As I was adding The Christmas Train
A couple of books before The Christmas Train were the first and second in the long Kinsey Millhone series by Sue Grafton. The first was A Is For Alibi
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I haven’t had a lot of time for reading lately but did manage to finish off one I started during the Christmas holidays. It was another by one of my favorite authors, David Baldacci. Although its title is The Christmas Train
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For the pic-a-day post (sorry I’ve been a slacker lately) I wanted to show at least a couple of things. First, the guy getting on the bicycle is the postman. Many deliver on motorcycles (not scooters) and bicycles in the downtown area. Second, this shot shows the newly completed sidewalk. I felt I owed ya this one since I had posted a few in progress shots.
As I read through Mark 6:7-13 this morning, I wondered why Jesus told his disciples to take only a staff along on their journey. I used my trusted bible program and looked up the word “staff.” In both the OT and NT the word “staff” and “rod” are closely related. It is used in a variety of ways: to aid the lame to walk; to assist climbing rough terrain; as a weapon for protection; it was a symbol of discipline for a shepherd; used as a measuring rod to count the sheep in a fold; and often used as a symbol of authority – it was often used as proof of ownership: the owner’s name would be engraved on it, or their signature seal was attached for proof of rank of office, etc.
I love these word pictures! In Mark 6:7, Jesus sent his disciples out in pairs to do a “specific” task. As he sent them out he gave them His authority. I am reminded that God doesn’t send us out without “His authority” – he gives each of us His power of authority to fulfill specific tasks. He doesn’t send us out without “His Protection” – he goes before us and is our rear-guard wherever we go. He doesn’t send us out without “His Helper” – He has give us his Holy Spirit to prop us up and to enable us to face even the toughest of assignments. He doesn’t send us out without “His measuring rod” of discernment as we ask, “Is Jesus Christ your Lord and Saviour?” Only those that respond to the gospel can be counted among God’s kingdom as they pass under the measuring rod of His sheep-fold.
