Author Archives: chadzaucha

This is so good. And I believe there is a valuable spiritual lesson here as well. This is ballerina Marta C. Gonzalez Valencia. She is battling Alzheimer’s, but as she hears the music of Swan Lake, it all comes back to her. I have done ministry in nursing homes where I haven’t gotten much response–that is until I began to recite the words of a familiar Scripture passage or hymn. Blank stares became moments of strong lucidity. Scripture memory is such an underrated and underutilized spiritual discipline. If and when my mind is no longer functioning as it used to, I pray that it will be the Truth of God’s Word that remains until the end. “His Word have I hidden in my heart…”

I got to talk to Zac Cannon Friday. Zac and I served together at FBC Ojai. He had a profound impact on the spiritual development of my kids. What a great reminder Friday was of just how God has gifted me over the years with so many amazing ministry teammates. Apparently God knows I need lots of help and He has always provided the best. I am grateful.

Highlight – Hebrews 9:28 so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him. (ESV)

Explain – Jesus is coming back!  He took care of our sin problem with His first appearing (Thank you Jesus!) and will now take us home to be with Him forever with His second appearing.  We should most certainly be those who are eagerly awaiting His arrival.

Apply – I’m doing better with the eagerly waiting part.  Perhaps it is age and the accumulating tribulations of this life.  Maybe it is preaching through Revelation. But I still can get lulled into focusing on the things of this world. I can still “forget” about what will ultimately be the greatest day of my existence.

Respond – “Father, I eagerly wait for the return of Jesus.  Maybe today?  I pray that you would find me to be ready and working diligently for the purposes of the Kingdom. I pray for those who are not ready for your return. May I be privileged to lead someone across the line of faith today.”