TAKE HEED
Today’s Reading: Luke 20-21
Click scripture link to read online or HERE to listen online (then click the symbol of the audio speaker above the scripture portion on the right-hand side).
In the Western Wall tunnel of Jerusalem is this model of the Temple in which Jesus worshipped, turned over the money changer's tables, engaged with the religious officials, and ministered truth and love. In the building which this represents, the former lame man danced to the amazement of all. Then Peter preached and about 5,000 became believers in Jesus, including many of the priests (Acts 4:4 & Acts 6:7).
GOOGLE MAPS – To see where Reynold took the photo, click HERE.
Key Verse: Luke 20:25
And He said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”
Today’s reading concludes with, “take heed.” Here is Jesus’ conclusion to almost 100 verses of teaching, “Watch therefore and pray always.” This blog can help us do that! We learn from the happenings here that when someone argues with Jesus, they don’t win the argument. The “coin” is a case in point. The Jews were groaning under the heel of Rome. Jesus’ answer to the tax question was simple, yet profound. Today, we struggle with our responsibilities to government and to God. We use money printed or minted by government, yet, our ultimate values are not government actions, but God Himself. God will put the final period on the history books of this age. Back in 1967 Billy Graham said, “For the first time in over 2,000 years, Jerusalem is ruled by Jews. The ‘time of the Gentiles’ is over (Luke 21:24). Soon we will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory'” (Luke 21:27).
PRAYER FOR TODAY:
Lord God, here I am. I’m determined to “take heed.” By Your grace, I believe that at Your return, I will “escape all these things that will come to pass.” Please help me to be prepared at any moment to welcome Your coming. Please give me the gift of diligence, consistency, and purity so that, because of Your forgiveness of my sin, I’ll be ready! Amen!
PERSONAL WORDS:
I remember an old preacher saying, regarding those who told the story of the seven husbands who married the woman in Jesus’ story, “They thought by the inch, spoke by the yard, and should be moved by the foot!” I’ve read chapters 20 & 21 twice and some portions three times. Of course, I’ve read these words before. I’ve even taught through the entire book of Luke at a Bible Camp recently. Nevertheless, I’ve had fresh insight from the Holy Spirit today, such as from Luke 21:34… I am not weighed down with carousing and drunkenness, but I confess that I struggle with the “cares of this life.” I sometimes think that at 78, I’m too old for the commitments I’m making. Last week I lectured at Southeastern University. Yesterday, I taught six different classes at a high school in Orlando (four hours of teaching). Norma-Jean and I have purchased a small house which was built in 1926 and we are renovating and building a garage, the upstairs of which is to house a high definition webcasting studio. There are more responsibilities I haven’t mentioned. Am I foolish to take all this on at my age? I need counsel from you who read this. Please and thank you!
Yours for a more perfect understanding of God’s Word, His plans and purposes for my life,
David
P.S. This week on the 100 Huntley Street telecast, Moira Brown is interviewing daily a man who addresses the issue of faith in God. For the next four days, God willing, I want to give to you who read this the option of watching portions of these excellent telecasts (click here for #1 of 4).
Dear, dear David and Norma-Jean!!
I am amazed at the strength God is providing for you. Obviously, HE is not limiting you in your OLD AGE!! KEEP ON KEEPING…as long as He gives you strength! Take refuge as you need to…
DEUT 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.
JOB 12:12 Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?
….and from a secular viewpoint…..”OLD AGE AIN’T’ FOR SISSIES!”…….that I KNOW!!! GWEN
David…..God has obviously given you amazing strength and abilities to be used for as long as you are able. Age is not even a factor as long as long as you can carry on. Keep on doing what you feel you can in God’s strength. You are a wonderful example to the rest of us “old timers” to keep on going. Blessings on everything you are accomplishing.
Wow!!! My heart is so full after reading your blog today David. God had done amazing things in your life and I truly believe because He healed you, He is spuring you on to do more for Him. God Bless Norma Jean and you in this new venture. Isaiah 40:31 suits you to a tee, for you certainly wait on The Lord and He has renewed your strength. Praise His name.
Dear David and Norma Jean Im so very proud that God has renewed your strength to carry on Gods work for the Kingdom God Bless your hearts and lives to be used mightily by The Holy Spirit in these last days
The Lord said you will walk and not be weary
you will runand not faint
You are a great inspiration to all of us ♡♥♡♥♡♥♡♥♥♡♥♥
Pastor Maines,
God is an awesome God! ” We can do all things through Christ who strengthen
us”. So pastor Maines do as long as the calling of the Lord is upon you. The world need you and Norma-Jean .
Thank you!
I agree with Gwen Keep On God will and given you strength to do what he has
called you to do David and when he wants you to rest at times do so. Don’t give
up God has more plans for you
Lianne Hogg
Keep on keeping on!!!!! I believe your we’re healed for this very purpose and Our Lord will supply all of your needs as you and Norma-Jean continue to serve Him wherever you are. Just remember HE rested and He will renew your strength each day.
The folks there around you are truly blessed to have you in their midst, and we are truly blessed by this blog each day. Blessings to all.
Our Mississauga mayor, Mayor Hazel McCallion just is just stepping down at 93! May the Lord direct your footsteps. He knows best. We would love for you to keep going. God bless you all today.
WOW!
I am truly amazed at what God has already done through you and Norma-Jean and it seems obvious to many of us that he is not finished with you both just yet.
I believe that one of the many talents the Holy Spirit has bestowed upon you is talent of teaching and that you are influencing many through this blog and your current teaching commitments in the States which would swamp any regular person.
I also pray that your 2014 trip to the Holy Land in November is protected from any danger and that another 100 pilgrims will benefit from your unique perspective.
Shalom,
Graham.
2012 Holy Land Yellow Bus.
Hi David and Norma Jean. My answer is a resolutely, “NO.” Some people are old at 18 and some are young at 90 … Time is a concept that humans created. You have much to look forward to and finish. May His strength and blessings guide your every moment and purpose in the days, months and years ahead!!
Pastor David, as long as God gives you the strength to press in and press on for His Glory, keep going. Only in Glory will you ever know the full impact of your faithfulness to the Lord and the lives that have been changed and encouraged to never give up, there’s always more and better things coming for the Glory of God. We are never too old to serve The Lord and you have soooo much wisdom and knowledge to share with all of us in the days to come.
I praise God for you and Norma-Jean. I am encouraged with each blog I read.
May God bless this new step of faith.
When I was praying for your healing I ask The Lord to keep you here because we needed you and He obvious agreed. He will let you know when His work is finished and as long as you are willing, He will give you the strength and wisdom to keep doing it. Praise His Holy Name!!!
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Mainse…..I truly echo the statements of readers above. We had a professor at EPBC/ Master’s who said ‘To see is to be called’ so as long as there is sight….I do believe the Lord is calling you and everyone to pull out the stops and carry on. God Bless you forward for His glory.
Hi David!! If God says “GO!!” then you go, no matter what your age,abilities,if anyone thinks your kooky..lol.. etc etc….I know you know this to be true!! A popular evangelist on 100 Huntley St.once said(at around your age I believe???) when interviewed, he wasn’t “retired” but that he was “refired”!!! I think this is you and Norma Jean!! God Bless you both for your loyalty to Jesus,fellow believers and the unsaved!!
Ha, ha, you are only 78, you live to be at least 120, along with Norma Jean so you and your beautiful wife have lots of time to renovate and build HIS KINGDOM
‘Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.’ Phillipians 3:12. Keep pressing on David!!!!! The Angels are cheering you on to the finish, God Bless all you do!!!!!!
Dear David,
There is always a danger of doing too much no matter what your age. The important thing is to know what does God want you to do. Whatever it is that He has for you He will give you the strength for. I believe that discernment and a close relationship with Him is the key and that I trust you have.
Hi David,
I do not think that you are foolish to be taking on these things at age 78. In fact the opposite….you are an inspiration. Considering that you talk with God about your plans you can be rest assured that He will work everything out. I pray that you will have balance in your life to do the things that you do with the balancing of rest and peace. You are such a blessing to me in my life and the wisdom that you share is wonderful.
Kim
Quite enjoy this blog. I’d really like a copy of the “Burning Questions” DVD. How do I get it?
Go to burningquestions.ca
I love Jesus’ great wit with those who doubted Him.
Praying for the families in Iraq and other areas of the Middle East who have suffered at the hands of psychotic groups.
What does God’s word say to this news?
First, he wants us to defend ourselves. Moses taught the people, “If the thief is found breaking in, and he is struck so that he dies, there shall be no guilt for his bloodshed” (Exodus 22:2). Those who rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem did so with their swords at their sides (Nehemiah 4:18).
Second, he wants us to pray for the salvation of our enemies. The Lord asked his prophet, “Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live?” (Ezekiel 18:23). Have you prayed today for Jesus to reveal himself to jihadists in the Middle East and around the world?
Third, he wants us to be ready for eternity, whenever and however it begins for us. James warned us, “you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes” (James 4:14). The safest way to live every day is to be ready to meet God, obeying his word and fulfilling his will.
I copied this from a daily blog called the Denison Forum.
As for taking on work at your age Rev. DM, I think it is wonderful!
One of my brothers has an elderly neighbour who loves to work outside in his yard. He has an acreage or farm and has chairs set out all over the place so that he can sit down and rest whenever he gets tired. What a great outlook he has on life. I don’t think we should sit around in our senior years waiting to join Jesus eternally. I have a feeling Jesus would not be pleased.
God bless you and Norma Jean in all your good works.
So nice to see so many great comments on today’s blog!
May God give us all chores to work at whether young or old.
Good morning David
In Luke 21 Jesus says… But make up your mind not to worry… For I will give you words and wisdom.
And I know that He has given you strength also, I see this by listening and watching your testimony of faith through the work He has given you.
And so you will bear testimony to me. But make up your mind not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves. For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. (Luke 21:13-15 NIV)
Your sister in Christ
Linda L. Price
ps. Hello to Norma-Jean, I can still hear her beautiful voice echoing as she led us in the song Amazing Grace in the St Anne’s Church in the Old City of Jerusalem last year.
Also in 2012!
Shalom,
Graham.
If you are doing what you know the Lord has lead you to do, He will provide the means and the strength to do it, regardless of age. However, if you are not certain all these commitments are God’s plan for your life, then be careful– many of a Christian leader has been deceived by the enemy by getting them to burn out by biting off more than they can chew- more than God intended for them.
It is great to be so active at your age, but remember that strength comes from God– take no pride it– you got nothing to prove, you don’t owe it God to do so much to make yourself worthy of the healing you received. Just remember God can work through you whatever you may be, whether in a broadcast booth, classroom or on a lake fishing making friends with others on the lake, and witnessing to Christ to them.
So my best advice is just keep praying and listening to Lord–give Him control of you day planner and you should be fine.
Hi David … as always I am encouraged by your blog and continue to look forward to it every day! Well … rebuilding and renovating … wow you two I think spur each other on! I can see Norma Jean and you in your glory and excitement as you are planning and working. As far as should you be doing this … well why not!? Doesn’t it say something in Ecclesiastes, about doing whatever the hand finds to do to do it with all our might as unto the Lord ….? So go ahead … plan ahead as though the Lord will not come for a while … and life as if He is coming today! Praise God I look forward to that day … but keep working because it keeps us young! Bless you and love you both! Elfie 🙂 PS: Show us a finished picture!
Dear Rev. David and Norma-Jean,
What a fabulous project the two of you are working on, hand in hand , all for His Glory.
The Lord always has a perfect plan so lean not on your own understanding , in all your ways submit to Him and He will make your paths straight.(Proverb 3: 5-6 ).
God bless you both.
XOXOXO Carole
Thank you again Mr. Mainse for the link. I will watch and refer Burning Questions which airs October 5.
How awesome and humbling it is to know God is working through us.
Blessings,
Diane 🙂
Sir, Almighty has again demonstrated His power when He has restored your health. It seems that He may have a new job for you. If so, you may stay strong as long as He wishes, may be even at your 100. His ways are higher than our ways. May He continue to bless you. Mark 10:27. Matthew 19:26
Remember age is just a number!!!
I do believe you are doing wonderfully by the Grace of God and I like your blog very much.
If you think you are doing too much, then ask the Good Lord, maybe you should spend more time with Him. He loves when we have quiet times with Him and of course, knowing that He is in Divine control of everything. At this time in this culture, we sometimes do too much (all of us , no matter what age we are)
so think about this dear David and remember we are human beings, not human doings!!! Be not conformed to the world!
Blessings to you and Niorma,
Margaret
God bless you David Mainse. I think it’s great to keep going at something you like and God is walking with you. We must also be realistic! If the money is there, do things! Hire people to do things! Good things! The words in this blog have encouraged many people! Your a morning person, I thank God for being able to do this study! I won a computer in the year 2000, a friend built me a laptop, I am thankful for all of it. I have no money yet God provides! Keep going until YOU FEEL that enough is enough. God will tell you when that will be. Blessings.
Renovations are nerve racking but once they are done it is so worth all the pain and frustration! We are told to occupy until He comes and that is what you and Norma Jean are doing. I don’t think you are the type that would be happy resting on your laurels! May god continue to use you mightily! Thank you for doing this daily blog (no small task either).
Thank you, thank you Lord Jesus for healing our beloved brother, David. Today’s blog is such an encouragement and an inspiration. If God can do this for you, He can do it for all of us. My husband’s Aunt recently turned 102. Guess what she did to celebrate? She went horseback riding and then went mini-golfing .She is the oldest lady recorded in Edmonton to ride a horse! You are a long way from 102!! HAHA.
I pray for your tour of Israel as well. We were also with you on the yellow bus in 2012. The war with Gaza was on but we thought,” We are here with David Mainse, nothing is going to happen to us!” I know it is God that is our protector but we had to smile at the thought that the devil couldn’t do us any harm because of the strong company we were keeping. Blessings. Wish we were coming to Israel with you.
No your not to old, your an inspiration!
You are GREAT inspiration to the body of Christ! I read you blog daily. Your wisdom and the exemptory lives you and Norma Jean live are
The most beautiful reflection of our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ.
We are grateful that you are given the health and vitality and joy as you give your best for others. Keep on keeping on!
it seems that the consensus is the you “Go for it” and God be with you!
There are many people all over the world that need to know that God loves them and that He has sent His Son, Jesus, to save them. The Lord needs willing vessels who love Him with all of their hearts to reach these precious people. God loves the world so very much and He wants us to work with Him to gather in the harvest so that they could come to know God in a deep personal relationship.
David, age does not seem to matter to God. You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you. I believe He has and will give you strength and everything else you need to partner with Him to accomplish more great things for Him.
yes indeed! You are an inspiration David Mainse! I went to the pool, it was tough, but once I’m out the door, then it’s great! Keep doing what you are doing! Remember also that everything you are doing Pastor Mainse is all the Lord’s work. He has laid out His plans and you are planting the seeds of the Kingdom, of a realationship with Jesus Christ, to the readers, to the people. That’s what God wants us to do, Go and share the Gospel with all mankind!………
I just praise and thank the Lord brother David for your blog every day, I share it on my facebook page and it is blessing many people. I love the insights that the Holy Spirit is giving you daily into His Word. Hallelujah to the Lamb, our Lord Jesus Christ and His leading and guidance by the Holy Spirit ever day. What a Faithful Friend we have. I pray that the Lord will continue to give you added strength to do every task that He has encouraged you to do. You and Norma Jean are an inspiration to me, Love and blessings to you both.