Spiritual Transfiguration Inside Out

 

New day, shall we continue our conversation?

Every human being was created with a body, a soul and a spirit, where the spirit governs the soul and the soul the body; it is an inside out system of governance.

But the one who is united and joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him. (1 Corinthians 6:17 AMP)

When we are united and joined to the Lord, what is popularly termed as being saved, an inner change begins to take place, and we start to experience a spiritual transfiguration. But that’s just the beginning.

In Philippians chapter two verses twelve and thirteen, Apostle Paul writes,

continue to work out your salvation [that is, cultivate it, bring it to full effect, actively pursue spiritual maturity] with awe-inspired fear and trembling [using serious caution and critical self-evaluation to avoid anything that might offend God or discredit the name of Christ]. For it is [not your strength, but it is] God who is effectively at work in you, both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure.

So, you have to continuously work out your salvation, it’s not a one-stop-shop thing. It’s like going to the gym to workout but thanks be to God, because you’re united and joined, you get your own personal trainer, the Holy Spirit, who helps with the workout by working in you. Keep in mind, for you to see any results, it’s imperative that you cooperate.

You must cultivate a “You are the Potter I am the clay” approach towards your workout and not give your trainer attitude when He tells you to do three sets of ten reps and you want to quit halfway through. You know how you behave at the gym.

This is a different kind of workout, one that produces awesome spiritual results when you follow the Trainer’s directions.  You become whole, like the unnamed woman who touched the fringes of Jesus’ tallit – her faith in the power of Jesus to save made her whole. The wholeness of salvation is about living the abundant life here on earth right now, in this present time, as it is in heaven (ref. John 10:10 & Matthew 6:10).

Being in union with God in Christ, with His Spirit effectively at work in you to strengthen, energize and re-create you produces a spiritual transformation that emanates from inside out; an inner change that eventually becomes outwardly visible where family, friends and even strangers can see.

Beloved, in Christ you are created anew with an eternal existence, but you don’t recognize this truth. This is what Paul explained to the church at Corinth,

Therefore if anyone is in Christ [that is, grafted in, joined to Him by faith in Him as Savior], he is a new creature [reborn and renewed by the Holy Spirit]; the old things [the previous moral and spiritual condition] have passed away. Behold, new things have come [because spiritual awakening brings a new life]. – 2 Corinthians 5:17 (AMP)

You are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) becomes unmistakably apparent as you are transfigured into a new creature in Christ.

But spiritual transfiguration is not an easy workout. At times it may involve an uphill hike, a climb that’s never easy to navigate, sometimes you’ll have to go through really difficult terrain or rough waters but always remember that you are never left alone, your personal Trainer is there to lead and to guide. Listen to Him.

During the transfiguration of Jesus, Peter was making a suggestion and while he was still speaking, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and God spoke saying, “This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well-pleased and delighted! Listen to Him!”

So yes, you may want to suggest or create your own plan for your salvation but discard it and listen to Him. His ways and thoughts are much higher than yours (ref. Isaiah 55:8-9).

For who has known the mind and purposes of the Lord, so as to instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ [to be guided by His thoughts and purposes]. – 1 Corinthians 2:16 (AMP)

Taking a little detour at this point to say, one of my nieces will pack two large suitcases and a carry-on bag for a one-week trip, this is just to let you know that we still have some more to unpack.

Beloved, being saved enables your transfiguration not just to secure a place in eternity but for an eternal existence right here right now but it also requires a reprogramming of your thinking – a mental reset.

Jesus said,

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation]. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest (renewal, blessed quiet) for your souls. For My yoke is easy [to bear] and My burden is light.” – Matthew 17:28-30 (AMP)

Go to Jesus and you will find rest for you soul. Jesus did not say that you will find rest for your spirit or your body, He said soul because that’s what He means. Jesus is talking about resting mentally, in order to renew the mind.

Apostle Paul gives a reminder in Romans 12:2 (AMP),

be transformed and progressively changed [as you mature spiritually] by the renewing of your mind [focusing on godly values and ethical attitudes] 

It’s cleansing, getting rid of all the toxic thoughts and beliefs that have clogged up your soul.

Paul wrote down the remedy in Philippians 4:8 (AMP),

whatever is true, whatever is honorable and worthy of respect, whatever is right and confirmed by God’s word, whatever is pure and wholesome, whatever is lovely and brings peace, whatever is admirable and of good repute; if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think continually on these things [center your mind on them, and implant them in your heart]

What do you think about? What has been burdening your mind? You were not designed for yoke bearing.

Heavy burdens make the soul sick and when the soul is sick it affects the body. Not my concept, I did not make that up, it’s biblical.

Beloved, I pray that in every way you may succeed and prosper and be in good health [physically], just as [I know] your soul prospers [spiritually]. – 3 John 1:2 (AMP)

The spiritual governs the physical. A healthy body is the result of a soul that is prospering spiritually. You need to not conform to the world’s way of thinking with its “superficial values and customs”.

Jesus secured a wonderful soul prospering rest for us at Calvary, but it is up to you to truly grasp this wonderful truth and possess it. Right now, it may all seem strange, mystical and out of your reach but it is not, otherwise Jesus and Paul and John and Isaiah would not have told us how to achieve it. Everything has already been provided beloved; you just have to own it.

Spiritual transfiguration involves a new way of living, it’s the Kingdom citizen lifestyle, it’s the new and living way in Christ that Hebrews 10:20 (AMP) speaks of which He initiated and opened for us through the veil [as in the Holy of Holies], that is, through His flesh

Jesus Himself tells you that unless a person is born again [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, sanctified], he cannot [ever] see and experience the kingdom of God. – John 3:3 (AMP)

Beloved, you are a citizen of His Kingdom, but you aren’t enjoying the benefits of belonging because you do not recognize yourself as such. Understand that accepting Jesus as your Saviour places you in union with God and being in union with God confirms your identity.

Sadly, we have been taught that this life is only for the life to come but that is not biblical.

Time and time again all we have heard from pulpit after pulpit are messages of separation, intertwined with condemnation as sin is made our identity.

This religious battering has filled believers with a sense of guilt and worthlessness and widened the divide they feel between them and God. Jesus did not promote judgment but mercy, grace, forgiveness and lovingkindness. It’s not that He doesn’t hate sin, but He doesn’t view it as our core identity.

Jesus says, “I do not condemn you go and sin no more” and Paul is adamant about God’s grace having the power to release you from the grip of sin because of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

You have a new identity, made right with God in Christ Jesus (ref. 2 Corinthians 5:21).

Recognizing your transfigured self, empowers you to understand that Jesus died to save every part of you, including your soul.

Spiritual transfiguration inside out is evident when you begin to experience the reality of Kingdom Life. It is not unattainable but closer than you probably think. Luke 17:21 (AMPC) records Jesus as saying that the kingdom of God is within you [in your hearts] and among you [surrounding you].

Spiritual transfiguration inside out is evident when you can boldly declare, it’s no longer I who live but Christ lives in me (ref. Galatians 2:20).

Spiritual transfiguration inside out is evident when you come to the realization that you are the light of [Christ to] the world (ref. Matthew 5:14-15)

Spiritual transfiguration inside out is evident when you know that you were not given a spirit of timidity or cowardice or fear, but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of sound judgment and personal discipline [abilities that result in a calm, well-balanced mind and self-control] (ref. 2 Timothy 1:7 AMP)

Get into the habit of filling your mind with, and meditating on, things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious; focus on the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; centre your thoughts on things to praise, not things to curse.

Beloved, determine to put into practice whatever you learn from Spirit, what you hear as you listen. Read the truth of God’s Word and stand under it until you understand it. Let His Word, written (logos) and spoken (rhema), govern your life. And God, who makes everything work together for your good, will work you into his most excellent life altering harmonies.

Prepare to experience the ultimate change, a spiritual transfiguration inside out.

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Spiritual Transfiguration Inside Out” ©2026 January 20, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spiritual Transfiguration

 

It’s another day, let’s have a conversation.

Do you know that when you have an encounter with Christ Jesus you experience a spiritual transfiguration?

On a high mountain, the appearance of Jesus’ physical body changed right in front of the eyes of His disciples, Peter, James and John; it was an internal transformation that was outwardly visible, first appearing on His face, then radiating throughout the rest of His body as His clothing became as white as light (Matthew 17:2).

On a high mountain, after Moses was consumed by the Presence of God’s magnificent glory for forty days and nights, his face shone brighter than a diamond; he experienced a transfiguration that was solely outwardly visible (read Exodus 34:29-35).

Beloved, you can have your own high mountain experience when you encounter Jesus in all His magnificent glory, however, unlike Moses, yours would be a comingling of both his and Jesus’ as it will be a spiritual transfiguration like no other.

You see, Moses did not have the benefit of the Godhead living inside him because in his day, God’s Spirit was not yet poured out; the outpouring occurred after Jesus’ death and resurrection. But in this time, when you receive Jesus into your life, you acquire Him as your resident divine agent both to will and to work [that is, strengthening, energizing, and creating in you the longing and the ability to fulfill your purpose] for His good pleasure. (Philippians 2:13 AMP)

Understand that as your soul becomes tethered to His Spirit, Spirit aids in your recalibration with every step you take along this transformative journey.  

Yes, I deliberately wrote soul and not spirit because that’s what I mean I did not make a mistake. Look at what Paul wrote in his epistle to the church at Ephesus.

But God, being [so very] rich in mercy, because of His great and wonderful love with which He loved us, even when we were [spiritually] dead and separated from Him because of our sins, He made us [spiritually] alive together with Christ (for by His grace—His undeserved favor and mercy—you have been saved from God’s judgment). And He raised us up together with Him [when we believed], and seated us with Him in the heavenly places, [because we are] in Christ Jesus – Ephesians 2:4-6 (AMP)

Your spirit is already transformed and seated with Christ in the heavenly places because you believed and are in Him. So, it is definitely your soul that needs to be transfigured and transformed, here’s why.

Our English soul’s Greek counterpart is psyche, that is the part of you that thinks and feels, that part concerning your thought processes – your mind, your will and emotions. It is considered the central element of your body-soul-spirit tripartite nature. Your psyche (soul) decides whether to listen to Spirit or the dictates of the flesh.

Too many of us, even those of us that are well on our way, traveling on this spiritual expedition, believe that we have to kowtow to our feelings and emotions, not apprehending that we have the power to dominate our minds, wills and emotions, to refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) (2 Corinthians 10:5 AMPC).

Your soul is yours to steward, you must allow your spirit, already seated with Christ, to lead your soul, that is your mind, your will and your emotions.

With the help of the Holy Spirit, you and I can and must release ourselves from the captivity of our  mindsets, which have perverted the reality of our true identity and prevented us from being our chosen generation selves with God in Christ (ref. 1 Peter 2:9).

Beloved, you are supposed to be controlled and governed from inside not outside influences; you are set free from the bondage of the world’s ways of doing life because you believe and recognize the fact that Jesus is the Son of God, therefore you are victorious and overcome the world (ref. 1 John 5:5).

There’s still a bit more to unpack so shall we continue our conversation another day?

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Spiritual Transfiguration” ©2026 January 19, 2026

 

 

 

Transfigured

 

Transfigure is defined in the dictionary as to transform into something more beautiful or elevated; to change in form or appearance.

The Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke record the unique event of Christ Jesus when He was transfigured.

Jesus took with Him Peter and James and John and led them up on a high mountain apart by themselves. And He was transfigured before them and became resplendent with divine brightness. – Mark 9:2 (AMPC)

Mark tells us that Jesus became resplendent with divine brightness while Matthew 17:2 (NLT) says that Jesus’ appearance was transformed so that his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became as white as light and in Luke 9:29 (NLT) we read the appearance of his face was transformed, and his clothes became dazzling white

These three Gospel writers record one thing in common, Jesus’ appearance changed, becoming more beautiful. Luke, however, lets us know that it was as he was praying that this incredible metamorphosis took place.

Moses experienced a similar transformation after his encounter with God atop Mount Sinai. When Moses descended the mountain, his face was shining so brightly that he had to cover it with a veil (see Exodus 34:29-35).

Though both were the manifestation of the glory and presence of God, there is a stark difference between these two events, Moses’ face was transformed from the outside by being in the powerful presence of God, while Jesus’ face shone not from divine light falling upon Him but from the radiant splendour of His divine glory emanating from within.

The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God – Hebrews 1:3 (NLT)

On that high mountain Jesus had passed into an elevated state of existence; it is widely believed that at that moment Jesus’s body assumed the properties of His soon to be resurrected body.

Jesus’ transfiguration occurring a mere six to eight days after He predicted His own death must not be overlooked as it sets the context for what was about to happen.

Also, by this time, Peter had already rightly identified Jesus, and for him and the two other disciples to witness Jesus’ transfigured body must have been the icing on the cake. It confirmed to Peter, James and John the necessity of the cross and gave Jesus encouragement as He would soon be entering the glory of His Kingdom reign.

Beloved, when you encounter Christ Jesus, you too are transfigured but that is a conversation for another day.

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Transfigured” ©2026 January 19, 2026

 

Her Faith made her Whole

 

Then He said to her, “Daughter, your faith [your personal trust and confidence in Me] has restored you to health; go in peace and be [permanently] healed from your suffering.” – Mark 5:34 (AMP)

Jesus was talking to a woman who had touched His garment.

This unnamed woman considered unclean by Jewish law (see Leviticus 15:19 & 25) due to her haemorrhaging non-stop for twelve years was isolated, spurned and desperate as throughout these twelve long years of suffering she could find no relief even after spending all her resources seeking medical care.

Her season of self-righteousness had run its course.

She had heard the reports concerning Jesus – Mark 5:27 (AMPC)

Have you ever been desperate for a solution to an on-going problem? This bleeding woman was.

If I only touch His garments, I shall be restored to health. – Mark 5:28 (AMPC)

Imagine, for a moment, this woman crawling along in the dirt to get to the One who she was convinced could save her, and getting as close to Him as she possibly could, reaching out to grab onto the only part of Jesus’ garment that her trembling hand might touch – the fringes of His outer garment, the tassels (tzitzit) hanging low from His tallit.

And immediately her flow of blood was dried up at the source, and [suddenly] she felt in her body that she was healed of her [distressing] ailment. – Mark 5:29 (AMPC)

Dunamis left Jesus’ body and entered directly into hers and He felt its flow.

This woman seemed to know that touching the fringes of His garment would be enough to release miraculous power.

the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings.  And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture. – Malachi 4:2 (NLT)

As a Hebrew, this woman would have been aware of three things. She would have known every word of the Lord given to Israel through the prophet Malachi. She would have known that the Sun of Righteousness was a Hebrew idiomatic expression for the Messiah, and she would have known that in her own language, wing and fringe was the same word, kanaf.

So, she knew that healing would be in the fringes of the Messiah’s garment.

Beloved, every miracle that Jesus performed was proof of His identity as the Messiah.

When she touched the fringe of Jesus’ garment, it was a proclamation of her faith, her personal trust and confidence, in Him being the Messiah – proof of His identity – and her faith made her whole.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “Her Faith made her Whole” ©2026 January 17, 2026

 

 

A Sword

 

Photo courtesy Chionsu Barclay

Matthew 10:34-36 in the New Testament is related to a prophecy proclaimed against the Israelites by the prophet Micah in the Old Testament.

“Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword. I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. Your enemies will be right in your own household!’’ – Matthew 10: 34-36

So, what Jesus is saying in these two verses speaks to a much broader picture than what we see on the surface.

This was part of Jesus’ discourse in preparing His disciples to go out into a world where they will undoubtedly encounter disagreeable persons within their own community who wanted to hear nothing about denouncing sin and seeking forgiveness and repentance.

We can agree that Jesus used very divisive language in His discourse aimed at households but from Micah we see that it was also aimed at an entire nation.

Do not trust in a neighbor; Do not have confidence in a close friend. Guard your lips
From her who lies in your arms. For son disavows father, Daughter rises up against her mother, Daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; A person’s enemies are the people of his own household. – Micah 7:5-6 (NASB)

Now, from as early as age five, the disciples would have started to memorize Scripture so that Jesus’ words, quoted from Micah’s prophecy, would have been familiar to them.

Jesus, as Rabbi, was utilizing the power of recall with His disciples who, from the mention of a few lines from Scripture, could complete the remainder of the verse or passage.

We see in Micah chapter 3 verses 1 and 2, that Micah was concerned about the social injustice, cruelty and evil being perpetrated.

Listen, you rulers of Israel! You are supposed to be concerned about justice, yet you hate what is good and you love what is evil. – Micah 3:1-2 (GNT)

The people were breaking their covenant with God; they flouted His laws and persisted in doing evil.  

Corruption was so rampant in Micah’s day that God proclaimed that He would ruin the people; it was an indictment against them.

I will make you sick, striking you down, Making you desolate because of your sins. You will eat, but you will not be satisfied, And your filth will be in your midst. You will try to remove valuables for safekeeping, But you will not save it all, And what you do save I will turn over to the sword. – Micah 6:14 (NASB)

Quoting the prophet, Jesus was showing His disciples that from Micah’s time to their time corruption was still present in their own community, within their midst.

This was Old Testament but the fact that Jesus alluded to it means that it remained relevant in those days and it is still relevant even now.

And what it is telling us is that Jesus will bring a sword to everything the corrupt try to keep for themselves and it will cause division between those who believe, trust and obey God and those who continue with their corrupt behaviour which encompasses injustice, oppression of the poor and marginalized, evil deeds, unbelief, preaching for a price, bribery and disobedience to God.

For the inherently corrupt, God further promises that the time is coming when you will cry out to the Lord, but he will not answer you. He will not listen to your prayers, for you have done evil. (Micah 3:4 GNT)

But for you and me beloved, as Jesus’ disciples, His followers, all is not lost for we too have a promise from God,

But as for me, I will be on the watch for the Lord; I will wait for the God of my salvation. My God will hear me. – Micah 7:7 (NASB)

Upon hearing the words quoted from Micah, the disciples would have recalled the entire passage including this wonderful promise that they could cling to as they went out to perform the mission and you can do the same. It is a promise of hope.

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “A Sword” ©2026 January 16, 2026

 

Division

Jesus said,

“Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword. I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. Your enemies will be right in your own household!’’ – Matthew 10: 34-36

Until I started walking seriously along the spiritual path, every time I read this, I felt troubled because before then, I just did not understand how Jesus could say such a thing. However, as my walk progressed further, I began to understand what Jesus was saying.

My mother, though a stalwart of the church, thought that I was going crazy as I would be on my bed waist deep in different translations of the bible, a myriad of books, journals and notebooks with my laptop somewhere in the mix. 

It’s not that she turned against me in such a manner as to sever ties, but it was causing division, as she looked on at my "madness" trying to comprehend what was happening to her daughter. I imagine that perhaps her Christian walk led her down a gentler path, whereas mine was intensely gruelling.

As time went by, she eventually came to terms with the way I was being schooled by Spirit and appreciated my spiritual perspective.

I know that some persons traversing the Christian path are not so fortunate; their families neither understand nor care to understand their journey.

The Amplified Bible says that it is a sword of division between belief and unbelief. People have gravely severed ties with family members because of their differing beliefs.

The Christian walk is not one of a cherry blossom laden path, where birds are chirping happy tunes and people are skipping along cheerily. In his second letter to Timothy, Paul wrote,

Indeed, all who delight in pursuing righteousness and are determined to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be hunted and persecuted [because of their faith]. – 2 Timothy 3:12 (AMP)

Beloved, becoming a Christian may bring you peace of mind but it doesn’t always bring peace so, don’t be surprised when you experience conflict every now and then. During these times of tug o’ war it’s important for you to keep in mind that Jesus Himself said that trusting Him, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world. (John 16:33 MSG)

Living at odds with close relatives in a divided house is not easy; their verbal abuse, insults and ridicule because of your faith, hurt endlessly and trying to keep your cool under the pressure cuts like a newly sharpened knife but take heart, pray and stand firm in your belief. Jesus is the only one who can heal the pain and if it is to be, heal the division.

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “Division” ©2026, January 15, 2026

The Widows

I look up to the hills, but where will my help really come from? My help will come from the Lord, the Creator of heaven and earth. – Psalm 121:1-2 (ERV)

Seven years ago today, my marital status suddenly changed from “wife” to “widow”. My husband was not ill, so his death was an unexpected shock; I was unprepared.

A few months after, I took the car to the mechanic, something my husband would have done. The mechanic, in his attempt to console, told me of his sister who, after 25 years, was still mourning for her husband. She simply could not, as he put it, “catch herself”. He went on to say that her husband had died when she was 50, then after a brief pause, as though his mind had drifted, he looked directly at me and said, “Don’t be like my sister.”

He did not charge me for his service that day, and his advice was priceless.

Stories of widows can be found in both the Old and New Testaments. One who used her wits to secure her future, another who applied wisdom in dire circumstances, a tenacious one who threatens a judge, some in service that were overlooked, and widows who mourn.

God seems to be particularly concerned, along with the poor, orphans and strangers, about widows, and He was particularly concerned about me. My intention was to wallow in grief, but God arranged for me to have to go to the mechanic that day, to receive His message.

You see, I was not the only person grieving the loss, there were four children who had lost their father; for me to deliberately allow my grief to consume me would have been selfish. It wasn’t that I was not to mourn, to cry and to feel his loss but I was not to let it overtake me to the point where, like the mechanic’s sister, my life had also come to an end.

How fair would that have been to our children and how faithless I would have been in God?

The widows in the Word, defied convention. First century Widows were expected to be weak and unable to survive on their own, but the stories throughout the bible highlight widows who were savvy businesswomen, strong advocates for justice, those who showed wisdom in times of crises, women who saw opportunities and took advantage of them like, Tamar, Naomi and Ruth, to name a few.

Every one of the widows in the bible demonstrates the strength of sufficiency, not in themselves but in God. They shatter the stereotype as they epitomize fortitude and wisdom. They are widows on their knees, determined in faith, dependent upon God who cares profoundly.

Luke tells us of a widow named Anna, who never left the temple but stayed there day and night worshiping and praying and fasting as we read in chapter 2, verses 36 and 37 (NRSVUE),

There was also a prophet, Anna the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, then as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped there with fasting and prayer night and day.

The widows in Jesus’ parables make sound decisions, act independently, and fight for their well-being. They weren’t without a voice. The parable of the woman and the unjust judge is a prime example. Her persistence prompts the judge to act (Luke 18:1-8).

Even the widows who were domesticated showed tenacity, like the widow at Zarephath of Sidon who was obedient to God and advocated for her son (1 Kings 17).

Those widows took bold steps, dismantling the usual visual of how the widow was seen, and were instrumental in the advancement of God’s plan.

Beloved, the widows teach lessons of purpose and persistence, faith and courage, trusting God to provide, and their stories assure us that God does not abandon us in times of despair. 

Open your heart to God, ask Him for help and He will supply whatever you need, just as He did for the widows and just as He has done and continues to do for me.

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “The Widows” ©2026, January 14, 2026

 

 

 

Strengthen your Core

Every now and then I suffer excruciating back pains; just last week I bent down to retrieve a bottle cap (why did I do that?) and pain shot through my back like a torpedo. I could not move. I called out to my daughter for help. She admonished me saying, “Mom, you need to strengthen your core.”

I have heard this so many times, not just from my daughter but from my son, my niece, my doctor and a physio therapist – yes, I’ve been. So, why am I reluctant to strengthen my core, especially when I know that it will certainly ease my back problem?

Thinking about this physical core weakness, led me to ponder upon the strength of one’s spiritual core. I have noticed that many church-going people’s spiritual cores are weak. They attend services religiously, participate in weekly bible study, volunteer without hesitation, yet their faith seems lacklustre. Anything that requires them to demonstrate strong faith only exposes their doubtfulness.

There are times when we have all been uncertain about one thing or another, but consistent ambivalence is another matter.

Just as I need to make an expended effort to exercise my core muscles, we need to diligently exercise our faith muscles.

We have all been given the measure of faith (see Romans 12:3) so we have no excuse, the faith is there, we simply need to strengthen the faith we already have.

Faith is essential for living this spiritual life; it’s vital in our relationship with God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

…without faith no one can please God. We must believe that God is real and rewards everyone who searches for him. – Hebrews 11:6 (CEV)

Now more than ever, in this topsy-turvy world, we need to be deliberate in developing our faith. Some of us have recently lost our livelihoods, we’re in a quandary because we cannot see when, how and if our circumstances will get better. It is hard but this is when we must dig in deep to strengthen our spiritual core.

Beloved, do you remember that faith you had when you first believed? What’s happened to it? That took strong faith.

You have accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord. Now keep on following him. Plant your roots in Christ and let him be the foundation for your life. Be strong in your faith, just as you were taught. And be grateful. – Colossians 2:7 (CEV)

The wonderful thing about this journey is that you are not expected to grow strong faith on your own; you have a Helper, Christ’s own Spirit.

In Mark chapter nine, the man who brought his demon possessed son to be healed said to Jesus,

“…Please have pity and help us if you can!”

Sometimes we believe that Jesus cannot help us in our situations, but look at Jesus’ response to the boy’s bewildered father, knowing that it is His response to you,

“Why do you say ‘if you can’? Anything is possible for someone who has faith!”

It is time that you, like the boy's father, cry out to Jesus, “I do have faith! Please help me to have even more.”

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Strengthen your Core” ©2026, January 13, 2026

 

 

The Light Source

 Recently, I was thinking of how God commanded things into existence and something that I’ve probably just taken for granted suddenly struck me.

Then God said, “Let there be light!” And light began to shine. –  Genesis 1:3 (ERV)

“Let there be light and light began to shine” tumbled around in my head.

You see, it was on the very first day of creation that God made that pronouncement which brought forth light, but that light wasn’t the sun. After that, He commanded into being, the sky, the earth, the seas, grass, plants that made grain, and fruit trees with seeds.

All this was done in three days. It was not until day four that God said,

“Let there be lights in the sky. These lights will separate the days from the nights. They will be used for signs to show when special meetings begin and to show the days and years. They will be in the sky to shine light on the earth.” And it happened. – Genesis 1:14-15 (ERV)

So, God commanded light in verse 3 but not until verses 14 and 15 were there, lights in the sky. So, what was this light on day one; from where did this light come? Perhaps this is not news to you but for me it was time to dig just a little bit.

The sun, moon, and stars are not the light from the first day, they are light-bearers; created to bring light to earth.

So God made the two large lights. He made the larger light to rule during the day and the smaller light to rule during the night. He also made the stars.  – Genesis 1:16 (ERV)

The Hebrew word for the light God commanded on day one is “or”; the Hebrew word for the lights He created on day four is “me’orot”. So even though the English translation employs the word “light”, they’re not the same in Hebrew.

The first light, “or”, is God’s presence, the other lights, “me’orot, are vessels created to channel the light of God’s presence, the Source of light.

Jesus said,

I am the Light of the world. – John 8:12

And in John 1:1 (AMPC) we read,

In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself.

And, 1 John 1:5 (AMPC) tells us,

God is Light, and there is no darkness in Him at all [no, not in any way].

Now, Scripture reveals that Jesus is the Light of the world, and Jesus is the Word and Jesus is God, and God is Light, therefore it can be said that, “In the beginning [before all time] was the Light, and the Light was with God, and the Light was God Himself.”

The light that came forth on day one was already in existence, “before all time”; it was the Light.

Beloved, God Himself is the Light Source that was the “Let there be light” Light! And He is your Light even on your darkest days.

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “The Light Source” ©2026, January 12, 2026

 

 

 

 

A New Day, let us Pray

 

O Lord, God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps His covenant of love with those who love Him and obey His commands, let Your ear be attentive and Your eyes open to the prayer I am praying before You.

I am Your child whom You redeemed by Your great strength and mighty hand. O Lord let Your ear be attentive to the prayer of Your child who delights in revering Your name.

Give me success today by granting me favour in the presence of men.

The gracious hand of my God is upon me. The God of heaven gives me success.

Remember me with Your favour, O my God.

Now, strengthen my hands so that everything I put my hands to, will be blessed and whatever I do prospers.

The joy of the Lord is my strength. Blessed be Your glorious name and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise.

You alone are the Lord. You made the heavens even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them.

You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship You. You are the Lord God.

You are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love.

You gave Your good Spirit to instruct me.

You do not withhold Your manna from my mouth, and You give me water for my thirst.

You sustain me; I lack nothing, my clothes do not wear out, nor do my feet become swollen. I possess houses filled with all kinds of good things, wells already dug, vineyards, olive groves and fruit trees in abundance. I eat to the fill and I am well-nourished. I revel in Your great goodness.

From heaven You hear me, and in Your great compassion You give me deliverers, who rescue me from the hand of my enemies. And when I cry out to You again, You hear from heaven and deliver me time after time.

In Your great mercy, You do not put an end to me or abandon me, for You are a gracious and merciful God.

O my God, the great, mighty and awesome God who keeps His covenant of love, in all that has happened to me, You have been just and You have acted faithfully.

I thank You O God for remembering me and showing me mercy according to Your great love.

I thank You that You remember me with favour, O my God.

In the Name of Jesus, Amen †

 

(Adapted from the Book of Nehemiah, Psalm 1 and Deuteronomy chapter 28)

 

Not just about Taxes

 

“Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” – Mark 12:17 (ERV)

Jesus was responding to a group of religious and political leaders comprising Pharisees and Herodians, who, as was their norm, were trying to entrap Jesus by getting Him to say the wrong thing. This time they’d asked,

Tell us, is it right to pay taxes to Caesar? Should we pay them or not?  – Mark 12:14 (ERV)

Speaking in the temple, Jesus used stories to teach the people (Mark 12:1 ERV); these stories are called parables, each with meaning beyond itself. Jesus, in earshot of the Jewish leaders, told a parable of a man who planted a vineyard (Mark 12:1-11). The wicked tenants in the story are not seen in a positive light especially since they do not respect the son of the vineyard owner.

When these Jewish leaders heard this story, they knew it was about them. They wanted to find a way to arrest Jesus… – Mark 12:12 (ERV)

Cue the Pharisees and the Herodians.

Now in those days paying taxes was not an uncommon practice. Taxes were imposed long before the reign of king Solomon, so taxation was not a Roman invention of Jesus’ day, however, the extortion that accompanied their method of collection resulted in undue oppression of the Jews and gave rise to the Jewish hatred of tax collectors.

The Roman denarius was used for paying taxes. This coin was referred to as “tribute money” and featured the image and name of a Caesar, either Augustus or Tiberias, along with the words “divine imperator”, “father of his country” on one side and “highest priest” on the other. Both the image and wording inscribed in Latin were part of the act of worship of Caesar performed in those days. Each Caesar, a title given to Roman emperors, was believed to be a son of a god.

The religious leaders asked Jesus this particular question about taxes, not to gain knowledge but to trick.

“Why are you trying to catch me saying something wrong? Bring me a silver coin. Let me see it.” – Mark 12:15 (ERV)

More than likely, the image of Tiberias, who was Caesar at the time of Jesus’ ministry, would have been on the coin that was handed to Jesus.

Jesus, as was His norm, flipped the narrative by asking,

“Whose picture is on the coin? And whose name is written on it?” They answered, “It is Caesar’s picture and Caesar’s name.” – Mark 12:16 (ERV)

Caesar’s picture and name were on the coin; the earthly governing authority was exactly where it was meant to be.

Beloved, Paul tells us in Romans 13:1(LEB),

Let every person be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except by God, and those that exist are put in place by God.

Looking at some of those in authority it is difficult to comprehend this verse, but we must remember that God has a purpose for His actions.

The Lord has made everything for its own purpose, Even the wicked [according to their role] for the day of evil. – Proverbs 16:4 (AMP)

Even the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar, who initiated the 70-year captivity of God’s chosen people, was appointed by God according to Daniel 2:37-38.

Jesus’ response, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” is not just about taxes, it is about leaders who claim, like the Caesars, what belongs to God – the tributes and the honour and the worship and the glory – and how we, as God’s people are to deal with them.

No matter what, God must always take priority, however, His people still have to adhere to the laws and demands of those in authority even if they are non-believers because God places non-Christians in positions of governing authority.

Be willing to serve the people who have authority in this world. Do this for the Lord.  – 1 Peter 2:13 (ERV)

It is God who establishes that authority therefore Christians, out of respect for God, must obey their leadership.

On the flip side of this same coin, this forbids God’s people to give to those opposed to God what must only be given to God.

Beloved, this is one of those biblical Truths that calls for some serious contemplation, it’s something that God’s people have wrestled with from time immemorial.

Whatever Jesus said then He is saying to us today.

And, when all is said and done, there remains, as faint as it may seem, a dividing line that mustn’t be crossed as we must be mindful to whom we give worshipful tribute to and that is not a contradiction.

Mark 12:17 (ERV) goes on to say that the men were amazed at what Jesus said just as we are.

 

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Not just about Taxes” ©2026, January 10, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

What about Obadiah?

 

What about Obadiah? I could see the puzzled expressions of those of you who may be asking, “Who?”

Isaiah and Jeremiah, yes; Jonah and even Malachai but Obadiah? Who’s that?

Long story short…

Obadiah was a prophet, whose prophecy condemned the behaviour of a people called the Edomites.

The Edomites were the descendants of Esau, Jacob’s twin who gave up his birthright for a pottage – some bread and some lentil stew – as recorded in Genesis 25:29-34.

Esau, after his departure from Canaan, took up residence at Mount Seir. He married the daughter of one of the tribal chiefs of the Horites, who were already dwelling there. With Esau’s sons and grandsons becoming chiefs themselves, the Edomites became the dominant tribe and gradually the Horites disappeared.

Over the centuries, Edom changed from being under the rule of tribal chiefs to a monarchy; eight kings had governed this nation long before Israel had any such ruler.

The Edomites’ first quarrel with the Israelites was in the time of Moses when Edom’s king refused the sojourners passage through their land (see Numbers 20:14-21).

Later, king Saul fought against the Edomites, and king David conquered them.

There were many battles fought between these two kingdoms, but it was when the Edomites rejoiced over the Babylonians’ destruction of Jerusalem and the depopulation of the Judeans that the hatred between these two nations intensified.

Though Edom figures prominently in the prophetic Scriptures, it is the very basis for the entire Book of Obadiah.

Related through Jacob and Esau, there was no love lost between these two nations and as a matter of course, the Edomites acted spitefully toward their Jewish relatives.

Nestled between Amos and Jonah, Obadiah’s is the shortest of the books of the prophets and is a prediction of the destruction of the kingdom of Edom.

In this brief one-chapter prophecy, Obadiah did not mix words when he pronounced God’s judgment against Edom for their overt agreement for the rebellion meted out to His people.

Imagine if a powerful nation invades another, completely ignoring that country’s sovereignty, while a tiny nation with almost no power to speak of stands in full support of that invasion; Edom is that tiny nation.

Edom, though not itself the attacker, supported the attacks by other nations against Jerusalem, not once, not twice but four times, in other words, Edom was well-invested.

“See, I will make you small among the nations; you will be utterly despised. The pride of your heart has deceived you, you who live in the clefts of the rocks and make your home on the heights, you who say to yourself, ‘Who can bring me down to the ground?’ Though you soar like the eagle and make your nest among the stars, from there I will bring you down,” declares the Lord. (v 2-4 NIV)

Fallen Giant by Alex Speed

Beloved, some persons feel that God does not see the evil done against His children, but He is never deceived.  They wallow in their self-exaltation, full of their self-imposed superiority, believing that they are untouchable, unaware that Pride leads to destruction, and arrogance to downfall (Proverbs 16:18 GNT).

Obadiah’s prophecy may have been made centuries ago but God’s Word is still relevant today.

Heaven and earth [as now known] will pass away, but My words will not pass away. – Matthew 24:35 (AMP)

The word of our God stands forever (see Isaiah 40:8). And even though the prophecy concerns nations, it can be applicable to your own life.

Your home, your workplace, your church, are filled with persons who, acting out of spiteful pride, delight in your distress; they are all around you waiting to rejoice over your affliction, but you need not act nor react because God sees and God will avenge.

 Nothing in all the world can be hidden from God. He can clearly see all things…– Hebrews 4:13 (ERV)

the Lord says, “I am the one who punishes; I will pay people back.” – Romans 12:19 (ERV)

God exacted His punishment upon the Edomites for standing with the enemies of His people who were in utter distress, just as Obadiah had pronounced.

Obadiah exhorted Edom to discontinue its wicked association with Jerusalem’s enemies to no avail. They refused to quit that alignment and paid the consequences for their wilful stubbornness.

Eventually, Edom became subdued by the same powerhouses they had venerated and, would no longer enjoy the freedom they once knew; their mournful existence came to an end and they soon disappeared, and those so-called powerhouses fared no better.

God shows his anger from heaven against all the evil and wrong things that people do. – Romans 1:18 (ERV)

Beloved, Obadiah’s message is clear; it is to one’s own peril in choosing to fight against God and His beloved people.

If God is for us, no one can stand against us. And God is with us. – Romans 8:31 (ERV)

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “What about Obadiah?” ©2026, January 8, 2026

 

 

 

What was Jesus writing?

 

Jesus, teaching the swarm of people who had gathered in the temple to hear Him, was interrupted by Pharisees and religious scholars. They had caught a woman in the act of adultery.

And bringing her to the temple was yet another one of their ploys to catch Jesus saying something wrong (Matthew 22:15 ERV); to entangle Him with His own words.

They stood her in plain sight of everyone and said, “Teacher, this woman was caught red-handed in the act of adultery. Moses, in the Law, gives orders to stone such persons. What do you say?” – John 8:3-5 (MSG)

Jesus, well aware of their usual shenanigans, calmly “stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger” (v 6 TLB).

Hoping to bring shame and disgrace to this woman and even more so to Jesus, these men, full of religious pride, were on the verge of being thoroughly confounded. Jesus was about to rewrite the narrative.

They kept at him, badgering him. He straightened up and said, “The sinless one among you, go first: Throw the stone.” Bending down again, he wrote some more in the dirt. (v 7-8 MSG)

These religious leaders and scholars asked Jesus a question, Jesus’ response the first time was to stoop down and write in the dust. Then they kept on asking, this time He gave them a challenge, after which He again returned to writing in the dirt.

What was Jesus writing?

This had been a burning question for me, and over the years I have heard many answers that were preceded by, “Perhaps” and “Maybe” and “I think” and at one time, “Nothing. Jesus was simply doodling in the dirt”

Not one of these answers satisfied my curiosity. What do you think Jesus was writing?

It is said that the Old Testament is the New Testament concealed and the New Testament is the Old Testament revealed.

So, look at what I came across one fine day while poring over the Old Testament book of Jeremiah.

Lord, you are the hope of Israel; all who forsake you will be put to shame. Those who turn away from you will be written in the dust because they have forsaken the Lord, the spring of living water. (Jeremiah 17:13 NIV)

Eureka! Finally, an answer that made sense.

These Pharisees and teachers of the Law, by their insidious actions intending to bring shame and disgrace to Jesus had forsaken the Lord, the spring of living water, they had turned away from Him, therefore Jesus was writing them in the dust.

Beloved, there is so much more to this incident that you can sink your teeth into but for today, chew on this morsel. Amen?

Amen †

Shelley Johnson “What was Jesus writing?” ©2026, January 7, 2026

 

Start a Conversation

In the advertisement department at a newspaper, I sat patiently waiting for the clerk to call me so that I could place an ad and be on my way. There were a couple people ahead of me to be attended to and a number of people in the line to the cashier. I was not expecting this many people to be placing advertisements in the newspaper, having to wait was not factored into my routine for the day.

“Next!”

The person seated beside me got up and went to the clerk’s cubicle. Almost immediately the vacant seat became occupied. Instinctively, I took a quick glance and returned to centre. He was an older gentleman who took the opportunity to start a conversation.

“Good day. Can I introduce you to a friend of mine?”

I had heard that question before, so I knew his intentions. I don’t know who came up with this one-liner, but after hearing it too many times, I did not care for it. I must admit that I was tempted to say no but instead I decided to engage.

How do you start a conversation to tell strangers about Jesus?

Have you ever used that line about a friend of yours?

I appreciate those, like that gentleman, who can easily talk to strangers about Jesus. His approach may have been overused but he, obedient to Jesus’ command in Matthew 4:19, was being a “fisher of men” and used it anyway.

Jesus said to them, “Follow me! I will teach you how to bring in people instead of fish.” (CEV)

In Acts 1:8, Jesus told His disciples that they will be His witnesses, not just in their neighbourhoods but “to the end of the earth” and as modern day disciples we must do the same, however, approaching perfect strangers is not for the fainthearted; it is not as easy as some religious people make you feel it is and not everyone who witnesses for Christ will all have the same method.

I have never asked anyone if I could introduce them to a friend of mine, unless it was a friend standing next to me and then I’d simply say, this is whoever.

God has given each of us different gifts and talents including different ways of connecting with others.

We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. – Romans 12:6 (NIV)

Starting a conversation with a random stranger may not be your strong point but you may be able to get into people’s lives in another way.

Your genuine kindness towards a stranger might just be the perfect conversation starter for you.

Sometimes you may not even have to say a word.

A simple smile or offering an old lady your seat in a crowded waiting room or giving a generous tip to the young man who delivered your pizza or to the attendant who filled up your tank at the gas station.

You don’t always have to be the one to start a conversation either, simply listening with genuine interest can be an ideal opener because there are hurting people everywhere who just need someone to talk to. I have encountered so many emotionally and spiritually wounded strangers in banks, at the doctor’s office, on planes, even in line at the supermarket.

They started a conversation, I listened with sincerity and it opened the way for me to say,

“Come and meet a man who told me everything I ever did!” (John 4:29 TLB)

Well, not literally, but you get the idea, right?

Beloved, forcing a conversation can go terribly wrong; if you are a conversationalist then go ahead and start a conversation outright but if you’re like me and many others it’s okay to use different ways to get the message of Jesus to strangers.

I encourage you to seek God’s guidance in this; pray and trust that He will create opportunities to start a conversation.

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Start a Conversation” ©2026, January 7, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

Liar, Lunatic, or Lord?

 

And Jesus went on with his disciples to the villages of Caesarea Philippi. And on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others, one of the prophets.” – Mark 8:27-28 (ESV)

A few years ago, a friend asked me if I truly believed that Jesus was God. I must admit that I was quite surprised at his question because I knew him as an ardent church attendee. Before I answered I enquired, “What’s this about; do you have doubts?” to which he responded with a sheepish yes.

Jesus asked His disciples what people were saying about His identity. From the disciples’ response, none of the people identified Him as the Lord. My friend believed that Jesus lived, however he was now leaning on the side of Him being just another prophet rather than the “only begotten Son of God” or God incarnate.

All his life he clung to his faith and belief but after going through many challenges that left him broken, it wasn’t making sense to him anymore. He was questioning everything and the more he questioned the more his belief and faith dwindled.

What could I say to him that might steer him back onto the spiritual path he had obviously abandoned?

Would he be willing to hear me out; to just look again at some of the things about Jesus that he already knew? I shouldn’t simply walk away, though that would be easiest, I couldn’t.

In cases like these, we must set aside our judgments, our biases, and our assumptions. We need to not bulldoze others with theology and religion but take a gentle approach. Our job is to guide not push, and to allow the Holy Spirit to do the rest; we don’t convict, that’s His job. It is He who awakens and re-awakens our hearts to our need for Jesus.

And when he comes, he will convict the world of its sin, and of God’s righteousness, and of the coming judgment. – John 16:8 (NLT)

Perhaps you’re in a similar situation where your faith and belief in Jesus as God is see-sawing.

Throughout the Gospel, Jesus claimed to be God and this claim can either be true or not. If Jesus was not being truthful, then chances are He knew that He wasn’t and if He did not know then we can draw but one conclusion.

Apostle John, referring to Jesus tells us,

In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. – John 1:1 (NLT)

And throughout this same Gospel, Jesus is recorded as laying claim to be God. In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 16, verses 15-16 (ESV) says,

He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

Hundreds of years earlier, Isaiah prophesied of Jesus saying,

For a Child will be born to us, a Son will be given to us;
And the government will rest on His shoulders;
And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace. – Isaiah 9:6 (NASB)

I asked my friend a few questions.

“Do you believe that Jesus was deceiving His followers then and us now?”

With a quick shrug he responded, “Perhaps.”

“So, why would Jesus keep up with this colossal deception of being God even during His trial, or when He was being whipped mercilessly, or made to carry the frightfully heavy cross, or being nailed to it?”

“Not sure…people have their reasons for what they do.” Was his answer. I continued,

“At some point along this torturously agonizing experience He would have confessed, don’t you think?”

At this point he offered, “Jesus was a good man, with good morals, a great teacher and orator, like a motivational speaker, life coach or an influencer in His days.”

“Seriously?” I thought but did not voice.

Instead, I said, “Okay, but if you believe that Jesus possessed all those admirable characteristics, how could you believe that He is lying about His identity?”

After a short pause I said,

“What I’m getting from you is that Jesus was either a liar, a lunatic or both?”

I could tell that he was taken aback by that question, thought about it for a moment, but did not respond.

“You realize that that’s your only logical conclusion, right?”

Silence. I continued undaunted.

“Now, if Jesus was sincere, He could still have been a lunatic.”

My friend smiled in agreement.

“As you’re aware, there have been a lot of people over the years who claimed to be God, and they sincerely believed themselves and were able to convince others, especially people who were searching for something to believe in, a tangible thing they could see and feel, that gave them purpose. But those proclaiming their divinity nowadays, always seem a little erratic in their behaviour.” I suggested, and he nodded.

“Reading the Gospel accounts, Jesus does not come across as deluded. Does He?”

He shook his head.

“I know that people with mental challenges can be some of the most intelligent among us but Jesus, in all His actions and profoundness in what He said, doesn’t appear to have a mental disorder. Does He?”

Again, he shook his head.

“As a matter of fact, you are well acquainted with the four Gospels, so you would know that in three Gospel accounts, Jesus is recorded as delivering a mentally afflicted, demon possessed man.”

“Of course.”

“Now, it’s not up to me to change your mind, but as your friend, and as a believer in Jesus, I can’t not attempt to point you in His direction. It’s really up to you to investigate the evidence for yourself.”

“I guess” was a murmur escaping from his mouth.

Beloved, with everything I personally know and have experienced spiritually, it will be dishonest of me to tell you that Jesus was either a liar or a lunatic. I can only conclude that Jesus was who He claimed to be – Lord.

My friend could not, with any conviction, say that Jesus was a liar, and neither could he commit to Jesus being a lunatic but at that time, he was still on the fence as to Jesus as Lord.

Finally, I said to my friend, “Liar, lunatic or Lord, any one is possible but which of the three is the most probable? You must make that choice for yourself.”

Our conversation ended on a cliffhanger, as he did not let me know what his conclusion was, but it wasn’t for me to know. We have since lost touch, but I trust that he has found his way.

I will end today’s reflection as John ended his Gospel,

But these are written (recorded) in order that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ (the Anointed One), the Son of God, and that through believing and cleaving to and trusting and relying upon Him you may have life through (in) His name [through Who He is]. – John 20:31 (AMPC)

Amen †

 

Shelley Johnson “Liar, Lunatic or Lord?” ©2026, January 6, 2026