Archives for November 2025

Thanksgiving 2025

Good morning,

Psalm 103 is such an encouragement to me. 

Bless the LORD, O My Soul

Psalm 103 is a heartfelt reminder of our fleeting existence, yet also a comfort in its emphasis on God’s eternal, unfailing love and mercy. It encourages us to live a life of praise and gratitude, keeping God’s commandments and recognizing His divine authority over all creation. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

Psalm 103

1. God’s Blessings and Forgiveness (Verses 1-5)

Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.² Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:³ Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;⁴ Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;⁵ Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

The psalm begins with a call to Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name (Psalm 103:1). This is an invitation to wholehearted worship, engaging every part of our being in praise.

David begins this Psalm by urging his soul to bless the Lord and not to forget His benefits. God forgives all our iniquities, heals our diseases, redeems our life from the pit, crowns us with steadfast love and mercy, and satisfies us with good so that our youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

David lists the benefits of God’s goodness, including forgiveness, healing, redemption, love, and compassion (Psalm 103:2-5). These are not just past acts but ongoing realities in the life of a believer. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

2. God’s Righteousness and Justice (Verses 6-10)

⁶ The Lord executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.⁷ He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.⁸ The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.⁹ He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

David describes God as the one who works vindication and justice for all who are oppressed. God made His ways known to Moses and His acts to the people of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. 

The psalm highlights God’s righteousness and justice for the oppressed (Psalm 103:6), reminding us of His commitment to righting wrongs and defending the vulnerable. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

3. God’s Boundless Mercy (Verses 11-14)

 ¹¹ For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.¹² As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.¹³ Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.¹⁴ For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.

David praises God’s mercy by comparing it to the height of the heavens above the earth. As far as the east is from the west, so far does He remove our transgressions from us. As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear Him. He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

4. The Fleeting Nature of Life (Verses 15-18)

¹⁵ As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.¹⁶ For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more. ¹⁷ But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children;¹⁸ To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.

The Psalmist then reflects on the transience of human life, comparing it to grass that flourishes in the morning but fades in the evening. However, the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children’s children, to those who keep His covenant and remember to do His commandments.

The psalm contrasts human frailty with God’s enduring strength and faithfulness (Psalm 103:14-16), reminding us of our dependence on Him.

God’s mercy is described as being from everlasting to everlasting (Psalm 103:17), emphasizing its eternal and unchanging nature. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

5. God’s Sovereign Rule (Verses 19-22)

The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all. ²⁰ Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.²¹ Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.²² Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the Lord, O my soul.

David concludes the Psalm by acknowledging God’s sovereign rule over all His works. He encourages everything in the universe, including his own soul, to bless the Lord. The psalm concludes with a universal call for all creation to bless the Lord (Psalm 103:20-22), underscoring the comprehensive scope of God’s dominion and the call to worship.

Psalm 103, attributed to David, is a heartwarming and inspiring song of praise to the Almighty God. It emphasizes God’s infinite mercy, boundless love, and the manifold blessings he bestows upon His people. It brings the divine nature into sharp focus, and through contrasting it with human frailty, implores us to reflect on God’s greatness and our dependence on Him. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)                                                                                                                                                                                               

Practical Applications

Cultivate Gratitude

Regularly reflect on and give thanks for the specific ways God has shown His goodness in your life.

Embrace Forgiveness

Accept God’s forgiveness and extend it to others, recognizing it as a key aspect of His character.

Advocate for Justice

Follow God’s example by seeking justice and righteousness in your community, standing up for those who are oppressed.

Acknowledge Human Limitations

Recognize your own limitations and rely on God’s strength and wisdom in all areas of life.

Engage in Wholehearted Worship

Make worship a daily practice, engaging your heart, mind, and soul in blessing the Lord. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Thanksgiving 2025

Good morning,

Psalm 103 is such an encouragement to me. 

Bless the LORD, O My Soul

Psalm 103 is a heartfelt reminder of our fleeting existence, yet also a comfort in its emphasis on God’s eternal, unfailing love and mercy. It encourages us to live a life of praise and gratitude, keeping God’s commandments and recognizing His divine authority over all creation. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

Psalm 103

4. The Fleeting Nature of Life (Verses 15-18)

¹⁵ As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.¹⁶ For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more. ¹⁷ But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children;¹⁸ To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.

The Psalmist then reflects on the transience of human life, comparing it to grass that flourishes in the morning but fades in the evening. However, the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children’s children, to those who keep His covenant and remember to do His commandments.

The psalm contrasts human frailty with God’s enduring strength and faithfulness (Psalm 103:14-16), reminding us of our dependence on Him.

God’s mercy is described as being from everlasting to everlasting (Psalm 103:17), emphasizing its eternal and unchanging nature. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

5. God’s Sovereign Rule (Verses 19-22)

The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all. ²⁰ Bless the Lord, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.²¹ Bless ye the Lord, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.²² Bless the Lord, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the Lord, O my soul.

David concludes the Psalm by acknowledging God’s sovereign rule over all His works. He encourages everything in the universe, including his own soul, to bless the Lord. The psalm concludes with a universal call for all creation to bless the Lord (Psalm 103:20-22), underscoring the comprehensive scope of God’s dominion and the call to worship.

Psalm 103, attributed to David, is a heartwarming and inspiring song of praise to the Almighty God. It emphasizes God’s infinite mercy, boundless love, and the manifold blessings he bestows upon His people. It brings the divine nature into sharp focus, and through contrasting it with human frailty, implores us to reflect on God’s greatness and our dependence on Him. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)                                                                                                                                                                                                          

Practical Applications

Cultivate Gratitude

Regularly reflect on and give thanks for the specific ways God has shown His goodness in your life.

Embrace Forgiveness

Accept God’s forgiveness and extend it to others, recognizing it as a key aspect of His character.

Advocate for Justice

Follow God’s example by seeking justice and righteousness in your community, standing up for those who are oppressed.

Acknowledge Human Limitations

Recognize your own limitations and rely on God’s strength and wisdom in all areas of life.

Engage in Wholehearted Worship

Make worship a daily practice, engaging your heart, mind, and soul in blessing the Lord. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Thanksgiving 2025

Good morning,

Psalm 103 is such an encouragement to me. 

Bless the LORD, O My Soul

Psalm 103 is a heartfelt reminder of our fleeting existence, yet also a comfort in its emphasis on God’s eternal, unfailing love and mercy. It encourages us to live a life of praise and gratitude, keeping God’s commandments and recognizing His divine authority over all creation. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

Psalm 103

1. God’s Blessings and Forgiveness (Verses 1-5)

Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.² Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:³ Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;⁴ Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;⁵ Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

The psalm begins with a call to Bless the LORD, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name (Psalm 103:1). This is an invitation to wholehearted worship, engaging every part of our being in praise.

David begins this Psalm by urging his soul to bless the Lord and not to forget His benefits. God forgives all our iniquities, heals our diseases, redeems our life from the pit, crowns us with steadfast love and mercy, and satisfies us with good so that our youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

David lists the benefits of God’s goodness, including forgiveness, healing, redemption, love, and compassion (Psalm 103:2-5). These are not just past acts but ongoing realities in the life of a believer. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

2. God’s Righteousness and Justice (Verses 6-10)

⁶ The Lord executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.⁷ He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.⁸ The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.⁹ He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.

David describes God as the one who works vindication and justice for all who are oppressed. God made His ways known to Moses and His acts to the people of Israel. The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. He will not always chide, nor will he keep his anger forever. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor repay us according to our iniquities. 

The psalm highlights God’s righteousness and justice for the oppressed (Psalm 103:6), reminding us of His commitment to righting wrongs and defending the vulnerable. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

3. God’s Boundless Mercy (Verses 11-14)

 ¹¹ For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.¹² As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.¹³ Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.¹⁴ For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.

David praises God’s mercy by comparing it to the height of the heavens above the earth. As far as the east is from the west, so far does He remove our transgressions from us. As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear Him. He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/psalms/103.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will study John 14.

The Way, the Truth, and the Life

John 14 is a comforting and empowering chapter that shines light on the path of every believer. Jesus’ promises about the prepared place, His declaration as the way, the truth, and the life, and the promise of the Holy Spirit provide immeasurable comfort and guidance. Furthermore, His teachings on obedience as an expression of love redefine our relationship with God. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Sweet peace for believers (14:27-31)

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.²⁸ Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.²⁹ And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.³⁰ Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.³¹ But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

Jesus further reassures His disciples, promising peace and urging them not to be afraid. He predicts His coming betrayal but reassures them that this happens so the world may know His love for the Father.

Jesus offers His peace to the disciples, distinct from worldly peace. John 14:27 offers peace that the world cannot give: Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.

The Greek word for “peace” is εἰρήνη (eirēnē), signifying a state of tranquility and harmony.

John 14 is a comforting and enlightening discourse by Jesus during the Last Supper. Facing His imminent departure, Jesus offers His disciples profound teachings about heaven, His unique role, the coming Holy Spirit, and the relationship between love and obedience. This chapter provides crucial spiritual insights and promises for every believer. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

CONCLUSION

Christ tells of His return

To know Jesus is to know the Father

Believers can do the works Christ did

Promise of the Comforter

Sweet peace for believers

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will study John 14.

The Way, the Truth, and the Life

John 14 is a comforting and empowering chapter that shines light on the path of every believer. Jesus’ promises about the prepared place, His declaration as the way, the truth, and the life, and the promise of the Holy Spirit provide immeasurable comfort and guidance. Furthermore, His teachings on obedience as an expression of love redefine our relationship with God. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Promise of the Comforter (14:16-26)

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;¹⁷ Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.¹⁸ I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.¹⁹ Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.²⁰ At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.²¹ He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. ²² Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?²³ Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.²⁴ He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.²⁵ These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.²⁶ But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, to help and be with His followers. 

In John 14:16-17, Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, saying, And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The Holy Spirit is our helper and guide.

Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate: “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever” (John 14:16). The Greek word for “Advocate” is παράκλητος (paraklētos), meaning helper or counselor. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will study John 14.

The Way, the Truth, and the Life

John 14 is a comforting and empowering chapter that shines light on the path of every believer. Jesus’ promises about the prepared place, His declaration as the way, the truth, and the life, and the promise of the Holy Spirit provide immeasurable comfort and guidance. Furthermore, His teachings on obedience as an expression of love redefine our relationship with God. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Christ tells of His return (14:1-6)

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. ² In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.⁴ And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.⁵ Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?⁶ Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Jesus comforts His troubled disciples, encouraging them to trust in God and in Him. The Greek word for “troubled” is ταρασσέσθω (tarassesthō), which conveys a sense of being disturbed or agitated. 

He speaks of preparing a place for them in His Father’s house and promises to return for them. Jesus speaks of preparing a place for us in His Father’s house (John 14:2-3), providing hope of eternal life and a future with Him.The term “rooms” (μοναι, monai) can also be translated as “dwelling places.”

Thomas questions Jesus about the way to where He is going, and Jesus declares Himself as the way, the truth, and the life. 

John 14:6 states, Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’ This verse underscores the exclusivity of Christ as the only path to God.(https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

To know Jesus is to know the Father (14:7-11)

⁷ If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.⁸ Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.⁹ Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?¹⁰ Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.¹¹ Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake.

Philip asks Jesus to show them the Father, to which Jesus explains His unity with the Father. “Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). This emphasizes the unity between Jesus and the Father. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Believers can do the works Christ did (14:12-15)

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.¹³ And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.¹⁴ If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.¹⁵ If ye love me, keep my commandments.

Jesus promises that those who believe in Him will do greater works: “Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father” (John 14:12). He underscores that love for Him is manifested in obedience to His commands. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Promise of the Comforter (14:16-26)

And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;¹⁷ Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.¹⁸ I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.¹⁹ Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.²⁰ At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.²¹ He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. ²² Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?²³ Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.²⁴ He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.²⁵ These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.²⁶ But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.

Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit, the Advocate, to help and be with His followers. 

In John 14:16-17, Jesus promises the Holy Spirit, saying, And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. The Holy Spirit is our helper and guide.

Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate: “And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate to be with you forever” (John 14:16). The Greek word for “Advocate” is παράκλητος (paraklētos), meaning helper or counselor. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Sweet peace for believers (14:27-31)

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.²⁸ Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.²⁹ And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.³⁰ Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.³¹ But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

Jesus further reassures His disciples, promising peace and urging them not to be afraid. He predicts His coming betrayal but reassures them that this happens so the world may know His love for the Father.

Jesus offers His peace to the disciples, distinct from worldly peace. John 14:27 offers peace that the world cannot give: Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.

The Greek word for “peace” is εἰρήνη (eirēnē), signifying a state of tranquility and harmony.

John 14 is a comforting and enlightening discourse by Jesus during the Last Supper. Facing His imminent departure, Jesus offers His disciples profound teachings about heaven, His unique role, the coming Holy Spirit, and the relationship between love and obedience. This chapter provides crucial spiritual insights and promises for every believer. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

CONCLUSION

Christ tells of His return

To know Jesus is to know the Father

Believers can do the works Christ did

Promise of the Comforter

Sweet peace for believers

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will study John 14.

The Way, the Truth, and the Life

John 14 is a comforting and empowering chapter that shines light on the path of every believer. Jesus’ promises about the prepared place, His declaration as the way, the truth, and the life, and the promise of the Holy Spirit provide immeasurable comfort and guidance. Furthermore, His teachings on obedience as an expression of love redefine our relationship with God. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

To know Jesus is to know the Father (14:7-11)

⁷ If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.⁸ Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.⁹ Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?¹⁰ Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.¹¹ Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake.

Philip asks Jesus to show them the Father, to which Jesus explains His unity with the Father. “Anyone who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). This emphasizes the unity between Jesus and the Father. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Believers can do the works Christ did (14:12-15)

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.¹³ And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.¹⁴ If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.¹⁵ If ye love me, keep my commandments.

Jesus promises that those who believe in Him will do greater works: “Truly, truly, I tell you, whoever believes in Me will also do the works that I am doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father” (John 14:12). He underscores that love for Him is manifested in obedience to His commands. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will study John 14.

The Way, the Truth, and the Life

John 14 is a comforting and empowering chapter that shines light on the path of every believer. Jesus’ promises about the prepared place, His declaration as the way, the truth, and the life, and the promise of the Holy Spirit provide immeasurable comfort and guidance. Furthermore, His teachings on obedience as an expression of love redefine our relationship with God. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Christ tells of His return (14:1-6)

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. ² In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.⁴ And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.⁵ Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?⁶ Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Jesus comforts His troubled disciples, encouraging them to trust in God and in Him. The Greek word for “troubled” is ταρασσέσθω (tarassesthō), which conveys a sense of being disturbed or agitated. 

He speaks of preparing a place for them in His Father’s house and promises to return for them. Jesus speaks of preparing a place for us in His Father’s house (John 14:2-3), providing hope of eternal life and a future with Him.The term “rooms” (μοναι, monai) can also be translated as “dwelling places.”

Thomas questions Jesus about the way to where He is going, and Jesus declares Himself as the way, the truth, and the life. 

John 14:6 states, Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.’ This verse underscores the exclusivity of Christ as the only path to God.(https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/14.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will study John 1:1-34. We will discover who is the” Word”,what the ‘Word” did, the witness of one who knew the “Word”, and what that means for us.

The Word Became Flesh

John 1 invites us into the profound mystery of the Incarnation—God becoming man in Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. It beckons us to recognize Jesus as the eternal Word through whom all things were created, the Light that shines in the darkness, and the Lamb of God who takes away sin. This chapter serves as a reminder of Jesus’ divine nature and mission, encouraging us to deepen our faith and inviting us to follow Him in our daily lives. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/1.htm)

The Word Made Flesh (John 1:9-14, 16-18)

9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.18 No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.

John 1:9-13 speaks of the true Light that gives light to every man. “The true Light who gives light to every man was coming into the world.” Despite being in the world, the world did not recognize Him, yet those who received Him were given the right to become children of God.

The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us, full of grace and truth. 

John 1:14-18 highlights the incarnation of the Word. “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” This passage underscores the full humanity and divinity of Christ, who is full of grace and truth, and reveals God to humanity.

The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. (John 1:14) Jesus took on human nature to dwell among us. This act demonstrates God’s love and desire for a relationship with humanity.

(https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/1.htm)

John 1 serves as a profound introduction to the Gospel of John, presenting the preexistence of Jesus Christ as the Word, His role in creation, and His incarnation as the Light and Life of mankind. Through this chapter, we also explore the testimony of John the Baptist. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/1.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com

Good morning,

This week we will study John 1:1-34. We will discover who is the” Word”,what the ‘Word” did, the witness of one who knew the “Word”, and what that means for us.

The Word Became Flesh

John 1 invites us into the profound mystery of the Incarnation—God becoming man in Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. It beckons us to recognize Jesus as the eternal Word through whom all things were created, the Light that shines in the darkness, and the Lamb of God who takes away sin. This chapter serves as a reminder of Jesus’ divine nature and mission, encouraging us to deepen our faith and inviting us to follow Him in our daily lives. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/1.htm)

The Word in Eternity and Creation (John 1:1-5)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God.3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.4 In him was life; and the life was the light of men.5 And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

John 1:1-3 introduces the concept of “the Word” (Greek: “Logos”), emphasizing its divine nature and role in creation. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” This passage establishes the pre-existence and deity of Christ, affirming that all things were made through Him.

In the beginning was the Word, who was with God and was God. Through Him, all things were made. In Him was life, which was the light of all mankind. 

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. (John 1:1) Jesus is eternal, existing before creation. The Word (Logos) signifies Jesus as the divine reason and creative order.

Through Him all things were made, and without Him nothing was made that has been made. (John 1:3) Jesus is the agent of creation. All of creation is dependent on Him. 

In Him was life, and that life was the light of men. (John 1:4) Jesus is the source of spiritual life and enlightenment.His light overcomes the darkness of sin and ignorance.

John 1:4-5 describes the Word as the source of life and light for humanity. “In Him was life, and that life was the light of men.” The light shines in the darkness, symbolizing the revelation and truth brought by Christ, which the darkness cannot overcome.

(https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/1.htm)

Testimony of John the Baptist (John 1:6-8, 15, 19-34)

6 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.7 The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.8 He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light.

15 John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me.

19 And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou?20 And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ.21 And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elijah? And he saith, I am not. Art thou that prophet? And he answered, No.22 Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may give an answer to them that sent us. What sayest thou of thyself?23 He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Isaiah.24 And they which were sent were of the Pharisees.25 And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elijah, neither that prophet?26 John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not;27 He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe’s latchet I am not worthy to unloose.28 These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan, where John was baptizing.29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.30 This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me.31 And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water.32 And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him.33 And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.34 And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.  

God sent John the Baptist as a witness to testify concerning the Light. John testifies that he is not the Christ, Elijah, or the Prophet, but the voice calling in the wilderness. He identifies Jesus as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. 

He came as a witness to testify about the Light, so that through him everyone might believe. (John 1:7) John the Baptist’s role was to prepare the way for Jesus. His testimony points others to the true Light.         (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/1.htm)

The Word Made Flesh (John 1:9-14, 16-18)

9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.10 He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.11 He came unto his own, and his own received him not.12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:13 Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.18 No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him.

John 1:9-13 speaks of the true Light that gives light to every man. “The true Light who gives light to every man was coming into the world.” Despite being in the world, the world did not recognize Him, yet those who received Him were given the right to become children of God.

The true light, which gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us, full of grace and truth. 

John 1:14-18 highlights the incarnation of the Word. “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” This passage underscores the full humanity and divinity of Christ, who is full of grace and truth, and reveals God to humanity.

The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. (John 1:14) Jesus took on human nature to dwell among us. This act demonstrates God’s love and desire for a relationship with humanity.

(https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/1.htm)

John 1 serves as a profound introduction to the Gospel of John, presenting the preexistence of Jesus Christ as the Word, His role in creation, and His incarnation as the Light and Life of mankind. Through this chapter, we also explore the testimony of John the Baptist. (https://biblehub.com/chaptersummaries/john/1.htm)

Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001chaplain@alaskaseniors.com