tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73497839576349631052024-03-14T00:02:02.127-07:00Jesus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' Early LifeDid you ever wonder what the early years of Jesus' life were like? Follow His first thirty years through the eyes of His mother. Her journal entries offer insight into the customs of Jewish boys during the early years of Jesus' life.Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-5663790145187840362015-01-03T20:22:00.002-08:002015-01-03T20:24:23.807-08:00Jesus and His Brother's<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
On <i>The O’Reilly Factor</i> a few days ago, Bill
O’Reilly read an email a viewer had submitted of scripture that named the
brothers of Jesus. Mr. O’Reilly emphatically replied that he and Martin Dugard
had determined through their research that Jewish families during Jesus’ time lived
in communal homes and every boy in the home was considered a brother. </div>
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Mr. O’Reilly’s research
is correct, but he fails to mention that many Jews also lived in single family
homes. Especially if the father worked in a carpentry shop, as Joseph would
have done. In those days, a carpenter shop was often located in the front of a dwelling,
while the family lived in rooms behind the shop. Instead of multiple families,
the larger communal homes were usually inhabited by many generations of one
family. Would cousins, uncles, fathers and grandfathers be considered brothers?</div>
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The only way to uncover
anything about Jesus’ life between the time He returned from Egypt until He
began His ministry at the age of thirty is through research and the study of
historic customs. The only scriptural insight into those years is the incident when
Jesus was twelve years old. The next verse is the only scripture mentioning the
eighteen silent years between the age of twelve and thirty. Luke 2:51 states,
“He went down to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. But his mother
treasured all these things in her heart and Jesus grew in wisdom and stature
and in favor with God and men.” </div>
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This is probably
the most powerful, totally ignored verse in the entire New Testament. This
scripture implies Jesus lived a very normal, well-disciplined earthly life for
eighteen years. He was not a rebel as some chose to assume, because rebels do
not grow in favor with God or man.</div>
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I am not trying to
convince anyone that my research is more accurate than anyone else’s, but to
present some facts that may suggest a different conclusion. After years of
research, I have discovered that scripture holds the answers I need if I am
willing to spend the time digging deeper into what is actually written. Using
scripture, I would like to offer a different theory from Mr. O’Reilly’s.</div>
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Matthew 13:55
asks, “Isn’t this the carpenter’s son? Isn’t his mother’s name Mary, and aren’t
his brothers James, Joseph, Simon and Judas? Aren’t all his sisters with us?” If
Jesus lived in a communal environment where everyone is considered one big
family and all the boys are brothers wouldn’t the other women in that community
also be considered Jesus’ mother?
Matthew clearly recognizes Jesus’ mother and His brothers by name. In
this scripture, Matthew gives the same personal relationship to these four men
and sisters as he does Jesus’ mother, Mary, whom we know is Jesus’ biological
mother. </div>
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In Mark 6:3, the question
is again asked, “Isn’t this the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and brother of
James, Joseph, Judas and Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” Mark also
recognizes this same personal relationship with the mother and the brothers and
sisters.</div>
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We also know
Joseph and Mary had sexual relations after Jesus was born. Matthew 1:25 clearly
states, “But he (Joseph) had no union with her (Mary) until she gave birth to a
son.” Every word of the scripture is God-breathed so if God didn’t intend for
them to have intimate union, why would Matthew add “until she gave birth to a
son” to his statement. </div>
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Mary was a young
healthy girl, and Joseph was a healthy young man. They had an intimate
relationship. The only means of birth control was natural. The scripture offers
no indication that other children were not conceived during their sexual
encounters. If fact, scripture references and human behavior suggest the
opposite result. </div>
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The fact that
scripture states Jesus grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man
implies Jesus was not an only child. How many only children do you know who grow
in favor with God and man? His family was part of His life experience. Jesus
had such an in-depth understanding of the trials and tribulations of earthly
life because He was exposed to everyday life including relationships between siblings
and cousins.</div>
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Luke 3:23 states,
“Jesus was the son, so it was thought, of Joseph”. God wanted people to think
Jesus was the son of Joseph until the time came for God’s plan to be fulfilled.
He did not want Jesus to stand out as being different in any way. With two
healthy earthly parents, would it have been unusual for Jesus to be an only
child? </div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%; text-indent: .5in;">
The bottom line, as
Mr. O’Reilly would say, I cannot disprove Bill O’Reilly’s assumption, but
neither can he disprove mine. The fact that only four men were specifically
mentioned as Jesus’ brothers by two of Jesus’ closest friends implies their
relationship was more than a communal friend. And because they were mentioned
in the same context as His mother, Mary, perhaps these men were indeed his half-brothers
who shared the same mother and the same earthly father, but only Jesus had a heavenly
Father. Some day we will know with certainty the final answer to all our
questions. Until then, we can only make an informed decision based on research
and information God provides through the scripture.</div>
Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-64089908217410015712012-11-02T20:59:00.004-07:002012-11-02T20:59:49.114-07:00Jesus' Instructions Concerning "Share the Wealth"<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>Am I My Brother’s Keeper?</strong></div>
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Today there is much talk about how people who have been greatly blessed should “share your wealth” with those who are less fortunate. Many Christians have been convinced this is their duty. I believe all Christians should and would gladly share their wealth with those who are mentally or physically incapable of helping themselves. If not for the grace of God, we could all be in that position. But what does God really say about sharing the wealth so all can be equal? <br />
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Using The Message version, in the third chapter of Paul’s second letter to the Thessalonians, he tells the new Christians in verse 13, “Friends, don’t slack off in doing your duty.” Many have interpreted this command to say a Christian’s duty is to help everyone. <br />
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If you go back to verse 10, Paul says, “Don’t you remember the rule we had when we lived with you? “If you don’t work, you don’t eat.” And now we’re getting reports that a bunch of lazy good-for-nothings are taking advantage of you.”<br />
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Paul’s next instruction to these Christians says “This must not be tolerated. We command them to get to work immediately—no excuses, no arguments—and earn their own keep.” <br />
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If you keep going up to verse 6, you can read Paul’s specific orders, “Our orders—backed up by the Master, Jesus—are to refuse to have anything to do with those among you who are lazy and refuse to work the way we taught you. Don’t permit them to freeload on the rest. We showed you how to pull your weight when we were with you, so get on with it. We didn’t sit around on our hands expecting others to take care of us. In fact, we worked our fingers to the bone, up half the night moonlighting so you wouldn’t be burdened with taking care of us. And it wasn’t because we didn’t have a right to your support; we did. We simply wanted to provide an example of diligence, hoping it would prove contagious.” <br />
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How has our government convinced so many hard-working Christians that it is their duty to “share their wealth” with the good-for-nothings among us who refuse to work? This thinking certainly did not come form God’s word. Instead God tells us that if we tolerate such behavior, we encourage people to become slothful. In I Thessalonians 4:12, Paul says, “We want you living in a way that will command the respect of outsiders, not lying around sponging off your friends.” <br />
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Ever since the beginning of the Christian church, God has never expected His children to share their hard-earned blessings to support able-bodied men who simply “choose” to not work but lie around sponging off others. <br />
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Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-38286328322365892962012-02-08T19:51:00.000-08:002012-02-08T19:55:13.093-08:00Jesus Redeemed at the TempleThis week Joseph and Mary would take Jesus to the beautiful temple to fulfill the requirement of the Redemption Ceremony. The first born son of every Jewish family belonged to God. The baby must be presented at the Gate of the Firstborn in the Court of Men in the temple. The requirement for this sacrifice was an unblemished lamb. Mary and Joseph offered two doves. Why? That is all they could afford. They held a king, but could only afford the sacrifice of the poor. <br />
God doesn't care about the value of the sacrifice. He only cares that the commandment is obeyed.Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-9635210540050926542012-01-14T21:13:00.000-08:002012-01-14T21:17:03.799-08:00Jesus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' MinistryMy second book, Jesus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' Ministry has been printed. The approval copy has been sent, but I have not received it yet. No matter how many books you write, there is an excitment when each one is published. It is almost like having a baby, but the pain doesn't come until long after it is published. Writing this book has been a very rewarding experience for me. I have learned so much about the three and one-half years Jesus walked upon the earth performing miracles and teaching parables. As Mary talks to the people who receive these miracles, she also learns much about her son and the message he is preaching. I have begun the third of the series. This will be the most difficult to write...because we all know the ending. But do we know it through Mary's eyes. What did she think when she saw Judas come down the stairs and leave the house where Jesus and his followers were observing this celebration. How did she feel when the soldiers took Jesus away? She didn't hear any of the conversation or see the betrayal kiss. What did she think happened? Give me some ideas and I will give you credit in my next book.Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-47612543569464152102012-01-06T21:11:00.000-08:002012-01-06T21:11:49.425-08:00Jesus is Circumcised<em>On the eighth day Mary's son was circumcised and given the name Jesus. Matthew 1:25</em><br />
Around this time of year Jesus was circumcised and given a name. This name was given to Mary by the angel Gabriel when he first spoke to Mary. What if Mary had disobeyed and given her son another name? That couldn't happen because Mary obeyed unconditionally, but do you ever think "What if?"<br />
Where were they staying when Jesus was circumcised? Did they have enough money to return home before they had to come back 30 days later to offer Jesus in the Gate of the Firstborn for the Redemption Ceremony? They could have decided to stay in Bethlehem. If so, were they still in the cave that was the stable where Jesus was born?<br />
Who performed the circumcision? It was not unusual for the father to circumcise his son. They could have had a priest, but Joseph probably would have assisted. Jesus suffered from that pain just as your children suffer today. Mary probably cried when he cried--just as mothers do today. <br />
Every pain, trial, temptation we encounter today was encountered by Mary and Jesus those many years ago. He is such a loving savior because He knows our pains. He experienced them just like we do today. He can help us through rough times because He knows firsthand how we feel. All we have to do is ask.<br />
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<br />Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-50481886303516104322011-12-13T20:49:00.001-08:002011-12-13T20:51:42.348-08:00Mary's Christmas Similiar to Ours TodayTonight I received the best Christmas gift possible. I just got home from speaking at chapel services in PeeWee Valley Women’s Correctional Institute. The reaction of the women was one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. I learned that the best gift anyone can receive comes from giving your time doing something for God.<br />
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Talking about Mary’s view of that first Christmas uncovered many similarities with the Christmas most of those women will have this year. Mary certainly didn’t think she would be giving birth to the son of God in a lowly stable surrounded by animals. Many of those ladies tonight certainly didn’t think they would be spending this Christmas incarcerated. I certainly didn’t think I would ever be speaking about a book I had written.<br />
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It is amazing how we often end up in unusual situations. But it is up to each individual to make the most of each circumstance. Mary could only praise God for the blessing He had given her in the form of a baby boy. I praise God for giving me the ability to share my story and hopefully brighten their Christmas. I hope each of those women will make an effort to use the time they have to the best of their ability. <br />
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The only thing that can hold anyone prisoner is their mind. As long as God gives us the ability to think and learn, we are free. When I look at all the hustle and bustle of this season and the worried expressions on the faces of most people during this season, I almost envy the solitude and quiet within those walls. What an awesome opportunity to spend some quality time with God.<br />
<br />Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-82246308672920463352011-12-04T20:06:00.001-08:002011-12-04T20:11:19.474-08:00Mary's Thoughts the Night Before she Begins the Journey to Bethlehem"Everything is packed and ready to go. A good night's sleep would be wonderful, but I doubt if that will happen. All the pains, aches and swelling that women encounter when carrying a child have not made for good sleep companions. These last few months have been most uncomfortable." <br />
Mary's excerpt from <em>Jesus My Son</em> reminds us that Mary endured a very normal pregnancy. How awesome is that!<br />
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<br />Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-43914795453506081892011-11-29T19:49:00.001-08:002011-11-29T19:52:47.079-08:00Celebrating Christmas -- Through Mary's Eyes<strong>Celebrating Christmas -- Through Mary's Point of View</strong> <br />
It's getting close to Christmas. What was Mary thinking about this time as she prepared to travel on a donkey for 90 miles to Bethlehem? <br />
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We will leave early in the morning for the long trip to Bethlehem. It should take five or six days if everything goes as planned. My baby is due to arrive any time now. According to my estimates, he was conceived by the Holy Spirit nine months ago this time next week. My stomach is big and my body is telling me the time is soon. I’m starting to look exactly like Elizabeth right before John’s birth. Joseph is still hoping we can register for our taxes before the baby is born. He says if we get there after the birth, our taxes would increase. <br />
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Though the road will be crowded, we will be traveling alone most of the way because we will have to take more rests than the others. I am not sure how much bouncing on Droopy I can take in one day. We will start out with one group and then join other groups as we stop to rest and others come alone. Since everyone must go, there will be a constant flow of travelers. One worry I have is the thieves who take advantage of people on the trail. If Joseph and I are alone, we are easy prey for the predators. Although there is danger, I know God will take care of us. After all, I am carrying His son, but that fact still will not find a resting place in my mind.<br />
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<br />Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-85388716145388162662011-09-06T08:43:00.000-07:002011-09-06T08:44:47.068-07:00Jesus My Son: Mary' Journal of Jesus MinistryDear Followers,<br />
In the form of Mary's Journal, I plan to keep you updated with the progress of my second novel in the Jesus My Son series.<br />
I have chosen to publish my second book with WestbowPress. After much prayer and discussion with multiple publishers, I chose Westbow. I pray God will bless that decision for me and my publisher.<br />
I am currently working with a representative to gather all the necessary submission copy for the publication. If you think writing a novel is hard, wait until you have to prepare the copy. Imagine trying to condense 76,000 words into 200 words to appear on the back of my cover. <br />
I have enlisted the help of friends to read the manuscript and comment on content and errors. I appreciate everyone who so graciously pointed out my errors. Really, there is nothing better than a keen eye to review your writing.<br />
I remember when my granddaughter, Autum, pointed out the first error in my first novel. I felt like someone had struck the baby I had been nurturing for six years. The error was small and it took me three times to find it even after she told me the page number. I am trying hard to make this book perfect with no errors! May need a few extra special prayers for that one...<br />
That is it for now. I just wanted to share with you the progress to date. <br />
Will hopefully post a weekly update for everyone to view.<br />
Dear Lord, please bless this work and the words You have given me for this second novel of Mary's Journal. I have thoroughly enjoyed the learning experince of creating this journal and pray that I can convey my new knowledge to all my readers. AmenMary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-26027007052035084502011-08-02T21:27:00.000-07:002011-08-02T21:27:10.133-07:00Jesus and the Woman caught in AdultryHi, friends and fellow bloggers. Sorry it has been so long since I have written, but I plan to try to blog at least once a week. The blogs may be short, but I do want to keep in touch.<br />
I have a question for you. When the scribes and Pharisees brought the woman caught in the act of adultery to Jesus and he stooped to write on the ground, what do you think he wrote?<br />
My second book is finished, but I want to write more on that journal entry. After attending revival at Peaks Mill Christian Church tonight, the pracher sparked a question about that incident. I am going to update this chapter and would like to receive input from YOU. If I use your idea I will give you credit in my book. Make your idea as unique as possible, but it must also be believable. <br />
It should be fun to read your ideas.Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-23407684157157311302011-04-25T19:26:00.000-07:002011-04-25T19:26:19.193-07:00LIMITED TIME offer for Jesus My Son + $100's Bonus Gifts and Prizes<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Are you searching for a unique Mother’s Day gift?</span></div><br />
Join Mary Bailey on Wednesday, April 27, 2011, for a campaign for <em>Jesus My Son: Mary’s Journal of Jesus’ Early Life</em>. Purchase a hardcopy at Amazon.com from seller MRBent and receive a 35% discount. Get immediate access to $100’s worth of valuable free bonus gifts and prizes.<br />
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What gift could be more special than a journal written by God’s chosen mother about the everyday activities of the son she shared with our Father? Any mother will enjoy listening to Mary’s heart as she pours out her emotions in her journal entries. <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: red;">Mary’s journal offers a fresh perspective to a very old story</span>.</div><br />
A reader writes, “The story, written as if Mary, mother of Jesus, was keeping a journal of her life, drew me in and absorbed me completely from beginning to end.” <br />
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View all the Bonus gifts you can receive and the prizes you can win just by ordering <strong><span style="color: red;"><u>one</u></span></strong> book.<br />
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Share this blog with your friends and family.Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-29109969184707201802011-04-13T20:50:00.000-07:002011-04-13T20:50:10.996-07:00Where has the time gone?I can't believe my last post was in March.<br />
I have been busy packing up things in Florida to come back to KY. I arrived home the day before spring break started for my grandchildren. I am so happy most of them were allowed to spend a few nights with us during their break. We also got to go for a donkey ride in Owen County. What a fun day.<br />
Now I am busy working on a book campaign I will launch on April 27. I have been extremely busy, but that is not an excuse to forget my blog.<br />
I promise to do better this summer. I want to keep everyone updated about my book campaign.Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-52457491271726468242011-03-10T19:48:00.000-08:002011-03-10T19:48:05.678-08:00Tired of homosexuality displayed on TVI just turned off The Mentalist and will not watch it again. I have always enjoyed the show, but I am so tired of having homosexuals thrown into my face every time I watch TV anymore. <br />
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I am not judgemental and don't really care what people do, but I do believe homosexuality is a sin. People sin all the time and I can't stop that, but it is repulsive for me to watch two men or two women being sexually involved. I refuse to watch any more shows where homosexuality is displayed. <br />
I apologize if this offends anyone. I have some dear friends who are homesexuals. They respect my belief and do not flaunt their relationship in my presence. I enjoy their company. I am not condeming them.<br />
I am condeming the TV stations for flaunting homosexuality in every show they produce anymore.<br />
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Just wondering, what kind of journal entry Mary would have written tonight. Her prayer would be:<br />
Dear Lord, please give me the wisdom to know what you would have me to say and do and the courage to fight for what I think is right for my children and grandchildren.Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-49103555051313990952011-02-14T21:11:00.000-08:002011-02-14T21:11:57.773-08:00Valentine's Day--A Day of LoveHow did you spend the day dedicated to recognizing the love of your life? <br />
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Darrel, my husband, gave me a ruby necklace packaged in a beautiful red velvet heart-shaped box with a few chocolate hearts when I got up this morning. There was also a live rose fresh from Sear’s rose garden. <br />
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I appreciated his thoughtfulness, but the plethora of red in the stores during this season makes it easy to remember Valentine gifts. <br />
Wouldn’t it be nice to receive a gift of love the first thing every morning? Truly that gift is available just by asking. God wants to shower His children with His plethora of blessings each day. Unused blessings are the biggest waste of our lives.<br />
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Maybe we should make a new resolution for the rest of the year. Begin each day open to receive the blessings God wants us to have. He gave the ultimate gift of love through His son and wants us to receive the grace that gift allowed us to have. Ask for it and you will receive.<br />
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Do you have a Valentine story to share? I am working on an article and want to hear your story. Comment with your story and automatically be entered to win a copy of <em>Jesus My Son: Mary’s Journal of Jesus’ Early Life. </em>Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-6193336211879491512011-01-18T21:21:00.000-08:002011-01-18T21:25:40.689-08:00Mary's View: Why God chose Mary to be the Mother of His son“For nothing is impossible with God” Luke 1:37<br />
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Did Mary really write a journal? Most scholars will say girls during Mary’s time were not able to write. But is it possible? Yes, it is and how much better is Jesus’ story when written by His mother. There is so much during Jesus’ early life that only Mary would know. If we are not allowed to believe she wrote these events for us to know the real Jesus, how will we ever learn of them?<br />
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(The following blog uses excerpts from Chapter One of <em>Jeus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' Early Life)</em><br />
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When the angel greeted Mary, she wondered why God had chosen her. She was a humble peasant girl with no unique qualities except one. <br />
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<em> The only difference between me and all the other girls is my ability to read and write.</em><br />
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Girls during those times, as a rule, did not read nor write. So how did Mary learn these skills?<br />
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<em> Fortunately, my parents believed in the importance of education for girls as well as boys.</em><br />
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Did Mary enjoy using her writing skills? <br />
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<em> Like the patriarch, David, with his holy verses of praise, my love for writing is only second to my love of serving my dear Lord.</em><br />
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Writing material was scarce during Mary’s time. How did she obtain the material she needed to learn the skill or to record in her journal?<br />
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<em> Since both my parents work closely with the priests in the synagogue, they have access to the parchment and papyrus left from the priests’ studies. They bring home every scrap piece of writing material and every extra drop of ink they can find to encourage us to write.</em><br />
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God looked at Mary’s heart and saw that she was worthy to be the mother of the Messiah. Did Mary think her ability to write may have influenced God’s choice?<br />
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<em>God knew I would be compelled to record the events of his son to tell the world things that only a mother would know. Surely that is one of the reasons God chose me.</em><br />
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<em>Mary Bailey is the author of Jesus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' Early Life. Visit <a href="http://www.jesusmyson.com/">http://www.jesusmyson.com/</a> for more information.</em>Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-68352020842150989832011-01-12T11:59:00.000-08:002011-01-12T11:59:02.888-08:00Mary's View: Losing God's Son in the TempleHave you ever lost a child? I lost my two-year old son one sunny Sunday afternoon when a few mothers from church decided to take our children to a carnival. The group was walking along when suddenly I couldn’t find my son. <br />
My sister and I frantically retraced our path asking everyone if they had seen a little boy with a burr haircut. No one had seen him. I dreaded telling my husband how I had lost his son. <br />
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A few minutes later I saw him standing under the Ferris wheel just watching the people go around. When I ran up and grabbed him, he couldn’t understand all the tears. He didn’t realize he was lost.<br />
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When I hear the story of Mary losing her twelve year old son in the temple, I recall the fear I felt that day. I can’t imagine how Mary must have felt.<br />
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<em> We had lost Jesus—the son God had entrusted to our care.</em><br />
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This trip was special to Mary because at the age of twelve<br />
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<em> Jesus will soon graduate from one of the schools of the synagogue of Nazareth. He will be presented to us by the rulers as a responsible citizen of Israel.</em><br />
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Joseph searched throughout their caravan to no avail. Jesus could not be found. With no other choice they headed back to Jerusalem in search of their lost son. Did Mary not worry knowing this was God’s son and He would take care of him? Not quite--she was a mother.<br />
<br />
<em> The roads are not safe and I knew something bad had happened for Jesus not to come to our site. I repeatedly apologized to God for losing His precious son.</em><br />
<br />
When Mary found him, I am sure she was as relieved as I was.<br />
<br />
<em> I wanted to rush to him with hugs and kisses before I scolded him for not staying with us.</em><br />
<br />
Did Mary forget who Jesus was? If she did, Jesus reminded her.<br />
<br />
<em> He looked me straight in the eyes and respectfully asked, “Mother, why were you searching for me? Don’t you know that I must be about my father’s business?”</em><br />
<br />
As any mother today, Mary worried for her lost son. Nothing can replace the bond between a mother and a child.<br />
<br />
<em> He is still my flesh and blood. My heart will always have a special place for him.</em><br />
<br />
It doesn’t matter how confident we are that God has us in the palm of his hands, there are times when worry is the only thing a mother knows to do. We easily forget that the angels who watch over our children are the same ones who sat at God’s throne every day.<br />
<br />
Mary is the author of <a href="http://www.jesusmyson.com/">Jesus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' Early Life</a>Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-32681357054523591522011-01-07T06:35:00.000-08:002011-01-07T06:35:23.510-08:00Mary’s View: Did Jesus Perform Miracles at Home?<style>
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<div class="MsoNormal"> <span></span>Did you ever wonder if Jesus performed miracles when he was living at home with his earthly family? John records Jesus’ first public miracle when he turned the water to wine at a wedding in Cana.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span> </span> </div><div class="MsoNormal">Why was this wedding so important to Mary that she would be concerned about the wine shortage? If she was a guest, she may have felt sorry for the bridegroom since it was a disgrace to run out of wine, but would she want Jesus to expose his abilities for some wine? The ceremony must have been extremely important to Mary for her to want Jesus to identify his ministry to these people over a wine shortage.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>We know Jesus had brothers and sisters. We also know weddings were a very important event during Jesus time. Most would last for a week.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>This particular wedding could have been one of Jesus’ brothers or sisters. Since it was of such value to Mary, perhaps it was the wedding of her youngest daughter. Jesus is believed to have been around 30, so Mary’s youngest daughter would have been around 12 or 13 which is the accepted age for Jewish girls to marry during Jesus’ time.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>Mary simply said to Jesus, “They have no wine.” She didn’t ask him to do anything. She just made a statement. She knew Jesus would be concerned if the groom of his little sister was embarrassed at their wedding.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>Jesus replied, “Woman, what does that have to do with us? My hour has not yet come.”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>Woman? Why would Jesus call his mother woman? Perhaps this was a term of endearment Jesus had used for Mary before. It almost implies he was teasing Mary. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>Mary wasn’t upset with the salutation because she turned to the servants and said, “Whatever He says to you, do it.”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>Mary knew without a doubt Jesus could fix the wine shortage. She didn’t ask him to do anything. She knew he would do it because she had seen him do so much more at their home in Nazareth.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>He knew how important it was to his mother and little sister and he could not bear to disappoint them. His little sister was marrying the man of her dreams and he wanted the ceremony to be one she would remember forever. He may have also thought this was the last time he would see her.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>By the power of two persuasive women, Jesus did perform the miracle and John was there to record it.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>So did Jesus perform miracles at home? Mary would not have known Jesus could fix the wine shortage if she had not witnessed similar things at home. <span> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>This miracle also reinforced to the six followers he had already chosen that he was indeed the Messiah with special powers. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span></span>John writes about a lot of events the other disciples don’t mention. He knew of the importance of this miracle to show Jesus’ concern for his earthly family. To identify this as just a first miracle is an injustice to the relationship of Jesus and his family.<span> </span>He performed this miracle for his little sister and his mother whom he deeply loved.</div>Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-38908984606660714142010-12-29T12:40:00.000-08:002010-12-29T12:40:33.735-08:00The Empty Nest: Through Her Eyes<style>
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Mary’s experience as a mother was not unlike the lives of mothers today. Despite her faith, as Jesus grew older, her fear and uncertainty became tangible. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“While writing in my journal today, tears fill my eyes as I slowly scan my house full of children. Everyone is here except Elizabeth. She is home with her husband and two little boys who are the delight of our lives. Thankfully, Elizabeth and Amos live close enough to visit often. It is heart warming to have young children in the house again.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Simon and his wife, Leah, have already reclined into the room Joseph and I shared for many years. Leah joined our family a few months ago and has already taken over many of the household tasks. She has been a blessing for me and my sons. My heart grows warm as I watch them enjoy each other’s company. By the gentle way they touch each other, I know they are as much in love as Joseph and I were.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Judas is here now, but he may leave any minute. He enjoys visiting his friends and only God knows what they are doing. I pray a lot for him. Every time he leaves the house, I utter a simple prayer for God to please bring him back safely.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">My miracle child, Sarah, is sitting at the doorway hoping Joel may come for a visit any moment. Since she met the young boy at the well on his return trip to his hometown, Cana, she has done nothing but talk and think about him. Reminds me of my first encounter with Joseph. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I look around and see a house full of children, yet my heart feels empty. There is one missing. My first born son, Jesus, is not here. Physically, he is sitting outside under the big tree with a little bird perched on his shoulder, but he is no longer in my house. Since cousin John came to visit a few months ago to tell Jesus of the angel’s visit, Jesus has been with him. John said he was going to the Jordan to prepare the way for our Messiah. Since the first day I visited Elizabeth and her baby leaped in her womb, I knew this day would come, but never did I expect it to be so difficult. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Jesus has been my child for 30 years. Did my Lord really expect me to let him go like I never knew him? God should know it is impossible for a mother to ever stop loving a child. </div><div class="MsoNormal">God’s plan is for children to leave their mothers. Elizabeth left my house to live with a loving husband and the hope of a new and glorious life as a wife and mother. Jesus will be leaving with… well, I don’t know what. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I know the angel Gabriel promised me Jesus would inherit the throne of David and a kingdom. Joseph did not get to witness the kingdom we anticipated for our entire married life. I fear I may. </div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: left;">Dear God, the fulfillment of Your promise is my desire. I fear it is near and I must prepare my family for what is to be. Please give me the strength and wisdom I need. My dear God, You know I will comply with any plan You have for my life, but do You realize how hard it will be for me to give him back? For 30 years I have witnessed him grow in stature and in favor with all men, and in wisdom beyond man’s comprehension. </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: left;">Only You know what will happen to him. I pray I will be able to follow him in his journey and continue to record my version of his life. As always, I remain your bond servant to do your will.”</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.5in; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div><div class="MsoNormalIndent" style="text-align: left;"><i>Mary Bailey is the author of “Jesus My Son: Mary’s Journal of Jesus’ Early Life.” For more information, visit www.jesusmyson.com.</i></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> <br />
<span style="font-family: Cambria;"></span></div>Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-80560914919227643242010-12-22T07:24:00.000-08:002010-12-22T07:25:19.203-08:00The Christmas Story: Through Mary's Eyes<div style="text-align: center;">What do the 145 verses found in Matthew and Luke really tell us about the true Christmas story?</div><div class="article"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="article">An in-depth look at Matthew’s story reveals facts Joseph would know: <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormalIndent"><br />
</div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Mary and Joseph were betrothed. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Mary was found to be with child.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Joseph planned to send her away secretly.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>The angel appeared to Joseph.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>He awoke and took Mary as his wife.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Jesus was born.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>The Eastern Magi visit the couple.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>An angel appears to Joseph who immediately takes his family to Egypt.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>The family returned to Nazareth.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in;"><br />
</div><div class="article">An in-depth look at Luke’s story reveals facts Mary would know:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormalIndent"><br />
</div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Gabriel visited Zachariah announcing the birth of John the Baptist.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Gabriel visited Mary.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Mary hurried to visit Elizabeth.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>John the Baptist was born.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Jesus was born.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>The shepherds visited the stable.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>Jesus was presented in the temple.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .75in; text-indent: -.25in;"><span style="font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span>The family returned to Nazareth. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormalIndent"><br />
</div><div class="article">Are these men writing about the same birth? Aside from the family’s return to Nazareth, the only event that is the same is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">the birth of Christ, <o:p></o:p></i></b></div><div class="MsoNormalIndent"><br />
</div><div class="article">Many educated men and organizations have tried to take this fact out of the reason for the Christmas season. But even the scripture shows us that all the other celebrations and events leading up to that miraculous event are not important. If we take the birth of Christ out of Christmas, we have no reason to celebrate. There is no holiday. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
</div><div class="article">In the form of a tiny human baby, Mary gave us the greatest gift. Because of this gift, God gives us the ultimate gift of eternity. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
</div><div class="article">When you receive gifts, do you leave them lying around unopened? Do they sit under the tree for years before you rip into the paper to see what is inside? So why do we not open the greatest gift we could possibly receive in our lifetime? <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
</div><div class="article">When we open the gift God wants to give us, we receive a new life; a life filled with peace and joy. The turmoil and anxiety created by the commercialization of the season disappear.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
</div><div class="article">Because of Mary’s willingness to serve her Lord, this gift is always available. All we have to do is open it.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalIndent">I pray you have a very blessed Christmas and a New Year filled with all the blessings God wants to give you.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="article"><br />
</div><div class="article">Mary<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormalIndent"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormalIndent"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Mary Bailey is the author of “Jesus My Son: Mary’s Journal of Jesus’ Early Life.” For more information, visit www.jesusmyson.com.<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="article"><br />
</div>Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-55184385483710418982010-12-13T14:01:00.000-08:002010-12-13T14:01:51.939-08:00Jewish Customs: Through Mary's Eyes<!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Through her journal, Mary brings readers on a journey as she, Joseph and baby Jesus take part in many of the Jewish customs and ceremonies of today. As parents living under the Law of Moses, Mary and Joseph were required to perform certain ceremonies. Although Jesus was God’s son, Mary never assumed her son might be exempt from these requirements:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Evidently God wants His son to go through the same experiences and emotions as every other boy. Until I am aware of the requirements of a Messiah, I must treat him as an ordinary child.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">According to Jewish law, a male baby must be circumcised eight days after the birth. Since Mary would be considered unclean until after her purification ceremony, she could not participate, but could only imagine the scene:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I can picture the priest taking Joseph’s strong steady hand and skillfully guiding it until the first few drops of precious blood were shed. The first tears of pain were also. At that time Joseph told the priest his name is Jesus… Today Jesus became an infant Jew; a son of the family of David.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">No more than 33 days after the circumcision, Jewish women must be purified from their bleeding through a cleansing ceremony in the temple:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I dropped my offering into the huge trumpets… the incense floated into the blue morning sky. I am considered Levitically clean from my flow of blood; free of stain. What a wonderful feeling.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">After Mary’s cleansing, Jesus was presented in the temple for the redemption ceremony: <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The first-born child is, according to the Law of Moses, God’s property… the father must offer the male son to God.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">By the Law of Moses, the first-born male must be bought back from God through a sacrifice of an unblemished lamb. If the family could not afford a lamb, two doves would be acceptable. The entire day, Mary anticipated a more worthy sacrifice than the two doves they could afford. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The unblemished lamb I had hoped would miraculously appear did not. With our 16 shekels we purchased two turtledoves… Apparently God did not agree with the importance I had placed on the item to be sacrificed.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">She and Joseph walked to the door of the Court of Women where, by law, Mary had to wait as Joseph took Jesus to the Gate of the Firstborn in the Court of Priests to present Jesus for the redemption ceremony:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The priest examined our child and found him to be free of bodily blemishes. Joseph redeemed him with five shekels and two doves. Watching from a distance, I could only imagine the relief and pride on Joseph’s face.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Mary obediently followed the Jewish customs because they were required by God. Although Jesus may have helped write most of these commands, Mary realized God expected his son to be treated as all other Jewish children. As an earthly son, Jesus participated in the same life experiences as children today.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Join Mary on her magnificent journey through the first 30 years of Jesus’ life in <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus My Son: Mary’s Journal of Jesus’ Early Life</i>, available at <a href="http://amzn.to/dptezz">Amazon</a> and <a href="http://bit.ly/arkZX9">Barnes and Noble</a>.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><br />
</div><!--EndFragment-->Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-52677460040631775782010-12-08T07:44:00.001-08:002010-12-08T07:46:29.937-08:00Mary's Early Motherhood: Through Her Eyes<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Today, mothers usually learn from a doctor or through a home pregnancy test that they have conceived a baby - but not Mary. Through her journal, readers can join her on her journey and experience the emotion she felt when she learned from an angel that she was going to become a mother - and not just any mother: <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“You will conceive in your womb and bring forth a son. He will be great and will be called the son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The long awaited Messiah was going to be born in Nazareth to a humble, peasant girl. She had no reason for worry, yet like most mothers, she was still anxious: <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Why am I worried? I am carrying the son of God. Joseph and my parents will be as delighted as I am, won’t they?”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Mary looked forward to becoming a mother, but because of Joseph’s disbelief, her future was uncertain. She never doubted her ability to be a good mother. Her only concern was that she would be unable to give this child back to his heavenly father when he called for him:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“He will take nourishment from my body for nine months. He will drink from my breast for two years. How can I bear to give him back to You?”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">When the time came for Mary’s child to be delivered, she was frantic to find a suitable place. She struggled with the thought of becoming a mother in a stable full of animals. She thought that God would certainly provide a more worthy place for the birth of his son, but it wasn’t to be:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“I wanted to insist we travel further, but my mind finally surrendered to the demands of my body. It didn’t seem to matter to this precious little baby whether we were in a mansion or a stable.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Reaching motherhood in a dark, dusty stable surrounded by God’s creatures was not how Mary had dreamed this miraculous event would happen. Although alone, she had her heavenly father to guide her.<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“The voice of the midwife who attended Elizabeth echoed in my mind. I obeyed her command and pushed as hard as I could until my son finally arrived.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">In one of the lowliest places in the city, Mary became the mother of God’s son. She cuddled her baby, felt his breath on her cheeks and fell in love as only a mother can. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">Join Mary on her magnificent journey through the first 30 years of Jesus' life through <i>Jesus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' Early Life</i>, available at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jesus-My-Son-Marys-Journal/dp/1449064930">Amazon</a> and <a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/The-Jesus-Storybook-Bible/Sally-Lloyd-Jones/e/9780310708254">Barnes and Noble.</a> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-49042877564974966502010-11-30T11:16:00.000-08:002010-11-30T11:17:05.328-08:00Mary's Faith: Through Her Eyes<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Why did God choose Mary above all the other young virgin girls? Through her journal, readers can join her on her journey through faith, and experience the doubt, frustration and excitement that we all experience as we develop our faith. In the beginning, we can only assume that God looked at Mary’s heart and also saw something special in her faith:</div><div class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .5in; margin-top: 0in;"> <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">“Do not be afraid Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a son, and you shall name Him Jesus.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">God had given Mary a direct request. As a young teenager, she did not say, “Wait a minute. I’m not quite ready. I’m too young. I need more time.” Her simple answer is a lesson for all:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .5in; margin-top: 0in;"> “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">All I could say was, ‘Behold, the bond slave of the Lord; may it be done to me according to your word.’”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .5in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Mary’s faith allowed her to readily accept the Lord’s wish, but did she ever question her eagerness to accept this invitation to serve her Lord, and like so many of us, did she ever have doubts?<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .5in; margin-top: 0in;"> “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Why was I so willing when the angel appeared to me? I should have asked more questions, but my mind was racing so fast I didn’t have time to think.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .5in; margin-top: 0in;"> “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">My dear God, how can I do this? Why me? I love you with all my heart, but I am still afraid. Never in my wildest dreams, did I expect to be blessed like this. Though I am having mixed feelings about calling it blessed.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal">Things didn’t happen quite like Mary thought they would. Joseph struggled in the beginning, and God did not make things easy for her. But through the trying times, Mary knew her faith would help her overcome any problems she might encounter:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"> <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .5in; margin-top: 0in;"> “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I should be afraid, but when I think of the events that brought me to this point, my fears disappear. If God trusted me enough to carry His son, I am confident He will show me where to go and will take care of me wherever that path may lead.”<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
For 30 years, Mary watched her precious baby grow into the man God said he would. While constantly anticipating that throne of David that God had promised, did Mary’s faith dwindle? Mary’s final prayer before Jesus prepares to join John tells it all:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: .5in; margin-top: 0in;"> “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Dear God, give me the wisdom I need to know what I must do. Although he is yours, he is also mine. Please don’t forget I have had him for 30 years. To give him up will cause me much pain. Help me accept and do what you are requiring of me. Your humble servant I will strive to remain.”<o:p></o:p></i><br />
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<div style="text-align: left;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal;">Join Mary on her magnificent journey through the first 30 years of Jesus' life through <i>Jesus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' Early Life</i>, available at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jesus-My-Son-Marys-Journal/dp/1449064930" style="color: #cc3300; text-decoration: none;">Amazon</a> and B<a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/product.aspx?r=1&isbn=9781449064938&cm_mmc=Google%20Product%20Search-_-Q000000630-_-Jesus%20My%20Son-_-9781449064938" style="color: #cc3300; text-decoration: none;">arnes and Noble. </a></span></i></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-12326188912702606932010-11-23T06:31:00.000-08:002010-11-23T06:32:35.943-08:00Mary's Pregnancy: Through Her Eyes<div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;">Was Mary's pregnancy different from those of women today? Through her journal, readers can experience the pain, fear and joy that Jesus' mother felt as she was beginning her journey, not unlike those of many mothers today.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;">In her journal, Mary describes her feelings when the Holy Spirit overshadowed her and she became pregnant:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;"><br />
</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">"When Your Spirit overshadowed me, I felt Your presence, but there was no physical interaction. My body seemed to float on a sea of radiant light as the power of the Most High overshadowed me and I received the seed of Your Holy Spirit. I awoke this morning knowing my body had conceived the beginning of the baby of Gabriel’s announcement. My Lord, You chose me for the ultimate blessing among women, but I am beginning to have second thoughts about this blessed journey."<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">Who can blame Mary for having second thoughts? How can anyone experience the presence of the Holy Spirit and not be afraid? She also feared the reaction of the people when they heard she was carrying the Messiah, the son of God, the redeemer of the Jews. She certainly did not foresee Joseph’s reaction:<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">"'How can this be? Are you no longer a virgin?' he asked as his big strong hands stroked his thin scraggly beard and… he turned away."<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">Joseph knew Mary had conceived a child by someone other than himself, her fiancé. By Jewish law, he could have her stoned, put her away privately or marry her. Without some form of divine intervention, the average person would not believe that the Messiah would be born from a humble peasant girl. <o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">Mary did carry Jesus for a full nine months, but she wasn't sure what to expect:<br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="jmsbody" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 24px;">"</span><i>From what I understand, I won’t be having any kind of monthly woman’s times for about nine months. I think this will be a typical pregnancy. Since God is in charge, He can do anything."</i></div><div class="jmsbody" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">When Mary visited Elizabeth, she realized God was not going to spare her any of the pain or discomfort from the symptoms that accompany carrying a child:<o:p></o:p><br />
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</div><div class="jmsbody" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">"God could take away all the pain and discomfort with this pregnancy, but evidently it is going to be normal. My symptoms of morning sickness, nausea, and increase in appetite have been the same ones Elizabeth had. God sent me here to realize that. No matter what happens, I truly know God is in control."<o:p></o:p></i></div><div class="jmsbody" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">Why did God send Mary to visit Elizabeth? God knew where Mary was going to be when she gave birth to His son. He wanted her to be as prepared as possible for the experience. Mary not only needed to learn all she could about the birthing process, she also needed the encouragement from the unrelenting faith of Zechariah and Elizabeth. When Elizabeth’s baby leaped in her womb and Mary was filled with her song of praise, any doubt she may have had vanished. She realized this visit was a part of God’s plan:<br />
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</div><div class="jmsbody" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">"They gave me the strength I need to get through this pregnancy. The experience of watching John’s birth taught me more than anyone could have told me about childbirth. I know this knowledge will help me in about six months. Who knows? I may be in some desolate place without anyone to help."</i><br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal;">Join Mary on her magnificent journey through the first 30 years of Jesus' life through <i>Jesus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' Early Life</i>, available at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Jesus-My-Son-Marys-Journal/dp/1449064930">Amazon</a> and B<a href="http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/product.aspx?r=1&isbn=9781449064938&cm_mmc=Google%20Product%20Search-_-Q000000630-_-Jesus%20My%20Son-_-9781449064938">arnes and Noble. </a></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-3759122947018140972010-11-16T10:39:00.000-08:002010-11-16T10:39:13.529-08:00Inspiration behind Jesus My Son: Mary's Journal of Jesus' Early LifeGod lit a spark in my heart for the idea of this book in 2002 on Mother’s Day. I tried many times to let that spark die a normal death, but God would not allow it. He fueled the fire with sermons and magazines, enlightening study of the scriptures and even television shows. Every time I needed an answer to an obstacle in my writing, God provided the solution. It wasn’t long until I was consumed by what felt like a giant forest fire, bursting with information that needed to be shared.<br />
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That spark was the result of looking at the events of the redemption ceremony through Mary’s eyes. When Joseph held that precious baby boy, our Messiah, the Redeemer of the Jews in his arms, and redeemed him with two turtle doves, the sacrifice of the poor, how did Mary feel? What was going through her mind? How many other times during those first 30 years of Jesus' life did Mary wonder, “Is this how it is going to be? Is this really the way the Messiah of my people is going to live? Gabriel mentioned my son would inherit the throne of David. When will this come about?”<br />
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Looking at events of the birth through a mother’s eyes, I wanted Mary to be able to express her innermost thoughts without the stigma that existed during those days. I wanted readers to learn of the Jewish customs and how Jesus might have lived—the games he played, the food he ate, the clothes he wore, the chores he had to perform. What was it like for his earthly family living with Jesus in his first 30 years? Thus, the journal idea was born. <br />
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Through her journal entries, we learn of her heartfelt emotions as she watched her little boy, God’s son, mature into the man God intended him to be. All that time, Mary anticipated her son would soon inherit the throne of David. Through <i>Jesus My Son: Mary’s Journal of Jesus’ Early Life</i>, readers walk the streets of Nazareth. They live in the humble abode shared by Jesus’ brothers and sisters. They join Joseph and Mary as they celebrate the same milestones we celebrate today—a first tooth, first word, first step, first day of school and many more. By viewing Jesus as a loving son, our relationship with him grows as we feel Mary’s astonishment and her pain.Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7349783957634963105.post-4679661155090518372010-06-13T21:05:00.001-07:002010-06-13T21:05:08.372-07:00Mary’s View<br />
Mary’s view is a look at the written scripture through the eyes of Jesus’ mother. Does this view change the meaning of the recorded scripture? No, but it does offer a fresh perspective of some very old stories. The stories of Jesus’ life written by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John have a slightly different interpretation when viewed through the eyes of a loving, caring mother. <br />
When writing Jesus My Son: Mary’s Journal of Jesus’ Early Life, I had to create a valid timeline of Jesus’ life for Mary to record in her journal. It was impossible to create this timeline using only the sequence of events as recorded by the four gospels. Some events had to be added or shifted to compile a complete picture of Jesus’ life. The stories are not contradictory; they only tell the story from that particular writer’s knowledge. <br />
For example, the story of Jesus’ birth can only be found in Matthew and Luke. According to Matthew, Joseph was betrothed to Mary, Mary was found to be with child, Joseph planned to send her away secretly, the angel appeared to Joseph, they got married, Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the Magi appear, they were forced to flee to Egypt and then they returned to Nazareth. According to Luke, Mary was visited by Gabriel, Mary then hurried to the hill country to visit Elizabeth for three months, she returned to Nazareth, then Joseph and his betrothed were required to go to Bethlehem where Jesus was born, the shepherds visited, Jesus was circumcised, he was presented in the temple where Anna and Simeon greeted them, and then they returned to their own city of Nazareth. Are these writers even talking about the same story? <br />
At some point, all four gospels have Jesus and his group of followers in one place one day and in a place ninety miles away the next day. Does this mean the writings are wrong or contradictory? Not necessarily. When viewed through the eyes of Mary, most of the events can be pieced together to form a logical timeline of Jesus’ life. When reading these stories in the different books, we don’t think about the timeline. These discrepancies can only be seen when trying to create a daily walk of Jesus’ life as Mary does in her journal.<br />
Questions often asked of Jesus’ life can be explained through Mary’s view. Many of the answers are ones that only a mother would know. Some questions Mary answers are:<br />
• How did the four gospels acquire information for the particular events they recorded?<br />
• Did Jesus perform miracles while living with His earthly family?<br />
• Why did Mary hurry to Elizabeth’s right after she had been greeted by Gabriel?<br />
• Why did the angel wait until after Mary told Joseph of her pregnancy to appear to him?<br />
• Why didn’t people believe the shepherd’s story?<br />
• Where did Luke obtain the smallest details of his story of the birth?<br />
• Where did Matthew obtain his details of the birth story?<br />
• When did the Magi appear to Mary and Joseph?<br />
• Why did Herod kill all males two years of age and under if Jesus was a baby?<br />
• Why did Jesus wait until He was thirty to begin His ministry?<br />
• How was Jesus such a close friend to Lazarus?<br />
• Did Jesus know any of His followers prior to choosing them?<br />
• How did Jesus know so much about the lives of the fishermen and the farmers He used in His parables if he followed in His father’s footsteps as a carpenter?<br />
• Why is John the only one who writes about many of the stories often repeated, but doesn’t even mention the forty days of Jesus’ temptation?Mary Baileyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16886198571456643581noreply@blogger.com0