generously, starting with my tithe; and to be a person who cared about others.

And speaking of prayer, this passage begins with Paul talking about prayer. In Ephesians 3:14-21, the apostle Paul offers a profound prayer for the Ephesian believers—a prayer that extends across time to touch our hearts today. Paul bows before the Father, recognizing His sovereignty over all creation, and prays earnestly for the believers to experience the fullness of God's love and power. He sets a model for how we too, in faith, should bow before God and share our woes and worries, and praises to Him. Prayer is the key foundation for a solid rooting in God.

Paul's prayer begins with a request for inner strength and spiritual empowerment through the Holy Spirit. This inner strength is not just for personal fortitude but to allow Christ to dwell deeply in our hearts through faith. As we allow Christ to root and ground us in His love, we are established on a foundation that transcends circumstances and emotions.

Paul continues by expressing his desire for believers to grasp the vast dimensions of Christ's love—the breadth, length, height, and depth of it. This love of Christ surpasses human understanding; it is boundless and inexhaustible. Knowing and experiencing this love transforms us, filling us with the fullness of God Himself. Remember our saying yesterday that Jesus is awesome? Here's further proof.

The passage culminates in a declaration of God's ability to do far more abundantly than all we can ask or imagine. It is a reminder that our God is not limited by our limitations but delights in exceeding our expectations. His power is at work within us, achieving purposes beyond our comprehension, and all glory belongs to Him forever.

PRAYER: Loving God, We bow before You, grateful for Your immeasurable love and power at work within us. Strengthen us by Your Spirit, that Christ may dwell richly in our hearts through faith. Help us to comprehend the vastness of Your love, which surpasses all knowledge, and fill us with Your fullness. May Your glory be proclaimed in our lives and in Your church throughout all generations. In Jesus' strong name we pray, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Consider how you can deepen your faith and allow Christ to dwell more fully in your heart. Spend time in prayer, asking God to strengthen you with His Spirit and to help you comprehend His boundless love. Look for opportunities to share this love with others, demonstrating God's grace and mercy in tangible ways. Allow God to work abundantly in and through you, trusting in His power to accomplish far more than you can imagine. GET EXCITED ABOUT GOD BECAUSE HE'S EXCITED ABOUT YOU!!

I love you and thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

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The Awesomeness of Jesus

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1 After this, Jesus went across the Sea of Galilee (some call it Tiberias). 2 A huge crowd followed him, attracted by the miracles they had seen him do among the sick. 3 When he got to the other side, he climbed a hill and sat down, surrounded by his disciples. 4 It was nearly time for the Feast of Passover, kept annually by the Jews. 5 When Jesus looked out and saw that a large crowd had arrived, he said to Philip, "Where can we buy bread to feed these people?" 6 He said this to stretch Philip's faith. He already knew what he was going to do. 7 Philip answered, "Two hundred silver pieces wouldn't be enough to buy bread for each person to get a piece." 8 One of the disciples - it was Andrew, brother to Simon Peter - said, 9 "There's a little boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish. But that's a drop in the bucket for a crowd like this." 10 Jesus said, "Make the people sit down." There was a nice carpet of green grass in this place. They sat down, about five thousand of them. 11 Then Jesus took the bread and, having given thanks, gave it to those who were seated. He did the same with the fish. All ate as much as they wanted. 12 When the people had eaten their fill, he said to his disciples, "Gather the leftovers so nothing is wasted." 13 They went to work and filled twelve large baskets with leftovers from the five barley loaves. 14 The people realized that God was at work among them in what Jesus had just done. They said, "This is the Prophet for sure, God's Prophet right here in Galilee!" 15 Jesus saw that in their enthusiasm, they were about to grab him and make him king, so he slipped off and went back up the mountain to be by himself. 16 In the evening his disciples went down to the sea, 17 got in the boat, and headed back across the water to Capernaum. It had grown quite dark and Jesus had not yet returned. 18 A huge wind blew up, churning the sea. 19 They were maybe three or four miles out when they saw Jesus walking on the sea, quite near the boat. They were scared senseless, 20 but he reassured them, "It's me. It's all right. Don't be afraid." 21 So they took him on board. In no time they reached land - the exact spot they were headed to. (John 6:1-21 NIV Bible)

Two things about me. I love the ocean. I don't know how to fish. My Dad worked hard all week as did his dad, so neither were men with time to go fishing. I'm thankful he spent time with us but with money being scarce we never saw store-bought rods or reels. Fishing was not an option for either and as a result, I never learned to fish. In my very first fulltime church, a caring church member, who died way too young, Mr. Rene Rolando Lopez, Jr., asked me to go with him fishing at Falcon Lake. He took time to show me all that was involved in fishing and we spent the morning fishing. He caught fish. I caught squat. Lesson attempted. I was very thankful for his care and attention to me. I wish I had caught something because I believe I would now be a fisherman. I did feel call to fish for people when God called me into ministry, and still feel led to do that. As for the ocean there is an unexplainable attraction to driving by it, so my seven years in Corpus Christi were awesome. My day off routine in those days involved Nellie and me taking the bridges over to Mustang Island and on to Port Aransas, then the ferry across to Aransas Pass, and up to Rockport, where in the days before that hurricane took it out, the little free aquarium was a delightful way to spend an hour or so. Then we would drive back over the big bridge into town.

In this passage, we witness two remarkable events that reveal the power and compassion of Jesus Christ. I say it illustrates the awesomeness of Jesus. In this first event we read about the miraculous feeding of the five thousand with just five barley loaves and two fish. This was not merely a provision of physical nourishment but a demonstration of God's abundant provision in response to human need. When faced with the overwhelming task of feeding a multitude, Philip and Andrew could only see scarcity—limited resources in the face of a vast crowd. Yet Jesus showed that in His hands, even the smallest offering becomes more than sufficient. Aren't you and I usually of the scarcity mentality? We see little and think nah; Jesus sees the awesomenss of God and says, "Yes!" Hmm, we should be changing our thinking to a mentality of abundance!

The second event occurs on the stormy Sea of Galilee, where Jesus walks on water to reach His disciples struggling against the wind and waves. In their fear and exhaustion, they see Jesus approaching, not with rebuke but with reassurance: "It is I; don’t be afraid." In this moment, Jesus reminds them—and us—that His presence transcends our fears and challenges. He is the Lord over the chaos of our lives, offering peace and security in the midst of turbulence. How sweet the sound of knowing that Jesus can and does tell us, "It is I; don't be afraid." We should listen and be calm.

These two events reveal a consistent theme: Jesus is not only capable of meeting our needs but desires to do so abundantly. Whether it's physical sustenance or spiritual reassurance, His provision is boundless. Our role, like that of the disciples, is to trust and obey. We may not always understand how God will provide or when He will intervene, but we can be assured that His timing and manner of provision are perfect.

PRAYER: Awesome God, thank You for Your abundant provision and Your constant presence in our lives. Help us to trust in Your goodness and wisdom, especially in times of scarcity and uncertainty. Strengthen our faith so that we may always rely on Your promises and follow Your leading. Grant us courage to step out in obedience, knowing that You are with us every step of the way. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Consider how Jesus might be inviting you to trust in His provision and presence. Take a moment to surrender your fears and anxieties to Him, asking for faith to see His hand at work in your circumstances. Look for opportunities this week to share God's provision and peace with others, demonstrating His love through your actions and words.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

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God is Faithful

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20 I found David, my servant, poured holy oil on his head, 21 And I'll keep my hand steadily on him, yes, I'll stick with him through thick and thin. 22 No enemy will get the best of him, no scoundrel will do him in. 23 I'll weed out all who oppose him, I'll clean out all who hate him. 24 I'm with him for good and I'll love him forever; I've set him on high - he's riding high! 25 I've put Ocean in his one hand, River in the other; 26 he'll call out, 'Oh, my Father - my God, my Rock of Salvation!' 27 Yes, I'm setting him apart as the First of the royal line, High King over all of earth's kings. 28 I'll preserve him eternally in my love, I'll faithfully do all I so solemnly promised. 29 I'll guarantee his family tree and underwrite his rule. 30 If his children refuse to do what I tell them, if they refuse to walk in the way I show them, 31 If they spit on the directions I give them and tear up the rules I post for them 32 - I'll rub their faces in the dirt of their rebellion and make them face the music. 33 But I'll never throw them out, never abandon or disown them. 34 Do you think I'd withdraw my holy promise? or take back words I'd already spoken? 35 I've given my word, my whole and holy word; do you think I would lie to David? 36 His family tree is here for good, his sovereignty as sure as the sun, 37 Dependable as the phases of the moon, inescapable as weather." (Psalm 89:20-37 The Message Bible)

"I'll be there!" Ever heard that from a church member and then you were surprised that they didn't show? Maybe the first time. "You can count on me!" Same question. Maybe the first time. "I'll cover you (or it)!" And again, we learn. There are those people who have no trouble promising one thing and not coming through. They don't mean harm or malice; it's just that they forgot, or were not able to; and yes, there are malicious people who never are completely truthful about what they will do after having said they will. Well, there is hope in this passage, and the hope is in God. God is faithful. We try to be. Well, some of us. Not so God. God is of His word.

This is a marvelous passage told from God's perspective about His covenant with David. We remember the story of when God had the boy anointed king, and this is the narrative of God keeping His word about all that was involved in that promise.

God's commitment to David and his descendants shines brightly through His promises of protection, favor, and eternal reign. This passage underscores several profound truths about God's character and His unwavering faithfulness.

God selected David as His anointed, promising to stand by him steadfastly. Please keep in mind that this was a profound call upon David's life. The boy had been busy minding the sheep and writing psalms on his lyre when the call came. God also knew that because King Saul was still alive that that in itself would present one of the biggest hurdles that David would have to overcome. And then there was that giant event with Goliath. But God vowed to defeat David's enemies and exalt him above all earthly kings. And if God says it we should believe it, because God will keep His word. God’s commitment transcends generations, assuring David's lineage of an enduring throne and everlasting love. Also, we keep in mind that the party of the second part of this holy contract, aka covenant, is of a human origin and orientation thus the weaknesses that is built into this relationship.

Despite the potential for disobedience from David's descendants, God's love remains constant. If they turn from His guidance and rebel, there will be consequences. However, God assures that His covenant will stand firm, never rescinding His word or withdrawing His promises. And this is also true for us. Whatever we may have been called to, we can bank on God's word. No obstacle will be bigger than God, and God will always be triumphant.

PRAYER: Loving God, we praise You for Your unwavering faithfulness and steadfast love, as revealed in Your covenant with David. Thank You for the assurance that Your promises are unshakable and enduring. Help us to trust in Your faithfulness in every circumstance of life, knowing that Your plans are perfect and Your love is boundless. Grant us the grace to follow Your ways faithfully, that we may experience the fullness of Your blessings. May Your name be glorified forever and ever. It is in Jesus’s strong name we pray, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Consider the times when God has shown His faithfulness and love, even amidst challenges or uncertainties. Spend time in prayer and meditation on God's Word, allowing His promises to strengthen your faith and deepen your trust in Him. As you go about your day, seek opportunities to live out God's will obediently, honoring Him in all that you do. Let your life be a testament to God's enduring faithfulness, drawing others to experience His love and grace.

I love you and I thank God for you! There's much to do - but we can do it!

Win the world for Jesus!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

PRAYER UPDATE: The Rev. Virglio Vasquez Garza saw his surgeon this morning (Wednesday) for post-surgery followup and the doctor was very pleased with what he saw, and so we praise God and we should thank each other for making time to pray for one another.

Good and Bad Shepherds

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1 Woe to the shepherds who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture! says the Lord. 2 Therefore thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, concerning the shepherds who shepherd my people: It is you who have scattered my flock, and have driven them away, and you have not attended to them. So I will attend to you for your evil doings, says the Lord. 3 Then I myself will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the lands where I have driven them, and I will bring them back to their fold, and they shall be fruitful and multiply. 4 I will raise up shepherds over them who will shepherd them, and they shall not fear any longer, or be dismayed, nor shall any be missing, says the Lord 5 The days are surely coming, says the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. 6 In his days Judah will be saved and Israel will live in safety. And this is the name by which he will be called: "The Lord is our righteousness." (Jeremiah 23:1-6 NRSV)

PRAYER UPDATE: Rev. Virgilio Vasquez Garza's surgery went well, the only fear is if his body rejects what was inserted near his eye, according to Mrs. Acacia Garza. This evening, Tuesday 7/16, he called me and we chatted as he recapped his surgery. He is upbeat and hopeful, and thankful to the Lord of His presence and comfort. Let us continue to pray for his complete healing.

The ending for bad shepherds is not going to be good. Anytime that a sentence begins with the word "Woe" you know God means business. And the sentence pretty much sums up the seriousness of the offenses the bad shepherds are guilty of; "Who destroy and scatter the sheep of my pasture!" The metaphor of shepherds and sheep is commonly used throughout the Bible to illustrate the relationship between leaders and their people. Here, the "shepherds who destroy and scatter" refer to the kings, priests, and other leaders who have led the people astray through idolatry, injustice, and neglect of their duties.

It is easy to ask who are the shepherds who destroy and scatter; after all, woe to them! And what I believe that these shepherds as presented here symbolize those in positions of authority—political, religious, and social—who have misused their power and influence. They have neglected to care for God’s people, leading them into spiritual and moral decay. Instead of protecting and guiding the flock, they have scattered them by their actions and decisions, causing them to suffer and be driven away from their land and their God. Dare we say this still holds true today to politicians and pastors? I dare say that a glance fo the headlines gives that answer away, sadly.

Can we blame God for driving away those in the remant mentioned in verse 3? The passage does not directly blame God for driving the remnant to other nations; rather, it emphasizes that because of the failures of the shepherds, God will intervene to gather the scattered remnant back to Himself. God, in His justice, allows the consequences of disobedience to unfold, but He also promises restoration and renewal for those who remain faithful. As part of our preparation as pastors, we were taught that because we were called by God to be His shepherds among His people, we were to take that very seriously. Through prayer, reflection and direction from The Holy Spirit, we come to love in a way that seeks the best of those under our care. True disciples seek to put aside selfish gains and place the needs of our flock above our own plans and goals and then strive to accomplish that to the honor and glory of God. If the shepherd is faithful, he or she will guide the flock to a better place and will care for them in all ways.

PRAYER: Awesome God, the True Good Shepherd, we come before you acknowledging our need for true shepherds—leaders who guide with wisdom and compassion, who reflect Your heart for justice and righteousness. Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have failed to care for others as You have called us to. Help us to be faithful stewards of the responsibilities and influence You have entrusted to us. Strengthen us to follow Your Son, Jesus Christ, the righteous Branch, who leads us in paths of righteousness and peace. May Your name be glorified in all we say and do. In Jesus’s name, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Reflect on the roles and responsibilities of leadership in your community, workplace, or church. Are there areas where leaders may be failing to shepherd with integrity, compassion, and justice? Pray for them and consider how you can support and encourage leadership that aligns with God’s heart. Additionally, examine your own life and influence. Are you being a faithful shepherd to those around you—your family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors? Seek opportunities to shepherd others with love, humility, and a commitment to righteousness, reflecting the character of our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Christ's Amazing Power

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11 So then, remember that at one time you Gentiles by birth, called "the uncircumcision" by those who are called "the circumcision"—a physical circumcision made in the flesh by human hands— 12 remember that you were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers to the covenants of promise, having no hope and without God in the world. 13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. 15 He has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, 16 and might reconcile both groups to God in one body through the cross, thus putting to death that hostility through it. 17 So he came and proclaimed peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; 18 for through him both of us have access in one Spirit to the Father. 19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, 20 built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. 21 In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; 22 in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God. (Ephesians 2:11-22 NRSV)

Dear Friend, may the grace and peace of the Lord Jesus be with you and yours. I write to request prayers for The Rev. Virgilio Vasquez Garza, retired pastor of the Rio Texas Conference, who faces a very delicate and much needed eye surgery today at 8 a.m. (Tuesday, 7/16/2024). A previous surgery placed a tube in his eye and now the tissue around it is dissipating and this surgery is to prevent bacteria from coming in and causing permanent damage. Please pray the surgery does what it needs to do and that our brother's vision is saved. Pray for one another and for those who have asked prayers of us. May the Lord bless you in your needs.

Who among us was able to choose what nationality and economic status at the time of our birth? All of us did NOT have that option. We were born as it happened. For some it has worked out well; for others it has been not as nice. And current times have some groups fighting with much anger against others because they were born different than they. In fact, the entire history of humanity has been group against groups. This passage occurs during such a time. The Apostle Paul knew of this division as he was born a Jew and lived in a society ruled by Romans. As a Jew he had been taught the do's and don'ts of how to interact with the Gentiles; those who were born non-Jews. And as his ministry took off, he discovered he was having much success among the Gentiles, much to the displeasure of the Jews in power. As they found salvation and meaning in Jesus Christ, they were now becoming a part of those who while previously exclude, are now included, and are rejoicing in the hope of joy of that knowledge that has come through Jesus. They have gone from being called "uncircumcised," they are now included in all things of Jesus. Jesus, Paul asserts, has brought those who were once far off are now brought near. Jesus has brought peace to those who before did not know peace. Jesus has abolished the law and all the commandments in order to create a new humanity, a unity of the once divided now united in one body; from strangers and aliens, now brothers and sisters, citizens also with the saints and also members of the household of God.

In this passsage, Paul has painted a vivid picture of the transformative power of Christ’s reconciling work. He addresses the division between Jews and Gentiles, highlighting how Christ’s sacrifice not only brought forgiveness of sins but also united disparate groups into one body—the body of Christ.

Paul reminds the Ephesian believers, once Gentiles who were excluded from the promises of Israel, that through Christ they have been brought near to God. The hostility and division that once separated them have been dismantled by Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. He is the source of peace, reconciling both Jews and Gentiles into one new humanity, thereby creating a community where all are welcomed and valued. Everyone welcome. Everyone in. No one left out.

PRAYER: Loving God, we thank You for the reconciliation we have received through Jesus Christ. You have torn down the walls of division and hostility that separate us from one another and from You. Help us to fully grasp the depth of Your love and the peace that Christ brings. May we live as citizens of Your kingdom, united in one Spirit, and built together into a dwelling place for Your presence. Empower us to extend this message of reconciliation to others, that they too may experience the peace found only in Christ. In Jesus’s strong name we pray, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Consider any divisions or prejudices you might hold towards others, and ask God for healing and understanding. Seek opportunities to promote unity and peace within your community, church, or workplace. Extend Christ’s love to those who may feel like outsiders or strangers, demonstrating through your actions that in Christ, all are welcome and valued. Let us be agents of reconciliation, bringing hope and healing in a world longing for unity.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

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30 The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. 31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” 32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. 33 But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. 34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. 53 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret and anchored there. 54 As soon as they got out of the boat, people recognized Jesus. 55 They ran throughout that whole region and carried the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 56 And wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed. (Mark 6:30-34, 53-56 NiV Bible)

How many people has your church led to Jesus this past year? How many people have you personally led to Jesus this past year? How many people has your church healed? How many people has your church taught this past year? And, the easiest of the questions, how many people has your church fed? Ouch. Have I gone from preaching to meddling? I ask because in this first verse of this passage, in a impromptu staff meeting, the apostles were excitedly sharing to Jesus "all they had done and taught? Can I add another question? Is there a sense of excitement in your church about all that is happening in it? Is there an excitement in your life about what you are doing for Jesus? As much as I hate to say this, some of the most "exciting" things that most church rejoice or get excited about are making budget, having kids at the Vacation Bible School, having enough people agreeing to be on yet another committee, and the list goes on and on.

In this passage we encounter moments where Jesus and his disciples are continuously engaged in ministry—teaching, healing, and comforting multitudes. Despite their tireless efforts, Jesus recognizes their need for rest. He invites them to withdraw to a quiet place, away from the demands of the crowds, to find solace and renewal. Yes, again sadly, too many churches have discovered rest and enjoy it more than they should. I'm all for rest, but it's not the permanent mode in which we need to be.

Isn’t it striking that Jesus, fully aware of the pressing needs around Him, prioritizes the well-being of His disciples? He understands the importance of rest—not merely physical rest, but the kind that rejuvenates the spirit and restores the soul. In our modern lives, amidst the clamor of responsibilities and the urgency of our daily tasks, Jesus’s invitation resonates deeply: “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” This I strongly agree; those who put their all into reaching the world for Jesus are entitled to find time to renew their spirit, renew their relationship with spouses and children; and maintain the relationship with friends who seek to support and encourage our efforts to make disciples of Jesus Christ.

Yet, as they seek this solitude, the crowds anticipate their destination and arrive before them. Jesus, moved with compassion, sets aside his own need for rest to minister to them. He sees their spiritual hunger and responds with teachings that nourish their souls.

Later, in Gennesaret, the cycle repeats as people recognize Jesus and flock to him, seeking healing and hope. The scene unfolds with remarkable simplicity: those who touch even the edge of his cloak are healed. Jesus’s presence alone brings transformation and restoration. Does our presentation of Jesus share a vision where even the touch of our Lord can bring that which they long for?

PRAYER: Loving God, in the midst of our busyness and the demands of life, teach us to heed Your gentle call to rest in Your presence. Grant us the wisdom to prioritize moments of quiet with You, where our souls can find true rest and renewal. Like Jesus, may we be moved with compassion for those around us, recognizing their needs and responding with love. Equip us to be instruments of Your healing and grace in a world longing for Your touch. In Jesus’s strong name we pray, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Seek a solitary place where you can rest in God’s presence, allowing Him to refresh your spirit. As you encounter others throughout your day, consider how you can show compassion and extend Christ’s love to them, whether through a kind word, a listening ear, or a helping hand. Let your actions reflect the restorative power of God’s grace in your life.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

The Most Important Thing?

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1 David again gathered all the chosen men of Israel, thirty thousand. 2 David and all the people with him set out and went from Baale-judah, to bring up from there the ark of God, which is called by the name of the Lord of hosts who is enthroned on the cherubim. 3 They carried the ark of God on a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab, which was on the hill. Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, were driving the new cart 4 with the ark of God; and Ahio went in front of the ark. 5 David and all the house of Israel were dancing before the Lord with all their might, with songs and lyres and harps and tambourines and castanets and cymbals. So David went and brought up the ark of God from the house of Obed-edom to the city of David with rejoicing; 13 and when those who bore the ark of the Lord had gone six paces, he sacrificed an ox and a fatling. 14 David danced before the Lord with all his might; David was girded with a linen ephod. 15 So David and all the house of Israel brought up the ark of the Lord with shouting, and with the sound of the trumpet. 16 As the ark of the Lord came into the city of David, Michal daughter of Saul looked out of the window, and saw King David leaping and dancing before the Lord; and she despised him in her heart. 17 They brought in the ark of the Lord, and set it in its place, inside the tent that David had pitched for it; and David offered burnt offerings and offerings of well-being before the Lord. 18 When David had finished offering the burnt offerings and the offerings of well-being, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord of hosts, 19 and distributed food among all the people, the whole multitude of Israel, both men and women, to each a cake of bread, a portion of meat, and a cake of raisins. Then all the people went back to their homes. (2 Samuel 1-5, 12b-19 The Message Bible)

Church people are funny. Go ahead, admit it. There are several components of the church that must be present, or working, for you to "feel" that you truly worshiped. For some, the microphone must be working and at the right level, for worship to truly happen. For others, worship is not worship unless the piano/organ is working. Think back in history and remember that Christmas Eve in Austria when the organ was not working and the priest quickly grabbed a guitar and wrote what is one of the most loved and favorite of the Christmas hymns? Silent Night was written on a guitar by Franz Gruber to the lyrics by Joseph Mohr. Still others, the screens must be functioning or worship has not really occurred. And, some would even say if a certain person is not in worship then worship has not happened. Years ago when my nephews were of children's sermon age, the two went up and the pastor was the preacher of the mini-sermon and he then dismissed them and all the kids ran back to their parents except for the younger of the two of my nephews. He just sat there and the pastor noticed him and asked, "Alex, did I forget something?" Yes, Alex said, "You forgot to pray!" The pastor laughed and said, "You're right! I forgot to close the children's time with a prayer and called the kids back and then prayed, and all returned back to their parents again. The next Sunday after the pastor prayed the benediction, the pastor made sure to ask, "Alex, did I forget anything today?" Alex said, "Yes! You forgot your wife! She's not in church today!" The congregation laughed and the pastor explained that she was at an out-of-town UMW meeting.

For the Jews of David's day, there was an important component that needed to be present for true temple worship to take place, and that was the ark of the Covenant, which was the symbolic throne of God and inside it were the remains of the original Ten Commandments, and as the movie of Indiana Jones' fame showed that the ark of God had powers associated with it. The ark had an interesting history that included its falling into the wrong hands and battles fought over it and today's lesson finds us having King David victoriously bringing the ark of God back into Jerusalem. This was truly a momentous occasion as we read, and a cause for much celebration. For the people to receive the ark back into the temple was a reason for the celebration, including the risqué dance David put on "with all his might," and the disgust that brought to his wife, Michal, the daughter of King Saul. Apparently, she did not understand the dance as it might have been a "king thing," and her disgust may have caused her to not have any children, but's a topic for another day!

King David's desire was to always have a meaningful experience with God. His bringing the ark back showed that he, and the people of Israel, desired the presence of God. David understood the importance of having God at the center of the nation's life and worship. And as I jokingly mentioned at the start, the only thing we truly need at worship is God, not any one person or certain instruments or rituals. Worship without God is not worship. Worship is all about God and nothing and no one else.

David also desired wholehearted worship; nothing restrained in his worship; he held nothing back and showed his exuberance. The dance that he danced has been a discussion for many centuries, but the truth is that as he danced with abandon before God, he was showing that he deeply loved God and was showing, in his way, the severance that God deserves. This worship experience was genuine and showed the expression of his heart's overflow of gratitude and praise. I've often said that my years in ministry have shown me that when youth get together in large numbers and plan out worship events, they do the same thing. I can name any number of expressions and methods of showing their love towards God that might freak out us old folks back home

The arrival of the ark into Jerusalem celebrated God's blessings. These included the sacrifices, worship, and feasting that David believed was important to show the Lord. David acknowledged God's blessings upon Obed-Edom's household and desired to share those blessings to all of the nation of Israel. Our Sunday morning or whenever it is that we worship, should include experiences that are too good to keep quiet about; we should shout it from the rooftops!

PRAYER: Loving God, like King David, we long for Your presence in our lives and communities. Help us to worship You with hearts full of joy and gratitude, not holding back but giving You our whole selves. May our worship be pleasing to You, and may it draw others into Your presence. Thank You for the blessings You bestow upon us daily. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Think about the times you worship God, starting with your time now in this devotional time, your Sunday morning worship, or whatever time or date it takes place, and talk to others about how special that time spent with God is and how it has enriched your life. People are longing for more meaningful worship and your words might make all the difference in the world to them.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

The Prophet Pays the Price

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14 King Herod heard about this, for Jesus’ name had become well known. Some were saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.” 15 Others said, “He is Elijah.” And still others claimed, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago.” 16 But when Herod heard this, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!” 17 For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married. 18 For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to, 20 because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled ; yet he liked to listen to him. 21 Finally the opportune time came. On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. 22 When the daughter of Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask me for anything you want, and I’ll give it to you.” 23 And he promised her with an oath, “Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my kingdom.” 24 She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” “The head of John the Baptist,” she answered. 25 At once the girl hurried in to the king with the request: “I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” 26 The king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did not want to refuse her. 27 So he immediately sent an executioner with orders to bring John’s head. The man went, beheaded John in the prison, 28 and brought back his head on a platter. He presented it to the girl, and she gave it to her mother. 29 On hearing of this, John’s disciples came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. (Mark 6:14-29 NIV Bible)

I'm a sucker for stories on social media that seem to immediately hook you with a morality story with the good guy or gal is in a dilemma and the bad guy or gal seems to be the one who needs to suffer in whatever punishment may be coming. Some good stories involve a very innocent person who is hated by a potential in-law and suffers much at the hands of the powers that be. What makes it even more frustrating is that the clip will end abruptly and says search for part 2. And usually, there is not a part two or worse, there are several part twos and none are what complete the story. We have such a story here, and it's real. And to make it a great telenovela, it takes place in a palace. We know the king in this story is insecure and paranoid. We also have to add that he is wicked. While we're at it, we should add that this king is living with his brother's wife, whom he later married. The woman was not a nice person either and she was very sensitive about what was being said about her on the streets, especially by the prophet John the Baptist. This woman when she had the chance she took it. She knew that on her husband's birthday, he would be a sucker for any suggestion and so at the big fiesta thrown in his honor, the King, King Herod, had all his military and political advisors present. For their entertainment, his niece/step-daughter danced a dance which some have said was quite suggestive and so at the end, the king in his emotional high of the day asked the girl what she wanted as a reward for her dance. The king offered even up to half of his kingdom (It must have been quite the dance!) and having been couched by her mother, said she wanted the head of the prophet, John the Baptist, on a platter. Gulp. The king did not expect that, and to be fair, did not want to be expected of him. So, he orders an executioner with orders to bring John's head on that platter. This story unfolds amidst intrigue, power dynamics, and moral compromise. Herod, despite recognizing John’s righteousness and fearing him, succumbs to the pressure of his own pride and the influence of those around him. His rash vow leads to the unjust execution of John, demonstrating the consequences of yielding to worldly desires over integrity.

John the Baptist stood as a beacon of truth and righteousness in the midst of a corrupt world. His unwavering commitment to proclaiming God’s truth, even in the face of powerful opposition, serves as a profound example for us today. In our own lives, we are often confronted with choices that challenge our integrity—moments where the easy path diverges from the path of righteousness and truth.

When we face these moments, we can draw strength from John’s example. Like him, we are called to uphold God’s truth and righteousness, regardless of the consequences. Let us remember that our actions and decisions should reflect our commitment to living in alignment with God’s will, even if it means facing opposition or hardship.

PRAYER: Loving God, Thank You for the example of John the Baptist, who stood firm in his commitment to truth and righteousness, even unto death. Grant us the courage and wisdom to follow his example in our own lives. Help us to discern Your will clearly and to walk in integrity, even when faced with difficult choices. Strengthen us by Your Spirit to uphold justice and righteousness in all that we say and do. May our lives be a testimony to Your grace and truth, shining brightly in a world that desperately needs Your light. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Reflect on a recent decision or situation where you faced a choice between compromising your integrity and standing firm in God’s truth. If there are areas in your life where you need to make amends or seek forgiveness for past compromises, take intentional steps to do so. Ask God for wisdom and strength to uphold righteousness in every aspect of your life, trusting in His guidance and grace.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

God's Chosen Leader

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1 Before long all the tribes of Israel approached David in Hebron and said, "Look at us - your own flesh and blood! 2 In time past when Saul was our king, you're the one who really ran the country. Even then God said to you, 'You will shepherd my people Israel and you'll be the prince.'" 3 All the leaders of Israel met with King David at Hebron, and the king made a treaty with them in the presence of God. And so they anointed David king over Israel. 4 David was thirty years old when he became king, and ruled for forty years. 5 In Hebron he ruled Judah for seven and a half years. In Jerusalem he ruled all Israel and Judah for thirty-three years. 9 David made the fortress city his home and named it "City of David." He developed the city from the outside terraces inward. 10 David proceeded with a longer stride, a larger embrace since the God-of-the-Angel-Armies was with him. (2 Samel 5:1-5, 9-10 The Message Bible)

If you're at all familiar with the Star of David, it is two perfect triangles, that in my opinion, one triangle points north and the other triangle points south. David is long credited as being the king who united both the kingdom of Judah and Israel. This is the passage that brings that to life.

This passage is the culmination of God's promise to David as he is anointed king over all Israel. David's journey to kingship was marked by years of waiting, trials, and challenges. Yet, through it all, God was preparing him for this significant role in Israel's history.

David's anointing as king is not merely a political event; it is a spiritual affirmation of God's chosen leader. Despite David's imperfections and the political tensions of the time, God saw his heart and appointed him to shepherd His people. This passage highlights several important aspects of David's leadership:

Firstly, David's leadership was marked by a recognition of God's sovereignty. The leaders of Israel acknowledged that David was chosen by God to shepherd His people, fulfilling the divine promise made years before (2 Samuel 3:9-10).

Secondly, David's journey to kingship was a testament to God's faithfulness and timing. He patiently waited for God's plan to unfold, enduring hardships and trials, yet always trusting in God's promise. When the time was right, God exalted David to the throne and established his reign over Israel.

Thirdly, David's leadership was characterized by spiritual and strategic wisdom. He fortified Jerusalem, making it the capital city and securing it against enemies. His success and strength did not stem from his own prowess alone but from the presence and favor of the Lord of Heaven's Armies.

From the pasture to the palace is an old saying among those who know David's life. A little boy taught to worship and trust God, who followed God all the days of his life. Yes, he, like us, was flawed, but since God grades on the curve, David was found to be worthy of God's favor. May we learn from this man's life; to give ample time to worship, praise, thank, and trust God.

PRAYER: Loving God, we thank You for the example of David, whom You chose and anointed as king over Israel. Like David, may we trust in Your timing and sovereignty in our own lives. Help us to patiently wait on Your promises and to rely on Your strength and wisdom in all circumstances. Just as You were with David, be with us, guiding and directing our steps according to Your will. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Reflect on a time when you felt uncertain or impatient while waiting for God's plan to unfold in your life. Consider how God's timing and faithfulness were evident in that situation. Ask God to renew your trust in His sovereignty and to grant you patience and perseverance as you wait on His perfect timing in current circumstances. Share your reflections with a friend or family member, encouraging them to trust in God's faithfulness in their own journey of faith.

I love you and I thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Strength in Weakness

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2 I know a person in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know; God knows. 3 And I know that such a person—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know; God knows— 4 was caught up into Paradise and heard things that are not to be told, that no mortal is permitted to repeat. 5 On behalf of such a one I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not boast, except of my weaknesses. 6 But if I wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think better of me than what is seen in me or heard from me, 7 even considering the exceptional character of the revelations. Therefore, to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too elated. 8 Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me, 9 but he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness." So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. 10 Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Corinthians 12:2-10 NRSV)

Dear Friend, please be in prayer for the family of Mr. Bill Meadows, a dear friend and church musician of our church, First Methodist of Gonzales, Texas. He was a dear, caring Christian man who loved everybody. Prayers for Cheryl, his wife, and their family and all who loved and will miss Bill. Pray for one another.

I have always wondered what Paul was referring to when he speaks of "Third heaven," and so I looked it up. If it was covered in class I may have been absent that day. The ancient Jewish thought about the heavens was divided into three: First Heaven: This was considered to be the sky or the atmosphere surrounding the Earth, where the birds fly and the clouds move (Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 11:17). Second Heaven: This was seen as the realm where celestial bodies such as the sun, moon, and stars are located (Genesis 1:14-18; Psalm 19:1-6). Third Heaven: This was understood as the highest heaven, where God's presence dwells and where angels and heavenly beings reside. It is the realm of divine glory and perfection (Deuteronomy 10:14; 1 Kings 8:27; Psalm 115:16; Matthew 6:9; 2 Corinthians 12:2).

Paul's reference to being caught up to the "third heaven" suggests a visionary experience where he was granted a glimpse into the highest and most sacred realm of divine revelation and presence. This aligns with other mystical and visionary experiences recorded in Jewish and Christian literature, where individuals are granted insights into heavenly realms and divine mysteries (e.g., Ezekiel's visions, Daniel's visions, Revelation).

Therefore, when Paul speaks of the "third heaven," he is referring to a profound spiritual experience rather than a physical journey through layers of the atmosphere or space. It underscores his encounter with God's presence and the mysteries revealed to him in that moment. This understanding is rooted in the broader Jewish worldview of the cosmos and is reflected in various Jewish and Christian writings of the time.

In this passage Paul is led to share a profound revelation about the strength found in weakness. He describes a deeply personal experience of being given a "thorn in the flesh," which he interprets as a messenger of Satan sent to torment him. Despite pleading with God three times to remove it, God’s response was, "My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness."

Paul’s understanding of weakness is radically transformed through this encounter. He learns that God’s power shines brightest through human weakness. This revelation teaches us several important truths about our own lives and faith journey:

Firstly, weakness is not a hindrance but an opportunity for God’s power to manifest itself in our lives. When we face challenges, difficulties, or limitations, instead of seeing them as setbacks, we can see them as platforms for God to display His strength and grace.

Secondly, Paul’s acceptance of his weakness demonstrates humility and faith. Rather than striving to appear strong or capable in his own right, Paul embraces his vulnerabilities as avenues for God’s glory to be revealed. This challenges us to reframe our understanding of success and strength, acknowledging that true strength comes from relying on God’s grace.

Lastly, Paul’s declaration, "Whenever I am weak, then I am strong," encapsulates the paradoxical nature of Christian faith. It is in moments of our deepest inadequacy or vulnerability that we can experience the profound strength that comes from God alone.

PRAYER: Loving God, thank You for the example of the apostle Paul, who found strength in weakness through Your grace. Help us to embrace our weaknesses, knowing that Your power is made perfect in them. Teach us to rely on Your strength rather than our own, that we may glorify You in all circumstances. Grant us faith to trust in Your sufficiency and grace. In Jesus’ strong name we pray, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Reflect on a current weakness or challenge in your life. How can you shift your perspective to see it as an opportunity for God’s power to be displayed? Ask God to reveal His strength to you in that area and to help you rely more fully on His grace. Share your experience with a trusted friend or mentor, encouraging them with how God is working in your weakness.

I love you and I thank God for you,

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.

Facing Rejection with Faith

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1 Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were amazed. “Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What’s this wisdom that has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing? 3 Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him. 4 Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his relatives and in his own home.” 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hands on a few sick people and heal them. He was amazed at their lack of faith. 6 Then Jesus went around teaching from village to village. 7 Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits. 8 These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. 10 Whenever you enter a house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” 12 They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them. (Mark 6:1-13 NIV Bible)

"What family are you from?" Not the question a visitor to your church wants to hear is it? But there are churches like that, or better said, used to be. Many churches are truly family churches, years of being together led to marriage between the offspring of friends, and before too long everyone is related. The only "nonfamily" members would be the incoming pastor and his/her family. And the quizzing would begin in hopes of discovering some relation or familiarity between the church and the pastor. And, if you want to make a pastor feel awkward send him to his home church. I had two home churches, both El Buen Pastors; one in Kingsville and one in Houston. I never feared going to either as my career unfolded, but I knew the questions asked about Jesus would have been asked about me. "Isn't this Eradio and Maria's son?" "Wasn't his dad the milk man who moved to Houston some years ago?" The questions were leading to their making a decision to not let Jesus in with any of the honor other communities had shown him. Sadly, verse 5 gives them away, "He was amazed at their lack of faith." Gulp.

Despite the wisdom and miracles He shared, the people took offense because they knew Him merely as a carpenter's son. Their lack of faith limited the miraculous works Jesus could perform among them. This passage teaches us several valuable lessons about faith, rejection, and perseverance in our own journeys of discipleship.

Firstly, rejection can come even from those closest to us or from familiar places. Jesus experienced this firsthand, showing us that familiarity sometimes breeds contempt or disbelief. When we encounter rejection in our lives, especially when we are striving to follow God’s will, it can be disheartening. However, like Jesus, we are called to remain faithful and continue in our mission.

Secondly, Jesus responds to rejection with grace and continues His ministry elsewhere. He doesn’t dwell on the negativity or let it hinder His purpose. Instead, He sends out His disciples to spread the Gospel, equipping them with authority over evil and instructions to rely fully on God’s provision. This act demonstrates that God’s work cannot be confined or thwarted by human rejection or doubt.

As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His response to rejection. When faced with disbelief or resistance, we should continue in faith, trusting in God’s plan and provision. Just as Jesus sent out His disciples with authority and purpose, we too are commissioned to share the Gospel boldly, regardless of how others may perceive or respond to us.

PRAYER: Loving God, thank You for the example of Jesus, who faced rejection with grace and continued His mission faithfully. When we encounter disbelief or rejection in our lives, grant us the strength to persevere in faith. Equip us with your Holy Spirit, that we may boldly proclaim your Word and demonstrate your love through our actions. May we trust in your provision and follow your guidance wherever you lead us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a great and blessed day in the Lord! YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Reflect on a time when you faced rejection or disbelief because of your faith. How did you respond? Consider any areas in your life where fear of rejection might be hindering you from fully following God’s call. Pray for courage and trust in God’s provision as you seek to live out your faith boldly, knowing that God’s power is made perfect in our weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

I love you and thank God for you!

Pastor Eradio Valverde, Jr.