Follow Me

 # FollowMe

Dear Beloved in Christ,

Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! I pray this letter finds you in good health and high spirits, walking steadfastly in the path of righteousness. Today, I want to draw your attention to a powerful and thought-provoking passage from the Gospel of Luke that challenges us to reflect on our commitment to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.

In Luke 9:57-62, we encounter three individuals who, despite their initial expressions of willingness, ultimately fail to meet the expectations of discipleship that Jesus sets before them. Let us delve into this passage and examine the lessons it holds for us as followers of Christ.

Scripture: Luke 9:57-62 (NIV)"As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, 'I will follow you wherever you go.'

Jesus replied, 'Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.'

He said to another man, 'Follow me.'

But he replied, 'Lord, first let me go and bury my father.'

 Jesus said to him, 'Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.'

Still another said, 'I will follow you, Lord; but first let me go back and say goodbye to my family.'

Jesus replied, 'No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.'"

In these verses, we see three distinct interactions between Jesus and those who express a desire to follow Him. Each of these men represents different challenges and obstacles that can hinder our commitment to Christ.

1. The Enthusiastic Follower (Luke 9:57-58)

The first man boldly declares, "I will follow you wherever you go." His enthusiasm is commendable, but Jesus' response highlights the reality of discipleship. Following Jesus is not always comfortable or convenient. It requires a willingness to embrace a life of sacrifice and uncertainty. Jesus points out that even He, the Son of Man, has no permanent home. This serves as a reminder that true discipleship means prioritizing the spiritual journey over worldly comforts.

2. The Hesitant Follower (Luke 9:59-60)

To the second man, Jesus extends a direct invitation, "Follow me." However, this man hesitates, requesting permission to first bury his father. Jesus' response, "Let the dead bury their own dead," may seem harsh at first glance, but it underscores the urgency and priority of the kingdom of God. Our commitment to Christ must take precedence over even the most important earthly obligations. The call to proclaim the kingdom of God demands immediate and unwavering dedication.

3. The Distracted Follower (Luke 9:61-62)

The third man expresses a desire to follow Jesus but insists on saying goodbye to his family first. Jesus' reply, "No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God," emphasizes the importance of single-minded devotion. Just as a farmer must keep their eyes forward while plowing, a disciple must remain focused on Christ without being distracted by past attachments or worldly concerns. True discipleship requires undivided loyalty and a forward-looking faith.

Reflection and Application

As we reflect on these three interactions, let us examine our own hearts and commitment to following Jesus. Are we willing to embrace the sacrifices and uncertainties of discipleship? Are we prioritizing the kingdom of God above all else? Are we fully devoted to Christ without looking back?

Jesus calls each of us to a life of radical discipleship. He invites us to follow Him with wholehearted devotion, unwavering commitment, and single-minded focus. Let us respond to His call with the same enthusiasm, but with a deeper understanding of the cost and the unwavering determination to follow Him wherever He leads.

Prayer Point:

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the call to follow Your Son, Jesus Christ. We pray for the strength and courage to embrace the sacrifices and uncertainties that come with true discipleship. Help us to prioritize Your kingdom above all else and to remain steadfast in our commitment to You. Remove any distractions or hesitations from our hearts, and fill us with a single-minded devotion to follow You wholeheartedly. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

May the Holy Spirit empower us to live out this calling, and may we find strength and encouragement in the words of our Savior: "Follow me."

In Christ's Love,

Pst. JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

#FollowMe #Discipleship #Luke95762 #CommitmentToChrist #ChristianLiving #FaithJourney #JesusCall #KingdomOfGod #SingleMindedDevotion #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianReflection #PrayerPoint #ChristianCommunity #BibleStudy #GospelMessage

What Do You See?

What Do You See?

Dear Friends,

I hope this letter finds you well and filled with the peace that surpasses all understanding. Today, I want to invite you to ponder a profound question: What do you see? 

Let me draw your attention to a famous optical illusion known as the Old Woman/Young Woman Illusion. At first glance, some people see an old woman with a stooped nose and a downturned mouth, while others see a young woman looking away. Both perspectives are present, but often, our initial perception limits us to one view. It is only by shifting our perspective, by looking deeper, that we can see the other image hidden in plain sight.

This illusion is a powerful metaphor for our spiritual journey and our encounters with the divine. In the Gospel of John, Chapter 20, we find a poignant story of recognition and revelation that underscores this truth.

Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus, went to His tomb early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark. She saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance (John 20:1). Her immediate reaction was to run and tell Peter and the other disciple that the body of Jesus was missing (John 20:2). Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb and saw the linen cloths lying there, but they did not yet understand that Jesus had risen (John 20:3-10).

Mary, however, lingered at the tomb, weeping. She bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white, seated where Jesus’ body had been (John 20:11-12). They asked her why she was crying, and she replied that someone had taken her Lord away (John 20:13).

Then, turning around, Mary saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize it was Him. She thought He was the gardener and asked Him if He had taken the body away (John 20:14-15). It was only when Jesus said her name, "Mary," that she recognized Him and exclaimed, "Rabboni!" (which means Teacher) (John 20:16).

This moment is striking. Mary saw Jesus, but she did not recognize Him until she heard Him speak her name. Her recognition came through hearing, not just seeing. This narrative invites us to consider how we perceive Jesus in our own lives. Often, we may be looking for Him in certain ways, expecting Him to appear according to our preconceived notions. But Jesus can be present in ways we do not initially recognize, much like the hidden image in the Old Woman/Young Woman Illusion.

So, I ask you again: What do you see? When you look at your life, at the world around you, do you see Jesus? Are you like Mary, who saw but did not recognize, or are you attuned to His voice, ready to see Him in unexpected places and forms?

Jesus calls each of us by name, inviting us to recognize His presence. Sometimes, it takes a shift in our perspective, a deeper listening, to truly see Him. Just as Mary’s eyes were opened when she heard her name, our spiritual sight is often clarified when we tune in to His voice.

As we navigate our daily lives, let us strive to listen more intently, to be open to the ways Jesus might be revealing Himself to us. Whether in moments of joy or sorrow, in the faces of those we meet, or in the quiet whispers of our hearts, Jesus is there, calling us to see Him more clearly.

May we all develop the spiritual insight to perceive Jesus in every aspect of our lives, to recognize His voice, and to see Him with the eyes of faith.

Blessings to you all,

Pst. J.K. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

Event: Revival Center Hesperia's 2nd Anniversary Celebration

 

Event: Revival Center Hesperia's 2nd Anniversary Celebration

📅 Date: August 25, 2024
🕛 Time: Event starts at 12:00 PM 
📍 Location: Revival Center Hesperia, 10180 I Ave, Suite A, Hesperia, CA 92345

🎉 Theme: Our Testimony - (Year 2) Faith Doubled, Not Divided
📖 Scripture: Psalm 119:46 - "I will also speak of your testimonies before kings and shall not be put to shame."

Join us for a powerful and inspiring celebration as we commemorate our 2nd Anniversary at Revival Center Hesperia! This year's theme, "Our Testimony - (Year 2) Faith Doubled, Not Divided," reminds us of the strength and growth in our faith journey.

We are honored to have special guest speakers, including the esteemed Pastor Sharon Green and Sister Nancy Martey, who will share their testimonies and messages of faith. Don't miss this opportunity to be uplifted and encouraged!

Invite your friends and family to be part of this joyous occasion. We look forward to celebrating with you!

#RevivalCenterHesperia #2ndAnniversary #FaithDoubledNotDivided #Psalm11946

For more information, please contact us at [church phone number] or email us at revivalcenters.power@gmail.com.

Event details: https://fb.me/e/59ocRsHEM

Exodus 28 Part II Bible Study | The Sounds of the Living

 

https://www.youtube.com/live/O9ons2uSQyk?si=uR5zWU8Q4NRL0NM0 

🔔 Exodus 28 Part II Bible Study | The Sounds of the Living 🔔

Welcome to Revival Center Hesperia's in-depth Bible study series! In this session, we dive into Exodus 28 and explore the profound significance of the bells on the high priest's garments. Discover how these ancient symbols resonate with the holiness, reverence, and continuous intercession of our ultimate High Priest, Jesus Christ.

Join us as we uncover the rich Hebrew understanding of these "sounds of the living" and their timeless message for believers today.

🙏 Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insightful Bible studies!

📍 Location: Revival Center Hesperia, California

📆 Series: Exodus Bible Study

🔔 Topic: The Sounds of the Living (Exodus 28 Part II)

#RevivalCenterHesperia #BibleStudy #Exodus28 #SoundsOfTheLiving #HighPriest #BiblicalSymbols #JesusOurHighPriest

The Power We Receive from the Holy Spirit

 

Weekly BBB: July 14 - July 20, 2024

Weekly Theme: The Power We Receive from the Holy Spirit

This week, let’s focus on the incredible power we receive from the Holy Spirit. As believers, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live out our faith boldly and effectively, transforming our lives and those around us.

📖 Key Scriptures:

- Acts 1:8: "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."

- Romans 8:11: "And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you."

- Ephesians 3:16: "I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being."

The Holy Spirit equips us with the strength, wisdom, and courage to face life's challenges and to be effective witnesses of Christ’s love and salvation. This divine power is not just for spiritual tasks but for every aspect of our lives, enabling us to live victoriously.

🙏 Prayer Points:

- Pray for a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit, asking God to empower you with His divine strength.

- Ask for the wisdom and discernment to use the power of the Holy Spirit effectively in your daily life and ministry.

- Seek boldness and courage to be a witness for Christ, sharing His love and truth with others.

Reflecting on these scriptures and prayer points, let’s embrace the power of the Holy Spirit this week. Remember, the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead dwells within us, equipping us to overcome obstacles, to heal, to love, and to witness.

May we all experience a renewed sense of empowerment from the Holy Spirit, living each day with confidence and purpose. Let the power of God flow through us, transforming our lives and the lives of those we encounter. 🔥✝️✨ 

Subscribe to the Weekly Newsletter:  

#HolySpiritPower #WeeklyBBB #EmpoweredBySpirit #BBBFamily

Understanding the Details

🌟 Understanding the Details: Join Our Bible Study on Exodus 28 (Part 1)!🌟

Dive deep into the scriptures with our live Bible study session focusing on Exodus 28 (Part 1). Led by the insightful and inspiring Pst. JK Woodall, Ph.D., this session will enrich your understanding and strengthen your faith.

🎥 **Watch Live on YouTube: [Tune In Now](https://www.youtube.com/live/6rlhS4n9pP4?si=Hoe8Esu67DljJBl8)

✨ What to Expect:

- In-Depth Study: Explore the significance of Exodus 28.

- Historical Context: Understand the priestly garments and their symbolism.

- Interactive Q&A: Engage with the community and get your questions answered.

🔔 Why Attend?

- **Spiritual Growth**: Deepen your knowledge of the Bible.

- **Community Fellowship**: Connect with fellow believers.

- **Accessible**: Join from anywhere, anytime.

💬Why Watch?

- Insightful Teaching: Gain new perspectives on the scriptures.

- Engagement: Participate in live discussions.

- Enrichment: Enhance your spiritual journey.

📢 RSVP Now and Set Your Reminder!

- Click the link to join the live Bible study and be prepared for an enlightening experience.

🔗 Watch Live on YouTube**: (https://www.youtube.com/live/6rlhS4n9pP4?si=Hoe8Esu67DljJBl8)

🙏 Let's explore the profound teachings of Exodus 28 together. See you there!

#BibleStudy #Exodus28 #JKWoodall #YouTubeLive #SpiritualGrowth #ChristianCommunity #ScriptureStudy

In Pursuit

 

 God's Relentless Love

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Did you know that God’s love actively chases you? Psalm 23:6 says, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life." The word "follow" here is actually "radaph" in Hebrew, meaning to pursue or chase. Imagine God’s goodness and mercy not just walking behind you but actively seeking you out every moment of your life!

God’s love is relentless. His goodness (blessings and provision) and mercy (steadfast love) are always pursuing you, regardless of your circumstances. Even in your darkest times, His love is right there, chasing away your fears and filling you with His peace.

Feel overwhelmed? Remember, God’s love is actively chasing you. You are never alone or abandoned. Embrace this divine pursuit and let His goodness and mercy transform your life.

You are deeply loved and relentlessly pursued by God!

In Christ's love,

JK. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia 

#InPursuit #GodsLove #Psalm23 #RelentlessLove #Radaph #DivinePursuit #Faith #Blessings #Mercy #ChristianLife #NeverAlone