9.15.09 Ex18, Lk21

Exodus 18:
The Israelites were camped in the desert, and Moses' father-in-law came to him, and brought back his wife and two sons. He was amazed to see God's work in the Israelites, and recognized God above all gods. They ate with the elders and Aaron in the presence of God. When he saw Moses jugding all the people of their difficulties, he suggested that people could be divided into groups and have "group leaders" judge impartially. Moses took his advice and his load wasn't so heavy anymore. His father-in-law then went back to his own country.
Moses's father-in-law wasn't an Israelite, he was an ousider. However, God used him to bless Moses. This is amazing. a lot of times, I think I was all this and that as a christian, yet, I fail to recognize God's words comeing out from the "gentile's" mouth. I was too ignorant. I thougt God was only present among Christians, and I always prayed about God be with the prechristians, but never really thought about it. If the Holy Spirit was with the prechristians, then God could use them to speak to us, as well!

Luke 21:
Jesus in this chapter talked about a widow giving very little, but also the most, because all others were giving some portions out of their wealth, but the widow was giving all she's having. Sometimes, I fall into the trap of feeling obligated to give more, because it'll look good on the envelope. However, I forgot that the heart is what matters. I don't have to give much, but it has to be out of my heart.
Then he went on and talked about the sign of the end of the earth--earthquake, famine, presilence. all these are happening in the world now. Famine is always there, earthquake in China, Honduras, U.S. and other places. prestilence such as SARS, swine flu, and the very ancient ones are still going around. Jesus said that there will also be nations agaist each other--wars are everywhere. people against people--even among friends. And there are many more. The end of the earth is coming near. (I think) and I need to get ready. if I go to heaven right now, can i say that I don't have any regret? I don't think so, I'll probably say: "oh wait God, let me finish this, and let me finish that." and the most scary thing is that the end of the earth, not all my friends are sure they are going to heaven, and this is gonna be my fault. So Jean, you need you hurry up!