Dear Explorer,
Read Luke 23:5-12
When the Priests and Pharisees told Pilate that Jesus was from Galilee, he saw a way of escape. He could simply turn Jesus over to Herod, who just “happened” to be in town.
I emphasize “happened” because I believe God was orchestrating each detail. Do you remember on Day 118 there was a statement that Herod wanted to see Jesus, but could not? I believe God was honoring that request.
Yes, this is the Herod that beheaded John the Baptizer. Now in Luke 23:8 we see the reason that he wanted to see Jesus. What was it?
What did Herod and his soldiers do when Jesus refused to answer them or provide entertainment for them?
Do you believe in 2nd chances? I believe God is a God of many, many chances. I believe God gave Herod one more chance to realize that Jesus really was the Messiah – yet, Herod wasted that chance because his god was entertainment.
It breaks my heart when an empty person dies because I know that he or she will spend eternity away from God. But this I KNOW. God did His part to show them His love. He sent people to love them and speak to them about Jesus. But God will not force them to invite Jesus into their lives. Remember that Romans 1:18-20 says that God has made it clear to them that He is their Creator and that He loves them.
I had a pastor tell me that he believed it took a lot of effort to avoid God's love. I agree!
In His service, dale
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